Start of a transcript of Winter Wonderland Release Version 1 Copyright 1999 by Laura A. Knauth .:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:. In a far off land, there lies a little village nestled in a snowy mountainscape. As the townsfolk joyously prepare for the coming winter solstice, a young girl living with her family in a humble hut at the outskirts of town gains no comfort in the festivities. Her closest companion, her younger brother Sander Bales, has fallen seriously ill with a fever and can barely lift his head from the bed upon which he lies. Young Gretchen could hardly have suspected that such circumstances would cause the fanciful events that were to occur upon this solstice eve. *:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:* NOTE: At any time, you may view HINTS or the CREDITS, read some words about the MAKING of this tale, or read about TESTING Winter Wonderland by typing the all- caps word on the command line. If the color scheme or ASCII graphics in Winter Wonderland are not compatible with your interpreter, you might try to use the 'bare bones' version by typing BARE at the prompt. At any time, you may return to the original settings by typing FRILLS. **************************** PROLOGUE **************************** Release 1 / Serial number 990928 / Inform v6.05 Library 6/2 Standard interpreter 1.0 Interpreter 6 Version F / Library serial number 960912 >version Winter Wonderland Release Version 1 Copyright 1999 by Laura A. Knauth .:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:. In a far off land, there lies a little village nestled in a snowy mountainscape. As the townsfolk joyously prepare for the coming winter solstice, a young girl living with her family in a humble hut at the outskirts of town gains no comfort in the festivities. Her closest companion, her younger brother Sander Bales, has fallen seriously ill with a fever and can barely lift his head from the bed upon which he lies. Young Gretchen could hardly have suspected that such circumstances would cause the fanciful events that were to occur upon this solstice eve. *:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:* NOTE: At any time, you may view HINTS or the CREDITS, read some words about the MAKING of this tale, or read about TESTING Winter Wonderland by typing the all- caps word on the command line. If the color scheme or ASCII graphics in Winter Wonderland are not compatible with your interpreter, you might try to use the 'bare bones' version by typing BARE at the prompt. At any time, you may return to the original settings by typing FRILLS. **************************** PROLOGUE **************************** Release 1 / Serial number 990928 / Inform v6.05 Library 6/2 Standard interpreter 1.0 Interpreter 6 Version F / Library serial number 960912 >[Heh. That shouldn't happen.] That is not a recognizable verb. >restart Are you sure you want to restart? y .:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:. ( * . * ) -) . _\/ \/_ . ( ( \ \ / / . . ) -) -==>: X :<==- _\/ \/_ ( ( / _/ \_ \ ,. , ,. . _\/\/_ ) -) ' /\ /\ ' `| /| / . ,-. |- ,-. ,-. _\_\_\/\/_/_/_ ( ( * ' * | / | / | | | | |-' | / /_/\/\_\ \ ) -) `' `' ' ' ' `' `-' ' _/\/\_ ( ( /\ /\ ) -) ,. , ,. . . '. ' ( ( `| /| / ,-. ,-. ,-| ,-. ,-. | ,-. ,-. ,-| . ) -) | / | / | | | | | | |-' | | ,-| | | | | : ( ( `' `' `-' ' ' `-' `-' ' `' `-' ' ' `-' '.___/*\___.' ) -) \* \ / */ ( ( /_/ \_\ >--X--< ) -) \\// /*_/ \_*\ ( ( /\_\\><\\ \/ : ( ( _//\\_ ' ) -) \_\ /_/ by Laura A. Knauth ( *:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:* Winter Wonderland Release Version 1 Copyright 1999 by Laura A. Knauth .:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:. In a far off land, there lies a little village nestled in a snowy mountainscape. As the townsfolk joyously prepare for the coming winter solstice, a young girl living with her family in a humble hut at the outskirts of town gains no comfort in the festivities. Her closest companion, her younger brother Sander Bales, has fallen seriously ill with a fever and can barely lift his head from the bed upon which he lies. Young Gretchen could hardly have suspected that such circumstances would cause the fanciful events that were to occur upon this solstice eve. *:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:*"*:._.:* NOTE: At any time, you may view HINTS or the CREDITS, read some words about the MAKING of this tale, or read about TESTING Winter Wonderland by typing the all- caps word on the command line. If the color scheme or ASCII graphics in Winter Wonderland are not compatible with your interpreter, you might try to use the 'bare bones' version by typing BARE at the prompt. At any time, you may return to the original settings by typing FRILLS. **************************** PROLOGUE **************************** Release 1 / Serial number 990928 / Inform v6.05 Library 6/2 Standard interpreter 1.0 Small Bedroom A small, sickly boy is lying on a bed that takes up most of the space in this room. Light filters in through drab curtains hung around the only window in this bedroom. A long dark drapery hangs down over a portion of the east wall. Small, disheveled shoes lie at the foot of the bed. >x window You push aside the thin curtains and peer out of the window. In the distance, you can see your father chopping wood at the forest edge. >x shoes Sander has had to wear these same shoes for years. They have so many rips and tears that you wonder how they are able to hold together at all. This solstice eve, your family was only able to afford one new pair of shoes between the two of you, and being the eldest, you were the fortunate benefactor. Poor Sander! >get shoes Not only are those Sander's shoes and would not fit you, but those shoes are so worn and so small that you would not want to wear them anyway. >x father You cannot seem to find that here. >look under bed You search and search, but find nothing of interest. >x boy Your younger brother, Sander, became very ill many weeks ago and has yet to show signs of recovery. He looks feverish and uncomfortable as he lies asleep in your parents' bed. You become very forlorn as you stare at him. This used to be your favorite time of the year when the two of you would brave going into town and partake in the numerous solstice festivities with the other children. >e You push the drapery aside and move into the adjacent room. Living Room This is the main room of the house. The drapery to the bedroom hangs in the west wall. A lighted hearth takes up most of one wall, and your mother prepares food in one corner of the room for what will be a meager solstice dinner. The room is sparsely decorated save for a little spruce tree that stands near the door to the north, your family's only token to the winter celebration. >x hearth You stare mesmerized by the fire for some time. >x mother Your mother is chopping vegetables for tonight's dinner. >x tree Although you delight in having the spruce tree in the house as a reminder of the nearing solstice celebration, you cannot help but be saddened that it is undecorated with any of the marvelous ornaments and trimmings of the trees in the village. Your mother notices you staring at the tree and remarks, "Gretchen, if you go into town today, remember to stop by the tavern and ask Hanna-Mae if she has a candle to spare so that we may at least have something to adorn that tree." >help mom What a nice little person you are! >n You open the front door and step outside. Path to Village The air is cool and brisk this evening. Menacing storm clouds loom over the mountaintops to the east, but on the opposite horizon are the beginnings of a fantastic sunset. The door to your family's house lies to the south and a well- worn trail leads northeast to the village. >x sunset Which do you mean, the sunset or the evening sky? >sunset Which do you mean, the sunset or the evening sky? >sky The sun is setting over the mountainous western horizon creating a most glorious sunset. Clouds swirl in vibrant shades of glowing amber, rusty orange, and fiery red. >x sunset Which do you mean, the sunset or the evening sky? >either (the sunset) The sun is setting in the western sky in a wondrous display of color. >x clouds Menacing black storm clouds hover behind the mountains to the east, but seem to be holding back for now. >x mountains The mountainous terrain surrounding the town is grand and majestic indeed. At this time of year, most of the mountain peaks are snowcapped. In your daily imaginings, you envision grand adventures of all kinds that could take place on those mountaintops and in secret caverns hidden forever away. >ne Path near Village A large, bustling community lies to the north. Cheers of merriment can be heard even at this distance. The terrain along this part of the path is particularly mountainous, and the trail leading into the village is carved into a moderately steep incline. The path home winds to the southwest. >x trail Unfortunately, there is never anything mysterious about the path running from your home to the village. On many an occasion, you have imagined that the path would lead to some exotic locale, but it always leads you to the same place. >n Village Street near Tavern This is the main road through town. This road continues deeper into the village when traversed to the north, and leads back down the mountainous path to home when traveled south. Peels of laughter can be heard from the tavern to the east. Tantalizing and delicious smells beckon your poor, hungry belly toward the open tavern door. >e Festive Tavern This tavern is a popular meeting place for the townsfolk especially at this time of year. Peels of laughter can be heard over the din of so many voices telling stories from past years and hopes for future seasons. Nearly every table is occupied with groups of villagers drinking, feasting and laughing. The smells of lavish dishes sorely tempt your empty stomach. Musicians walk through the crowd singing carols and playing their instruments for the diners. A roaring fire adorns the back wall of the tavern. A large pot hangs on a rack squarely over the flames. Many of the villagers take their bowls over to the hearth and fill them with the traditional plum pudding that is being cooked in that large pot. Peering through the smoky air, you recognize a woman scrubbing a counter stretching along the back wall. >x woman Which do you mean, Hanna-Mae or the villagers? >hanna You recognize the waitress as Hanna-Mae, a long-time acquaintance of your family. She has been working in this tavern for as long as you can remember. She looks up and gives you a warm smile as you approach. >ask hanna about candle "Oh, sure. I can probably find a candle to spare," Hanna-Mae explains as she walks around to the other side of the counter and picks up a candle from an empty table. She returns to the counter where you are waiting and gives the candle to you. "I'm sure your tree will be beautiful. Now run along, and be sure to give my regards to your family!" >hanna, thanks Hanna-Mae smiles down at you, "You are most welcome, Gretchen!" >tell hanna about brother One of the villagers waves at Hanna-Mae from across the room. As she starts across the tavern floor, she calls back to you, "Sorry, Gretchen! Back in a moment!" >w Village Street near Tavern This is the main road through town. This road continues deeper into the village when traversed to the north, and leads back down the mountainous path to home when traveled south. Peels of laughter can be heard from the tavern to the east. Tantalizing and delicious smells beckon your poor, hungry belly toward the open tavern door. >s As you begin to start back home, you feel a pang that compels you to stay in town a little longer. You would so much like to return home with something to cheer up your brother. >n Village Street near Toy Shop Further down the road, you see children playing some sort of game in the town square. Beyond them, a small theater production is taking place. You pass a window of one of the shops filled with a dazzling display of dolls and toys of all shapes and sizes. Your favorite place in town, the toy store lies to the west. >i You are carrying: a candle stick >x candle This is a partially used candle, however it still has enough wax left to last for your family's winter solstice dinner celebration tonight. >x toy You might occasionally become lost in other parts of town, but you know the path to the toy shop well. The window facing the main path through town is a delight for the senses and the imagination. >x window You might occasionally become lost in other parts of town, but you know the path to the toy shop well. The window facing the main path through town is a delight for the senses and the imagination. >w Toy Shop Stepping across the threshold into the toy shop, you are overcome by a stunning display of all the toys a child could want. Filling the shelves are colorful stuffed bears, bouncing balls, games and puzzles, shiny trinkets and gizmos, dolls of all shapes and sizes, and even a polished red wagon. There are racks full of frilly dresses and boxes brimming with fancy bonnets and ribbons. The old shopkeeper peers at you curiously from behind his desk. As you gaze in awe from one toy to the next, your eyes come to rest upon a strikingly pair of fine leather shoes on a pedestal in front of the clothes display. >x shoes Quite simply, these are the finest, most handsome pair of shoes you have ever laid eyes upon. You could not imagine a more perfect solstice gift for Sander who has had to wear his tight and tattered old shoes for so long. >ask shopkeeper about shoes The shopkeeper smiles, "Ah, they are a fine pair of shoes, aren't they? Those shoes were specially made by the best shoemaker in the village for a special solstice treat. It is very lucky for you that they are still in the shop tonight!" >tell