Innocence, In a Sense

We are all heroes, aren't we? All of us are saints with nothing but good intentions. Accuse me of wrongdoing? How dare you!

You must hold a shield to defend yourself from the evils of this world. Tell us, please, what the sword in your opposite hand is for. No, you keep the sword a secret. Those beneath you need no explanation as to its utility. You use it to cut them down. Keep them subdued. A voice is a threat. Dissenters mustn't be heard. So, keep the peasants in their places while your people praise the massacre.