Ike said:

I would like to raid a city my coalition is in a challenge with, but when I spied him (hours away), he was besieged by a much higher level archon than both of us, with thousands of troops there. If I try to raid the besieged city, will I have to fight through the besiegers (against whom I'd have no chance), or just against the city defenses of the city I'm trying to raid?

Any explanation or advice would be appreciated!

Good evening Ike,

indeed, your raiding (or sieging) troops would be up against the troops of the player currently sieging the city, It might even be the case that this stronger player is sieging this city with the express intent of defending a weaker player.

Cheers
P.

Ike said:

As always, thanks so much!

You are quite welcome. Happy raiding.

Cheers
P.