The Serpent branch of Draconic Prime City stood apart from the rest of the district, resembling a guildhall.
Twin statues flanked its entrance, each rising nearly thirty feet into the air. Serpents reared upright with their hoods fully spread, fangs bared toward the street as though daring anyone to approach without permission.
Two guards stood beneath the statues.
Both were pale-skinned, their eyes a solid serpent-gold without visible pupils. They stepped into Emery's path the moment he approached.
"Identity."
Emery gave his name and presented the letter of introduction the Ouroboros Queen had prepared for him before his departure.
Even so, it took several minutes before the guards found someone who actually recognized the seal and knew to expect him. Ouroboros carried considerable prestige, but it was only one among the many great Serpent clans.
Eventually, the gates opened.
