8th Circle Threat to Veridiana

[At The Royal Castle of Veridiana…]

"How does it look?" Captain Roland asked, standing behind one of the Wizards of Veridiana, who was carefully scanning the site of the explosion.

The Wizard looked up briefly, his brow furrowed. "I'm sorry to ask, Captain, but how long has it been since the explosion?"

Roland raised an eyebrow. "Two weeks ago. I called you the same day, remember?"

The Wizard stood up, brushing dust off his purple robe. "Apologies for the delay, Captain. The Wizards of Veridiana have been dealing with... internal issues."

Roland's eyes narrowed. "Internal issues?"

"Rebels." The Wizard's voice was low, almost bitter.

"Rebels?" Roland repeated, incredulous. The Wizards of Veridiana were elite—chosen from birth and treated as second only to the King and Prime Minister. Even the royal family didn't enjoy their privileges. Why would any of them turn against the kingdom that worshipped them?