Page 407 of Axis of Fire

"It's wonderful to meet you," Gianna said, her cheerful tone returning almost instantly.

Madame Zhivorzhinette smiled politely before gesturing for us to follow.

She led us toward the platforms.

"My atelier receives technological upgrades every three months," she announced proudly.

"You won't find a more advanced fitting system anywhere."

I only wished I understood how any of it worked.

Otherwise, I was going to look completely ridiculous.

"Please."

She motioned toward the platforms.

"You'll each receive a design perfectly suited to your personal taste."

She gave us a playful wink.

I still had absolutely no idea what she meant.

Was there really only one dress to choose from?

And...

Where exactly were the dresses?

Stasia and Gianna each stepped onto separate platforms.

I followed.

Madame Zhivorzhinette approached Stasia first, fastening two sleek bracelets around her wrists.

Thin cables connected them to the nearby console.

Next, she placed a delicate circlet across Stasia's forehead before moving on to Gianna and repeating the process.

When she finally stopped in front of me, her smile widened ever so slightly.

For a brief moment, her glowing eyes seemed to scan me.

They flashed twice.

Brighter than before.

The bracelets were almost weightless.

A pleasant warmth spread through my skin the moment they touched me.

The circlet felt exactly the same.

Standing before the three platforms, Madame Zhivorzhinette clasped her hands together.

"Well then..."

Her smile deepened.