Was in Canada with my uncle. He told me the city has had several overpasses damaged by trucks smashing into them and wonders why this is happening. I tell him the obvious answer - indian truck drivers.
All the sudden he looks at me and in the deepest, most demonic voice says "you better shut the fuck up if you know what's good for ya". Then reverts back to a completely normal tone and changes the subject entirely.
I can cut a leaf in half that hangs from a brush or small tree, and I do use them for 20-40 minutes per session.
What would I do with multiple invaders? First of all, either I try the psycho-terror approach, or I don't let them think and charge immediately. In both cases I wouldn't say a word. If you talk, you can be negotiated with. In the first case it's detrimental to causing fear, in the second case it's pointless and detrimental.
It depends on the situation, you have thrust (swords only, can be lethal, but won't stop them immediately), cut (swords and machetes, a swing with full force for devastating damage that can stop them), slash (you pull the sword for superficial injuries, here it's only pain).
A sword needs to be held with 2 hands as it needs more control (their grip is generally long enough to be held with 2 hands), machetes however can be dual wielded pretty well (grip for 1 hand only).
I'd attack them violently without giving them a moment of pause, aiming for 1. preventing them from fleeing, 2. lethality. If they do have weapons, I'd focus on slashing or cutting their arms holding them. With 2 machetes you can strike one's weapon and with the other his head. If they stand in formation, I'd go for one on the side to avoid getting surrounded. If they have guns, that's a problem.
If I have the advantage of stealth, I'd use it. No need to waste it to announce myself. Just the advantage of closing the distance a little faster is enough.