The Epic Quest of the Agora Four
In the golden age of ancient Greece, when the gods of Olympus still walked the earth, there lived four brave students of the Agora - two
These four friends spent their days debating philosophy and mathematics at the Agora in Athens. But little did they know, forces of darkness were stirring that would require their skills far beyond the realm of academia.
Rumors reached their ears of ten mythical beasts, the most fearsome creatures of antiquity, ravaging the lands around Greece. There was the ferocious Nemean Lion, whose impenetrable hide could deflect any weapon. The bloodthirsty Lernaean Hydra, who grew more heads when cut off. And the dreaded Chimera, part lion, goat and snake with breath of fire.
When the students heard these reports, they knew it was their duty to answer the call. After rallying the support of their teachers and fellow pupils, the four friends set off on a quest to defeat these legendary monsters.
Their first challenge was the terrifying Stymphalian Birds, whose bronze feathers they could shoot down from the sky. Then came the fire-breathing Cretan Bull, who they tamed using wisdom and guile. After outsmarting the tricky Crommyonian Sow, word came that the dreaded Cyclops had captured their friend Odysseus' men in his cave. But Odysseus blinded the beast, freeing his comrades.
Soon they stood before the lair of the Nemean Lion. Trusting in the gifts of the gods, Leonidas managed to pierce its hide with an obsidian spear. The serpent-haired Gorgon met her fate at the edge of Athena's polished shield, used as a mirror. And against the venomous teeth of the deadly sphinx, the two lads pitted their wits, solving her impossible riddles until she fell into the sea.
But their greatest challenges were yet to come. The Lernaean Hydra's many heads lasted little time against Athena's flaming arrows. And the girls led the terrifying Mares of Diomedes into a trap, taming them with wisdom. Finally, it was time to face the hybrid horror of the Chimera. Together, the four lit a fire and crafted a metal spear, killing it with heat and hand.
Their minds now sharpened, their bond forged even deeper, the four victorious friends returned home. Songs were sung of their cunning feats for generations to come. And while the gods have faded from our world today, the story of Leonidas, Odysseus, Athena and Sappho live on - a tale of wisdom overcoming brute strength, proving brains to be mightier than brawn.
Original Bios:
Leonidas - A strong and courageous young man, Leonidas excels in physical pursuits like wrestling and spear throwing. But he also has a sharp mind and loves debating ideas with his friends. His bravery and loyalty make him a natural leader.
Odysseus - Clever and cunning, Odysseus is always concocting schemes and tricks. He loves philosophy and maritime adventures. His quick thinking helps him outwit their foes. But he is also a loyal friend who would risk all for his companions.
Athena - Wise beyond her years, Athena is fascinated by science, mathematics and strategy. She is an unbeatable chess player and loves reading scrolls by the great philosophers. Her insights and level head are invaluable on their quest. She is also a skilled archer.
Sappho - A gentle soul, Sappho loves poetry, music and art. She sees the beauty in all things and has a soft spot for animals. Her empathy balances the group. But she is stronger than she looks, with nerves of steel when faced with peril. Her poetry can stir hearts to action.
Together these four make a formidable team. Their bonds of friendship help them overcome any obstacle. With courage, wisdom and empathy, they prove brains can prevail over brawn.
The Epic Quest of the Agora Four
In the golden age of ancient Greece, when the gods of Olympus still walked the
earth, there lived four brave students of the Agora - two boys and two girls.
Their names were Leonidas and Odysseus, brave and cunning lads. And their
female companions were the quick-witted Athena and the insightful Sappho.
These four friends spent their days debating philosophy and mathematics at the
Agora in Athens. But little did they know, forces of darkness were stirring
that would require their skills far beyond the realm of academia.
Rumors reached their ears of ten mythical beasts, the most fearsome creatures of
antiquity, ravaging the lands around Greece. There was the ferocious Nemean
Lion, whose impenetrable hide could deflect any weapon. The bloodthirsty
Lernaean Hydra, who grew more heads when cut off. And the dreaded Chimera, part
lion, goat and snake with breath of fire.
When the students heard these reports, they knew it was their duty to answer
the call. After rallying the support of their teachers and fellow pupils, the
four friends set off on a quest to defeat these legendary monsters.
