AVIONA'S POV I sat before the dressing table, my hands folded tightly in my lap, watching both my reflection and the handmaid, Selka, in the mirror as she worked. She was Alari—one of the fae born with an extra pair of hands. I had never met one before. And seeing Selka now, all four hands moving in swift, effortless harmony as she braided my hair, I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the precision and grace. A soft click sounded as she fastened the last clasp into place. Without a word, Selka rose. Her steps made no sound on the polished floor as she crossed to the clothing rack behind me. One pair of hands lifted a dress dyed a muted midnight blue, its fabric thick enough for travel. The other pair gathered fitted trousers, a lightweight green cloak, and a pair of sturdy boots. She c

