Page 408 of Axis of Fire

"I'll see you again very soon, ladies."

She snapped her fingers.

The sharp sound echoed through the room.

My eyes closed on their own.

For one dizzying second, I felt as though the floor had disappeared beneath my feet.

Then...

Everything went dark.

*******

When I opened my eyes, I found myself staring at the familiar blush-pink walls of my bedroom in Manchester.

Realizing I was lying on my bed, I frowned and pushed myself up onto my elbows, completely unable to understand what was happening.

A single thought struck me.

What if everything that had happened in Istarus had been nothing more than a dream?

"I wouldn't recommend thinking of our meeting as an escape from reality."

Madame Zhivorzhinette's voice made me jump.

My gaze snapped toward her.

She was sitting comfortably in my desk chair as though she had always belonged there.

"We've simply moved into one of the places where your mind feels safest."

"...I'm completely lost," I admitted, sitting upright.

"Weren't we supposed to be choosing a gown for the ball?"

"I seriously doubt you'll find anything suitable in my wardrobe."

I gestured toward the enormous white wardrobe that had once been my greatest source of pride—and undeniable proof of my shopping addiction.

"You understood correctly."

She offered me a professional smile.

"My work isn't merely about choosing a dress that flatters someone's appearance."

"It's about finding one that reflects who they truly are."

"I also need to understand your goals."

"Your preferences."

"The way you naturally express yourself."

She studied me thoughtfully.

"Whether your style should be built around your Ascendant..."