Hey there, and welcome to Apple Support Communities, Mojo-jojo250!
From our understanding, you’re being asked for email password when trying to log in to iCloud. We can certainly understand your concern and can help provide some insight.
We see that you recently reviewed the article “If you can’t connect or sign in to iCloud”. That is a great place to start.
When you create an Apple ID, your email address becomes your Apple ID. The prompts are likely asking for the password to your Apple ID, it just looks like it is asking for information for email address. You can learn more here: Manage and use your Apple ID - Apple Support
Kindest regards!