Carlton paced the opulent chamber like a caged lion, his brow furrowed in deep contemplation. The young Duke's usually stoic facade had been replaced by a flurry of emotions as he grappled with the bizarre turn of events that had befallen him.
After his intense conversation with the children and Alaric, Carlton felt an overwhelming need for solitude to gather his thoughts. Fifteen minutes prior, he had dismissed everyone, insisting on being left undisturbed so that he might rest and reflect upon their predicament in peace.
With purposeful strides, Carlton exited the palace garden and made his way to the shared bedchamber he occupied with Alaric. He crossed the threshold into their lavish quarter, and paused for a moment to survey the grandeur surrounding him - ornate tapestries adorning the walls, plush carpets underfoot, and gilded furnishings gleaming in the soft candlelight.