SIEGE

''SIEGE'' [[Start]] [[Sources and Record of Complete Divergences]] (if: $StrangeDevice is 1)[[The Strange Device]]

Hello, welcome to SIEGE. This is mostly a game about the siege of Plataea, but it is also a game about choices. Each person, soldier or citizen, must choose many things when war comes to their doorstep. Make the right choices, and you may get out of this alive. Make the wrong choices, and.... well. Historically accurate choices are marked with ✽ if you'd like to follow how it really happened. [[Let's begin.]] [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

[[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]] There are several interpretations of the siege of Plataea. If there is a point of contengiency, I default to the primary source, which in this case is Thucydides. ''Sources'' Dobski, Bernard J. “Escape from Plataea : Political and Intellectual Liberation in Thucydides’s « History ».” //Philosophy and Literature//, vol. 42, no. 1, 2018, pp. 201-216. Doi: 10.1353/phl.2018.0011 Rees, Owen. //Great Battles of the Classical Greek World//. Pen & Sword Military, 2016. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=e700xna&AN=1361234&site=eds-live&scope=site. Thucydides. //History of the Peloponnesian War//. Trans. Richard Crawley. The Gutenberg Project, 2005, https://www.gutenberg.org/files/7142/7142-h/7142-h.htm#link2H_4_0007 ✽ ✽ ✽ ''A list of the few times I chose to completely diverge from history:'' ✽Thucydides mentions the Plataean envoys going back and forth to consult with the people twice. In order to streamline the timeline, I chose to have them only consult with the people once. ✽

Who are you? [[I am Archidamus]] [[I am Agathon]] [[I am Kleio]] (set: $ArchAnger to 0) (set: $BadGuyArch to 0) (set: $KleioSus to 0) (set: $KleioStabMeter to 0) (set: $RandomThunder to 0)

"I am Archidamus II, son of Zeuxidamus, king of the Lacedaemonians!" you exclaim to no one in particular. The soldiers milling about around you startle and glance at each other warily; the wiser of them just nod sagely and continue with their tasks. Well, that was strange. You feel slightly disoriented. You shake your head as if freeing yourself from the shackles of sleep and look around. The vast camp outside Plataea's wall is already awake and thrumming with activity. Men are munching on fruit pilliaged from the surrounding trees and chattering with their friends. Slaves rush back and forth across the field. The singing of spears being sharpened echoes around you. You crane your neck, but try as you might, you can't see the edge of the Lacedaemonian camp. Even with just a few campaigns, your army has grown exponentially. It puts a satisfied smile on your face—until your surveillance inevitably turns your gaze toward the walled city you've camped outside of. //Plataea.// Though most of Boeotia is securely under Theban control, Plataea has somehow managed to remain independent. Even more insulting is their stubborn allegiance to Athens. No matter what kind of conflict they faced in the past, they stayed loyal. And unfortunately, it'd paid off for them. But though their position was immensely valuable in your hands, you liked to think Athens wouldn't fight too hard for Plataea right now. The city was a fantastic supply route between you and your allies. And what did it do for Athens, other than give it some democratic influence in an oligarchic territory? Still, you couldn't be sure. An attack now might throw Greece into more of a frenzy than it already was. But if the Plataeans could be... //compelled// into willingly giving their city up, there was a chance it might be seen as a simple political maneuver. You sigh. Everything would be so much easier if Plataea would just give up. You look back at the vast army you've brought to their doorstep and nod to yourself. With the kind of force you have, you hope that maybe this time they will. You're about to turn around when a young soldier runs up to you. "Archidamus! A group of men are heading our way from Plataea." [[Go meet the envoys.]]