Their first challenge was the terrifying Stymphalian Birds, whose bronze
feathers they could shoot down from the sky. Then came the fire-breathing
Cretan Bull, who they tamed using wisdom and guile. After outsmarting the
tricky Crommyonian Sow, word came that the dreaded Cyclops had captured their
friend Odysseus' men in his cave. But Odysseus blinded the beast, freeing his
comrades.
Soon they stood before the lair of the Nemean Lion. Trusting in the gifts of
the gods, Leonidas managed to pierce its hide with an obsidian spear. The
serpent-haired Gorgon met her fate at the edge of Athena's polished shield,
used as a mirror. And against the venomous teeth of the deadly sphinx, the two
lads pitted their wits, solving her impossible riddles until she fell into the
sea.
But their greatest challenges were yet to come. The Lernaean Hydra's many heads
lasted little time against Athena's flaming arrows. And the girls led the
terrifying Mares of Diomedes into a trap, taming them with wisdom. Finally, it
was time to face the hybrid horror of the Chimera. Together, the four lit a
fire and crafted a metal spear, killing it with heat and hand.
Their minds now sharpened, their bond forged even deeper, the four victorious
friends returned home. Songs were sung of their cunning feats for generations
to come. And while the gods have faded from our world today, the story of
Leonidas, Odysseus, Athena and Sappho live on - a tale of wisdom overcoming
brute strength, proving brains to be mightier than brawn.
Here is Act 1 of a 10-act reader's theater based on the Greek mythology story in a movie script format:
Act 1
Scene 1
- The Agora in Athens
[Leonidas,
Odysseus, Athena and Sappho are seated in a circle, scrolls and parchments
spread around them as they engage in lively debate. Other STUDENTS mill about
in the background.]
LEONIDAS
(Gesturing
passionately)
But as
Aristotle teaches us, courage is the foremost virtue of any great society!
ODYSSEUS
(Shaking
his head skeptically)
Yes but
wisdom and cunning deserve equal merit, as our esteemed philosopher would
agree.
SAPHO
(Smiling
patiently)
My
friends, all virtues have their place, just as notes combine to form a melody.
Each of us plays a part.
ATHENA
(Nodding
thoughtfully)
Too true
Sappho. Only together are we strong.
[A
MESSENGER hurriedly approaches the group, looking anxious]
MESSENGER
Pardon
me young sirs and madams. I bring urgent news from the surrounding
provinces!
LEONIDAS
(Standing
up in concern)
What
tidings do you bring? Speak!
MESSENGER
(Pausing
to catch his breath)
Word of
terrible beasts ravaging the lands. Creatures of myth and legend - the Nemean
Lion, the Lernaean Hydra! They leave whole villages decimated in their
wake.
[Gasps
and murmurs spread through the AGORA STUDENTS as they react to the shocking
news]
ODYSSEUS
(Exchanging
grim looks with LEONIDAS)
Pay him
no heed. These are simply exaggerated fables, not reality.
ATHENA
(Looking
worried)
Yet the
messenger seems sincere. And countless whispers confirm similar accounts.
SAPHO
(Distressed)
If true,
many innocents will suffer. How can we stand idle in the face of such horror?
LEONIDAS
(Pounding
fist into palm decisively)
Sappho
speaks truth. If monsters threaten the land, we must take up swords and spears!
ATHENA
(Touching
LEONIDAS gently on the arm)
Brave
Leonidas, brute force may not serve us against these demons of lore. We must
appeal to the gods for wisdom in facing them.
ODYSSEUS
(Nodding
eagerly)
Athena's
counsel is just. Let us first study their legends, seek signs from the gods.
Information is our sharpest spear.
SAPHO
(Looking
around at the anxious crowd)
I shall
compose songs and poems to rouse the courage of the people. Fear is our gravest
enemy.
LEONIDAS
(Taking
a deep breath and nodding) You speak wisely, my friends. We shall gather knowledge
before taking action.
[The
students huddle together, whispers and chatter swelling around them as the act
ends.]
Scene 2
- Temple of Athena
[LEONIDAS,
ODYSSEUS, ATHENA and SAPHO stand before a large statue of the goddess ATHENA.
They lay down offerings of flowers, olive branches and scrolls at her feet.]
LEONIDAS
(Head
bowed solemnly)
Great
Athena, gift us with your wisdom and courage to face the trials ahead.
ODYSSEUS
(Looking
up uncertainty at the imposing statue)
If these
beasts be real, give us the means to defeat them.
ATHENA
(Closing
her eyes in quiet reverence)
May we
bring honor to your name in the deeds we must soon undertake.
