"Temple of Roses" by Elestin of Sinaria

Note · 55 gp · Weight 2

"...roaring flames are devouring the Temple of Roses. The petals of the flowers darken, curl up and finally turn to ash — the moment of utter pain and ugliness that comes before final, serene eternity. Burning idols seem to grimace, cry, laugh — and turn their fiery gazes upon me. The heat grows unbearable — but I dare not turn my eyes from this sacred fire, admiring its every precious moment while my eyes still serve me. Laymen will call me a vandal — they'll say that I'd destroyed a priceless piece of art because I hated everything beautiful. But do not believe this. I loved the temple more than my life, and I lit it with the fires that burn in my heart. For can there be a higher devotion than melting together with the object of your admiration, into the shining splendor of oblivion?"