Lady in captivity (part 2)

As Adela realized that the window differed from the Emorian ones, incapable of being opened from the inside, a sense of gloom descended upon her. Her heart followed suit, darkening as the absence of a mate bond — even without Aldric's dreaded bracelet on her wrist — left her feeling incomplete, as if one of her vital organs were missing.

Before long, the door was wide open again, and the red firearm led the way into the small room where Lady de Lanark von Conradie was being held captive.

Adela's gaze lingered on the weapon, contemplating how differently her circumstances might have been had she possessed it. Her eyes flickered to the woman's face as the door clicked shut behind her.

The woman's cold, unblinking eyes seemed almost unnatural as she stared at Adela.

"...Why am I here?" Adela whispered.

"That's not important. People don't choose where they're born. Consider yourself born here if it makes it easier for you to accept."