him about brother This provokes no reaction. >buy shoes What do you want to buy handsome leather shoes with? >candle "I'm sorry, little dear," chides the elderly store keeper, "But you cannot buy anything in here with a candle stick." >x toys You have had many dreams and fantasies about the hours of fun you could have playing with all of these toys. >ask shopkeeper about toys The shopkeeper does not respond, but merely keeps looking over his notes and ledgers. All the young children know the old man has been going deaf for years now. You shrug your shoulders and continue inspecting the shop. >i You are carrying: a candle stick >e Village Street near Toy Shop Further down the road, you see children playing some sort of game in the town square. Beyond them, a small theater production is taking place. You pass a window of one of the shops filled with a dazzling display of dolls and toys of all shapes and sizes. Your favorite place in town, the toy store lies to the west. >x children Looking down the village street into the town square, you see a group of children merrily around a tall pole. >x pole In keeping with tradition, sheaves of grain are placed on a pole and set up in the town square on solstice eve. In the morning, the dozens of chirping birds hungrily eating the grain will make the celebration all the more merry. >play What do you want to play with? >children Alas, that only seems possible in your imaginings. >play with candlestick You cannot seem to find that here. >i You are carrying: a candle stick >play with candle Alas, that only seems possible in your imaginings. >join children That is not a recognizable verb. >x children Looking down the village street into the town square, you see a group of children merrily around a tall pole. >talk to children There is no reply. >children, hello You cannot talk to the children. >s Village Street near Tavern This is the main road through town. This road continues deeper into the village when traversed to the north, and leads back down the mountainous path to home when traveled south. Peels of laughter can be heard from the tavern to the east. Tantalizing and delicious smells beckon your poor, hungry belly toward the open tavern door. >s As you begin to start back home, you feel a pang that compels you to stay in town a little longer. You would so much like to return home with something to cheer up your brother. >e Festive Tavern This tavern is a popular meeting place for the townsfolk especially at this time of year. Peels of laughter can be heard over the din of so many voices telling stories from past years and hopes for future seasons. Nearly every table is occupied with groups of villagers drinking, feasting and laughing. The smells of lavish dishes sorely tempt your empty stomach. Musicians walk through the crowd singing carols and playing their instruments for the diners. A roaring fire adorns the back wall of the tavern. A large pot hangs on a rack squarely over the flames. Many of the villagers take their bowls over to the hearth and fill them with the traditional plum pudding that is being cooked in that large pot. Peering through the smoky air, you recognize a woman scrubbing a counter stretching along the back wall. >ask hanna about shoes One of the villagers waves at Hanna-Mae from across the room. As she starts across the tavern floor, she calls back to you, "Sorry, Gretchen! Back in a moment!" >ask hanna about toy One of the villagers waves at Hanna-Mae from across the room. As she starts across the tavern floor, she calls back to you, "Sorry, Gretchen! Back in a moment!" >w Village Street near Tavern This is the main road through town. This road continues deeper into the village when traversed to the north, and leads back down the mountainous path to home when traveled south. Peels of laughter can be heard from the tavern to the east. Tantalizing and delicious smells beckon your poor, hungry belly toward the open tavern door. >i You are carrying: a candle stick >n Village Street near Toy Shop Further down the road, you see children playing some sort of game in the town square. Beyond them, a small theater production is taking place. You pass a window of one of the shops filled with a dazzling display of dolls and toys of all shapes and sizes. Your favorite place in town, the toy store lies to the west. >w Toy Shop Stepping across the threshold into the toy shop, you are overcome by a stunning display of all the toys a child could want. Filling the shelves are colorful stuffed bears, bouncing balls, games and puzzles, shiny trinkets and gizmos, dolls of all shapes and sizes, and even a polished red wagon. There are racks full of frilly dresses and boxes brimming with fancy bonnets and ribbons. The old shopkeeper peers at you curiously from behind his desk. As you gaze in awe from one toy to the next, your eyes come to rest upon a strikingly pair of fine leather shoes on a pedestal in front of the clothes display. >get shoes Stealing simply will not do. >touch shoes You feel nothing unexpected. >ask shopkeeper about shoes The shopkeeper smiles, "Ah, they are a fine pair of shoes, aren't they? Those shoes were specially made by the best shoemaker in the village for a special solstice treat. It is very lucky for you that they are still in the shop tonight!" >help (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/6) The dinner your mother is preparing is meager indeed. Doesn't anything look especially tempting in the village tavern? Toy Shop Stepping across the threshold into the toy shop, you are overcome by a stunning display of all the toys a child could want. Filling the shelves are colorful stuffed bears, bouncing balls, games and puzzles, shiny trinkets and gizmos, dolls of all shapes and sizes, and even a polished red wagon. There are racks full of frilly dresses and boxes brimming with fancy bonnets and ribbons. The old shopkeeper peers at you curiously from behind his desk. As you gaze in awe from one toy to the next, your eyes come to rest upon a strikingly pair of fine leather shoes on a pedestal in front of the clothes display. >e Village Street near Toy Shop Further down the road, you see children playing some sort of game in the town square. Beyond them, a small theater production is taking place. You pass a window of one of the shops filled with a dazzling display of dolls and toys of all shapes and sizes. Your favorite place in town, the toy store lies to the west. >s Village Street near Tavern This is the main road through town. This road continues deeper into the village when traversed to the north, and leads back down the mountainous path to home when traveled south. Peels of laughter can be heard from the tavern to the east. Tantalizing and delicious smells beckon your poor, hungry belly toward the open tavern door. >e Festive Tavern This tavern is a popular meeting place for the townsfolk especially at this time of year. Peels of laughter can be heard over the din of so many voices telling stories from past years and hopes for future seasons. Nearly every table is occupied with groups of villagers drinking, feasting and laughing. The smells of lavish dishes sorely tempt your empty stomach. Musicians walk through the crowd singing carols and playing their instruments for the diners. A roaring fire adorns the back wall of the tavern. A large pot hangs on a rack squarely over the flames. Many of the villagers take their bowls over to the hearth and fill them with the traditional plum pudding that is being cooked in that large pot. Peering through the smoky air, you recognize a woman scrubbing a counter stretching along the back wall. >sing Your sing joyously into the open air. >x pot You walk over to the fire and peer into the large black pot that hangs over the yellow flames. A delicious-looking plum pudding is being cooked in the pot. As the yearly tradition would have it, whomever finds the single silver coin that is placed in the large pot of plum pudding will be blessed with a season of unparalleled prosperity. Ah, if only you could afford a bowlful. >ask hanna about pot One of the villagers waves at Hanna-Mae from across the room. As she starts across the tavern floor, she calls back to you, "Sorry, Gretchen! Back in a moment!" >ask hanna about pudding Hanna-Mae looks at you for a moment and then says, "Why ... sure, it is solstice eve after all! I'm sure no one will mind if I give you a small serving of that plum pudding. Wouldn't that be nice?" And with that, Hanna-Mae finds a bowl and fills it with the plum pudding from the large pot over the hearth. She brings it back over to you, "Eat up, Gretchen. That batch is especially tasty this year! >eat pudding (the tiny bowl containing a small serving of plum pudding) You devour the plum pudding, downing spoonful after spoonful in hungry gulps. Suddenly, your teeth clamp down on a hard, flat object. Your initial discomfort turns rapidly to glee when you pull a silver coin from your mouth! It has always been the tradition in town every winter solstice that the person who finds the coin in the plum pudding will be blessed with a coming season of prosperity. Hanna-Mae runs over to you and hugs you joyfully. "You found it, you found it!" she cries. Many of the townsfolk turn to look at you and clap politely. [Your score has just gone up by two points.] >x coin Even though most townsfolk would find this silver coin more valuable for the traditional superstition of future good fortune, this coin is the most money you have ever had in your possession. You imagine yourself to be the richest girl in all of the world. >hanna, thanks Hanna-Mae smiles down at you, "You are most welcome, Gretchen!" >w Village Street near Tavern This is the main road through town. This road continues deeper into the village when traversed to the north, and leads back down the mountainous path to home when traveled south. Peels of laughter can be heard from the tavern to the east. Tantalizing and delicious smells beckon your poor, hungry belly toward the open tavern door. >n Village Street near Toy Shop Further down the road, you see children playing some sort of game in the town square. Beyond them, a small theater production is taking place. You pass a window of one of the shops filled with a dazzling display of dolls and toys of all shapes and sizes. Your favorite place in town, the toy store lies to the west. >w Toy Shop Stepping across the threshold into the toy shop, you are overcome by a stunning display of all the toys a child could want. Filling the shelves are colorful stuffed bears, bouncing balls, games and puzzles, shiny trinkets and gizmos, dolls of all shapes and sizes, and even a polished red wagon. There are racks full of frilly dresses and boxes brimming with fancy bonnets and ribbons. The old shopkeeper peers at you curiously from behind his desk. As you gaze in awe from one toy to the next, your eyes come to rest upon a strikingly pair of fine leather shoes on a pedestal in front of the clothes display. >buy shoes with coin The shopkeeper takes the coin from you and looks back and forth upon it and the fine leather shoes. "Well my dear, I have to tell you that this silver coin does not quite equal the price of these shoes ... " The shopkeeper pauses as you stare at him with disappointment brimming in your eyes. "But after all, it is solstice eve ... Ah, very well then. Here, take the shoes to your brother. Now run along back home, it is getting late!" And with that, the shopkeeper gives you the pair of leather shoes. >e Village Street near Toy Shop Further down the road, you see children playing some sort of game in the town square. Beyond them, a small theater production is taking place. You pass a window of one of the shops filled with a dazzling display of dolls and toys of all shapes and sizes. Your favorite place in town, the toy store lies to the west. >i You are carrying: handsome leather shoes a candle stick >s Village Street near Tavern This is the main road through town. This road continues deeper into the village when traversed to the north, and leads back down the mountainous path to home when traveled south. Peels of laughter can be heard from the tavern to the east. Tantalizing and delicious smells beckon your poor, hungry belly toward the open tavern door. >s You begin the trek back home with the sun already sinking below the horizon. You'll have worried your poor mother sick! As the wind picks up and begins whipping your hair and dress furiously about, you cover your face and try to hurry back faster than ever. Suddenly, the black storm clouds that had been threatening the horizon for so long swoop down at an alarming rate that completely engulfs the valley leaving you no choice but to stumble on in darkness. Cold, wet droplets suddenly pummels your skin as a furious snowstorm erupts. Thousands upon thousands of snowflakes swirl about in a blinding blizzard. You stumble off of the path in blindness and tumble down the side of the mountain ... . * . * . . . _\/ \/_ . . . \ \ / / . . . . .. .. -==>: X :<==- _\/ \/_ . . '\ /' / _/ \_ \ _\/\/_ . . \\// ' /\ /\ ' _\_\_\/\/_/_/_ . . _.__\\\///__._ * ' * / /_/\/\_\ \ . . ' ///\\\ ' _/\/\_ . . //\\ /\ /\ . . ./ \. ._ _. ' ' . . '' '' (_) (_) <> \ / <> . . .\::/. \_\/ \/_/ . . .:. _.=._\\//_.=._ \\// . . .. \o/ .. '=' //\\ '=' _<>_\_\<>/_/_<>_ . . :o| | |o: '/::\' <> / /<>\ \ <> . . " '. ' .' " (_) (_) _ _ _ //\\ _ . . >O< ' ' /_/ \_\ / /\ /\ \ . . _ .' . '. _ \\// <> / \ <> . . :o| | |o: /\_\\><\\ \/ . . ':' . ""\ /"" . _//\\_ . . _\_._\/_._/_ \_\ /_/ . . / ' /\ ' \ \o/ . . ' __/ \__ ' -:|:- . . ' .'