"I am Agathon, proud citizen of Plataea," you say, out loud, into the otherwise comfortable silence. Your wife, Kleio, quirks an eyebrow, but doesn't look up from her weaving; she's used to you getting lost in thought by now. "Yes love, you are," she says, laughter in her tone. You blink several times, feeling like you've just woken up from a dream despite it being the middle of the day. You're about to get up when suddenly she does stop working and says, "I overheard Lycomedes talking with our neighbors earlier. They're looking for volunteers to go out the camp tomorrow morning." You scowl at the news. "What, they want people to go plead with Archidamus? They'll be lucky if they persuade him to spare their lives, much less spare our city," you grumble. You'd heard your share of stories about the Spartan king. If his camp was already set up, he wouldn't be leaving any time soon. Of course, there was at least one thing Plataea could boast of: the city wall. A fortress Plataea was not, but it had been enough to discourage attacks in the past. Still, these were the //Lacedaemonians//, ruthless in all forms of war. There was more than a little reason to worry. Kleio is watching you carefully. "You know," she says, "I think... you might be a good envoy." You blanch, "What? Me? What could possibly make you think that?" Kleio shrugs and says, "Well, you're not half bad at negotiating fights in the market, and you have a better grip on history and politics than most other people left in the city. Who knows, maybe you could even convince the king of Sparta." You lean back in your seat, considering the proposition. "And you aren't just saying this in the hopes that I won't come back, right?" You're joking, but, well... "No dear, there are easier ways of killing you if that was my goal," she says, rolling your eyes. "But we chose to stay here even though we had a way out. Now Archidamus is here, and it won't be long before he burns down the countryside and smokes us all out. But right now, we still have time. The sky would be ablaze as we speak if he wasn't fully convinced of his actions. Something's holding him back. There's a chance you could stay his hand." You grab a coin off the table and roll it between your fingers, a fidget to help you think. She's right of course; you know exactly what stoppped Archidamus from just razing the orchards around the city the second he set sight on them. He's counting on Plataea's surrender. Settling in for a siege would set back his plans for at least a few years until Athens came to your aid or everybody died. While you are certain Athens //will// come to your aid eventually if Plataea stays loyal, there's little certainty when it will happen. This might be the only chance to change history. But compromising with the Spartans? Just the thought makes your blood curdle. [[Agree to be an envoy.]] [[Refuse to be an envoy.]]

"I am Kleio of Plataea," you say very sternly to the weaving in front of you, and then frown at the random outburst. What prompted //that//? Your husband, Agathon, startles and looks over at you. "What?" "What?" He grins sheepishly at the exchange and says, "Sorry love, could've sworn you said something." You just shrug; best not to let him think you're becoming as absentminded as him. You press your fingers to your temple, trying to rub away some phantom throes of sleep. But, there //is// something he needs to know. "I overheard Lycomedes talking with our neighbors earlier," you say. "They're looking for volunteers to go out the camp tomorrow morning." It's his turn to frown. "What, they want people to go plead with Archidamus? They'll be lucky if they persuade him to spare their lives, much less spare our city." You can only nod. The Plataeans—what's left of them anyway—had resolved to just watch the Lacedaemonians and their allies amass outside the city walls. Most of the women, children and elderly had already been carted into the safety of Athens; everyone had known a siege would be coming after the last unfortunate incident with the Thebans. The excuse you'd given for staying behind was practical; somebody had to bake the bread. While you didn't regret your decision, the idea of the allied Lacedaemonian forces on your doorstep didn't exactly fill you with peace. If there was some way to turn this around to make the armies Plataea's allies... You tap your fingers on the loom pensively. The last thing you want is to put Agathon into direct danger, but this might be the perfect time to compromise with Archidamus before it's too late. [[Convince him to be an envoy.]] [[Drop the subject.->No convince envoy]]

You slowly start to nod. If there's even a sliver of hope that Archidamus could be assuaged, you want to be part of it. Kleio smiles proudly, but her fingers keep drumming on the loom. Despite her being the one to talk you into this, you can tell she's worried. "Better get some sleep then," she says. "You'll have to wake up early if you want to join the others." ✽ ✽ ✽ Although you had been confident last night, you're feeling more than a little anxious as you trot alongside the other envoys toward the camp. It looked big enough from the city wall, but as you get closer the army dominates your vision with a writhing mass of soldiers and banners. The crisp morning air does little to cool the nervous sweat sliding down your neck. It seems like they are well aware of your approach, because you're quickly surrounded by guards before reaching the edge of the camp. And there in front of you is Archidamus himself. His careful eyes, set deep within a prominent brow, look at each of you just a second too long before he says, "Well? Say what you've come to say." [[Try to convince him.->Try convince Arch]] [[✽Let someone else try.->Not you convince Arch]]

Thoroughly convinced by their flawless argument, you say, "Wow, great speech guys. I don't want any trouble with Zeus. Alright men, pack up, we're gonna leave now!" All who can hear you freeze in stunned silence. Everyone is in complete disbelief of the words that just left your mouth, and no one is more confused than you. "That's... that's it? You're just gonna leave?" one of the envoys asks. "Yeah, that's it. We'll be fine without controlling your city. Nice talking to you!" you chirp. ✽ ✽ ✽ ''Archidamus Ending: The Pushover'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

fjlksa; ''Agathon Ending: The Betrayer'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

