The Discovery of Oz's True Identity

The travelers are admitted to the Throne Room, but no one is there. A voice speaks, claiming to be everywhere. The Lion's roar knocks over a screen, revealing a bald, wrinkled little man. He confesses he is a humbug—a ventriloquist and balloonist from Omaha who accidentally came to Oz in a balloon. He created the giant Head, the Lady, the Beast, and the Ball of Fire using tricks. He admits he has no real magic. The companions are dismayed, but Oz offers to fulfill their wishes in a practical way. This event is the climax of the deception theme and the revelation of Oz's true nature.