In The Whimsical World Of Cloud-cuckoo-town, A Pec

Pisthetaerus, a peculiar peace envoy, awaits the arrival of gods Heracles and the Triballian god in Cloud-cuckoo-town, distracted by his silphium pickle.

Heracles, the gluttonous god, is drawn to the succulent aroma of punished birds, while Posidon warns Heracles of the potential consequences of dethroning Zeus.

Pisthetaerus proposes conditions for peace, including the transfer of Zeus' sceptre to the birds, swaying Heracles with promises of a hearty meal.

Posidon refuses to continue negotiations due to Pisthetaerus' demand for his daughter, Basileia, while Heracles is convinced to reconsider by Pisthetaerus' promise of bird allies.

Pisthetaerus reveals his true intentions, proposing the birds punish those who fail to keep oaths, with Posidon warning Heracles of the dangers of ceding power.

Heracles agrees to the proposal, and the gods depart, leaving Pisthetaerus to savor his silphium pickle and plot his next move.assistant