Clearchus, Lamprito, Xerxes, Gorgo, King Leonidas, a mysterious "ghost," the ever-optimistic Dienekes, the wise Artabazus, the former king Demaratus, Prince Hyperanthes, Ephialtes, Hydarnes, and the undying Immortals, the "coward" Aristodemus and the brave Alfeos, the anonymous Kissaioi and Yurcanians, Medes and Africans, Thebans, Peloponnesians, and Locrians, all together, Greeks and Persians, couriers and hoplites, heroes and traitors, great and small, men and women, true or fictional, unravel the thread that leads to one of the most legendary crossroads in history.