''Kleio Ending: The Betrayer'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

fhdsjlka;jklsaj ''Kleio Ending: The Slain'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

fjal;jkdsja;lf ''Kleio Ending: The Escapee'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

fjkdslakflsa;f ''Kleio Ending: The Heroine'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

fjslkfa;j ''Archidamus Ending: The Victorious'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

fjlkdsa;ksdj;lkasj ''Archidamus Ending: The Merciful'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

You shake your head vigorously. You abhor the Lacedaemonians with everything in you, and you refuse to even consider trying to compromise with them. Kleio nods, seeming to expect this. You don't know whether she sags in her chair out of relief or something else. "Well then," she says, "let's hope the envoys will be successful without you." [[Go to the next day.->The Debate Agathon]]

"Well, this is the part where he kills us," a fellow envoy monotones. "Yes, this is the part where I kill you!" Archidamus says, looking a bit too happy about it. "Well, I mean, it's the part where somebody else kills you because I order them to." And you don't have very long to dwell on that before there's a spear in your chest. (alert: "Achievement--The Part Where He Kills You") ''Agathon Ending: The Part Where He Kills You'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

(if: $StrangeDevice is 1) [It's the strange device you picked up in one of your routes. The word "SIEGE" is glowing in the middle of it. Every few seconds, the letters change into a series of mysterious symbols. It seems as if the device needs these symbols input in the correct order. What order do you push the symbols in? [[DDABLRUULR->Incorrect Code]] [[LUDRLUDRBA->Incorrect Code]] [[ABUDUDLLRR->Incorrect Code]] [[AUUDDLRRLB->Incorrect Code]] [[UDDUABLLRR->Incorrect Code]] [[UUDDLRLRBA->Correct Code]] [[ULURRDLDAB->Incorrect Code]] [[BLLUUDDRRA->Incorrect Code]] [[BLRADUDURL->Incorrect Code]] ] (set: $StrangeDevice to (if: $StrangeDevice is 2) [There's nothing here.] (if: $StrangeDevice is 0) [There's nothing here.]

The device flashes once. The words "SELF DESTRUCT" replace the symbols. Suddenly, it disappears, leaving you with nothing. It seems you will have to find the device again if you want to try another sequence. (set: $StrangeDevice to 0) [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

The device flashes three times. The word "KONAMI" replaces the symbols, and suddenly, the device vanishes. It seems you've unlocked a secret ending somewhere in each of the characters' historical routes. (set: $StrangeDevice to 2) [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

something something call in helicopter A voice with all the thunder of Zeus calls out, "This is Pequod, arriving shortly at LZ!" Everyone except you is thrown into utter chaos as a great metal beast slowly descends from the heavens in a fury of wind and lightning. Some call out to the gods, others run for cover, and still others just watch in awe. You put on a pair of sunglasses that are somehow even less probable to be here than the helicopter in front of you and stride up to it. The pilot salutes you, and you nod at him as you climb aboard. He throws the helicopter back into a swift ascent and makes a peace sign at all the terrified Spartans as their forms shrink to the size of ants. You sit in comfortable silence, watching the patchwork farmland creep along beneath you to the thrum of chopper blades. Finally, the pilot switches to auto, turns around and says, "Well, boss? Where to next?" ''Kleio Secret Ending: A Very Strange Device Indeed'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

something something bazooka ''Agathon Secret Ending: A Very Strange Device Indeed'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

something something tank ''Archidamus Secret Ending: A Very Strange Device Indeed'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

You take the strange device. Whatever it is, it appears to have no use to you right now. It starts rumbling violently, and in a vibrant burst of light, it vanishes. You feel the title screen grow heavier. (set: $StrangeDevice to 1) (if: $ArchAnger is 5)[[Keep going.->The Debate Agathon]](if: $KleioStabMeter is 1)[[Go home.]]

