>>5757968>>5757979>19 vs 17>Nikon wins marginally, but a win is a win>for clarity, the diplomance option was meant to be harder but otherwise not penalize Nikandros' relationship with Menestheus (and that has occurred).Menestheus exhales in deep resignation, his eyes boring holes into your own – suddenly, he looks elderly, not just a man past his prime. His beard twitches repeatedly, and finally, he speaks bluntly –
“Damn Alexandros. The sheer idiocy of it – how many will die because Agamemnon must defend his honor?” You doubt that Menestheus is truly concerned about the human cost of the conflict – his words sound hollow to you. His sunken eyes throw you a sullen look as well – you are not spared in the list of men that Menestheus would like to see damned, and you suspect that even some of the Olympians might be on this unspoken roster. Nevertheless, his shoulders slump in defeat – and you watch patiently as he directs orders to his crew to prepare a camp for the night, putting his bosun in charge.
As you leave the beach together, Menestheus remarks acidly – “I have been on every corner of this island, Thessalian. Do not presume to guide me.” You honor the King’s wishes, keeping your silence, and instead consider the benefit of bringing Menestheus (semi)willingly to the tent of King Anios and Menelaus – the King of Sparta is not likely to forget your assistance in securing the military assistance of Athens, even in a minor capacity.
The hike back to the tent of Anios is a rapid one – for you, a pleasing walk through the wilderness, but for Menestheus, he seems to be irritated by every minor obstacle, cursing under his breath constantly. Upon approach to Anios’ tents, you quickly locate Menelaus by a cookfire, his mouth full of goat. He lays eyes on Menestheus and his eyes fill with delight, he shouts:
“You old dog! I’ve been waiting for you to appear!” He seems to share none of Menestheus’ frustrations, crushing Menestheus in an enormous hug – it seems to you that this friendship is somewhat one-sided. “Menelaus, I have been meaning to locate you but – “ and Menelaus interrupts as he releases the older king, yelling loutishly –
“I doubt it! Nikandros here must have dragged you kicking and screaming from whatever hole you had dug into, am I right?” He winks outrageously at you, and you simply shrug in agreement. “Well done, Nikandros – I think my brother was right about you!” Menelaus barks out a harsh laugh, before turning on Menestheus again.
>cont 