| |'. /o\ . You awake finding yourself staring at a silvery round orb in a midnight blue sky. You are lying on your back in a small forest clearing covered for the most part in soft, powdery snow. Shivering, you stand up, swat the snow from your dress, and shake icy droplets from your long hair. The snowy forest landscape appears completely foreign, as if you have stumbled into some kind of winter wonderland. Dense Forest near Thicket The silvery moonlight softly illuminates the nearby branches of this dense forest and reflects from snowy patches along the cold ground. Although your range of sight is limited by the darkness, the brambles appear passable to the north and southwest. A glowing orb to the north sends streaks of yellow light through the gnarled branches. [Your score has just gone up by eight points.] >i You are carrying: handsome leather shoes a candle stick >wear shoes They are a present for your brother! >x orb You peer through the knots and tangles of the thicket brambles, but cannot discern anything else about the glowing yellow light in the distance. >n Little Clearing This is a small clearing in the dark wood which is singular for a large beautiful oak tree growing here. The moonlight filters through the dark bare branches and makes unusual patterns on the snowy ground. A path runs through the little clearing from the east to the west, but many other directions appear passable as well. A lit lantern hangs just within your reach from one of the long twisted branches of the oak. >get lantern Just as your hands are about to touch the glowing lantern, the branch upon which it hangs abruptly swoops up out of your reach. Only when you step back does the branch lower back to its original position. >x lantern The lantern emits a bright and glowing yellow light. >touch it You feel nothing unexpected. >climb tree Which do you mean, the fir trees or the oak tree? >fir None of the surrounding fir trees have good branches for climbing. >climb oak As you approach the trunk, you notice some unusual folds in the bark of the oak. You imagine that these folds resemble a kind of face with two eyes and a closed mouth. When you move to examine them further, the 'eye' folds suddenly split open revealing dark gaps, and from the opening 'mouth' a deep throaty voice suddenly booms, "Why hello there, little one! I hope you weren't thinking to climb on me, to have your fun. But, don't stand there looking blue. Why, I might have happened to eat you!" And with that, all of the dryad's branches seem to wriggle as if he were taking a great stretch, and the lantern, in turn, bobs up and down. >ask oak about lantern The dryad raises the lantern up out of your reach and looks at you with pity. "So sorry, young thing, but without this light, I have no solstice cheer to bring. But take heart, little sprite, the moon is full and bright on this most snowy solstice night!" Then after pausing to reflect he adds, "Now if you had a bundle of fairy glow rocks, what a find! But alas, the ore grows deep in the old dwarf's mine." >ask oak about rocks The dryad appears to be staring whimsically at the great silvery moon overhead and does not seem to be paying any attention to you. >ask oak about dwarf The dryad appears to be staring whimsically at the great silvery moon overhead and does not seem to be paying any attention to you. >ask oak about mine The dryad appears to be staring whimsically at the great silvery moon overhead and does not seem to be paying any attention to you. >x moon The bright and silvery full moon hanging in the night sky illuminates the snowy patches at your feet and provides the light by which you are able to view this strange and snowy world in which you have fallen. >sw Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. Three large round snowballs have been stacked atop one another directly in front of one spot along the row of hedges. Two spindly twigs jut out on either side of the middle snowball. >x snowballs As you look over the stacked snowballs and the spindly twigs, you realize that it looks quite like a snowman! >x snowman The snowman is made up of three stacked snowballs. Two twigs jut out of either side of the middle snowball to form his spindly arms. You hear a ringing bell in the distance and can barely make out a little snow sprite running across the hilltops in the distance. >get snowman You push and pull on round snowballs, but they do not seem to budge. You try even harder, but stop when you hear a muffled yelp. >snowman, hello You only hear a strained groan in reply. >x snowman The snowman is made up of three stacked snowballs. Two twigs jut out of either side of the middle snowball to form his spindly arms. >get twig Take the snowman's arms! Why, that does not seem very nice. >climb snowman That would not seem to be worth the effort. You hear a ringing bell in the distance and can barely make out a little snow sprite running across the hilltops in the distance. >push man You cannot seem to find that here. >push snowman You push and pull on round snowballs, but they do not seem to budge. You try even harder, but stop when you hear a muffled yelp. >search it The snowman's arms are made of two spindly twigs that are long and thin towards the body, then branch out into several long fingers at the other end. Suddenly, you are smacked in the head by a snowball. You whirl about to see a devilish little snow sprite giggling at you. It suddenly jumps up, does a back flip and then disappears into the snow. >get snowmall You cannot seem to find that here. >get snowball You push and pull on round snowballs, but they do not seem to budge. You try even harder, but stop when you hear a muffled yelp. >l Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. >n Path through Snowy Hills This is the edge of a vast expanse of snowy hills that continue to the north and northeast. The hills are completely covered in powdery white snow that glistens in the soft moonlight. A path extends from the northwest to the east. The forest continues in all other directions. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >s Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >x hedges The hedges that have grown to approximately twice your height have been formed into a neat row which runs northwest to southeast. A little white snow sprite carrying a golden bell runs across the snowy hills laughing and tumbling. As soon as it spots you, it runs right up to you stops just a few feet away. >sprite, hello The snow sprite laughs raucously, then picks up a handful of snow and hurls it in your direction. >throw snow at sprite (the snow sprite at the snow sprite) (first taking the snow sprite) The little snow sprite is much too quick for you. >get snow (the snow sprite) The little snow sprite is much too quick for you. The snow sprite does flips and cartwheels across the top of the snow and then suddenly disappears beneath. >get snow You reach down and pick up a handful of snow. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >l Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. >l Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. Off in the distance to the northern hills beyond, you spot a tall figure walking in front of a white horse. You can faintly hear the jingling of bells which fades away as the two of them disappear behind one of the distant snowy hills. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. Your handful of snow finally melts and slips through your fingers. >zget snow That is not a recognizable verb. >get snow You reach down and pick up a handful of snow. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. Off in the distance to the northern hills beyond, you spot a tall figure walking in front of a white horse. You can faintly hear the jingling of bells which fades away as the two of them disappear behind one of the distant snowy hills. >eat snow (the handful of snow) The tiny flakes melt on your tongue. Off in the distance to the northern hills beyond, you spot a tall figure walking in front of a white horse. You can faintly hear the jingling of bells which fades away as the two of them disappear behind one of the distant snowy hills. Your handful of snow finally melts and slips through your fingers. >get snow You reach down and pick up a handful of snow. Off in the distance to the northern hills beyond, you spot a tall figure walking in front of a white horse. You can faintly hear the jingling of bells which fades away as the two of them disappear behind one of the distant snowy hills. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. Off in the distance to the northern hills beyond, you spot a tall figure walking in front of a white horse. You can faintly hear the jingling of bells which fades away as the two of them disappear behind one of the distant snowy hills. >climb hedge Alas, but there are simply no solid branches here to climb. Suddenly, you are smacked in the head by a snowball. You whirl about to see a devilish little snow sprite giggling at you. It suddenly jumps up, does a back flip and then disappears into the snow. >throw snow at sprite You cannot seem to find that here. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. Suddenly, you are smacked in the head by a snowball. You whirl about to see a devilish little snow sprite giggling at you. It suddenly jumps up, does a back flip and then disappears into the snow. Your handful of snow finally melts and slips through your fingers. >get snow You reach down and pick up a handful of snow. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. Suddenly, you are smacked in the head by a snowball. You whirl about to see a devilish little snow sprite giggling at you. It suddenly jumps up, does a back flip and then disappears into the snow. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. Off in the distance to the northern hills beyond, you spot a tall figure walking in front of a white horse. You can faintly hear the jingling of bells which fades away as the two of them disappear behind one of the distant snowy hills. >get snow (the snow) You reach down and pick up a handful of snow. Your handful of snow finally melts and slips through your fingers. >i You are carrying: handsome leather shoes a candle stick >get snow You reach down and pick up a handful of snow. Suddenly, you are smacked in the head by a snowball. You whirl about to see a devilish little snow sprite giggling at you. It suddenly jumps up, does a back flip and then disappears into the snow. >z You hear only the whispering wind murmuring soft secrets which, alas, you cannot understand. A little white snow sprite carrying a golden bell runs across the snowy hills laughing and tumbling. As soon as it spots you, it runs right up to you stops just a few feet away. >throw snow at sprite (the handful of snow at the snow sprite) You hurl the handful of snow at the little sprite. He lurches to the side to avoid being pelted. Even though the sprite is much to quick to be hit, he seems to have a newfound respect for you ... for a moment. But, then he pokes his tongue out at you and continues with his usual antics. >get handful of snow You cannot seem to find that here. >n Path through Snowy Hills This is the edge of a vast expanse of snowy hills that continue to the north and northeast. The hills are completely covered in powdery white snow that glistens in the soft moonlight. A path extends from the northwest to the east. The forest continues in all other directions. >nw Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. You hear the faint groaning of creaky wheels echoing from within the cave. The scraping of metal becomes louder and louder, and suddenly an old mining cart filled with small grey stones emerges from the cave entrance. A stocky, pug- nosed dwarf with a lit candle on his hat pushes the cart along the tracks from behind. Quite oblivious or unconcerned by your presence, he continues pushing the cart until it reaches the stone pile where he dumps his load of stones. He then slowly marches around the cart to the other side and pushes it back into the darkness of the cave. >x stones The tall rock pile is made up of hundreds and hundreds of small, grey rounded stones. >search stones The tall rock pile is made up of hundreds and hundreds of small, grey rounded stones. >get stone My, what an extraordinary imagination you have! >get stones You take a handful of the round, grey rocks, but they soon become unwieldy. Since you cannot find a suitable place to keep any more than a handful, you have to stop at that. >i You are carrying: a handful of grey stones handsome leather shoes a candle stick >x grey (the rock pile) The tall rock pile is made up of hundreds and hundreds of small, grey rounded stones. >climb pile That would not seem to be worth the effort. >l Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. >enter cave That does not seem to be something you can enter. You hear the faint groaning of creaky wheels echoing from within the cave. The scraping of metal becomes louder and louder, and suddenly an old mining cart filled with small grey stones emerges from the cave entrance. A stocky, pug- nosed dwarf with a lit candle on his hat pushes the cart along the tracks from behind. Quite oblivious or unconcerned by your presence, he continues pushing the cart until it reaches the stone pile where he dumps his load of stones. He then slowly marches around the cart to the other side and pushes it back into the darkness of the cave. >in You see the dwarf retreat into the darkness of the tunnel to the north as he pushes the old rusty miner's cart. Dwarf's Mine Inside the cave, you can barely make out the shapes within this chamber. The moonlight trickles in barely illuminating the metal tracks upon which the cart rolls. The tracks appear to originate from somewhere in a tunnel to the north and then divide here in this chamber. One set of tracks leads back out to the east while the other continues into a tunnel to the southwest. Near the junction of the tracks, you can barely see a tall metal lever reflecting in the moonlight. >push lever You push and push on the lever, but it just will not budge any more in that direction. >pull it You grab ahold of the long lever and pull with all of your might. With the groaning of rusted metal, the lever slowly moves. You notice that the tracks are now connected from the tunnel to the north to the tunnel to the southwest. >n The tunnel to the north is just wide enough for the tracks, and you worry that if you follow them, the dwarf will run you over with his cart when he returns. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. You hear the faint grinding of the miner's cart on the tracks as it returns from the tunnel to the north. The cart rolls into the cave and follows the tracks which now lead into the cave to the southwest. The dwarf passes by oblivious to your presence. >sw Alas! It is much too dark to see deeper within the mine. The moonlight barely illuminates this chamber as it is. >n The tunnel to the north is just wide enough for the tracks, and you worry that if you follow them, the dwarf will run you over with his cart when he returns. >z Time passes. The miner's cart emerges from the tunnel to the southwest and rides upon the tracks until it crosses over the junction. The dwarf then hobbles around to the other side of the cart and stops its motion. He emerges from the back side of the cart and pulls the lever back. A loud clap thunders through the caves as the track is connected back to the tracks leading east. As he pushes the cart out of the mine, the dwarf curves his mouth downward in a mean pout and narrows his beady black eyes at you. >enter cart The dwarf has passed by already and is no longer here. The dwarf pushing the old miner's cart reappears at the tunnel entrance and passes by apparently uninterested in your presence. He and the cart vanish from view into the tunnel to the north. >n The tunnel to the north is just wide enough for the tracks, and you worry that if you follow them, the dwarf will run you over with his cart when he returns. >sw Alas! It is much too dark to see deeper within the mine. The moonlight barely illuminates this chamber as it is. >e Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. >e Snowy Hills The vast expanse of snowy hills continue in nearly all directions. A tall mountain rises to the west, and you can barely make out the forest edge to the southeast. >s Path through Snowy Hills This is the edge of a vast expanse of snowy hills that continue to the north and northeast. The hills are completely covered in powdery white snow that glistens in the soft moonlight. A path extends from the northwest to the east. The forest continues in all other directions. Suddenly, you are smacked in the head by a snowball. You whirl about to see a devilish little snow sprite giggling at you. It suddenly jumps up, does a back flip and then disappears into the snow. >ne Snowy Hills Snow covered peaks and valleys continue to the horizon as far as your eyes can see while the midnight sky above is speckled with fine points of light. The snowy hills continue all across the northern horizon and the forest lies to the south. >s Little Clearing The oak dryad peers down at you as you stand in this small clearing in the dark wood. The moonlight filters through his dark bare branches and makes unusual patterns on the snowy ground. A path runs through the little clearing from the east to the west, but many other directions appear passable as well. A lit lantern hangs just within your reach from one of the long twisted branches of the oak. >nw As you walk, the forest thins and soon, you leave it behind entirely. Snowy Hills The vast expanse of snowy hills continue in nearly all directions. A tall mountain rises to the west, and you can barely make out the forest edge to the southeast. >n Snowy Hills In the hemisphere of your sight, the horizon to your feet is a blur of white peaks and valleys, while the entire starry sky above is a deep midnight blue that is pierced by the gleaming full silvery moon. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >se Snowy Hills Snow covered peaks and valleys continue to the horizon as far as your eyes can see while the midnight sky above is speckled with fine points of light. The snowy hills continue all across the northern horizon and the forest lies to the south. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >e Snowy Hills The powdery white snow has become slushy in this direction, and you sink in to your knees. You can scarcely make out the silhouettes of the forest trees against the starry midnight sky to the south and southwest. The gleaming snow- covered hills continue to the west. >s Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. >se Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >n You step over the row of stones and climb down into the forest vale. The air is much warmer here. Forest Vale (West) Even though this area is much deeper than the rest of the forest, the thick canopy of branches high above has blocked the snow from collecting here. The moonlight has also been blocked by the thick covering of branches. Fortunately, dozens of fireflies have congregated here and illuminate the darkness sufficiently. In the firefly light, you see a bed of strikingly beautiful white poinsettias. Little flying fairies dance and sing on the flower petals. You glance about the area and notice that this forest vale continues to the east. >x pointettias You cannot seem to find that here. >x poinsettias Flower fairies play gaily on the petals of the white poinsettias. When a firefly passes close by to one of the flowers close by, you notice a little wand resting on its petals. >x wand The wand resting on the flower petal appears to belong to the fairies, but none are looking after it at the moment. The wand appears to be bluish in color. >get wand You reach for the little wand, but just as you are about to grasp it, one of the flower fairies darts through the air and swats your fingers with his wand. Another fairy rushes over as well and chides her companion in a bell-like high- pitched voice, "You must take better care to guard the wands!" A little later, you see the fairies become distracted by a game the others seem to be playing with the light bugs and fly off to join in. >g You reach again for the wand, but just at the last moment, one of the fairies dashes through the air and shoots dazzling light rays toward you from her green wand. The brilliant flashings cause you to take several steps backwards. The fairy twirls a few times in the air, nods in satisfaction, and flies back to the others. >g You reach again for the wand, but just at the last moment, one of the fairies dashes through the air and shoots dazzling light rays toward you from her green wand. The brilliant flashings cause you to take several steps backwards. The fairy twirls a few times in the air, nods in satisfaction, and flies back to the others. >x wand The wand resting on the flower petal appears to belong to the fairies, but none are looking after it at the moment. The wand appears to be bluish in color. >x flowers Flower fairies play gaily on the petals of the white poinsettias. When a firefly passes close by to one of the flowers close by, you notice a little wand resting on its petals. >get wand You reach again for the wand, but just at the last moment, one of the fairies dashes through the air and shoots dazzling light rays toward you from her green wand. The brilliant flashings cause you to take several steps backwards. The fairy twirls a few times in the air, nods in satisfaction, and flies back to the others. >e Forest Vale (East) The sunken vale continues back to the west. Fireflies dance about in the air on this side of the vale as well illuminating the space beneath the thick covering of branches above. Another bed of white poinsettia flowers grows here in the soft earth. >x flowers The patch of white poinsettias shines beautifully in the blue-green firefly light. >get flower The white poinsettias look so fresh and beautiful that you decide to leave them to grow in peace. >w Forest Vale (West) Even though this area is much deeper than the rest of the forest, the thick canopy of branches high above has blocked the snow from collecting here. The moonlight has also been blocked by the thick covering of branches. Fortunately, dozens of fireflies have congregated here and illuminate the darkness sufficiently. In the firefly light, you see a bed of strikingly beautiful white poinsettias. Little flying fairies dance and sing on the flower petals. You glance about the area and notice that this forest vale continues to the east. >s You carefully climb up the slope and step back into the stone-lined path. The chill of the blowing breeze sends shivers up your spine. Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >e Forest Clearing near Cottage The front of a small wooden cottage faces to the west on the far side of this forest clearing. Without the concealing canopy of branches, you see shiny points of light twinkle in the dark sky. The underbrush has grown thick in this area, but it has been cleared away to the east and also looks passable to the southeast. The stone-lined path leads back into the forest to the west. >knock on door You cannot seem to find that here. >e You cautiously make your way up to the front door. Porch The wooden floorboards creak and groan as you tred upon them. The front door is closed to the east, and a short flight of steps lead back to the forest clearing. >knock on door You rap upon the door, but no one responds. >open door You try to turn the handle, but alas, it does not budge. >x door The door is made of strong, thick wood and is carved with decorative swirls. The door handle is a shiny round knob, and underneath it you spot a large keyhole from which a soft warm light emanates. >x keyhole You peer into the keyhole and see a narrow vision of the room beyond. The cottage appears cozy and well decorated with large comfy furniture and splendid knickknacks. A roaring fire casts pulsating shadows about the room. >turn knob You are unable to. >w Forest Clearing near Cottage The front of a small wooden cottage faces to the west on the far side of this forest clearing. Without the concealing canopy of branches, you see shiny points of light twinkle in the dark sky. The underbrush has grown thick in this area, but it has been cleared away to the east and also looks passable to the southeast. The stone-lined path leads back into the forest to the west. >se South of Cottage The forest thins slightly near this side of the house, but traversal in this area is hindered by the dense underbrush. From this vantage point, you can see that the wooden cottage to the north sits up above the ground on short stilts. >x stilts The wooden cottage was built upon short stilts which raises it up about a foot and a half above the snowy ground. You kneel down and peer underneath. For the length of most of the cottage, you can see directly through to the silvery snow on the other side, but close by, you notice a wooden panel hanging down from underneath the cabin floor. Upon closer inspection, you detect a faint path leading north under the cottage to the wooden panel. >n You crouch down and crawl under the cottage. You soon discover a gap in the foundation that is nearly tall enough for you to stand in. Crawl Space This is a dark crawl space beneath the wooden cottage. When you try to stand upright, you nearly bang your head upon a wooden surface above you. As you look up at the ceiling of this crawl space, you see faint streaks of yellow light seeping through the wooden ceiling in the pattern of a large rectangle. >x ceiling (the rectangle of light) Light permeates through separations in the wooden ceiling above. The light seems to trace the faint shape of a rectangle. >push it You push up against the wooden ceiling in the middle of the light-formed rectangle, and one side gives way. This is appears to be a trap door leading into the cottage. Cottage The cottage is warm and cozy. Burning candles resting in sconces along the walls twinkle brightly illuminating the room in flickering yellow light. The cottage appears to be just a one-room dwelling. The front door is closed to the west. A large walk-in wardrobe has been pushed up against one of the walls; its door is closed. The portion of the room near the trap door would seem to serve as the kitchen with cupboards from which hang cups and saucers, pots and pans. Near the center of the room stands a modest table surrounded by a few chairs. Centered in the middle of the table is a large glass dome filled with many translucent spheres that glisten in the firelight. Aside from various knickknacks strewn about, you notice a large couch with fluffy pillows facing the fireplace. A large black kettle hangs in the fireplace above a raging fire. >x couch The couch is much more luxurious than anything that would be in your parent's house. In fact, this entire room is cozy and comfortable. >x kettle You try to lean over the kettle to see the water inside, but the rising steam is simply too hot. >sit on couch The couch pillows are soft and cushy. You relax and feel the warmth of the fire. >search it The couch is much more luxurious than anything that would be in your parent's house. In fact, this entire room is cozy and comfortable. >get up But you aren't in anything at the moment. >x table It is simply a plain, wooden table. >x dome The large glass dome has an ornately carved base made up of three rings. The translucent blue spheres within click against the glass dome as they move about in mesmerizing swirls. >x spheres The small orbs are translucent fist-sized spheres that have a silvery bluish cast when light reflects from their smooth, shiny surfaces. The orbs churn about within the dome encasement almost as if looking for an escape. >get sphere Alas, but you cannot reach the blue baubles through the closed glass dome. >close door Which do