SAPHO
(Adding
her offering gently)
Goddess,
let your light shine upon us.
[Rumbling
thunder is heard, making them jump back. The torches lining the temple walls
flicker and dim. Then fade to black.]
Here is
Act 2 of the readers theater:
Act
2
Scene 1
- The Agora
[The
four students stand together with bags slung over their shoulders, dressed for
travel. A small crowd has gathered to see them off.]
LEONIDAS
(Holding
up a sword proudly)
The gods
have spoken! We shall journey to face these so-called monsters ourselves.
ODYSSEUS
(Checking
a parchment map)
If the
legends hold truth, we must be cunning in finding their lairs.
SAPHO
(Strumming
a lyre, singing)
~Courage,
friends though dangers await, we shall conquer each perilous gate!~
ATHENA
(Adjusting
her bow and quiver of arrows)
I have
prepared tinctures and medicinal draughts for any injuries we may face. And my
arrows shall taste beastly blood should we encounter their ilk!
[The
crowd murmurs excitedly. Some cheer the brave youths on.]
LEONIDAS
(Raising
his sword high)
Onward
to adventure! For honor and glory!
ODYSSEUS,
ATHENA, SAPHO
Huzzah!
[The
four march proudly offstage. Fade to black.]
Scene 2
- Wilderness Path
[The
students walk along a path surrounded by thick trees and vegetation. Bird calls
and insect noises fill the air.]
SAPHO
(Looking
around wide-eyed)
Such
beauty yet peril looms neath the stillness.
LEONIDAS
(Slashing
away vines with his sword)
Had I my
way, I would lure out each vile creature and slaughter them in honorable
combat!
ATHENA
(Rolling
her eyes)
Calm
yourself Leonidas. Let us first confirm if these "myths" bear truth.
ODYSSEUS
(Kneeling
to examine some tracks on the ground)
Hmm,
these prints do not match any mundane beast I know of...perhaps our unknown foe
draws near.
[A
thunderous crashing noise rings out, shaking the ground. A great dark shape
moves in the distance ahead.]
SAPHO
(Gripping
her lyre fearfully)
Gods save
us! What manner of demon arises?
LEONIDAS
(Readying
his sword and shield)
Ready
yourselves friends! Battle is upon us!
[The
four exchange nervous but resolute looks. Fade to black just as the giant
creature emerges roaring from the woods.]
Here is Act
3 of the readers theater:
Act 3
Scene 1
- The Forest Path
[The
students stand frozen in fear as the giant bronze-feathered STYMPHALIAN BIRD
emerges onto the path, screeching and clawing at the ground menacingly. Its
metallic plumage ruffles and gleams.]
STYMPHALIAN
BIRD
SKREEEEEE!
LEONIDAS
(Eyes
wide)
By the
gods! The legends speak true! Make ready, friends!
[He
charges at the beast, sword aloft. But his blade clangs uselessly off its
bronze feathers. The bird shrieks and pecks at him, forcing LEONIDAS to
retreat.]
ODYSSEUS
(Helping
LEONIDAS back hurriedly)
Hold
fast! Our weapons cannot pierce its armor! We must outwit the foul fowl!
ATHENA
(Knocking
an arrow pensively)
Hmm...bronze
may deflect iron, but even metal melts against fire...
SAPHO
(Picking
up a branch, eyes lighting up)
Well
thought, Athena! We shall beat back this bird with flames!
[ATHENA
ignites the tip of SAPHO's branch using flint stones. SAPHO thrusts the burning
brand at the BIRD, singing a rousing battle hymn. It recoils from the fire,
flapping its wings in agitation. LEONIDAS and ODYSSEUS join in, waving more lit
torches, driving it back into the woods in defeat.]
LEONIDAS
(Brandishing
his torch triumphantly)
Ha! The
winged devil flees before our might!Your quick wits saved the day, friends!
SAPHO
(Smiling
wearily)
Yet more
challenges await. Let us rest and ready for the next confrontation.
[The
students set up camp, kindling a fire as the sky darkens. Fade to black.]
Scene 2
- The Campsite
[The
four sit around a crackling fire, eating and conversing softly. Crickets chirp
in the night air.]
ATHENA
If the
old legends hold truth, the Cretan Bull will cross our path next. A cunning
mind may tame the beast where force fails.
