the idea that the Sybs. loved pleasure too much to be effective warriors

If the Sybarites were killed off in a raid, DAJ, you can be sure they took no pleasure in it.

Venus and Mars opposition. It's a very rich word-story.

Venus and Mars opposition. Very rich word-story, indeed.
[It went right over my head at first. When it finally landed, I lost my center of levity.]

Looks like the "Strangers" are stealing all the best lines around here.

Don't stay a "Stranger" too long, DAJ.