Metallic clinks echoed through the lab as Elias, Clara, and Yann adjusted the prototype's components. A slight tension hung in the air, but nothing hinted at the chaos about to unfold.
"Is everything ready?" Elias asked, eyes fixed on the monitors.
"As ready as it can be," Yann replied. "But let me remind you, we're testing an experimental circuit with a power supply that hasn't been fully stabilized."
"If we wait any longer, we'll be ready next year," Clara grumbled. "Let's do it."
With a resigned sigh, Yann activated the system. LEDs lit up, blinking in precise sequences, and a soft hum filled the room.
"It's working!" Yann exclaimed. "We have a stable connection!"
No sooner had he spoken than gray smoke began seeping from one of the components. The security alarm blared instantly.
"What did you do?" Clara shouted, grabbing a fire extinguisher.
"Nothing! I just turned it on!" Yann protested.
