Battle? There's always a desire for breathing space motivating it somewhere.

Ish yara al-ahdab hadbat-you. (A hunchback does not see his own hunch. -- Folk Saying.) Bene Gesserit Commentary: The hunch may be seen with the aid of mirrors but mirrors may show the whole being.

The writing of history is largely a process of diversion. Most historical accounts distract attention from the secret influences behind great events.