There's a long pause. Nobody seems willing to say anything. Finally, you step forward and begin, "Archidamus and Lacedaemonians..." (set: $ArchAnger to 3) [[Be accusatory.->diplomat accuse]] [[Be placating.->diplomat placate]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

There's a heavy silence before the guy to your right takes a deep breath and says, "Archidamus and Lacedaemonians, in invading the Plataean territory, you do what is wrong in itself, and worthy neither of yourselves nor of the fathers who begot you. Pausanias, son of Cleombrotus, your countryman, after freeing Hellas from the Medes with the help of those Hellenes who were willing to undertake the risk of the battle fought near our city, offered sacrifice to Zeus the Liberator in the marketplace of Plataea, and calling all the allies together restored to the Plataeans their city and territory, and declared it independent and inviolate against aggression or conquest. Should any such be attempted, the allies present were to help according to their power. "Your fathers rewarded us thus for the courage and patriotism that we displayed at that perilous epoch; but you do just the contrary, coming with our bitterest enemies, the Thebans, to enslave us. We appeal, therefore, to the gods to whom the oaths were then made, to the gods of your ancestors, and lastly to those of our country, and call upon you to refrain from violating our territory or transgressing the oaths, and to let us live independent, as Pausanias decreed—" The man's speech is suddenly cut off by Archidamus waving his hand. It seems he's had enough of this long-winded nonsense. (set: $ArchAnger to 0) [[Listen to Archidamus' proposition.->Archidamus proposition]]

"Archidamus and Lacedaemonians, in invading the Plataean territory, you do what is wrong in itself, and worthy neither of yourselves nor of the fathers who begot you! Do you have such horrid memory that you've forgotten our history?" you almost shout. A muscle in Archidamus' neck twitches. (set: $ArchAnger to $ArchAnger + 1) [[Talk about what their ancestors did for you.->accuse, Pausinias]] [[Complain about them bringing the Thebans into this.->accuse, Thebans]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

"Archidamus and Lacedaemonians, it injures me greatly that some of my countrymen think you would be so cruel as to invade our land. But I know you to be a wise king, methodical and considerate in every situation. I, for one, am certain that you have already considered the ways in such an act would violate our laws without prior consideration on your part." Archidamus raises an eyebrow at your flowery words. He seems rather flattered. (set: $ArchAnger to $ArchAnger - 1) [[Remind him of the past.->placate, mention Pausnias]] [[Speak of a better future.->placate, allude to compromise]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

"I'm sure you remember Pausanias, son of Cleombrotus, your countryman? He offered sacrifices to Zeus in our marketplace after freeing Hellas from the Medes. He declared Plataea independent in the presence of all the allies, and they vowed to protect us from any sort of conquest." Archidamus' face is as stony as the statues carved in his image. [[Drop the act and harshly accuse them of breaking their vows.->placate, accuse]] [[Appeal to the gods.]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

You smile demurely and continue, "Now, good Archidamus, because I know you are wise, I am sure you have already considered the implications of past vows as they might clash with your current actions. But I believe you //must// have good intentions. Thus we welcome any and all policies you propose for the future of Plataea and your growing allyship." Archidamus puts a hand over his heart. You can almost hear the "dear me!" radiating from his posture. "So... you're saying you surrender?" (set: $ArchAnger to $ArchAnger - 1) [[We surrender to you wholeheartedly!->Agathon Ending: The Tragedy]] [[Uh, well, what about a compromise?->Archidamus proposition]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

Your face contorts into a deep scowl, demure posture melting. "Your ancestors rewarded us for our courage and patriotism, but you do just the contrary! You come with our bitterest enemies, the Thebans, that they might enslave us all! Your reputation as a wise king preceded you, but now our eyes are opened! We see now how wrong we were to trust in vows when you obviously care so little for them!" The sudden change of tone first shocks Archidamus, then wrinkles his magnificent brow into a magnificent snarl. The guards surrounding you lift their spears a bit higher, their forearms quivering in readiness for their king's command. The other envoys press closer together with the wicked bronze points now leveled at their chests. Archidamus' eyes flare with rage, yet he holds his tongue. (set: $ArchAnger to $ArchAnger + 3) [[Bold and brash appeal to the gods!->placate, danger conclusion]] [[Grovel.]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

"Therefore we appeal to the gods to whom the oaths were then made, to the gods of your ancestors, and lastly to those of our country! You shall never violate our territory or transgress on your vows, and you shall leave this area immediately, never to return!" Somehow, you think that was the wrong answer. (set: $ArchAnger to $ArchAnger + 1) [[The part where he kills you.->Agathon Ending: The Part Where He Kills You]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

