Travis Springtail's Arc

Chapter 1 of 2

Travis adjusted the dials on his spirit-realm chronometers, checking them one last time before the crowd arrived. The device sparked, sending purple lightning across its face. He needed this demonstration to go perfectly if he wanted to break the world record for highest bounce. But the chronometers had other plans. The compass needle began spinning wildly, leaving glowing trails that spiraled upward like tiny tornados. Blue and gold light crackled across the measuring pole he'd positioned beside the vine-covered arena. A dozen onlookers had already gathered, pointing and whispering. Travis felt his stomach tighten. He could cancel the demonstration. He could pack up his equipment and try again tomorrow when the dimensional interference settled down. But the crowd was watching him now, waiting to see what he would do. Their eyes gleamed with curiosity. Someone in the back called out, asking if the show was starting soon. Travis grinned and cracked his knuckles. The chronometers shot another arc of purple lightning, and he waved his arms overhead like a circus announcer. "Ladies and gentlemen, you're about to witness scientific precision at its finest!" he shouted. The compass spun faster, painting rainbow circles in the air. He marched toward the center of the arena, his equipment crackling behind him like fireworks. If his tools wanted to make a scene, he'd give them a performance they'd never forget.