The Fanged Serpent's eastern branch hideout occupied a converted warehouse in District Nine—one of seven such facilities scattered throughout Elkrim and the Deep Market.
It wasn't their headquarters, but it served as an important operational node for their expansion efforts.
Inside, a dozen members gathered around a makeshift table, their expressions ranging from worried to openly fearful.
"The support is drying up," said Marrick, a scarred veteran who'd been with the organization since its formation. "Blue Lotus hasn't sent the promised funding for this month. Yellow Lily stopped responding to our requests for political leverage."
A younger member named Tessra leaned forward anxiously. "What about our operations against the Red House? We've committed resources, made enemies. If the Houses pull their backing now—"
"We're exposed," finished Dravin, the branch leader.