And just as soon as your brashness came, in an instant it burns up in flames. You realize you have made a horrible, fatal error, and flop down face first. You grovel in the gravel like the worm you are. (if: $ArchAnger is > 5)[But in the face of an insulted king with a face full of spittle, the grovelling does little good.](if: $ArchAnger is 5)[[[Grovel, worm.->Archidamus proposition]]] (if: $ArchAnger is 5)[//(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//] (if: $ArchAnger is > 5)[[[The part where he kills you.->Agathon Ending: The Part Where He Kills You]]] (if: $ArchAnger is > 5)[//(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//]

(if: $ArchAnger is > 0)[Archidamus finally nods, deciding you're done with your speeches now.](if: $ArchAnger is > 5)[He sneers at your pitiful form, then decides you're not worth the effort.] The king clears his throat and says, "There is justice, Plataeans, in what you say, if you act up to your words. According, to the grant of Pausanias, continue to be independent yourselves, and join in freeing those of your fellow countrymen who, after sharing in the perils of that period, joined in the oaths to you, and are now subject to the Athenians; for it is to free them and the rest that all this provision and war has been made. I could wish that you would share our labours and abide by the oaths yourselves; if this is impossible, do what we have already required of you—remain neutral, enjoying your own; join neither side, but receive both as friends, neither as allies for the war. With this we shall be satisfied." (if: $ArchAnger is > 0)[[Accept the proposal.->Agathon Ending: The Tragedy]] (if: $StrangeDevice is > 0)[[✽Say you'll have to consult with Athens and the people first.]](if: $StrangeDevice is 0)[[✽Say you'll have to consult with Athens and the people first.->Agathon Secret]] (if: $ArchAnger is < 5)[[Spit in his face!]] (if: $ArchAnger is > 0)[//(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//]

You cough violently and spit a huge glob of slime right into Archidamus' face. The greenish amoeaba glorps down his forehead and begins to congeal in the king's magnificent beard. You have never in your life seen a man so remarkably livid, and it fills you with a terrible dread few will ever truly experience. In retrospect, this is perhaps the worst possible thing you could have done. [[Grovel with all your might.->Grovel.]] (set: $ArchAnger to 999) //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

(if: $ArchAnger is 0)[Archidamus claps his hands in pure glee. The smile on his face is quite frightening; it feels like a face as serious as his should not be capable of such a wide grin. "Excellent!" he exclaims, "Then let us prepare everything, shall we?"](if: $ArchAnger is 1)["We surrender to you wholeheartedly!" you say, arms open wide. The envoys gasp with varying degrees of outrage. If looks could kill, you would certainly be bleeding out right now. Archidamus claps his hands in pure glee. The smile on his face is quite frightening; it feels like a face as serious as his should not be capable of such a wide grin. "Excellent!" he exclaims, "Then let us prepare everything, shall we?"] ✽ ✽ ✽ The next few weeks inside the city walls are anything but peaceful. Most people are livid the envoys gave everything up so quickly without even consulting with Athens; any supporters seem too afraid to speak up. You and Kleio can't go anywhere without a Spartan guard flanking you, but even his presence doesn't stop the stones being flung from rooftops or the sneers everyone seems to wear when you're around now. You had tried to reason with them once. "Plataea is safe now!" you'd said. "We don't go hungry, and we're protected by the best army in the world!" They'd headbutted you in the nose. Praccus, the Spartan guard, has become a spectre haunting your household. You've set up a cot for him, but he sleeps on the floor anyway. You think he must resent having to stay here as his comrades fight elsewhere. It's a bit of a miserable lifestyle, but you keep rationalizing it to yourself; without your noble surrender, the citizens who give you so much abuse would be crying out for bread right now. You did your duty... didn't you? Then, one morning, a horrifying pounding at the door. "AGATHON! Open up Agathon!" howls a voice, each word punctuated with heavy knocks, the door quaking under the assault. You and Kleio glance at each other in alarm. Praccus is already on the move, weapon raised as he reaches for the trembling door. He pauses, one, two—and throws it open. The soldier yelps as a huge fist slams into his face before he can even think. His head snaps backward in a spurt of blood. He staggers a few paces, then crumbles to the ground. The intruders ignore the fainted soldier as they storm into your house. You hurry to put yourself between the men and Kleio, who's already brandishing a knife at them. You don't have much time to dwell on that, because the giant who knocked out Praccus grabs you in one massive fist and roars, "THEY TOOK THEM, AGATHON! THEY TOOK THEM ALL!" "W-what? What do you mean? Who got taken?" you stammer. "Everyone," says another man off to the left. He's standing very still, frighteningly still, but his eyes are molten iron. "Friends. Family. Our parents, our wives, our children. Everyone who went to shelter in Athens after the Theban infiltration. All killed or enslaved. Because of you." And your heart drops like a stone. Because in surrendering to the Spartans, you broke the long pact with Athens... with most of Plataea's population under Athenian care. And as you gaze up at the red-faced, half insane man and the other absolutely livid people closing in around you, you're scared. You're terrified out of your mind. But not more terrified than the people you forgot about. And you're going to pay for your mistake. ''Agathon Ending: The Tragedy'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

