Returning to Arcanum Isle Departure from Morgana's Crater
After his final meeting with the Custodians, Harry bids farewell to each of them. They offer him words of encouragement and a reminder that the path ahead will require all the skills and wisdom he has gained. When Garmr, the Guardian, arrives—the same powerful creature that had brought him home—Harry feels a deep sense of connection to Morgana's Crater and the Custodians who have guided him. He mounts the Guardian, feeling the familiar warmth and strength of the creature beneath him. With a powerful leap, Garmr rises into the air, carrying Harry swiftly through the skies. The journey is smooth and swift, the landscape of Morgana's Seat passing below in a blur. As they approach Arcanum Isle, Harry feels a mix of anticipation and calm, ready to continue his studies with renewed vigor.
The Guardian lands gracefully in the courtyard of Arcanum Isle, causing quite a stir among the students and staff who witness the majestic creature's arrival. Many are astonished, some whispering in awe, others simply staring as Harry dismounts. The presence of Garmr is rare, and it's clear that Harry's connection to this creature has elevated his status in the eyes of his peers. Before the Guardian departs, Harry places a hand on one of its heads, feeling a sense of gratitude and respect. Garmr lowers its heads slightly in acknowledgment before leaping back into the sky, disappearing as swiftly as it had come.
As Harry makes his way back to his dormitory, he's greeted by his roommates, Lysandra, Cyrus, and Selene. They're clearly surprised—and somewhat annoyed—that Harry hadn't mentioned his connection to such a powerful and rare creature. "Harry, you have a lot of explaining to do!" Cyrus exclaims, his voice a mix of disbelief and excitement. "You never told us you knew a Guardian!" Harry grins sheepishly, realizing that his friends have every right to be curious. "It's a long story," he says, sitting down with them. "I didn't exactly know a Guardian before all of this. It's just... well, things have changed a lot since I started living at Morgana's Crater."
At their urging, Harry explains where he's been living, describing Morgana's Crater and the Custodians who have been guiding him. His roommates listen intently, their expressions ranging from amazement to curiosity. He tells them about the Yule break, his time with the Custodians, and how the Guardian had been sent to take him back to school. "Morgana's Crater is... different," Harry says thoughtfully. "It's powerful and ancient, and the people there have taught me so much. It's not something I expected, but it feels like it's where I'm meant to be—at least for now." Lysandra, ever the strategist, nods thoughtfully. "Living at Morgana's Crater explains a lot," she says. "It sounds like you're in the center of something big, Harry." Selene, who has always been more reserved, simply smiles. "We're glad you're back," she says quietly. "You've changed, but it's a good change." Cyrus, still amazed, just shakes his head. "Man, next time something this big happens, you'd better tell us!"
After the excitement of his return, Harry and his friends decide to spend the rest of the day relaxing and catching up. The school is still in the post-Yule lull, with classes not yet fully resumed, so they have time to unwind. They head to the common areas, where students are chatting, playing games, and enjoying the last moments of the holiday break. The group finds a cozy spot by the fireplace in the common room. They share stories about their Yule breaks, with Harry's tales of Morgana's Crater being the most captivating. Despite the relaxed atmosphere, Harry notices how his friends seem to regard him with a bit more respect and curiosity, given all he's experienced.
As the day draws to a close, Harry feels a deep sense of contentment. The week at Morgana's Crater has left him feeling more grounded and connected to the world of Morgana's Seat, and now, back at Arcanum Isle, he feels ready to face whatever challenges come his way. He knows that the time ahead will be filled with both trials and triumphs, but with the support of his friends and the guidance he's received, he's confident that he can handle it.