Prague, Czech Republic
“That was a fun puzzle to solve,” said Sparky.
“True,” agreed Santa, but also added, “let’s hope we can still keep to our schedule, despite the detour. Neither Mrs. Claus nor Purara would be happy if we got back late. You know what they say, happy wife, happy life?”
Sparky chuckled and found himself thinking fondly of his long-time girlfriend, Purara. He was looking forward to spending Christmas with her.
Christmas! Crikey! He’d forgotten her present! Again!
“Santa?” asked Sparky, a little hesitantly.
“Yes?” replied Santa.
“See, I’ve got a bit of a problem. Silly of me, I know, but I forgot to get Purara a Christmas present before we started our journey and now I fear I won’t be in time to get her one before the big day. I’d love to buy her some amber jewellery, but that would mean going to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic.”
“Hmmm,” replied Santa. “It’s another unplanned stop, but if we’re quick about it, I don’t see why not.”
Thankfully, the GPS behaved itself and directed them safely to Prague, where Sparky quickly bought Purara a pair of amber earrings.
But on their return to the sleigh, they found an elderly troll sitting atop the pile of presents. The elven crew was scared to death and the troll was holding one of their most valuable presents hostage: a treasure chest made of pure gold.
“You’ll have to solve my puzzle first if you want your treasure chest back,” said the troll with an evil laugh.
Sparky put his best foot forward and said decisively, “Go on then. Out with it! We’re ready!”