You shift your gait so that you veer toward the hooded figure. As you draw near, they say, "You grovel well, worm. That was a pretty good show." They snicker, a terrible grating noise that skitters up your spine. They reach deep inside their cloak and retrieve a... something. You feel rather than see their smile. "But I think this might help you put on an even better one." They hold the Strange Device out to you. [[Take the Strange Device]] [[Keep going.->The Debate Agathon]]

"Don't you remember how Pausanias, son of Cleombrotus, your countryman, offered sacrifice to Zeus the Liberator in our marketplace? He called all the allies, and together they restored to the Plataeans their city and territory, and declared it independent and inviolate against aggression or conquest. Those allies present were to help according to their power should it ever be attempted. Yet here you are, invading our territory to overcome us! Do you not fear Zeus?" "We appeal, therefore, to the gods to whom the oaths were then made, to the gods of your ancestors, and lastly to those of our country, and call upon you to refrain from violating our territory or transgressing the oaths, and to let us live independent, as Pausanias decreed," you finish. Archidamus narrows his eyes. He's obviously familiar with the history between Pausanias and Plataea, but bringing up Zeus puts him in a predicament. An oath broken against Plataea is an oath broken against the gods. But even still, he doesn't seem convinced. You need something stronger than mere words to drive your point home. As you let Archidamus chew on your speech, you hopefully look at the sky. Alas, it's a beautiful day, not a cloud to be seen. Yet if Zeus can truly be called Liberator, perhaps he might hear your voice if you cry out to him... or perhaps not. (set: $RandomThunder to (random: 1, 5)) (if: $RandomThunder is 5)[[[Call down thunder from the heavens!->Agathon Ending: The Liberator]]](if: $RandomThunder is < 5)[[[Call down thunder from the heavens!->thunder fail]]] [[✽Give it a rest and let Archidamus speak.->Archidamus proposition]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

"Only a few years ago, treacherous men invited the Thebans inside our walls under the cover of night. They intended to overtake us and enslave us under their rule, but do you know what we did? We proud citizens of Plataea erupted from our homes to slaughter them all! The streets were bathed in Theban blood! So know this, Archidamus, we do not take kindly to you sheltering these bitter enemies behind your vast army," you say in a venom-laced tone. The king's impassive facade is crumbling; even the hairs of his magnificent beard are trembling. The guards surrounding you lift their spears a bit higher, their forearms quivering in readiness for their king's command. The other envoys press closer together with the wicked bronze points now leveled at their chests. A little voice in the back of your mind says the most prudent option right now is to burst into tears and beg for forgiveness. [[No, keep going!]] [[Grovel.]] (set: $ArchAnger to $ArchAnger + 1) //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//

Double-click this passage to edit it.

You stride toward the edge of the camp with the man. Several soldiers have already formed a horseshoe shape to meet the envoys with you, their spears glinting in the early morning light. The Plataean envoys finally arrive in a panting cloud of dust. You pause to let them catch their breath and meticulously size each of them up, noting their lack of weapons or muscle mass to indicate experience in warfare. These are civilians, not soldiers. "Archidamus and Lacedaemonians, in invading the Plataean territory, you do what is wrong in itself, and worthy neither of yourselves nor of the fathers who begot you. Pausanias, son of Cleombrotus, your countryman, after freeing Hellas from the Medes with the help of those Hellenes who were willing to undertake the risk of the battle fought near our city, offered sacrifice to Zeus the Liberator in the marketplace of Plataea, and calling all the allies together restored to the Plataeans their city and territory, and declared it independent and inviolate against aggression or conquest. Should any such be attempted, the allies present were to help according to their power. "Your fathers rewarded us thus for the courage and patriotism that we displayed at that perilous epoch; but you do just the contrary, coming with our bitterest enemies, the Thebans, to enslave us. We appeal, therefore, to the gods to whom the oaths were then made, to the gods of your ancestors, and lastly to those of our country, and call upon you to refrain from violating our territory or transgressing the oaths, and to let us live independent, as Pausanias decreed." [[✽Propose a compromise.]] [[They make a good point. I guess we should leave.->Archidamus Ending: The Pushover]] [[Who cares? Kill them all!]]

