[he looks Cain right in the eyes, standing as tall and proud as he can. ...Which isn't very tall.]
Yes.
[he lets that one very impressively-delivered word sink in for a moment, for dramatic effect, then continues:]
Commissar Ciaphas Cain, I wish to learn the ways of the sword, that I may defend myself. The Defense Force cannot be everywhere at once, and besides, helpless is not a thing I wish to remain in this often-treacherous place.