***
Matterinna looked deep into my eyes, her purple orbs reflecting a depth of understanding that belied her typical housemaid demeanor. "Max," she began, her voice soft yet resonant, "I am here to guide and advise you, not to dictate your choices. Whatever path you choose, know that I stand beside you."
I swallowed hard, my fingers playing nervously with the hem of my tunic. The weight of my potential decision bore down on me, a tumultuous storm of doubt, fear, and desire to meet expectations. The memories of disappointment, that all too familiar sting from my parents in the Real World over my academic failings, gnawed at my heart. "I don't want Antrodos and Laussinna to ever feel that kind of disappointment," I admitted, my voice wavering.
