The Prisoner

Confined to a Dark prison, anger tethers me to life, but it's a bleak existence. Death may have been a better sentence.

My name is Sharade Endrack. I sided with my outlaw father, aided an assassination attempt on those declared the rightful heirs of Adlumen, and broke faith with my sister, who I love, admire, and, more often than not, envy.

For years, I suffer the indignities of a Dark prison and the apathy of my jailers. Gradually, my anger turns into forbearance, and my hatred transforms into longing for the home and family I'm resigned I'll never see again.

Until liberation comes in the form of a reluctant rescuer. He's a Souther mole-a former Adlumen enemy-and his keen gaze says he doesn't trust me, which might be warranted based on my hesitancy to reveal my identity.

But we're facing more serious matters than mistrust, and it's clear that abandoning our prejudices and working together are how we'll stay safe, protect our loved ones, and prevent a war. In addition, I have personal desires-unspoken hopes of earning Adlumen's forgiveness and reconnecting with my family. It's possible, right?

All that's required is proving to everyone that I've truly changed.