In 1905 Kansas, Wizard of Oz (character) is a Magician (illusion) and Confidence trick in a Circus. The circus Strongman (strength athlete) learns Oscar has flirted with his wife and threatens him. Oscar escapes in a hot air balloon but is sucked into a tornado that takes him to the Land of Oz. There he encounters the naïve witch Theodora, who believes him to be the wizard prophesied to become King of Oz by destroying the Wicked Witch, who killed the previous king. The idea of being a wealthy monarch makes Oscar accept the role. En route to the Emerald City, Theodora falls in love with Oscar though he does not reciprocate her feelings. They encounter the flying monkey Finley who pledges a life debt to Oscar when he saves him from a Cowardly Lion. Oscar reveals his deception to Finley and forces him to maintain the lie that he is a wizard.