SNOW QUEEN

Meanwhile, Kai sits on the mirror of reason in the Snow Queen's palace at the top of the world. Eight times seven.

KAI

Fiftysix.

SNOW QUEEN

Eight times eight.

KAI

Sixtyfour.

SNOW QUEEN

Six times six.

KAI

Thirtysix. These are easy.

SNOW QUEEN

Oh are they. Seven times nine.

KAI

Sixtythree.

SNOW QUEEN

Fourteen times six.

KAI

Eightyfour.

SNOW QUEEN

All right that's enough.

KAI

One more. A hard one.

SNOW QUEEN

Thirtytwo divided by four.

KAI

That's division. We haven't started division yet. At school. In my class. Back home.

SNOW QUEEN

Do you miss home and school? Your friends.

KAI

It's hard to remember. They seem so far away. I had one friend, Gerda. I remember her. But just barely. I think she lived next door. I think I made her cry. I can't remember much else.

SNOW QUEEN

Would you like to stay here with me forever?

KAI

I could always stay up as late as I want?

SNOW QUEEN

Yes.

KAI

And tell the cook to fix me anything I want to eat?

SNOW QUEEN

Yes.

KAI

Whenever I want it?

SNOW QUEEN

Yes.

KAI

Do you want me to stay here?

SNOW QUEEN

You are a very smart boy, and good company. You keep me from being so lonely. But I don't believe you belong here. Someday, I will have to let you go.

KAI

When?

SNOW QUEEN

You like puzzles. Here is one for you. Take this circle and these seven sticks. See what you can make with them. They will tell you when it is time for you to go home.

KAI

So Kai played with the circle and seven sticks, but they told him nothing. Each day that he remained with the Snow Queen, he forgot more and more about his home. He forgot all about his friend ...