What wastrel mankind destroyed takes time for nature to put to rights.

The heavens listen to what is said on these cobbles. Laws of man and nature come together here. Here you must be firm. Here you must be true.

And what do the Theban hoplites see in this extended rending of the sky, this white-bright glory of Enlil's lightning? The future, but not theirs: paired cavalry fighters; formed ranks of armored death; grim men on their tall horses with lightning limning weapons tailored to the task; men spoiling for a fight if the gods allowed - the Sacred Band of Stepsons, out from shadows and the dark.

And as for death - we get what we expect.

Tempus wanders eternally, bringing death to whomever loves him and being spurned by whomsoever he shall love.

Let fools believe what fools believe.

Revenge is never the best driver for a battle, but a common one.