ODYSSEUS
(Nodding
thoughtfully)
Yes, we
must play to our strengths against each foe. Together we shall overcome them
all!
SAPHO
(Strumming
her lyre gently)
Pride
comes before the fall. Let courage temper boldness, friends.
LEONIDAS
(Sheathing
his sword resolutely)
You
speak wisdom, Sappho. I shall follow where you three lead - be it with steel or
subtlety.
[They
finish their meal and curl up to sleep. The fire cracks low as the scene ends.]
Here is
Act 4 of the readers theater:
Act 4
Scene 1
- Mountain Pass
[The
students march single file through a narrow mountain pass. Wind howls eerily
between the peaks. ODYSSEUS leads the way, peering cautiously
ahead.]
ODYSSEUS
(Pointing
down the path)
Look -
fresh prints mar the earth. And scorch marks upon the stone. The Bull cannot be
far ahead!
SAPHO
(Rubbing
her arms nervously)
I like
not this cramped terrain. Let us lure it to lower ground ere we engage the
beast.
ATHENA
(Nocking
an arrow to her bow)
Agreed.
We must use the landscape to our advantage.
LEONIDAS
(Gripping
his spear tightly)
Steady
friends! Hold fast to courage! Fortune favors the bold!
[A
ground-shaking roar echoes through the pass. Far ahead, the silhouette of the
CRETAN BULL can be seen charging out of a cave.]
ATHENA
(Urgently
gesturing)
Quickly!
This way! We must fall back!
[The
four scramble further down the mountain path as the scene fades.]
Scene 2
- Grasslands
[The
students burst out of the mountain pass onto a open grassy plain, the afternoon
sun shining down on the lush meadow.]
LEONIDAS
(Pausing
to catch his breath)
We...we
made it! Flat ground shall see us triumph!
[The
CRETAN BULL thunders out of the pass behind them, bellowing angrily, smoke
rising from its nostrils.]
SAPHO
(Backing
away slowly)
Yet
still the raging bull pursues. What wisdom can temper its wrath?
ODYSSEUS
(Stroking
his chin thoughtfully)
Sappho!
Sing to it gently while Athena and I gather brush and branches!
ATHENA
(Nodding
in understanding)
Yes! We
will build a thicket to tangle its charge. Your songs can soothe it into the
trap!
[ATHENA
and ODYSSEUS hastily construct a barricade from cut shrubs and fallen wood as
SAPHO sings a sweet, calming melody. Her voice seems to relax the BULL. When
finished, they lure it with food towards the branches until it is snared. The
students rejoice.]
LEONIDAS
(Sheathing
his weapons with a grin)
Brains over
brawn once again! Our quest continues apace! Well done, friends!
[The
four set up camp as the sun sets, laughing and regaling each other with tales
of their victory. Fade to black.]
Here is
Act 5 of the readers theater:
Act 5
Scene 1
- The Campsite
[The
students are awake at dawn, packing up supplies and preparing to set off.
ODYSSEUS studies a map intently.]
ODYSSEUS
If we
cut through the forest, we should reach the village plains by midday. Rumor
tells of a tricky beast plaguing their lands next.
SAPHO
(Slings
her lyre over her shoulder)
Let us
make haste then! The people sorely need our help.
LEONIDAS
(Sharpening
his dagger impatiently)
Just
point me at our enemy! My blade thirsts for action.
ATHENA
(Rolling
up her medicine bag)
Patience,
Leonidas. Not all battles are won by steel alone.
LEONIDAS
(Sheathing
his dagger sheepishly) You are right, of course. Lead on!
[The
four march off into the woods as the scene ends.]
Scene 2
- The Forest
[The
students walk in single file along a forest trail. Mighty oaks, pines and
cypress trees tower all around them. SUNLIGHT filters through the leafy canopy
above.]
SAPHO
(Inhaling
deeply)
What
majesty! Let us pause a moment to appreciate nature's splendor.
[Distant,
bestial SQUEALS and SNORTS shatter the tranquil mood. The party readies
themselves for confrontation.]
ATHENA
(Knocking
an arrow)
It seems
the legendary Crommyonian Sow lurks nearby.
ODYSSEUS
(Drawing
his sword cautiously)
When it
charges, we shall leap clear and surround it. Teamwork brings down the
mightiest foe.
LEONIDAS
(Rotating
his spear impatiently)
Enough
waiting! To battle!
