Nothing he knew of, enunciated life like death.

Every man heals himself.

Time to unite the Sacred Bands, Thebans and his people: one unit, one heart, one swing through life.

Men may not believe you, my son. But you must always say the truth, when the truth holds no danger for you or your loved ones.

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.

There must be a corps that will battle for righteousness, for there are endless battalions who serve unrighteousness.

Some nights, valor and cold purpose aren't enough.