BLAST!
A sharp crackle pierced the ambient hum of the conference hall.
Then another.
Then a whoosh that drew every eye toward the stage.
At the back, near the curtains that framed the demonstration area, flames had erupted. They climbed with terrifying speed. Magic papers, left accidentally by the previous presenter, had caught fire, and the blaze had already kissed the heavy fabric of the stage curtains.
Within seconds, the top of the stage was crowned in orange and gold, smoke beginning to curl toward the ceiling.
Gasps rippled through the crowd.
Nikolas and Ruby stood closest to the stage, having been making their way toward the front to secure better seats for the next demonstration.
"Oh no!" Ruby exclaimed.
