Intermission

The competitors took the stage one after another, displaying one Alchemy creation after another. Their power and practicality varied, but without exception, they were all visually spectacular, drawing waves of gasps from the audience seats.

The final competitor was a man with short golden-brown hair. After demonstrating a ring of fire, he quickly jumped down from the stage. The audience had not yet realized that the presentations were over and looked around for the next person to take the stage.

Just then, an exceptionally penetrating, energetic voice rang throughout the venue, instantly drawing everyone's attention:

"Wow! What an incredible performance! Ladies, gentlemen, and our dear viewers in front of the cameras, did you all see that?"

A spotlight swept over to the raised platform where Chairman Krupp had stood earlier. A wizard in his thirties stood there now, wearing a somewhat exaggerated smile as he waved his arms and shouted:

"Let's give another round of thunderous applause to all the masters of Alchemy who just gave us such incredible performances!"

He began clapping vigorously himself, prompting applause to erupt throughout the venue.

"I'm your old friend—William Harris! Commentator for twenty-three Quidditch matches, and also a rather unsuccessful Alchemist!"

Harris spoke at a rapid pace. "Ah, although I haven't achieved much in Alchemy, today I'll be bringing you the most passionate and professional commentary throughout the event!"

"What? It seems our dear Headmaster Fontana is glaring at me! He must be doubting my qualifications. Yes, I only barely passed Alchemy back in the day, but at the very least... oh, I can help those viewers who have never encountered Alchemy understand—just what our competitors are doing!"

Harris winked. Even while poking fun at himself, his booming voice retained an infectious excitement, and laughter rose from the audience seats.

"All right, all