[A
massive wild SOW crashes through the underbrush, tusks gleaming. LEONIDAS
charges with a yell but is tossed aside. The others cry out and race to his aid
as the scene ends.]
Here is
Act 6 of the readers theater:
Act 6
Scene 1
- The Forest Path
[The
CROMMYONIAN SOW looms over the fallen LEONIDAS, preparing to gore him with its
tusks. LEONIDAS rolls away just in time as ODYSSEUS, ATHENA and SAPHO yell and
hurl stones to distract the beast.]
ODYSSEUS
(Helping
LEONIDAS to his feet)
You must
be more cautious, friend! This is no mundane pig to be skewered!
ATHENA
(Nocking
an arrow and taking aim)
Hold
still, foul swine! Your fate is sealed!
[Before
she can loose her arrow, SAPHO stays her hand.]
SAPHO
Wait!
Killing it may only enrage the poor creature more. Let us be rid of it without
bloodshed.
LEONIDAS
(Gripping
his side painfully)
Ugh...very
well. What wisdom do you propose, Sappho?
SAPHO
(Picking
some berries from a nearby bush)
As beast
of the wood, it knows not our ways. Seeking only sustenance.
[SAPHO
creates a trail of berries leading away from the path. The SOW snuffles
curiously and follows, lured away. The friends sigh in relief.]
ODYSSEUS
(Sheathing
his sword with a chuckle)
Remarkable!
As always, your gentle heart shows us the way.
ATHENA
(Smiling
and lowering her bow)
True
wisdom lies in preserving life, not dealing death. Well done, sister.
LEONIDAS
(Limping
over to join them)
You have
my gratitude once more. Though my pride remains wounded.
SAPHO
(Skipping
over and hugging LEONIDAS)
Dear
friend, humility fosters wisdom. All of us still have much to learn.
[The
four walk off together down the forest trail as the scene ends.]
Scene 2
- Village Square
[The
students enter a rustic village, where townspeople mill about tending to daily
chores. They greet the young heroes warmly as they pass.]
VILLAGER
1
Bless
you, brave youths! Word of your valiant deeds has spread far and wide.
VILLAGER
2
Will you
truly slay the dreaded Cyclops plaguing our lands? The gods favor you!
SAPHO
(Bowing
her head graciously)
We shall
try our very best, kind sir. Gather your kin to safety come dusk.
LEONIDAS
(Hand on
sword hilt)
I will
relish battling the wretched giant! Lead us to its lair!
ODYSSEUS
(Placing
a hand on his shoulder)
Careful
friend. Let us first consult the villagers for information ere we attack.
ATHENA
Yes,
knowledge illuminates the wise path. Lead the way citizens, and we shall shed
light on this threat.
[The
VILLAGERS cheer as the four walk off towards the CYCLOPS' cave. Lights fade to
black.]
Here is
Act 7 of the readers theater:
Act 7
Scene 1
- Cyclops' Cave
[The
students stand at the mouth of a dark, gloomy cave as the sun sets. Faint cries
and moans can be heard from within. LEONIDAS peers inside eagerly.]
LEONIDAS
(Gripping
his spear)
The
beast lurks within! Let us storm the cave and end its miserable life!
SAPHO
(Holding
up her hand cautiously)
Hark!
Those are not the wails of any monster. But men!
ODYSSEUS
(Nodding
grimly)
You have
the right of it, Sappho. The Cyclops must have prisoners within its foul den.
ATHENA
We
cannot be rash. Any misstep could doom those poor souls.
ODYSSEUS
(Rubbing
his chin thoughtfully)
I have
an idea! Gather fulled leaves, branches and flint. Quickly!
[The
students gather ODYSSEUS' requested items. ODYSSEUS fashions the leaves and
branches into rough shapes of people. He hands sheepskins and cloaks to the
others.]
ODYSSEUS
Put
these on, and bear the dummies upon your backs. Follow my lead!
[They
huddle together and shuffle into the murky cave holding the leaf-people aloft.
Grotesque sounds echo from further within.]
SAPHO
(Whispering
fearfully)
Bold
Odysseus, I pray your cunning plan bears fruit!
ODYSSEUS
(Whispering
back)
Have
faith, friends! When I give the signal, flee for the entrance!
[Taking
a deep breath, ODYSSEUS steps forward into the shadows. The others follow
anxiously. Ahead, the CYCLOPS can be heard feasting. The scene ends with
ominous sounds.]
