Survival in the lower city was brutal. Aria learned quickly—steal food, trust no one, sleep with a knife under your pillow. It was during her third week as a street thief that she encountered the Shadow Wolves. She had been caught stealing bread from the market when they intervened. Flynn, their leader, was magnetic—dangerous smile, quick wit, and eyes that missed nothing. He offered her a choice: join them or face the city guard alone. She chose the Wolves. Over the following months, they became her family. Flynn taught her to fight. Rowan showed her how to pick any lock. Lila schooled her in poisons and disguises. They transformed the terrified princess into a formidable thief. But they did not know her secret. And Aria intended to keep it that way...