Scene 2

The boys soon come across a small hut in the woods. They group together behind a large tree close to the shelter. Suddenly, a loud growling sound comes from inside the hut, startling the boys.

Quinn: Did you hear that?

Reuben: Of course we did! It vibrated us from head to toe!

Bailey: (Voice shaking) It sounds like there's a really terrible creature in there. (Shakes head and stands tall) We need to find out what it is so that we can keep others safe. The last time we used the hut after sledding, I noticed a small back door. We'll catch them off guard if we sneak in that way.

Reuben: I like your thinking! Lead the way.

The boys move silently toward the back of the cottage as the growling grows louder.

Scene 2

Inside the dimly lit hut, two shadowy figures huddle in front of a small fire pit. A third creature is nearby, crouched low and growling. With a bang, the back door flies open and the three boys rush in, shouting wildly.

Bailey: We've got you surrounded, snow monsters!

Surprised, the larger figures turn toward the boys.

Bailey: (Shocked) Dad! Mom!

The third creature, a dog, runs towards Bailey. It drops a large chew toy in front of him and growls expectantly.

Bailey's Mom: (Chuckling) Snow monsters? Oh, my! What are you boys up to this time?

Bailey: What are you up to? you were supposed to be at the vet. We followed some footprints here, but they couldn't have been yours. They must be from some sort of monster.

Bailey's Dad: Were the footprints large and round?

Quinn: Yes! Did you see them, too?

Bailey's Mom: No, Quinn. We made them with these.

Bailey's Mom holds up a pair of snowshoes.

Bailey's Dad: We bought them on the way back from town, along with a chariot for Bella. The vet said the fresh air would be good for her, but she's still having trouble walking. We didn't mean to scare you, boys.

Bailey: We weren't scared! Well, maybe a little.

Reuben: It was all for nothing anyway, Bay. We were definitely barking up the wrong tree with this one!

Everyone laughs.

How might the story have ended if the setting from Scene 2 remained the same in Scene 3?

1. They might have found Bailey's parents in a different hut.
2. They might have found Bailey's parents outside.
3. They might have found snow monsters in the hut.
4. They might have found snow monsters outside.