Emilia files the details away for later, wondering what it means to be a widow in this context. Wondering what it means for Yelena. She's been here before, she has. In corridors like this one where every fear and vulnerability — and vice — can be used against you. You learn control, or the seven circles eat you alive. If not the realm, then the demons that crowd it. She's refused to choose fear since.

"A shapeshifter," is meant to further clarify, not correct. The shifter demonic in nature, and will not cease until Yelena gives it what it wants. "It will turn itself inside out to torture you."

To make her doubt her own reality.

"Whatever you do, don't free her. You'll take her place. But we do need the key."