> > > > For some reason I thought I had destroyed the gate of despair, not the gate of hope. I was confused.
> > > >
> > > > Anyway, I have gotten to another point in the game where I'm not sure what to do next. I have been on the trip with Darius.
> > > >
> > > > Inventory: 8 red gemstones, 2 black gemstones, guard sword, stone of strengthening, food rations, bucket, rope, tinderbox, wire clippers, key of opening, portrait, clear focus stone, crate
> > >
> > > Have you killed the dragon? Once you do you will find yourself in a chasm. You need to work this area. HINT...." going down"?
> >
> > I have killed the dragon, and I've gone to the room with the marble plates. I still am not sure what to do. My inventory is the same.
>
> OK, I have figured out what to do. Now I a wondering around in Llagimlyn. Trying to see what else I can do. (I'm still pretty terrible at these games!)
>
> Inventory: 1 bronze coin, 8 red gemstones, 2 black gemstones, guard's sword, stone of strengthening, food rations, bucket, tinderbox, sticks, string, wire clippers, key of opening, portrait, clear focus stone, hammer, blanket

Play around with the plates. Use something in your inventory. Something that might be thought of as being magical.... Click on different options until you hear a grinding sound. Take what you used to open the plates. VERY IMPORTANT... Be sure once you make it through the gate... visit the building that is South. Exhaust all conversation with creatures and don't leave without getting something.