I don't believe it was our "gods" who sent that punishment. At least, not the way that so many did.

[ There's something grim in Cain's voice, in his expression. But the matter of gods in his world is a complicated one, with a history that stretches back eons. What the divine punishment might truly have been... well, certainly not a matter so cut and dry as some would have it seem.

But he inclines his head to Frederick, accepting the condolences. ]

He was. My brother was the best man I know. A much better man than I am in every way. I could never measure up to him.