[SEED][AC] The Ruined City

The two wooden doors of the ORB National Assembly chamber were made from fine walnut. In this age of steel, they somehow still preserved a touch of the Renaissance's wicked indulgence. Their semicircular arched tops, carved flame-pattern moldings, scrolling vines, spirals, and symmetrical noble emblems all lent them an air of the mysterious, supreme authority of royalty. Like the grand study in the home of some merchant reeking of money, where the merchant points to each great book and tells its story. When Kaguya was little, someone had explained the historical value of these wooden doors to her. Their elaborate carvings were said to be the work of a renowned artist, and if sold at auction, they would probably fetch enough to buy several houses. How strange. These people had more than enough to feed and clothe their descendants for generations, and if their assets were fully investigated, ten heads might not be enough to pay the price. Yet they still couldn't learn to cultivate, even just for show, that refined appreciation for beauty.