Scene 2
- The Cyclops' Lair
[The
CYCLOPS, a hideous giant with one eye, sits gorging on meat by firelight in a
foul, blood-soaked cave. BONES are scattered about. ODYSSEUS steps forward,
waving a lit torch.]
ODYSSEUS
(In a
deep, booming voice)
Cyclops!
Receive these further offerings and blessings from the gods!
[He
gestures to the others, who holds up the leaf-people. The CYCLOPS grunts in
pleasure, reaching for the "offerings".]
CYCLOPS
Meaty
snacks! Give them here!
[As the
CYCLOPS reaches out, ODYSSEUS thrusts his flaming torch, driving it into the
CREATURE's giant eye. It howls in agony as the heroes flee for the exit. Cries
of captive sailors can be heard cheering their freedom.]
ODYSSEUS
(Calling
out as they escape)
Follow
our voices, brothers! Freedom awaits!
[The
CYCLOPS thrashes blindly in pain as the SAILORS and heroes escape the cave.
Fade to black.]
Here is
Act 8 of the readers theater:
Act 8
Scene 1
- The Cyclops' Cave
[The
CYCLOPS writhes at the mouth of his cave, clutching his burnt eye and bellowing
in pain. ODYSSEUS, ATHENA, SAPHO and the rescued SAILORS watch from a safe
distance.]
SAILOR
1
(Clasping
ODYSSEUS in gratitude)
Bless
you, brave lad! We are saved!
LEONIDAS
(Gazing
at the roaring CYCLOPS)
Now, let
us finish the beast while it flails helpless!
ODYSSEUS
(Shaking
his head)
No.
Blinding and escaping the brute is vengeance enough. We must away before it
recovers.
SAPHO
(Nodding
graciously to the SAILORS)
Quickly
friends, you must flee these lands. Return to your homes and spread hope.
SAILOR 2
(Bowing
reverently)
You are
too kind, miss. We shall sing your praises far and wide!
[The
SAILORS gather supplies and depart quickly. The students take a last look at
the agonized CYCLOPS before withdrawing into the woods.]
Here is
a ballad the sailors might sing as a sea shanty about the four young Agora
adventurers:
Oh
gather round lads and a tale I'll tell
Of four
brave souls who challenged the beasts of hell
Students
of knowledge, wisdom their tools
Bound by
friendship, they held fast to their rules
Leonidas
led them, spear held high
No
monster too large to shy from his eye
Cunning
Odysseus, with tricks up his sleeve
And
gentle Sappho, who always believed
Fair
Athena, keen mind and bow did wield
Together
no curse could make their will yield
Chorus:
So rally
boys and sing with cheer
The
story of the Agora four so bold
Who
faced the threats of yore
With
courage in their hearts of gold
Through
the hills and forests they marched in line
Using
their wits to best each gruesome swine
The
bronze-feathered birds gave a terrible screech
But
flames did send them far from reach
The bull
and boar soon learned their might
And
one-eyed cyclops fled their blazing light
Chorus
Even
lion with hide of armored stone
Could
not withstand their sharpened spears alone
The
ice-cold Gorgon's gaze turned aside
While
sphinx's riddles could not break their stride
The
hydra and mares, they soon out-thought
Beasts
and monsters to ruin they brought
Chorus
So let
this tale spread like fire in your chest
Of
students whose bonds could not be bested
Their
light still shines as bright beacon in the night
An
example to stand and never lose sight.
Chorus
So sing
of their glory, their wisdom retell!
Of
Leonidas, Odysseus, Sappho and Athena the brave!
Scene 2
- The Campfire
[The
four friends sit around a crackling fire beneath the stars. They eat and talk
lightheartedly, relaxing after their ordeal.]
ATHENA
(Tending
the fire)
Your
cunning was inspired today, Odysseus. Blinding the beast with such common
items!
LEONIDAS
(Spearing
a hunk of meat with his dagger)
I could
have bested the foul creature in honorable combat...but I cannot deny your
trickery prevailed.
ODYSSEUS
(Chuckling
good-naturedly)
Thank
you, but we all played our part. Together we make a formidable team!
SAPHO
(Strumming
her lyre softly)
The real
victory was freeing the imprisoned men unharmed. Compassion should guide us
ever on.
[They
eat and chat more, finally laying down to rest. The fire crackles low as the
scene ends.]