You have so much momentum built up you can't even stop yourself from yelling, "Plataea will never bow! We'll hold our own in the coming years, and you'll be sorry when Athens comes to grind you all into a smoothie!" The other envoys give you a terrified look. [[The part where he kills you.->Agathon Ending: The Part Where He Kills You]] //(Danger level is at 9)//

Filled with wanderlust, you step into the bright morning outside. The streets are humming with activity despite missing many of the people usually crowding them. Neighbors lean against their houses, making small talk with each other. A few men rush past you toward the center of the city. The smell of fresh bread and cured meat wafts above the commotion. You stop to think. Following the main road and the men would most certainly lead you to the assembly where (assuming they made it back) the envoys would be discussing their meeting with Archidamus. Anyone of importance would be there. But the backstreets were always full of interesting things to see as long as you were careful. [[✽Go to the assembly.]] [[Explore the backstreets.]]

You sigh, fighting the urge. You're sure Agathon will be home soon. For now, you glance distainfully at the loom, and, knowing you have nothing else to do, plop down at it and continue to spin the cloth. ✽ ✽ ✽

"You know, I think... you might be a good envoy," you say, watching him carefully. "What? Me? What could possibly make you think that?" he sputters. You shrug, "Well, you're not half bad at negotiating fights in the market, and you have a better grip on history and politics than most other people left in the city. Who knows, maybe you could even convince the king of Sparta." He leans back in his seat, considering the proposition. "And you aren't just saying this in the hopes that I won't come back, right?" "No dear, there are easier ways of killing you if that was my goal," you say, rolling your eyes. "But we chose to stay here even though we had a way out. Now Archidamus is here, and it won't be long before he burns down the countryside and smokes us all out. But right now, we still have time. The sky would be ablaze as we speak if he wasn't fully convinced of his actions. Something's holding him back. There's a chance you could stay his hand." Agathon grabs a coin off the table and rolls it between his fingers. After a long pause, he slowly starts to nod. It appears that your speech got to him. You restlessly drum your fingers on the loom. Really, you wish you could go in his place. You hate the thought of losing him now, especially since that would mean you'd have to face the coming years of waiting to starve alone. The city was fortified and stocked with extra food from Athens, and you imagined that's all you would get from the scoundrels. Agathon may have faith in the Athenians, but you aren't convinced they'll hold their end of the allegiance if you went into siege. Either Agathon would convince Archidamus to leave now, or you would have a long wait ahead of you. "Better get some sleep then," you say with more confidence than you feel. "You'll have to wake up early to join the others." ✽ ✽ ✽ Agathon and the rest of the envoys left at dawn, hoping to catch Archidamus before he starts laying waste to the country. It's mid-morning now and you itch to wander around. Despite the impending doom hanging over you all, there's sure to be plenty to explore, and you know there will be an assembly to determine the city's next move. [[Go explore.]] [[Wait for Agathon to return.]]

You shake your head, deciding to drop the subject. He's probably right; anybody stupid enough to leave the city walls won't be coming back. If Archidamus has pitched his tents, he won't be leaving until the city is his...or until he's dead. ✽ ✽ ✽ The next morning is honey-slow as everyone waits for the envoys to return. But word travels quickly when they do, and it's a mass exodus toward the assembly. Well, if you can call less than 500 people "mass". "Come with me?" Agathon asks. "It's not like I can do anything there," you grumble. He waves his hand as if to dismiss the comment. "Nobody will mind you just standing with me." You think for a second, then nod. It'll be good to get outside, and you have always enjoyed listening to the political talks, even though you think they're next to worthless. You grab his hand and step into the bright sunlight. ✽ ✽ ✽

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You decide to explore the winding backstreets (if: $StrangeDevice is > 0)[[✽Go to the assembly.]](if: $StrangeDevice is 0)[[Stab!]] (if: $StrangeDevice is > 0)[[Go home.]](if: $StrangeDevice is 0)[[Stab!]] (if: $StrangeDevice is 0)[[Stab!]] (if: $StrangeDevice is 0)[[Stab!]]

