They were great sailors and went about in silver ships without rudders or sails.
These wonderful ships went slowly or very fast just as the sailors wished.
For many years the Phaiakians were peaceful and happy.
Though they were as brave as they were gentle, they hated war.
Far below the Phaiakians, in a valley, lived a people larger, darker, fiercer than themselves.
These dark people cared for nothing so much as war and conquest.
When they saw the silver ships with the golden prows, they wanted them for their own.
They armed themselves and made ready for a great battle.
To be sure of victory, they borrowed the thunder and lightning from Zeus.
The day came and all was ready for the dark people to advance.