24

As you complete the problem, the lock to Maskenissen's cell clicks open automatically, and you rush over to untie him. The elves quickly take Grinchuk and secure him where Maskenissen had been held captive.

With everyone safe and Grinchuk detained, the group heads back to the North Pole pub for a well-deserved celebration. The pub is filled with the sound of cheerful chatter and Christmas carols.

In the midst of the celebration, you notice a chessboard set up at the pub with a note: "For our Christmas hero, one last game." The elves gather around to watch as you delve into the final problem.

Today's problem is composed by IM Geir Sune Tallaksen for Advent of Chess, and consists of two parts: a and b. Participants must answer both parts correctly to earn a point.

With White to move first, how can White (with Black's assistance) mate on the second move (White plays 2 moves and Black 1, and White's second move is mate)?

a) The diagram position.

b) Move White's pawn from e2 to e3 before solving the same problem again.

If you're confused, check out our Discord server. Thanks for participating, and have a very merry Christmas!