The dark lady / Akala.

"For Henry, a boy thief with brown skin inherited from a mother who abandoned him, life is tough. Steal or starve, cheat or be cheated. These are Henry's impossible choices in a world that rejects him. So Henry vows to become the best thief London has ever seen and hones the magical gift that holds the key to his freedom, guided by The Dark Lady who fills his dreams. But when a cruel duke offers knowledge, power and riches in exchange for the betrayal of his best friend, Henry's choices are more impossible than ever..." -- Provided by publisher.