Here is
Act 9 of the readers theater:
Act 9
Scene 1
- The Nemean Foothills
[The
four heroes hike along a dusty path lined with scrubby trees and boulders.
Cicadas buzz in the hot afternoon air.]
ATHENA
(Consulting
a map pensively)
If these
landmarks are accurate, the Nemean Lion's den lies just over the next
rise.
LEONIDAS
(Hefting
his spear eagerly)
At last,
a foe I can battle with honor! No trickery needed against its brute force!
SAPHO
(Strumming
her lyre absently)
Do not
underestimate the cat, brave friend. Legend claims its hide cannot be pierced.
LEONIDAS
frowns, looking disappointed. ODYSSEUS places a hand on his shoulder.
ODYSSEUS
Worry
not, we shall think of something. But caution is key against this formidable
beast.
[They
crest the hill, looking down at a rocky outcropping surrounded by bones.
Shadows move within the cave below. LEONIDAS lets out a cry and charges down
the slope. The others chase after him, crying warnings.]
Scene 2
- The Lion's Den
[LEONIDAS
stands at the mouth of the cave, spear and sword raised defiantly. The NEMEAN
LION prowls out, growling. It is a massive tawny beast, muscles rippling
beneath its fur. LEONIDAS attacks but his weapons clang uselessly off its hide.
The LION swipes him away easily.]
SAPHO
(Rushing
to LEONIDAS' side)
Are you
hurt? Oh, this is dire! Weapons fail against the lion!
ATHENA
(Knocking
arrows futilely)
My
arrows cannot pierce its pelt either! We must retreat!
LEONIDAS
(Clutching
his side)
No! I
will not...flee...dishonorably...
[He
struggles to rise but the LION looms over him, maw gaping. Just as it is about
to strike, ODYSSEUS dashes over and swings a black rock, striking the BEAST. It
yowls in pain, staggering back.]
ODYSSEUS
(Standing
protectively over LEONIDAS)
Back,
devil cat! Obisidian is your bane!
[He
helps LEONIDAS up and they withdraw safely. The LION glares balefully after
them before returning to its lair. The scene ends.]
Here is
the final Act 10 of the readers theater:
Act 10
Scene 1
- The Foothills
[The
four friends regroup, tending to LEONIDAS' wounds. ODYSSEUS holds up the
strange black rock that hurt the LION.]
ODYSSEUS
This
obsidian seems proof against its hide. We must shape it into a weapon!
ATHENA
(Examining
LEONIDAS' injuries)
We
should withdraw for now and recover. Another brute assault could prove fatal.
LEONIDAS
(Pushing
himself up stubbornly)
I'll not quit the field...not while breath remains. We end this, here and now!
SAPHO
(Touching
his arm soothingly)
Brave one, pride will not serve us here. Together we shall triumph through guile.
LEONIDAS
(Sighing
heavily but nodding)
Very well. Forge the glass blade, Odysseus. My steel arm needs your cunning mind.
ODYSSEUS
(Gripping
LEONIDAS' shoulder)
Rest easy, brother. When you are healed, we shall return and finish our quest.
[ODYSSEUS begins shaping the obsidian rock into a crude spearhead as the others help LEONIDAS walk. They head away from the lion's lair as the scene ends.]
Scene 2 - The Nemean Foothills
[The party returns to the cave mouth at dawn. LEONIDAS carries the obsidian-tipped spear while the others ready their weapons cautiously.]
SAPHO
The hour of destiny is at hand. Have faith, my friends, our cause is just.
ATHENA
Strike true and fast, brave Leonidas. We are with you in spirit.
LEONIDAS
(Nodding
grimly)
For honor and glory, we end this curse this day!
[He strides into the den boldly. The LION roars and attacks. LEONIDAS ducks its claws and thrusts his black spear into its chest. The BEAST caterwauls horribly then slumps dead at his feet. The others cry victory and rush to join LEONIDAS.]
ODYSSEUS
(Clasping
LEONIDAS' shoulder proudly)
You did it! The beast is slain! Our quest fulfilled!
LEONIDAS
(Grinning
broadly)
Only through your wisdom and skill, brother. We conquered together as one!
SAPHO
(Strumming
her lyre triumphantly)
The four as one, our bond forever strong! Evil vanquished, now joyful songs we sing!
[They
celebrate their hard-won victory with cheers and song. The adventure has ended,
but their friendship remains true for all time. The play closes on the four
heroes marching home proudly beneath the rising sun.]
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