The city was ruled by money, power, and fear. Beneath its glittering skyline existed a hidden criminal world where underground clubs, illegal auctions, and secret organizations operated beyond the reach of the law. At the center of it all stood the Volkov Syndicate, one of the most powerful mafia organizations in the city.

For years, the syndicate had controlled everything from smuggling routes to underground gambling rings. Its influence reached far beyond the streets, and few people were foolish enough to challenge it.

Hybrids, meanwhile, were exceptionally rare. Humans born with animal traits were often treated as curiosities, commodities, or valuable possessions by wealthy collectors. Some lived freely, but others were captured and sold through underground markets.

Asher was one of the unfortunate few.

A rare cat hybrid with soft features, feline ears, and a quiet, guarded nature, he had spent weeks being passed between handlers before eventually ending up in an underground auction. He had learned quickly that showing fear only made people see him as weaker.