The value of Art.

I have never been one to focus much on art, or craftsmanship for that matter. Though the past decade or so has, in various forms, brought much attention to it for myself.

Though a particular piece, or subject of it, may not be of ones liking, it is important to recognize the work that goes into making these displays.

There was a time in Hashan, around the Logosmas past, where a particular betrayal had occured and left many in the city reeling from the sudden treason and abuse of power by persons elected to lead the city.

As a small part of my efforts to rejuvenate a healing city, Progress, and move Forward, I asked for assistance in the removal of a most well-crafted statue from our park, that had become a reminder of a disappointing past.

The first solution presented, and one that was quickly accepted, was one of destruction. At the time, I had not Progressed in my understanding of Art and Craftsmanship to the point I feel I have gotten to today.

This led to the destruction of an invaluable piece of Art, crafted by You, Lady Pandora. With no consideration of the time, efforts, and creative abilities You invested into such a piece, I, with a citizenry that entrusted me as their leader and followed my path, made a rash choice to destroy this statue. I did so without understanding, nor looking to understand, the time and effort put into it. Above all, the Divine time and efforts put into it.

In following the destruction of this statue, You expressed disappointment and anger, rightfully so, at the destruction us mortals had caused to Your Divinely crafted Art.

As if this was not enough, many citizens, following their leader who lacked compassion for this display of Art and Craft, boasted and 'banged their chests' in direction of Yourself when anger and disappointment was expressed.

A wiser leader, as I like to think myself to be now, would value the work, despite the subject, and seek a non-destructive resolution. Perhaps even communicating with the allpowerful Divine creator of said work, to see what may have been done.

In Your power, You decided to visit the city we call home, and drag a sword through our southern streets, leaving a trail of rubble behind.

It is for all this boasting, chest beating, and above all lack of consideration for the display of Your talents in our park, that I, Arcturus, Seneschal of Hashan both then and now, express sorrow on behalf of myself and our city, apologizing for what transpired.

I would like to thank You, Lady Pandora, for providing the groundwork (quite literally!), that led to Progress for not only our city, but myself especially during the times since these events took place.

I know I have Progressed as a person, and learned much about The Value of Art, all that goes into it, and beyond. For this, I am grateful.

With the sincerest of thanks and apologies,

Seneschal Arcturus D'Aud'tore

Penned by my hand on the 21st of Glacian, in the year 896 AF.