***
Steeling myself for the impending confrontation, I stood momentarily at the threshold of Agnes' bedroom. The wooden door, intricately carved with symbols of ancient druidic magic, seemed almost symbolic of the barrier between my past self and the new identity that I was yet to fully embrace. The heavy weight of apprehension bore down on me, the thought of facing Illyanna in this transformed state making my heart race.
As if sensing my turmoil, Agnes approached with gentle footsteps, her hand softly resting on my arm. "Max," she began, her voice filled with genuine concern, "know that family sees past the exterior. Illyanna will look into your eyes and still find the brother she's always known."
I took a deep breath, absorbing her words. "I hope you're right, Agnes. The last thing I'd want is to frighten her."
