“Up these stairs is a gauntlet of goblins, looking to keep you from climbing the tower,” says the elf. “You’ll only be able to get past them if you can answer their questions.”
“And Santa’s at the top of the tower?” says Cobalt.
“Yes,” say the elf, “but whomever orchestrated this entire occupation is there with him, and no one from the North Pole has been able to solve the puzzle that’s keeping the room they’re holed up in locked.”
“Good thing our secret weapon is from elsewhere,” Cobalt winks back at you.
“If you feel you are ready,” says the elf, “go ahead.”