Capítulo 5: Veridiana
Veridiana, unlike many other kingdoms, ran on an unusual system. While most countries had powerful wizards and witches who ruled over the people, Veridiana cultivated wizards to serve and protect the citizens rather than treating them as royalty. This allowed them to thrive economically, free from the heavy taxes that plagued wizard-ruled nations, where magic-users often drained resources to maintain control.
"This place is... different," George whispered as he gazed out the window.
Michael, sprawled out on the carriage seat beside him, nodded. "Yeah, it's a nice change. Way better than the endless green of Emerald City. Who decided to make everything there emerald anyway?"
George peeked out the window, catching glimpses of the bustling city streets. "I would've liked a better view," he said, trying to take in more.
Michael quickly pulled the curtain closed. "Don't even think about it. Oz hasn't shown his face in public for over a decade. His mystery is what keeps people afraid. If you take that away, you lose the fear, and without fear, no one respects Oz."
George scratched his chin, realizing he no longer had a beard since the transformation into his younger self. "Makes sense… So, that's why no one's attacked Emerald City? They all think Oz is some untouchable, god-like figure."
"Exactly," Michael agreed. "In fact, some munchkins have started their own cult worshipping him. Oz never claimed to be a god, but they went ahead and did it anyway."
George raised an eyebrow. "A cult? Worshipping Oz?" He shifted uncomfortably. While he had always craved recognition, pretending to be a god and exploiting people's faith wasn't exactly what he had in mind.
Michael shrugged. "Welcome to the world of Oz."
George sighed. "So, what's the plan when we get there? I need to act like the Great Wizard, scare the king a little, and somehow retract Oz's threat to destroy the whole city?"
Michael nodded. "That's the gist. Make sure you look like someone not to be messed with, but try to smooth things over. You know, without the whole 'destroy the city' bit."
George rubbed his temples. "So, I need to undo a threat while still looking like a threat. No pressure, huh?"
Michael gave a half-smile. "Look, it's not impossible. What's the worst that could happen? You screw up, get executed, and the world gets destroyed by bandits and wizards."
"Wow, thanks for the encouragement," George muttered.
"I could lie to you if you want."
"Not helping."
"Then stop complaining," Michael said, leaning back.
George let out a heavy sigh, sinking into his seat. As crazy as it all was, he felt more alive than he had in years. The looming danger, the thrill of playing a powerful figure—it all lit a fire in him. For the first time in a long while, the possibility of death didn't terrify him; it excited him.
The carriage rumbled through the crowded streets, and the noise outside made it hard for George to think. "It's getting too loud out there," Michael said, frowning. "Hey, guards! Clear the streets!"
The Emerald City guards barked orders, pushing back the gathering crowds trying to catch a glimpse of the famous wizard. As the carriage settled, Michael turned to George.
"Do you even know what you're going to do in there?" he asked, skeptical.
George smirked. "I have a plan, but you're going to play a big part in it. Trust me, if this works, the king will never forget what I'm about to pull off."
Michael leaned in, intrigued. "Alright, let's hear it."
George spent the next half-hour explaining his plan. It wasn't perfect, but it was the best they could come up with on short notice. By the time he was finished, Michael's confidence hadn't improved much.
"This plan sounds like it'll only work if you've got the luck of a one-legged black cat crossing a field of four-leaf clovers on a full moon while wearing a rabbit's foot and carrying a horseshoe," Michael muttered.
George raised an eyebrow. "You got a better idea?"
Michael shook his head. "No, but I usually just help execute plans, not make them. That was always Oz's thing."
"Then shut up and let's do this," George said, smirking.
The carriage came to a halt in front of Veridiana's steel castle gates. The guards stationed outside immediately recognized the emblem of Oz on the carriage and opened the gates, though their hands remained on their sheathed swords, wary of any trickery.
As the carriage rolled into the castle courtyard, tension crackled in the air. The Emerald City guards held their bows, ready to fire at a moment's notice, while the Veridiana castle guards kept their grips tight on their weapons, clearly uncomfortable.
The carriage door opened, and Michael stepped out first, wearing a dignified expression he'd perfected over years of watching Oz. George followed closely behind, disguised as an ordinary Emerald City guard.
Captain Roland, the leader of the Veridiana castle guards, approached and bowed slightly. "Sir Michael, will the Great Wizard be joining us?"
Michael nodded. "He's here, but Oz only reveals himself to those he deems worthy."
Captain Roland frowned slightly but nodded in respect. He scanned the area, clearly trying to sense any trace of Oz's power.
"Oz has requested to meet with King Adrian privately first. Is that acceptable?" Michael asked.
"Of course," Roland replied. "The king has prepared a grand feast for you and the Great Wizard… wherever he is."
Michael smiled politely. "Excellent. Let's proceed."
As they headed toward the castle, Michael subtly signaled to George, who discreetly slipped back into the carriage. The driver took the carriage to a secluded area to park, leaving George inside.
Once the coast was clear, George exited the carriage in a new disguise—now dressed as a simple servant, blending in perfectly with the castle staff. His heart raced as he prepared for the next step in his plan.
Regalos
-- Regalo
recibido Estado de energía semanal
-- Ranking de
Poder 
-- Piedra de
Poder