In a remote mountainous area in Germany, there is a peak that soars into the clouds. At the top of that peak, there is a small cottage. This cottage looks rather old. Its walls are made of stones piled up, and the thatch on the roof is a bit messy, but it gives a mysterious feeling.
The children in the village have always been full of curiosity about this hilltop cottage. There is a legend that a mysterious old man lives inside. However, due to the precipitousness of the peak, very few people have actually reached the cottage.
There was a little boy named Hans. He was extremely brave, and his curiosity about that hilltop cottage had reached an uncontrollable level. So, on a sunny morning, he shouldered his backpack and began to climb towards the top of the mountain.
Hans walked along the rugged mountain path. Along the way, he saw a great many beautiful scenes. There were blooming wildflowers and squirrels jumping among the branches. But as he climbed higher and higher, the mountain path became steeper and steeper, and he began to feel a bit exhausted. However, whenever he thought of that mysterious hilltop cottage, he was full of strength again.
After several hours of arduous climbing, Hans finally got close to the top of the mountain. He saw the cottage not far away, and a wisp of smoke was curling up from the chimney of the cottage, which made him both excited and a little nervous.
Hans walked carefully towards the cottage and knocked gently on the door. After a while, the door opened slowly, and an old man with grey hair and a wrinkled face but very kind - looking eyes appeared in front of him. The old man looked at Hans and asked him with a smile why he had come here. Hans summoned up his courage and told the old man that he was full of curiosity about the cottage.
The old man smiled and invited Hans to come in. Hans entered the cottage and found that although it was simple, it was very cozy. There were some old portraits hanging on the wall, and in the corner, there was a fireplace burning brightly.
The old man began to tell Hans his own story. It turned out that he used to be an adventurer and had traveled to many places. Finally, he chose to settle in this hilltop cottage. He had lived here for many years, far away from the hustle and bustle of the world, and accompanied by nature. Hans was fascinated. He thought the old man's life was full of legends.
Time passed quickly, and the sun was setting. Hans knew that he had to go down the mountain and go home. He said goodbye to the old man. The old man gave Hans a wooden carving made by himself. It was an eagle spreading its wings and about to fly, which symbolized bravery and freedom.
Hans carried the old man's gift and walked slowly down the mountain path. His heart was full of warmth and joy. This trip to the hilltop cottage became the most unforgettable experience in his childhood. Since then, he has also become braver and stronger, and often shares the old man's story with other children in the village.
