Dilios His helmet was stifling; it narrowed his vision, and he must see far. His shield was heavy; it threw him off balance, and his target was far away. Dilios The old ones say we Spartans are descended from Hercules himself. Bold Leonidas gives testament to our bloodline. His roar is long and loud ... Queen Gorgo Because only Spartan women give birth to real men. [Response to Persian messenger questioning why Spartan women are allowed to address him]