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Book 1, Chapter Six: The Wonder Stone, Pages 117 and 118

Large and unrelenting rears the searing sun over the necks of our intrepid travellers.
Alexander, though great, is no match for Apollo’s burning stare.
Wiping sweat-stained hair from his brow, he groans
“Ugh.
When are we done with this trek?“

The Servant replies, “Soon, soon…”
as he scans the horizon,
seeking a place of…

“Ah! My king! Look!
Shelter!”
The Servant points to a small house
at the bottom of a hill, sat comfortably
on a river island slightly larger than itself.
A house of brick and wood, with a tower
and a garden besides,
a perfect break from harsh sunlight.

Alexander beams.
“Praise Zeus! Servant, please,
I order you to request hospitality from our neighbour on my behalf!”

The Servant waves.
“As you wish!”