In their protective clothing, the twelve most powerful wizards in the world entered the room. The six men and six women took their places around the large, hemispherical craft supported on thin legs. As one they drew their wands and placed the tips on key points on the metal surface.

For several moments, nothing happened. Then slowly, softly, the twelve began reciting the intricate teleportation charm. At first only their voices filled the room, but then, from their wands a silent orange flame began to spread across the surface of the craft. Louder, faster, came the incantation, and brighter the flame burned.

Then there was silence, and only the twelve remained in the room.

#

On the dusty, rock strewn surface of the Golden Plain, little had happened for eons. Then, in a burst of orange flame, the metal craft appeared a few inches above the surface. It dropped down to the ground on its legs with a soft crunch that barely carried in the thin atmosphere.

Men had finally arrived on Mars.