A Maiden of Snakes

When Marchioness Lamberico fails to conceive a child, she solicits the help of the village witch. Nine months later, she gives birth to Biancabella, who is born with a snake wrapped around her neck. To the relief of the marchioness, the creature vanishes at once. When Biancabella is a girl, the snake reappears. Samaritana helps Biancabella unlock her magical gifts and asserts that so long as they are together, all will be well. Their close, though secret, relationship unites them above all others. Years pass, the sisters contented, until the day King Ferrandino arrives, seeking Biancabella’s hand. What follows shatters the sisters’ bond, leading to misfortune and betrayal, which forces them to grapple with not only the loss of their connection, but leaves each fighting for her life. Loosely based on the Italian fairy tale Biancabella and the Snake, the story explores how love can transform from a domineering and covetous power to authenticity and, ultimately, redemption.