you mean, the trap door or the front door? >trap But, the trap door is already closed. >get dome You pull upon the glass dome, but it will not budge. It appears to be locked. >turn it You are unable to. >x dome The large glass dome has an ornately carved base made up of three rings. The translucent blue spheres within click against the glass dome as they move about in mesmerizing swirls. >x rings The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a star, the middle ring etching is a wreath, and the bottom ring etching is a toy horse. >x arrow The arrow carved upon the bottom support of the dome points inward giving significance to the column of carvings centered just above the tip. >x tip You cannot seem to find that here. >x star You cannot seem to find that here. >turn arrow You are unable to. >turn ring Which do you mean, the top ring, the middle ring or the bottom ring? >top You turn the top ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the middle ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a wreath, the middle ring etching is a candy cane, and the bottom ring etching is a toy horse. >g You turn the top ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the middle ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a candy cane, the middle ring etching is a toy horse, and the bottom ring etching is a toy horse. >x arrow The arrow carved upon the bottom support of the dome points inward giving significance to the column of carvings centered just above the tip. >turn top You turn the top ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the middle ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a toy horse, the middle ring etching is a star, and the bottom ring etching is a toy horse. >g You turn the top ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the middle ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a star, the middle ring etching is a wreath, and the bottom ring etching is a toy horse. >turn middle You turn the middle ring to the left and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the bottom ring moves one quarter turn to the left as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a star, the middle ring etching is a star, and the bottom ring etching is a candy cane. >turn middle right The ring does not appear to turn in that direction. >turn bottom You turn the bottom ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the top ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a wreath, the middle ring etching is a star, and the bottom ring etching is a toy horse. >turn middle You turn the middle ring to the left and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the bottom ring moves one quarter turn to the left as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a wreath, the middle ring etching is a toy horse, and the bottom ring etching is a candy cane. >g You turn the middle ring to the left and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the bottom ring moves one quarter turn to the left as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a wreath, the middle ring etching is a candy cane, and the bottom ring etching is a wreath. >turn bottom You turn the bottom ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the top ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a candy cane, the middle ring etching is a candy cane, and the bottom ring etching is a candy cane. As soon as the rings click into place, the glass dome rolls back. Having been freed from their constricted confines, the silvery blue baubles rise into the air and begin to float and lilt about the room. [Your score has just gone up by five points.] >get blue You reach for one of the baubles floating close by, but just as you are about to capture it, the orb deftly swirls out of your grasp. It circles you almost tauntingly and then floats away. >i You are carrying: a handful of grey stones handsome leather shoes a candle stick >l Cottage The cottage is warm and cozy. Burning candles resting in sconces along the walls twinkle brightly illuminating the room in flickering yellow light. The cottage appears to be just a one-room dwelling. The front door is closed to the west. A large walk-in wardrobe has been pushed up against one of the walls; its door is closed. The portion of the room near the trap door would seem to serve as the kitchen with cupboards from which hang cups and saucers, pots and pans. Near the center of the room stands a modest table surrounded by a few chairs. Centered in the middle of the table is a large glass dome that is now empty. Aside from various knickknacks strewn about, you notice a large couch with fluffy pillows facing the fireplace. A large black kettle hangs in the fireplace above a raging fire. Many beautiful blue, translucent orbs float and lilt through the air inside this cozy cottage. >open wardrobe The wardrobe doors creak as you open them. >look in it Peering inside of the dark wardrobe, you see a several curious items of clothing hanging inside. A pair of slippers and boots have been stashed in the back corner of the wardrobe. Along the back wall of the wardrobe, you notice several rows of shelves. >x clothing The clothing most likely belongs to the owner of the house. None of the clothes or shoes stored in the wardrobe are your size. You poke about through the clothes but find nothing else. >x slippers The clothing most likely belongs to the owner of the house. None of the clothes or shoes stored in the wardrobe are your size. You poke about through the clothes but find nothing else. >get slippers The clothing most likely belongs to the owner of the house. None of the clothes or shoes stored in the wardrobe are your size. You poke about through the clothes but find nothing else. >x shelves Resting upon one of the shelves at the back of the wardrobe is a fine black top hat which seems of quite a different style then the other wardrobe items. >get hat Taken. >x it The black top hat is finely crafted of smooth black silk. A royal blue silk band encircles the brow. As you stare at the hat, it appears special somehow. >look in it The black top hat is finely crafted of smooth black silk. A royal blue silk band encircles the brow. As you stare at the hat, it appears special somehow. >get silk bank That was only understood you as far as wanting to get the fine black top hat. >get silk band That was only understood you as far as wanting to get the fine black top hat. >['that was only understood you'?] That is not a recognizable verb. >wear hat You put on the top hat and imagine yourself looking quite handsome while attending a fancy ball. >l Cottage The cottage is warm and cozy. Burning candles resting in sconces along the walls twinkle brightly illuminating the room in flickering yellow light. The cottage appears to be just a one-room dwelling. The front door is closed to the west. A large walk-in wardrobe has been pushed up against one of the walls; its door hangs open The portion of the room near the trap door would seem to serve as the kitchen with cupboards from which hang cups and saucers, pots and pans. Near the center of the room stands a modest table surrounded by a few chairs. Centered in the middle of the table is a large glass dome that is now empty. Aside from various knickknacks strewn about, you notice a large couch with fluffy pillows facing the fireplace. A large black kettle hangs in the fireplace above a raging fire. Many beautiful blue, translucent orbs float and lilt through the air inside this cozy cottage. >[No period after 'its door hangs open'.] That is not a recognizable verb. >x cupboards You examine the cupboards, but find nothing but ordinary plates and cups within. >x plates You examine the cupboards, but find nothing but ordinary plates and cups within. >get plate You cannot seem to find that here. >get plates You are unable to move that. >get cups You are unable to move that. >['those'] That is not a recognizable verb. >x knicknacks You cannot seem to find that here. >x pillows The large pillows are soft and fluffy. >get pillow The pillows would be much too cumbersome to carry. >l Cottage The cottage is warm and cozy. Burning candles resting in sconces along the walls twinkle brightly illuminating the room in flickering yellow light. The cottage appears to be just a one-room dwelling. The front door is closed to the west. A large walk-in wardrobe has been pushed up against one of the walls; its door hangs open The portion of the room near the trap door would seem to serve as the kitchen with cupboards from which hang cups and saucers, pots and pans. Near the center of the room stands a modest table surrounded by a few chairs. Centered in the middle of the table is a large glass dome that is now empty. Aside from various knickknacks strewn about, you notice a large couch with fluffy pillows facing the fireplace. A large black kettle hangs in the fireplace above a raging fire. Many beautiful blue, translucent orbs float and lilt through the air inside this cozy cottage. >x fire Within the fireplace, long fingers of orange flame lap at the bottom of the large black kettle inciting the water within to boil and churn. >i You are carrying: a fine black top hat (being worn) a handful of grey stones handsome leather shoes a candle stick >light candle (the candles) But, the candles are already lit. >light candle stick If you were to light the candle, the melting wax would surely burn you. Besides, the candle is small, made more for decoration than illumination. >get candle (the candles) The candles are fixed in place by candle holders that are securely fastened to the walls. Besides, the hot wax would surely burn you. >x chairs The chairs appear to be quite ordinary. >sit in chairs You sit down upon the chair, drum your fingers on the table, and then get back to exploring the cabin. >get hat But, you already have that. >doff hat You take off the fine black top hat. >catch orbs in hat That was only understood you as far as wanting to catch the blue baubles. >catch orbs You reach for one of the baubles floating close by, but just as you are about to capture it, the orb deftly swirls out of your grasp. It circles you almost tauntingly and then floats away. >throw hat at orb That would hardly help the situation. >open door Which do you mean, the trap door or the front door? >front You try to turn the handle, but alas, it does not budge. >turn bottom You turn the bottom ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the top ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a toy horse, the middle ring etching is a candy cane, and the bottom ring etching is a toy horse. >g You turn the bottom ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the top ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a star, the middle ring etching is a candy cane, and the bottom ring etching is a star. >g You turn the bottom ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the top ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a wreath, the middle ring etching is a candy cane, and the bottom ring etching is a wreath. >g You turn the bottom ring to the right and it clicks into place once offset by a quarter turn. Simultaneously, the top ring moves one quarter turn to the right as well. The etchings of the vertically stacked rings line up in four columns at equal distances around the circumference. Looking at the column of etchings above the embossed arrow, the top ring carving resembles a candy cane, the middle ring etching is a candy cane, and the bottom ring etching is a candy cane. You hear a click within the ornamented base, but nothing else happens. >d You open the trap door and climb down. The trap door closes behind you. Crawl Space This is a dark crawl space beneath the wooden cottage. When you try to stand upright, you nearly bang your head upon a wooden surface above you. As you look up at the ceiling of this crawl space, you see faint streaks of yellow light seeping through the wooden ceiling in the pattern of a large rectangle. >s South of Cottage The forest thins slightly near this side of the house, but traversal in this area is hindered by the dense underbrush. From this vantage point, you can see that the wooden cottage to the north sits up above the ground on short stilts. >nw Forest Clearing near Cottage The front of a small wooden cottage faces to the west on the far side of this forest clearing. Without the concealing canopy of branches, you see shiny points of light twinkle in the dark sky. The underbrush has grown thick in this area, but it has been cleared away to the east and also looks passable to the southeast. The stone-lined path leads back into the forest to the west. >e Porch The wooden floorboards creak and groan as you tred upon them. The front door is closed to the east, and a short flight of steps lead back to the forest clearing. >look through keyhole You peer into the keyhole and see a narrow vision of the room beyond. The cottage appears cozy and well decorated with large comfy furniture and splendid knickknacks. A roaring fire casts pulsating shadows about the room. >w Forest Clearing near Cottage The front of a small wooden cottage faces to the west on the far side of this forest clearing. Without the concealing canopy of branches, you see shiny points of light twinkle in the dark sky. The underbrush has grown thick in this area, but it has been cleared away to the east and also looks passable to the southeast. The stone-lined path leads back into the forest to the west. >w Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >nw Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. >i You are carrying: a fine black top hat a handful of grey stones handsome leather shoes a candle stick >se Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >n You step over the row of stones and climb down into the forest vale. The air is much warmer here. Forest Vale (West) Even though this area is much deeper than the rest of the forest, the thick canopy of branches high above has blocked the snow from collecting here. The moonlight has also been blocked by the thick covering of branches. Fortunately, dozens of fireflies have congregated here and illuminate the darkness sufficiently. In the firefly light, you see a bed of strikingly beautiful white poinsettias. Little flying fairies dance and sing on the flower petals. You glance about the area and notice that this forest vale continues to the east. >put hat on flower Putting things on the white poinsettias doesn not appear to help. >[whoops, 'doesn'] You seem to want to talk to someone, but I cannot see whom. >s You carefully climb up the slope and step back into the stone-lined path. The chill of the blowing breeze sends shivers up your spine. Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >nw Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. >climb fir None of the surrounding fir trees have good branches for climbing. >n Snowy Hills The powdery white snow has become slushy in this direction, and you sink in to your knees. You can scarcely make out the silhouettes of the forest trees against the starry midnight sky to the south and southwest. The gleaming snow- covered hills continue to the west. >s Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. >ne Mountain's Edge The forest has thinned in this area at the foothills of a great mountain range that lies to the north. In the moonlight, you see that the undergrowth has thinned to the southwest which leads toward the forest. A small hole, barely noticeable in the shadows, extends into the mountain directly to the north. >x hole The hole is incredibly dark and menacing. >n The hole is incredibly dark and menacing, so you decide against entering. >sw Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. You hear a rustling in the branches of one of the nearby fir trees and glance up to see a clump of snow tumble to the ground below. >n Snowy Hills The powdery white snow has become slushy in this direction, and you sink in to your knees. You can scarcely make out the silhouettes of the forest trees against the starry midnight sky to the south and southwest. The gleaming snow- covered hills continue to the west. >w Snowy Hills Snow covered peaks and valleys continue to the horizon as far as your eyes can see while the midnight sky above is speckled with fine points of light. The snowy hills continue all across the northern horizon and the forest lies to the south. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >s Little Clearing The oak dryad peers down at you as you stand in this small clearing in the dark wood. The moonlight filters through his dark bare branches and makes unusual patterns on the snowy ground. A path runs through the little clearing from the east to the west, but many other directions appear passable as well. A lit lantern hangs just within your reach from one of the long twisted branches of the oak. >ne As you walk, the forest thins and soon, you leave it behind entirely. Snowy Hills The powdery white snow has become slushy in this direction, and you sink in to your knees. You can scarcely make out the silhouettes of the forest trees against the starry midnight sky to the south and southwest. The gleaming snow- covered hills continue to the west. >w Snowy Hills Snow covered peaks and valleys continue to the horizon as far as your eyes can see while the midnight sky above is speckled with fine points of light. The snowy hills continue all across the northern horizon and the forest lies to the south. >nw Snowy Hills In the hemisphere of your sight, the horizon to your feet is a blur of white peaks and valleys, while the entire starry sky above is a deep midnight blue that is pierced by the gleaming full silvery moon. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >s Snowy Hills The vast expanse of snowy hills continue in nearly all directions. A tall mountain rises to the west, and you can barely make out the forest edge to the southeast. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >w Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. You hear the faint groaning of creaky wheels echoing from within the cave. The scraping of metal becomes louder and louder, and suddenly an old mining cart filled with small grey stones emerges from the cave entrance. A stocky, pug- nosed dwarf with a lit candle on his hat pushes the cart along the tracks from behind. Quite oblivious or unconcerned by your presence, he continues pushing the cart until it reaches the stone pile where he dumps his load of stones. He then slowly marches around the cart to the other side and pushes it back into the darkness of the cave. >help (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/9) Although the front door is locked, you can take a tantalizing peak into the cottage through the keyhole. You have to find an alternate method, however of entering. (2/9) Explore in particular the area to the south of the cottage. (3/9) Go north to the crawl space under the cottage and ascend to the interior. (4/9) Be sure to explore the wardrobe, the hearth, and the glass dome. Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. >e Snowy Hills The vast expanse of snowy hills continue in nearly all directions. A tall mountain rises to the west, and you can barely make out the forest edge to the southeast. >se Little Clearing The oak dryad peers down at you as you stand in this small clearing in the dark wood. The moonlight filters through his dark bare branches and makes unusual patterns on the snowy ground. A path runs through the little clearing from the east to the west, but many other directions appear passable as well. A lit lantern hangs just within your reach from one of the long twisted branches of the oak. >e Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. >se Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >e Forest Clearing near Cottage The front of a small wooden cottage faces to the west on the far side of this forest clearing. Without the concealing canopy of branches, you see shiny points of light twinkle in the dark sky. The underbrush has grown thick in this area, but it has been cleared away to the east and also looks passable to the southeast. The stone-lined path leads back into the forest to the west. >se South of Cottage The forest thins slightly near this side of the house, but traversal in this area is hindered by the dense underbrush. From this vantage point, you can see that the wooden cottage to the north sits up above the ground on short stilts. >n You crouch down and crawl under the cottage. You soon discover a gap in the foundation that is nearly tall enough for you to stand in. Crawl Space This is a dark crawl space beneath the wooden cottage. When you try to stand upright, you nearly bang your head upon a wooden surface above you. As you look up at the ceiling of this crawl space, you see faint streaks of yellow light seeping through the wooden ceiling in the pattern of a large rectangle. >u You push open the trap door and climb up into the cottage. The trap door swings closed with a thud behind you. Cottage The cottage is warm and cozy. Burning candles resting in sconces along the walls twinkle brightly illuminating the room in flickering yellow light. The cottage appears to be just a one-room dwelling. The front door is closed to the west. A large walk-in wardrobe has been pushed up against one of the walls; its door hangs open The portion of the room near the trap door would seem to serve as the kitchen with cupboards from which hang cups and saucers, pots and pans. Near the center of the room stands a modest table surrounded by a few chairs. Centered in the middle of the table is a large glass dome that is now empty. Aside from various knickknacks strewn about, you notice a large couch with fluffy pillows facing the fireplace. A large black kettle hangs in the fireplace above a raging fire. Many beautiful blue, translucent orbs float and lilt through the air inside this cozy cottage. >x hearth The large fireplace is made of red bricks. A long, thin stocking has been hung from the mantle. A raging fire blazes in the hearth causing the kettle's water to boil ferociously. >x stocking The brown stocking is long and thin. >get it Taken. >look in it The brown stocking is long and thin. >put orb in stocking You need to be holding it before you can put it into something else. >catch orb You reach for one of the baubles floating close by, but just as you are about to capture it, the orb deftly swirls out of your grasp. It circles you almost tauntingly and then floats away. >wear stocking The stocking is much too big for you. >x fire Within the fireplace, long fingers of orange flame lap at the bottom of the large black kettle inciting the water within to boil and churn. >help (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/9) Although the front door is locked, you can take a tantalizing peak into the cottage through the keyhole. You have to find an alternate method, however of entering. (2/9) Explore in particular the area to the south of the cottage. (3/9) Go north to the crawl space under the cottage and ascend to the interior. (4/9) Be sure to explore the wardrobe, the hearth, and the glass dome. (5/9) Retrieve the hat from the wardrobe shelves and the stocking from the mantle. (6/9) Your next goal should be to unlock the glass dome and free the baubles. (7/9) Unlock the glass dome by turning the rings of the dome base such that three like symbols are vertically aligned. (8/9) Base Ring Mechanism: The top ring turns to the right and simultaneously turns the middle ring in the same direction. The middle ring turns to the left and simultaneously turns the bottom ring in the same direction. The bottom ring turns to the right and simultaneously turns the top ring in the same direction. Reset the rings by pushing down on the glass dome. (9/9) Many different combinations will work, but here is one: Push dome (resets the rings to their initial position) Turn top ring Turn middle ring Turn top ring [Please press SPACE.] (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/9) Although the front door is locked, you can take a tantalizing peak into the cottage through the keyhole. You have to find an alternate method, however of entering. (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/12) An abandoned wand rests on one of the flower petals in the forest vale. Unfortunately, the fairies try to guard their wands very carefully. They seem to become distracted easily, however, don't they? Cottage The cottage is warm and cozy. Burning candles resting in sconces along the walls twinkle brightly illuminating the room in flickering yellow light. The cottage appears to be just a one-room dwelling. The front door is closed to the west. A large walk-in wardrobe has been pushed up against one of the walls; its door hangs open The portion of the room near the trap door would seem to serve as the kitchen with cupboards from which hang cups and saucers, pots and pans. Near the center of the room stands a modest table surrounded by a few chairs. Centered in the middle of the table is a large glass dome that is now empty. Aside from various knickknacks strewn about, you notice a large couch with fluffy pillows facing the fireplace. A large black kettle hangs in the fireplace above a raging fire. Many beautiful blue, translucent orbs float and lilt through the air inside this cozy cottage. >d You open the trap door and climb down. The trap door closes behind you. Crawl Space This is a dark crawl space beneath the wooden cottage. When you try to stand upright, you nearly bang your head upon a wooden surface above you. As you look up at the ceiling of this crawl space, you see faint streaks of yellow light seeping through the wooden ceiling in the pattern of a large rectangle. >s South of Cottage The forest thins slightly near this side of the house, but traversal in this area is hindered by the dense underbrush. From this vantage point, you can see that the wooden cottage to the north sits up above the ground on short stilts. >nw Forest Clearing near Cottage The front of a small wooden cottage faces to the west on the far side of this forest clearing. Without the concealing canopy of branches, you see shiny points of light twinkle in the dark sky. The underbrush has grown thick in this area, but it has been cleared away to the east and also looks passable to the southeast. The stone-lined path leads back into the forest to the west. >w Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >n You step over the row of stones and climb down into the forest vale. The air is much warmer here. Forest Vale (West) Even though this area is much deeper than the rest of the forest, the thick canopy of branches high above has blocked the snow from collecting here. The moonlight has also been blocked by the thick covering of branches. Fortunately, dozens of fireflies have congregated here and illuminate the darkness sufficiently. In the firefly light, you see a bed of strikingly beautiful white poinsettias. Little flying fairies dance and sing on the flower petals. You glance about the area and notice that this forest vale continues to the east. >get snow You cannot seem to find that here. >s You carefully climb up the slope and step back into the stone-lined path. The chill of the blowing breeze sends shivers up your spine. Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >get snow You reach down and pick up a handful of snow. >n You step over the row of stones and climb down into the forest vale. The air is much warmer here. Forest Vale (West) Even though this area is much deeper than the rest of the forest, the thick canopy of branches high above has blocked the snow from collecting here. The moonlight has also been blocked by the thick covering of branches. Fortunately, dozens of fireflies have congregated here and illuminate the darkness sufficiently. In the firefly light, you see a bed of strikingly beautiful white poinsettias. Little flying fairies dance and sing on the flower petals. You glance about the area and notice that this forest vale continues to the east. >throw snow at fairies The fairies dart out of the way of your flying snowball. From behind, you hear a high-pitched, "Hmph!" and are doused by a momentarily blinding ray of sparkling fairy light. >get wand You reach again for the wand, but just at the last moment, one of the fairies dashes through the air and shoots dazzling light rays toward you from her green wand. The brilliant flashings cause you to take several steps backwards. The fairy twirls a few times in the air, nods in satisfaction, and flies back to the others. >help (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/12) An abandoned wand rests on one of the flower petals in the forest vale. Unfortunately, the fairies try to guard their wands very carefully. They seem to become distracted easily, however, don't they? (2/12) You need to coax the fairies away from the wand. (3/12) Please see the 'Hedge Maze' Hints before continuing. (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/7) After walking through the hedge maze, you might have noticed some angel statues. At one of the locations, you will soon hear one of those mischievous little snow sprites coming. What transpires thereafter is all part of the puzzle. (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/5) Examine the stacked snowballs at the edge of the snowy hills. (2/5) It is an *unfinished* snowman. Forest Vale (West) Even though this area is much deeper than the rest of the forest, the thick canopy of branches high above has blocked the snow from collecting here. The moonlight has also been blocked by the thick covering of branches. Fortunately, dozens of fireflies have congregated here and illuminate the darkness sufficiently. In the firefly light, you see a bed of strikingly beautiful white poinsettias. Little flying fairies dance and sing on the flower petals. You glance about the area and notice that this forest vale continues to the east. >s You carefully climb up the slope and step back into the stone-lined path. The chill of the blowing breeze sends shivers up your spine. Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >nw Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. >w Little Clearing The oak dryad peers down at you as you stand in this small clearing in the dark wood. The moonlight filters through his dark bare branches and makes unusual patterns on the snowy ground. A path runs through the little clearing from the east to the west, but many other directions appear passable as well. A lit lantern hangs just within your reach from one of the long twisted branches of the oak. >sw Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. A mischievous little snow sprite is standing here making faces at you and giggling. >put stones on snowman On second thought, that just does not seem to be quite right. >i You are carrying: a stocking a fine black top hat a handful of grey stones handsome leather shoes a candle stick The snow sprite does flips and cartwheels across the top of the snow and then suddenly disappears beneath. >make eyes That is not a recognizable verb. >put stones on snowman On second thought, that just does not seem to be quite right. >put hat on snowman You lay the black hat atop the snowman's bare head. He now looks much more handsome, but alas, he has no face! Off in the distance to the northern hills beyond, you spot a tall figure walking in front of a white horse. You can faintly hear the jingling of bells which fades away as the two of them disappear behind one of the distant snowy hills. >put stones on face You cannot seem to find that here. >help (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/5) Examine the stacked snowballs at the edge of the snowy hills. (2/5) It is an *unfinished* snowman. (3/5) Please see the 'Dwarf's Mine' and 'Cottage' Hints before continuing. (4/5) After giving the snowman a coal face, something magical is still missing. Remember Frosty the Snowman? (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/9) Although you can take a handful of the ore from the Dwarf's Mine, you may find that a larger quantity is needed. However, anymore than a handful of the small, round rocks becomes too unwieldy for you to carry. 2/9) The needed 'container' is in the Cottage. (Please see the 'Cottage' Hints before continuing) Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. >get hat You ponder taking the fine black top hat back, but it really seems more appropriate for the snowman after all. >i You are carrying: a stocking a handful of grey stones handsome leather shoes a candle stick A little white snow sprite carrying a golden bell runs across the snowy hills laughing and tumbling. As soon as it spots you, it runs right up to you stops just a few feet away. >n Path through Snowy Hills This is the edge of a vast expanse of snowy hills that continue to the north and northeast. The hills are completely covered in powdery white snow that glistens in the soft moonlight. A path extends from the northwest to the east. The forest continues in all other directions. >nw Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. You hear the faint groaning of creaky wheels echoing from within the cave. The scraping of metal becomes louder and louder, and suddenly an old mining cart filled with small grey stones emerges from the cave entrance. A stocky, pug- nosed dwarf with a lit candle on his hat pushes the cart along the tracks from behind. Quite oblivious or unconcerned by your presence, he continues pushing the cart until it reaches the stone pile where he dumps his load of stones. He then slowly marches around the cart to the other side and pushes it back into the darkness of the cave. >put stones in stocking (the handful of grey stones in the stocking) You put the handful of rocks into the stocking. >get stones (the rock pile) You scoop up a handful of the grey rocks, but hear the gnome returning from within the mine, so you quickly step away from the rock pile. You hear the faint groaning of creaky wheels echoing from within the cave. The scraping of metal becomes louder and louder, and suddenly an old mining cart filled with small grey stones emerges from the cave entrance. A stocky, pug- nosed dwarf with a lit candle on his hat pushes the cart along the tracks from behind. Quite oblivious or unconcerned by your presence, he continues pushing the cart until it reaches the stone pile where he dumps his load of stones. He then slowly marches around the cart to the other side and pushes it back into the darkness of the cave. >get stones (the rock pile) Since you cannot fit anymore of the little stones in your hands, you put the handful in the stocking. You are about to fill the stocking with more of the stones, but you hear the dwarf returning from the mine. >g (the rock pile) You scoop up a handful of the grey rocks, but hear the gnome returning from within the mine, so you quickly step away from the rock pile. You hear the faint groaning of creaky wheels echoing from within the cave. The scraping of metal becomes louder and louder, and suddenly an old mining cart filled with small grey stones emerges from the cave entrance. A stocky, pug- nosed dwarf with a lit candle on his hat pushes the cart along the tracks from behind. Quite oblivious or unconcerned by your presence, he continues pushing the cart until it reaches the stone pile where he dumps his load of stones. He then slowly marches around the cart to the other side and pushes it back into the darkness of the cave. >w You see the dwarf retreat into the darkness of the tunnel to the north as he pushes the old rusty miner's cart. Dwarf's Mine Inside the cave, you can barely make out the shapes within this chamber. The moonlight trickles in barely illuminating the metal tracks upon which the cart rolls. The tracks appear to originate from somewhere in a tunnel to the north and then divide here in this chamber. One set of tracks leads back out to the east while the other continues into a tunnel to the southwest. Near the junction of the tracks, you can barely see a tall metal lever reflecting in the moonlight. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. >z Time passes. You hear the faint grinding of the mining cart on the tracks as it returns from the tunnel to the north. The sound grows louder as the cart rolls into the cave, and the dwarf continues pushing it out of the cave to the east. >z Time passes. The dwarf pushing the old miner's cart reappears at the tunnel entrance and passes by apparently uninterested in your presence. He and the cart vanish from view into the tunnel to the north. >push lever You push and push on the lever, but it just will not budge any more in that direction. >undo Dwarf's Mine [Previous turn undone.] >pull lever You grab ahold of the long lever and pull with all of your might. With the groaning of rusted metal, the lever slowly moves. You notice that the tracks are now connected from the tunnel to the north to the tunnel to the southwest. >e Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. >get stones (the rock pile) You quickly fill the stocking with as many of the round grey stones as you can. [Your score has just gone up by five points.] >se Path through Snowy Hills This is the edge of a vast expanse of snowy hills that continue to the north and northeast. The hills are completely covered in powdery white snow that glistens in the soft moonlight. A path extends from the northwest to the east. The forest continues in all other directions. >s Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. A mischievous little snow sprite is standing here making faces at you and giggling. >put stones on snowman You need to be holding grey stones before you can put it on top of something else. >get stones You wouldn't be able to hold all of the glow rocks in your hands, so you decide to leave them in the stocking. >make face That is not a recognizable verb. >help (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/5) Examine the stacked snowballs at the edge of the snowy hills. (2/5) It is an *unfinished* snowman. (3/5) Please see the 'Dwarf's Mine' and 'Cottage' Hints before continuing. (4/5) After giving the snowman a coal face, something magical is still missing. Remember Frosty the Snowman? Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. A mischievous little snow sprite is standing here making faces at you and giggling. The snow sprite does flips and cartwheels across the top of the snow and then suddenly disappears beneath. >give snowman a face You cannot seem to find that here. >give stones to snowman (first taking grey stones) You wouldn't be able to hold all of the glow rocks in your hands, so you decide to leave them in the stocking. A little white snow sprite runs right by you carrying a large golden bell in both its hands over its head. It giggles and laughs mischievously, then does a few somersaults and disappears back into the snow. >give coal to snowman You cannot seem to find that here. >i You are carrying: a stocking grey stones handsome leather shoes a candle stick You hear a ringing bell in the distance and can barely make out a little snow sprite running across the hilltops in the distance. >hint (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/5) Examine the stacked snowballs at the edge of the snowy hills. (2/5) It is an *unfinished* snowman. (3/5) Please see the 'Dwarf's Mine' and 'Cottage' Hints before continuing. (4/5) After giving the snowman a coal face, something magical is still missing. Remember Frosty the Snowman? (5/5) Put the black top hat on the snowman. [Please press SPACE.] Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. A little white snow sprite carrying a golden bell runs across the snowy hills laughing and tumbling. As soon as it spots you, it runs right up to you stops just a few feet away. >i You are carrying: a stocking grey stones handsome leather shoes a candle stick >put eyes on snowman You cannot seem to find that here. >put stones on snowman You need to be holding grey stones before you can put it on top of something else. >get stone You cannot seem to find that here. >get stones You wouldn't be able to hold all of the glow rocks in your hands, so you decide to leave them in the stocking. >put stocking on snowman On second thought, that just does not seem to be quite right. >help (Press ENTER to return to menu, or H for another hint.) (1/9) Although you can take a handful of the ore from the Dwarf's Mine, you may find that a larger quantity is needed. However, anymore than a handful of the small, round rocks becomes too unwieldy for you to carry. 2/9) The needed 'container' is in the Cottage. (Please see the 'Cottage' Hints before continuing) 3/9) You should use the stocking to carry a larger quantity of the rocks; however, the gnome returns from the mines before you have time to fill the stocking. You must find a way to distract the old gnome. 4/9) Investigate the caves, and look for a method to preoccupy the miner. 5/9) Pull the lever inside the caves to connect the tracks from the north to the tracks leading into the alternate cave to the southwest. 6/9) In the time necessary for the gnome to realize what you have done, return to the cave entrance and put a quantity of the round stones into the stocking. 7/9) Please read the 'Lantern' Hints before continuing. Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. A mischievous little snow sprite is standing here making faces at you and giggling. The snow sprite does flips and cartwheels across the top of the snow and then suddenly disappears beneath. >ne Little Clearing The oak dryad peers down at you as you stand in this small clearing in the dark wood. The moonlight filters through his dark bare branches and makes unusual patterns on the snowy ground. A path runs through the little clearing from the east to the west, but many other directions appear passable as well. A lit lantern hangs just within your reach from one of the long twisted branches of the oak. >ask oak about stocking The dryad looks over your rocks, "But so dull and lifeless be the lot, you must now make them piping hot!" >e Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. >se Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >e Forest Clearing near Cottage The front of a small wooden cottage faces to the west on the far side of this forest clearing. Without the concealing canopy of branches, you see shiny points of light twinkle in the dark sky. The underbrush has grown thick in this area, but it has been cleared away to the east and also looks passable to the southeast. The stone-lined path leads back into the forest to the west. >se South of Cottage The forest thins slightly near this side of the house, but traversal in this area is hindered by the dense underbrush. From this vantage point, you can see that the wooden cottage to the north sits up above the ground on short stilts. >n You crouch down and crawl under the cottage. You soon discover a gap in the foundation that is nearly tall enough for you to stand in. Crawl Space This is a dark crawl space beneath the wooden cottage. When you try to stand upright, you nearly bang your head upon a wooden surface above you. As you look up at the ceiling of this crawl space, you see faint streaks of yellow light seeping through the wooden ceiling in the pattern of a large rectangle. >u You push open the trap door and climb up into the cottage. The trap door swings closed with a thud behind you. Cottage The cottage is warm and cozy. Burning candles resting in sconces along the walls twinkle brightly illuminating the room in flickering yellow light. The cottage appears to be just a one-room dwelling. The front door is closed to the west. A large walk-in wardrobe has been pushed up against one of the walls; its door hangs open The portion of the room near the trap door would seem to serve as the kitchen with cupboards from which hang cups and saucers, pots and pans. Near the center of the room stands a modest table surrounded by a few chairs. Centered in the middle of the table is a large glass dome that is now empty. Aside from various knickknacks strewn about, you notice a large couch with fluffy pillows facing the fireplace. A large black kettle hangs in the fireplace above a raging fire. Many beautiful blue, translucent orbs float and lilt through the air inside this cozy cottage. >hang stocking on hearth That is not a recognizable verb. >x hearth The large fireplace is made of red bricks. A raging fire blazes in the hearth causing the kettle's water to boil ferociously. >put stocking in fire The big black kettle overhangs the raging fire, making that too difficult. >put stocking in kettle You empty the stockingful of grey stones into the boiling water which instantly froths and churns. The water hisses furiously and then bubbles up over the rim of the kettle. The hot liquid flows over the side of the black kettle and falls onto the tall orange flames below. You stand back as clouds of steam and soot pour forth from the hearth. When the steam clears, you see the flames have been extinguished. As the warm air in the room begins to escape through the chimney now that the burning fire has been extinguished, the baubles which had been placidly lilting about the room suddenly rush to the fireplace and in an instant are swept up into the chimney and out the top. You rush over to one of the windows and pull back the drape. You can see the baubles, with their perfectly rounded surfaces shining in the moonlight, up high in the air and slowly drifting to the northwest. [Your score has just gone up by five points.] >get stones You scoop the brightly glowing rocks out of the tepid water remaining in the kettle and fill the stocking with them. >d You open the trap door and climb down. The trap door closes behind you. Crawl Space This is a dark crawl space beneath the wooden cottage. When you try to stand upright, you nearly bang your head upon a wooden surface above you. As you look up at the ceiling of this crawl space, you see faint streaks of yellow light seeping through the wooden ceiling in the pattern of a large rectangle. >s South of Cottage The forest thins slightly near this side of the house, but traversal in this area is hindered by the dense underbrush. From this vantage point, you can see that the wooden cottage to the north sits up above the ground on short stilts. >nw Forest Clearing near Cottage The front of a small wooden cottage faces to the west on the far side of this forest clearing. Without the concealing canopy of branches, you see shiny points of light twinkle in the dark sky. The underbrush has grown thick in this area, but it has been cleared away to the east and also looks passable to the southeast. The stone-lined path leads back into the forest to the west. The windows of the cottage appear dark, but curls of smoke billow from the chimney. >w Path through Snowy Forest You are standing in the middle of a stone lined path that leads through the snow-covered forest from the northwest to the east. To the north, the ground dips down much lower than the path upon which you now stand. >nw Path through Snowy Forest A path, outlined upon the snow-covered ground by two rows of stones, begins here and continues to the southeast. Moonbeams streak through the tops of the giant fir trees illuminating your way. >w Little Clearing The oak dryad peers down at you as you stand in this small clearing in the dark wood. The moonlight filters through his dark bare branches and makes unusual patterns on the snowy ground. A path runs through the little clearing from the east to the west, but many other directions appear passable as well. A lit lantern hangs just within your reach from one of the long twisted branches of the oak. >sw Edge of Snowy Hills The forest edge lies to the northeast and the gently rolling snowy hills continue no further than a row of hedges to the southwest. A snowman stands here in front of the hedges. >put rocks on snowman You need to be holding shining fairy glow rocks before you can put it on top of something else. >get rock You cannot seem to find that here. >i You are carrying: a stocking shining fairy glow rocks (providing light) handsome leather shoes a candle stick >get rocks You wouldn't be able to hold all of the glow rocks in your hands, so you decide to leave them in the stocking. >n Path through Snowy Hills This is the edge of a vast expanse of snowy hills that continue to the north and northeast. The hills are completely covered in powdery white snow that glistens in the soft moonlight. A path extends from the northwest to the east. The forest continues in all other directions. >nw Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. You hear the faint groaning of creaky wheels echoing from within the cave. The scraping of metal becomes louder and louder, and suddenly an old mining cart filled with small grey stones emerges from the cave entrance. A stocky, pug- nosed dwarf with a lit candle on his hat pushes the cart along the tracks from behind. Quite oblivious or unconcerned by your presence, he continues pushing the cart until it reaches the stone pile where he dumps his load of stones. He then slowly marches around the cart to the other side and pushes it back into the darkness of the cave. >w You see the dwarf retreat into the darkness of the tunnel to the north as he pushes the old rusty miner's cart. Dwarf's Mine Inside the cave, you can barely make out the shapes within this chamber. The moonlight trickles in barely illuminating the metal tracks upon which the cart rolls. The tracks appear to originate from somewhere in a tunnel to the north and then divide here in this chamber. One set of tracks leads back out to the east while the other continues into a tunnel to the southwest. Near the junction of the tracks, you can barely see a tall metal lever reflecting in the moonlight. >sw Alas! It is much too dark to see deeper within the mine. The moonlight barely illuminates this chamber as it is. >i You are carrying: a stocking shining fairy glow rocks (providing light) handsome leather shoes a candle stick >sw Alas! It is much too dark to see deeper within the mine. The moonlight barely illuminates this chamber as it is. >n The tunnel to the north is just wide enough for the tracks, and you worry that if you follow them, the dwarf will run you over with his cart when he returns. >e Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. >help Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. >se Path through Snowy Hills This is the edge of a vast expanse of snowy hills that continue to the north and northeast. The hills are completely covered in powdery white snow that glistens in the soft moonlight. A path extends from the northwest to the east. The forest continues in all other directions. >e Little Clearing The oak dryad peers down at you as you stand in this small clearing in the dark wood. The moonlight filters through his dark bare branches and makes unusual patterns on the snowy ground. A path runs through the little clearing from the east to the west, but many other directions appear passable as well. A lit lantern hangs just within your reach from one of the long twisted branches of the oak. >ask oak about rocks The dryad peers into your opened stocking and his gaping eyes fill with glee. He exclaims, "Well! Now there one fine solstice treat! Oh, I'm so pleased our paths did meet! Now, take this lamp to light your way, and may the morrow bring you one fine solstice day!" You hold the stockingful of glowing rocks to the dryad, and he scoops it up with one of his gangly limbs. The dryad then flings the opened stocking with a grand swooping motion sending the multitudes of glowing rocks high into the air. Where the brightly lit rocks land, he grasps them with surrounding twigs. The oak is lit with the brightly colored stones from tip to trunk in glowing purple, pink and blue hues. The dryad's eyes curve into blissful arcs and you can see his mouth curved in a huge grin. The branch supporting the lantern dips down well within your reach. [Your score has just gone up by ten points.] >get lantern Taken. >nw As you walk, the forest thins and soon, you leave it behind entirely. Snowy Hills The vast expanse of snowy hills continue in nearly all directions. A tall mountain rises to the west, and you can barely make out the forest edge to the southeast. >w Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. You hear the faint groaning of creaky wheels echoing from within the cave. The scraping of metal becomes louder and louder, and suddenly an old mining cart filled with small grey stones emerges from the cave entrance. A stocky, pug- nosed dwarf with a lit candle on his hat pushes the cart along the tracks from behind. Quite oblivious or unconcerned by your presence, he continues pushing the cart until it reaches the stone pile where he dumps his load of stones. He then slowly marches around the cart to the other side and pushes it back into the darkness of the cave. >w You see the dwarf retreat into the darkness of the tunnel to the north as he pushes the old rusty miner's cart. Dwarf's Mine Inside the cave, you can barely make out the shapes within this chamber. The moonlight trickles in barely illuminating the metal tracks upon which the cart rolls. The tracks appear to originate from somewhere in a tunnel to the north and then divide here in this chamber. One set of tracks leads back out to the east while the other continues into a tunnel to the southwest. Near the junction of the tracks, you can barely see a tall metal lever reflecting in the moonlight. >sw Tunnel in the Dwarf's Mine This large tunnel of rock leads out of the caves to the south and continues back into the caves to the northeast. Metal tracks line the center of the tunnel. >s Cave Entrance Dense foliage has surrounded the area at the mouth of the cave. The tracks lead out of the cave for few yards where they are buried under a large pile of coal that is illuminated in the moonlight. >get coal You grab a handful of the black coal. >i You are carrying: lumps of black coal a lantern (providing light) handsome leather shoes a candle stick >n Tunnel in the Dwarf's Mine This large tunnel of rock leads out of the caves to the south and continues back into the caves to the northeast. Metal tracks line the center of the tunnel. >ne Dwarf's Mine Inside the cave, you can barely make out the shapes within this chamber. The moonlight trickles in barely illuminating the metal tracks upon which the cart rolls. The tracks appear to originate from somewhere in a tunnel to the north and then divide here in this chamber. One set of tracks leads back out to the east while the other continues into a tunnel to the southwest. Near the junction of the tracks, you can barely see a tall metal lever reflecting in the moonlight. >e Cave Entrance This is the base of a giant mountain to the north. The rocky landscape continues to the west. Snow-covered plateaus glisten in the moonlight high above. The path stops just in front of the mouth of a cave in the mountainside to the west. Railroad tracks lead from deep inside the cave to a large pile of round stones a few yards from the cave entrance. Looking to the east and southeast, you see the edge of the snowy hills. The mountainous terrain appears impassable in other directions. >se Path through Snowy Hills Th