Wind and Truth

A conqueror often put some enterprising local in charge. It let the people pretend they had some semblance of self-rule. All you needed was a traitor or two.

A person's life isn't meaningless because they can't hit the hardest anymore.

Every soldier should have the option to put down the spear if they choose to and are willing to pay the cost.

No one is normal. Normal doesn't exist.

...if you cannot explain what you mean, then why voice silly thoughts?

She had known, even when no one else wanted to acknowledge it, that there was nothing watching or protecting them. All the aphorisms, rituals, and writings were for the comfort of the people at best - or the control of them at worst. She'd accepted this, though at times she had dearly wished for that comfort.

Why is it that all proponents of 'free thinking' only accept the answers they want? Anyone who agrees with them is a free thinker. Anyone who doesnt't? Why, they must be blinded by the oppressive norms of society, or are dancing on strings to the evil delight of those in control.

If someone you deeply respected disagreed with you, perhaps it was worth reconsidering.

...an idea wasn't true just because it entered his head.