The sun was just beginning to dip behind the cliffs of Snakewood when Eleyna Lynderly stepped into the grand hall of her family’s castle. Her black gown, embroidered with green serpents, swirled around her lithe form as she walked with quiet grace. The ever-watchful eyes of the servants lingered on her, some fearful, others reverent, but none daring to meet her gaze directly.

Her jade snake bracelet glinted in the fading light, coiling around her arm. At only nineteen, Eleyna had become the Lady of Snakewood after her father’s sudden death, leaving her as the youngest lady of a seat in the Vale Yet, she had not faltered. In the wake of her father’s passing, she had gotten her father's counselors loyalty by showing her ability to listen and hear them out as much as she could rule.

Entering the great hall, Eleyna found her counselors awaiting her. She poured herself a cup of wine while they waited for her to begin the meeting. She sat down, taking a gulp of the drink before setting it down. "Now, what is there to discuss?"