"The heavens have chosen me. My mandate is undeniable."

"The wise man follows my decree; the fool resists and perishes."

"The past is dead. Only the present and the future matter, and both are shaped by my will."

"The pursuit of knowledge is only valuable if it serves the state. Otherwise, it is a dangerous indulgence."

"I have collected all the writings of the Empire and burnt those that were of no use."