Who is Annalina from Blood of the Fold and what is their importance?

Annalina was the former prelate before Verna took over the position. She discovered the presence of Sisters of the Dark in the Palace, who attacked her shortly after she announced her knowledge of their presence. Annalina then faked her own death and left a spell that would ensure Verna would take over as Prelate at the Palace of Prophets. Annalina escaped with Nathan, and the two headed toward Aydindril, hoping to find a wizard of the First Order to help them destroy the Palace.