Final answer:
Athens responded to the Melians’ request to not get involved in the war by insisting that they surrender and accept their rule, resulting in a ruthless attack and conquest of the Melians by Athens.
Step-by-step explanation:
In response to the request of the Melians, a Spartan colony, to not get involved in the war, Athens insisted that they surrender their city and accept their rule. The Athenians believed that it was in their self-interest to dominate and control other city-states. When the Melians refused, Athens attacked and eventually conquered them, showing their ruthless approach to maintaining power.