(set: $KleioStabMeter to 1) [[Go home.]] (if: $StrangeDevice is 0)[[Take the Strange Device]]

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You say(if: $ArchAnger is 5)[ from your awkward position facedown in the dirt], "We will have to consult with the other citizens about your proposition. Furthermore, the weakest of the Plataeans are in Athens right now. It would be folly to make a decision without consulting these allies of ours first." Archidamus nods and waves his hand as if to shoo you off; you're clearly dismissed to do as you've said. You turn and walk back toward Plataea, feeling the weight of the words you carry with you pressing into your backs. (if: $ArchAnger is 5)[As you glance at the soldiers littered around your walkway, you notice a figure shrouded in a velvety black cloak standing off to the side. Their face is completely obscured by a large hood. The figure sticks out like Medusa on Olympus, yet no one else seems to notice them.] [[Keep going.->The Debate Agathon]] (if: $ArchAnger is 5)[[Go to the hooded figure.]]

DELETE THIS----if: BadGuyArch is > some arbitrary #) ''Archidamus Ending: The Coup'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

(set: $BadGuyArch to $BadGuyArch + 1)

"There is justice, Plataeans, in what you say, if you act up to your words. According, to the grant of Pausanias, continue to be independent yourselves, and join in freeing those of your fellow countrymen who, after sharing in the perils of that period, joined in the oaths to you, and are now subject to the Athenians; for it is to free them and the rest that all this provision and war has been made. I could wish that you would share our labours and abide by the oaths yourselves; if this is impossible, do what we have already required of you—remain neutral, enjoying your own; join neither side, but receive both as friends, neither as allies for the war. With this we shall be satisfied."

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You raise your hands above your head and cry out, "Oh Zeus, send your thunder as a sign to us all that this pact must be upheld! Remember the oaths made to you, and do not withhold your judgement!" Everyone anxiously glances upward. You wait with bated breath in the tense, heavy silence. And suddenly, thunder rumbles through the clear skies. A few cry out at the omen, others cower in fear, and Archidamus' jaw drops. When he retrieves it from the mud, he clears his throat and says, "Well, citizens of Plataea, it seems the gods are on your side. Though we would have wished for you to join us, we will not force the issue, since Zeus sees the situation otherwise. You may return to your city. The oath of our ancestors stands." ✽ ✽ ✽ The revelers after the battle of Marathon may have been known for their excitement, but they were nothing compared to the celebration in Plataea when your band of envoys return proclaiming the news. Messengers race to Athens to retrieve the Plataeans who had gone there in preparation for a siege that now would never come. And in a few days, friends, family, wives and children appear on the horizon in an exuberant stream. Those who had stayed in Plataea rush out to meet them, trampling the ground where the Lacedaemonians had camped only days before. The festival in honor of Zeus is the most fun you've had in years. The air is thick with laughter, vibrant music and the rich scent of burnt sacrifices. You had competed in a couple of the games earlier today, but for now you're content to sit on top of the city wall with Kleio, sipping wine and watching the festivities from your vantage point. You turn to her and ask, "So, do you really think Zeus heard me?" She says, "Do you want the happy answer or the honest answer?" Then she smirks before you can reply and says, "Agathon my dear, I think you got very, very lucky." You shrug, turning your attention back to the happiness in the city below. You think you can live with that. ''Agathon Ending: The Liberator'' [[Return to Title Screen->SIEGE]]

"Zeus is not so quick to forget oaths sealed in his name. We appeal, therefore, to the gods to whom the oaths were then made, to the gods of your ancestors, and lastly to those of our country, and call upon you to refrain from violating our territory or transgressing the oaths, and to let us live independent, as Pausanias decreed," you finish. Archidamus narrows his eyes. He's obviously familiar with the history between Pausanias and Plataea, but bringing up Zeus puts him in a predicament. An oath broken against Plataea is an oath broken against the gods. But even still, he doesn't seem convinced. You need something stronger than mere words to drive your point home. As you let Archidamus chew on your speech, you hopefully look at the sky. Alas, it's a beautiful day, not a cloud to be seen. Yet if Zeus can truly be called Liberator, perhaps he might hear your voice if you cry out to him... or perhaps not. (set: $RandomThunder to (random: 1, 5)) (if: $RandomThunder is 5)[[[Call down thunder from the heavens!->Agathon Ending: The Liberator]]](if: $RandomThunder is < 5)[[[Call down thunder from the heavens!->thunder fail]]] [[✽Let Archidamus speak.->Archidamus proposition]] //(Danger level is at $ArchAnger)//