Harry's First Steps Outside
After weeks of observing Harry's behavior, dedication to learning, and lack of any hostile intent, the Custodians collectively decide that it is safe and beneficial to allow Harry some time outside. Valeria, who has been monitoring his progress closely, suggests that a change of scenery might help him process everything he has learned so far. Emma, as always, supports the decision with her quiet, knowing presence. Before he steps outside, Karma assists Harry in preparing for the outing. The creature brings a warmer cloak, lined with fur, to protect against the chill that hangs in the air outside the fortress. As Karma helps him with the cloak, it gives Harry an encouraging nod, its sharp eyes glinting with approval.
As Karma finishes, Emma arrives to guide Harry outside. Her form, as always, is slightly ethereal, her presence both comforting and enigmatic. "The world beyond these walls is vast and filled with magic, Harry," she says softly. "It is time you see more of it." Harry follows Emma through the winding corridors of the fortress, passing by familiar rooms and hallways that he has come to know well over the past weeks. Finally, they reach a set of large, ornate doors that lead to the outside world. The doors creak open slowly, revealing a landscape that Harry has only glimpsed from his room's window. As Harry steps outside, he is greeted by the cool, crisp air of Morgana's Seat. The sky above is a deep, twilight blue, with clouds swirling lazily overhead. The land before him is a mix of rugged terrain and enchanted beauty—forests of ancient, towering trees, rolling hills dotted with strange, glowing flora, and mountains that rise steeply in the distance, their peaks shrouded in mist.
Emma leads Harry through the grounds of the fortress, taking him first to the Enchanted Gardens. This area is filled with plants and flowers that seem to pulse with magic. Some of the plants have leaves that shimmer in a spectrum of colors, while others glow softly in the dim light. The air is filled with a pleasant, earthy scent, mingled with the faint hum of magical energy. As Harry walks among the plants, he feels a sense of peace that he hasn't felt since arriving in Morgana's Seat. As they walk, Harry notices one of the Guardians—perhaps the very one that met him upon his arrival—patrolling the perimeter of the fortress grounds. The Guardian's three heads move in unison, its eyes ever-watchful, but it does not approach. Instead, it continues its silent vigil, ensuring that the fortress and its inhabitants are protected from any outside threats.
Emma eventually leads Harry to a high overlook that provides a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. From here, he can see the full expanse of Morgana's Seat—forests, rivers, and the distant mountains that form a natural barrier around the land. The sight is both beautiful and intimidating, a reminder of how far he is from home, but also of the vastness of the world he has yet to explore. Standing at the edge of the overlook, Harry takes a deep breath, filling his lungs with the fresh, cool air. For a moment, he closes his eyes and lets himself simply be—no thoughts of the past or the future, just the present. The sound of the wind rustling through the trees, the distant calls of birds, and the faint hum of magic in the air all combine to create a serene, almost meditative atmosphere.
Sensing that Harry is lost in thought, Emma speaks softly beside him. "This world may seem strange and distant to you, but it is filled with wonders and mysteries that have yet to be uncovered. You have done well to learn as much as you have. But remember, knowledge is only the beginning." Harry opens his eyes and looks out at the landscape once more. "I came here by accident, but now... I feel like there's a reason for it. I'm not sure what it is yet, but I'm going to find out." His voice is firm, filled with a growing sense of determination. He has spent weeks learning about this world, and now, with the fresh air and the vastness of Morgana's Seat before him, he feels ready to take the next steps in his journey.
After spending some time outside, Emma gently guides Harry back to the fortress. As they walk, Harry feels a renewed sense of purpose. The fortress, which once felt like a place of confinement, now feels more like a starting point—a place where he can gather his strength and prepare for whatever challenges lie ahead. As they reach the doors of the fortress, Emma pauses. "There is much you have yet to see, Harry. But in time, all will be revealed. Trust in yourself, and in the magic that brought you here." With those words, she leaves Harry to reflect on the experience as he returns to his room.