I need to get across the first room past the gate.

Hint 1 of 5:

There are several steps to crossing this screen.  You can pretty much do this
by trial and error.

Hint 2 of 5:

There isn't much of a way to give hints on this screen.  If you die, pay
attention to the messages you get, and use those to help you.  Direct answers
will follow.  STOP READING NOW if you don't want these spoilers.

Hint 3 of 5:

Do not step on the rug in the middle of the screen towards the front.

Hint 4 of 5:

If you need to cross a line on the floor, look at it first so the hero knows
that it's there.

Hint 5 of 5:

Walk across the board that says to step on it -- on the right.