How does the author create surprise in "Damon and Pythias"? The author withholds the information that Pythias's horse was killed until Pythias arrives at the execution. Dionysius condemns Pythias to death for criticizing the ruler's cruelty. Pythias must return home to set his affairs in order before his execution. It is expected that Dionysius will execute Damon if Pythias does not return for his execution, but Damon is saved.