Over the following days, Harry's thoughts frequently return to the encounter with Lyra. The idea of slavery, something he's been uncomfortable with from the beginning, now feels more personal and pressing. He knows that his understanding of Morgana's Seat is still limited, and he's increasingly aware that to navigate this world successfully, he needs to grapple with its most uncomfortable truths. Harry realizes that to truly understand the system, he needs to hear from those who are directly affected by it—the slaves themselves. He decides that the best way to start is by talking to Lyra, but he knows he must approach the situation carefully and respectfully.
One afternoon, after a class, Harry finds Selene in one of the school's many courtyards. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, the perfect setting for a serious conversation. "Selene," Harry begins, choosing his words carefully, "I've been thinking a lot about our conversation the other day. About Lyra, and the whole system here. I... I was wondering if you think it would be okay if I asked her some questions. Nothing too personal, just about what life is like for her."
Selene looks at Harry thoughtfully, recognizing the sincerity in his request. She understands that Harry's perspective is different from her own and that he's genuinely trying to make sense of a world that often seems morally gray. "I think Lyra would be okay with that," she finally says. "She's been with my family for a long time, and she's smart. She might appreciate the chance to share her perspective with someone who's willing to listen."
Harry nods, relieved that Selene is open to the idea. "I'd really appreciate it," he says. "I just want to understand things better. This world is so different from what I'm used to, and I feel like talking to her could help me see things more clearly."
Selene arranges for Harry to meet with Lyra the next day in one of the school's quieter study rooms. Harry arrives a little early, feeling a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. He's not entirely sure what to expect, but he knows this conversation could shape his understanding of the world he's now living in. When Lyra arrives, her demeanor is as calm and composed as before. She greets Harry with a polite nod, her hands folded neatly in front of her. "Miss Selene said you wanted to speak with me, Master Potter," she says, her tone respectful but not overly deferential.
Harry gestures for her to sit down, feeling a little awkward at being addressed so formally but understanding that this is the way things are here. "Please, just call me Harry," he says, trying to put her at ease. "And yes, I did want to talk. I've been thinking a lot about the way things are here, especially about people like you. I just want to understand what life is like for you—nothing personal, just... what it's like day to day."
Lyra considers his question for a moment before responding. "Life as a slave is... structured," she begins carefully. "Our days are planned, our roles defined. I serve Miss Selene, and before her, I served her mother. I've been with their family since I was a child. I know my place, and I perform my duties to the best of my ability. In return, I'm provided for—food, shelter, protection. It's not a life of freedom, but it's a life of certainty."
Harry listens intently, trying to understand what she's saying. "But what about your own choices? Your own desires? Doesn't it bother you that you don't get to choose what you do or where you go?"
Lyra meets his gaze steadily. "Of course, I've thought about that," she says softly. "But in Morgana's Seat, this is the life I was born into. The system here is complex, and change doesn't come easily. Many of us have accepted our roles because there's security in it. For some, the alternative is much worse. I've been fortunate to serve a kind family, but I know not everyone is so lucky."
As Lyra speaks, Harry feels his perspective shifting, though not entirely comfortably. He's always believed in the importance of freedom and choice, but Lyra's words force him to acknowledge the complexities of Morgana's Seat. The system is deeply ingrained, and for many, it provides a form of stability, even if it's far from ideal. By the end of the conversation, Harry feels he has a better understanding of the world he's in, though it's still not easy to accept. He realizes that while he may never fully agree with the system, he needs to learn how to navigate it—and perhaps, in time, find ways to make a difference from within.
"Thank you, Lyra," Harry says sincerely as their conversation draws to a close. "I really appreciate you sharing this with me. It's given me a lot to think about."
Lyra nods, a hint of warmth in her otherwise reserved expression. "You're welcome, Harry. I hope you find the understanding you're looking for. Morgana's Seat is a complicated place, but it's also a place of opportunity, for those who know how to find it."
As Lyra leaves, Harry sits in the quiet study room for a few moments longer, reflecting on everything he's learned. His mind is still processing, but he feels more in tune with the reality of Morgana's Seat, even if it means accepting things he would have once found unacceptable. Over the next few days, he continues to reflect on his conversation with Lyra. He feels more connected to the world around him, even if it's a world he still finds morally challenging. He begins to see that understanding and navigating this world will require a balance between his own values and the realities of the society he's now part of.
Harry's mind shifts slightly, becoming more attuned to the way of life in Morgana's Seat. He doesn't fully embrace it, but he starts to understand that if he's going to thrive here, he'll need to find a way to work within the system—at least for now—while still holding on to his own sense of right and wrong.