Hail, Lady Estarra.

I wish to clarify a few points, if I may.

First, I have never challenged Your prerogative to destroy wayward
mortals. This would be a nonsensical challenge; it is empirical fact
that You possess this ability, and none but You might govern Your
ability to use it. I argue none of this.

I must, however, contest the very idea of intrinsic respect; I
acknowledge no cosmic debt owed the strong by the weak. Respect of any
genuine sort MUST be earned, or it is mere artifice, the illusion of
respect motivated by pragmatism and cowardice. You write that You are
uninterested in mortal opinion of You; if this be so, well and good. I
stated merely that respect through fear was facile and artificial; I did
not mandate that You be bothered by these things. They are but facts.
Dismiss them at Your leisure.

I have no desire that the Gods be more 'gentle'. I myself am rarely
murdered by Divinities, and have frankly only passing interest in my own
demise. My post was addressed - and perhaps this was unclear - to those
among the Elder with an interest in the genuine respect of lesser
beings. Your power is much greater, but I have led and followed and I
know what Gods and mortals have commanded my respect. I offered humble
advice, freely given without demand for change or recompense. Perhaps it
is not useful to You. My sincere apologies.

As to Your last point, I must find You guilty of a trifling
misquotation: I have not asked that You "make a joke", as in a verbal
jest or witticism. I suggested that the mortal who insults You be made
foolish by the utter incorrectness of his speech.

There is nothing nebulous about legitimate respect.

The mortal who insults you says, "Please, demonstrate my power by
allowing me to feel I have annoyed You." Spare him, and the Basin laughs
and knows his pleas are meaningless; destroy him, and the Basin knows
You granted his request.

I submit my thoughts for the consideration of interested parties.

Sincerely,

Ashar d'Valeros

Penned by my hand on the 10th of Urlachmar, in the year 168 CE.