Road goes ever on

After leaving the first aid lecture given by Laurelindo, Veryacano chased after Sergeant Ancalasse with tall steps in the corridors of the Last Homely House. ''Sergeant!'' he yelled after him. Recognizing the Hammer Lord's furious voice, Sergeant immediately halted and stood at attention before turning about and saluting sharply. ''Did I not order the troops to attend the lecture today?'' Hammer Lord questioned him. Ancalasse was already sweating. ''You did, sir.'' he answered lowly. He knew what was coming at him. ''I suppose you have a valid excuse for all troops to miss the lecture? It better be something good.'' Hammer lord said as he raised an eyebrow and set his bright eyes on the Sergeant. Ancalasse started squirming. ''Errr I was on watch sir. And umm..'' Ancalasse started, only to be interrupted. Veryacano pointed at the hall in which the lecture was still ongoing. ''Watch? What watch? The lecture is not even finished and yet you are walking around idly!'' Ancalasse had no answer. He could not meet the Hammer Lord's eyes. ''What about the rest of the troops? What is their excuse?'' Veryacano demanded answer. ''Errr lord, they were.. visiting Estarfin in the hall of healing.''  Ancalasse managed to say. Hammer Lord did not seem convinced. ''Visiting Estarfin huh? They will need to visit the hall of healing again once I am done with them.'' he folded his arms and pondered for a moment.

''I have a new task for you Sergeant.'' Veryacano finally spoke. From Ancalasse's chin, a drop of sweat fell on the marble corridor floor. ''Visit the warehouse. There is cart of boulders. Get it. And get lots of picks and shovels.'' Veryacano said firmly. Ancalasse could only guess where this was going. Veryacano continued.''Summon ALL the Hammers. You are now leading the Hammer road construction company.'' Ancalasse gulped.