Blink of the eye and i was transported without warning to the unknown world called Pantheon,i could not even grasped the situation of the history and politics of Pantheon.It just happened,just like that i got no time to react to sudden events.I found myself in a The Royal Throne, or Klismos, stood at the center of a raised platform. Crafted from sturdy oak, its design was a testament to Spartan simplicity, a marriage of function and symbolism. The curved backrest, though unadorned, bore the weight of centuries of kings who had sat in stoic authority.
Before me was round stand with fire and there was two man in who were starring at each other with killing intent.Between of those two elder man was another elder who was bald.While few meters,in the halls were surrounded by a old Elders,i think they are Gerousia, or the Council of Elders.If i can recall correctly they were typically Spartan citizens who had reached the age of 60 or older. The elders were chosen for their experience, wisdom, and proven service to the state.Enough of thinking i am curios what they talking in front of me.
"Esteemed elders, we gather here today to discuss the matter of the tribute demanded by Korithians. Eudorus and Theron, please present your arguments".Said the man in the middle who was wearing consisted of a chiton, a simple tunic made of linen or wool, which was worn belted at the waist.
"Noble Spartans, we are known for our strength, discipline, and wisdom. The Korithians, our neighbors, demand tribute to avoid conflict. I propose that instead of rushing into war, we consider a compromise. Let us send a delegation to negotiate with them, find common ground, and establish a pact that preserves our dignity while maintaining peace".That's a joke right? i could not imagine in this militaristic Civilization where children were raised to be warriors from very young age,would be someone like that.
Right after he finished the man on the left started angrily speaking "Peace, Eudorus? Are we to bow before the Korithians like sheep? We are Spartans! We bow to no one. Tribute is an insult, an affront to our pride. We should ready our forces for war, let them see the might of Sparta, and make it clear that we will not submit!!".Well i agree with Theron who was wearing the same white tunic as the man in the middle,well in fact all of the elders were wearing that."Sparta bows to no one,but i don't know what Gods have in store for me,i doubt i got a huge military without any effort.
"Theron, war is not a decision to be taken lightly. It brings bloodshed and loss. Eudorus, your compromise may avoid unnecessary conflict. But can we truly trust the Korithians?"said elder who was in the first seat of this argument,that was happening before me."Trust is earned through dialogue, not through the clash of swords. If we engage in peaceful negotiations, we can find a resolution that respects both our strength and their sovereignty"said Eldorus with calm voice,he definitely is not that hot heated as his colleague Theron,but its indeed a shame that i have that Diplomatic Challenge,i would go for that tribute,and meanwhile think of plan that would crush them.
"Negotiations weaken us! It's a sign of fear, a sign that we are willing to compromise our principles. I say we gather our forces, show them the might of Sparta, and make it clear that no tribute will be paid".after Theron finished,the hall was full of noddings and sound of approval,even whispers among the other elders,dare i say this battle was lost for Eldorus.But after that a man stepped of the crowd on the left,another elder this time he he had a white beard that looked majestic,i could make a tunic out of it.
"But Theron, a war with our neighbors would cost us dearly. Our men would be lost, our resources depleted. Eudorus proposal may be a more pragmatic approach".This is getting out of hand,now there are two of them,i never thought that there would be another elder who was not crying for war..interesting.
"Indeed, noble elder. We must consider the long-term consequences of our actions. War may bring momentary glory, but at what cost?"said Edorus in agreement,meanwhile Theron was looking like a tomato,it looked like the remaining hair on his head were ready to burn to crisp.Theron started talking with passion,even thought he was quite red,"The cost of our pride, Eudorus! The cost of our very identity as Spartans if we bow before the demands of others".After a while of debating among all the Elders who were present,elder in the middle started talking,"The council is divided on this matter. We shall let the the King have final say in this".
Oh it was for me to shine,well try to put some authoritarian voice and let me tell them peace of my mind."Council of Esteemed Elders,after listening to both sides of the arguments ,i come to conclusion.I have come to simple conclusion,that would even Eudorus would agree with me".said Alexios,he then stand up he was wearing a simple tunic made of a rectangular piece of cloth folded and fastened at the shoulders ,with pins or brooches.Often wore a short chiton, known as the exomis, which left one shoulder bare to allow greater freedom of movement.
Around his neck was a red cloak, called a chlamys, as a distinctive mark of his royal status. This garment was often fastened with a brooch and was worn draped over one shoulder.On his Head was the famous Corinthian helmet that covered the entire head and neck, leaving only the eyes, nose, and mouth exposed. It was a symbol of status and protection in battle.Another piece of armor was Muscle Cuirass,this breastplates were molded to resemble the muscles of the chest and abdomen. This not only provided protection but also created an intimidating appearance.Last but not least of the equipment of our Hero Alexios were sandals that had leather straps and soles,witch were useful in rough terrains back in Ancient Greece.
"And that conclusion is simple,lets say that we would agree and give them their tribute".Alexios said like he known exactly what the tribute had,but he did not so,he was going with the motion."Like our Esteemed Elder Theron said,it would be seen as act of weakness and fear,even if we give them what they demanded after us,they would come back again,again,and again,until we got nothing to eat".said Alexios passionately,he really thought that this would be the case if he giving to their demand,for known he dont know what kind of people are these Korithians,so he must count with the worst case scenario.
"They think we are weaklings,that we have nothing in our brains except for muscles,and most of all,cowards".Silence..thunderous silence filled the hall,only the fire could be heard as it was crisping,after Alexios scanned everyone in the room with his eyes he continued."They think we are dogs who only bark,but i think its time to prove them otherwise,i say we are gonna raise our army,and let them see the potential of strong,courage's,and brave Spartans right in front of their gates,who is with me?".the last sentence's Alexios screamed with anger,he really was pissed that some pathetic Korithians would dare to make tribute.
after only few seconds the hall was filled with Elders who were shouting with agreement,and raising their clutched fist in the air,Eudorus was looking at the floor with blank expression but he soon joined in with the others."It was decided we were going to war,but there is one small,little but important detail,how do i even raise said army?".