BEORF. King of his kingdom

The First

City

, 4840 BC. Small states arose throughout Keta, ruled by the older members of the population they represented. In that year, a small wooden settlement arose in the northeastern part of the continent. This settlement was built at the mouth of the Naalh River into the Demon Ocean, amid the green meadows of Chemos. There, amidst the vast waters, strange and terrible things happened, for demons were suspected of their involvement. The settlement was built in a circular shape, with an earthen mound reinforced by a wooden palisade and sharpened poles around the ramparts. The single gate to the city was placed at the southeast wall, and barracks for the city's fifty guards were erected nearby. In the center, a small square was left, which became the market square, and next to it, the largest structure in the city, called Liveb, was erected. There, Kunuga, the man hailed as the city's lord, and the village's Council of Elders took their seat. Kunuga was one of the oldest men in the city. He was one of the first humans to arrive in Zija. He was born along with many others in 4952, and like the others, he was created by the six gods as the most numerous race. Along with the settlement, Kunuga took over all of Chemos, as that land was called. Kunuga himself was proclaimed Lord of Chemos.

Eight years later, a young 25-year-old boy arrived in the settlement. Tall, slender, with short, dark-blond hair, kind and polite, with exceptional intelligence and a fighting spirit. His name was Beorf, but he didn't reveal his origins or why he came here. Shortly after his arrival, he joined the city guard, where he saw an opportunity to use his skills. Chemos was frequently attacked by bands of marauders or ghouls, small, ungainly creatures that killed any living creature that stood in their way. Beorf excelled in combat and duly carried out his duties in maintaining order in the settlement, and was generally liked by everyone. He rose quickly in rank, soon becoming Dehon's deputy, the Chief Warden. The young officer also demonstrated considerable resourcefulness and organizational skills, which resulted in a significant improvement in security in the settlement. The wardens became better trained and apprehended more criminals.

In the autumn of 4839, tragedy struck. During one of the numerous attacks on the settlement, Dehon was killed. Several dozen bandits scaled the ramparts surrounding the settlement. Dehon advanced toward them and was soon surrounded by three of them. He stood little chance and fell in battle, having previously killed one of them. Beorf saw this and quickly rushed to his aid, but it was too late. Beorf cut down Dehon's assassins, and the wardens under his command defeated the invaders. As Beorf was Dehon's second-in-command, he took over the title of Chief Warden and control of the settlement's security.

Upon taking on this responsible position, he began reorganizing the guards and increased their number to 100. More and more people from the surrounding area were finding homes in the settlement, so new challenges had to be met. Until then, a guard could only be recognized by carrying a spear. Beorf ordered black leather uniforms made for them and short swords forged from bronze. The uniforms bore the first symbol of the guards: a crossed sword and spear embroidered with white thread. He also introduced a hierarchy within the units, corresponding to the first military ranks. He divided all the guards into five banners, each commanded by a standard-bearer, and one banner into five manipols, each with four guards. This was only the beginning of the changes he wanted to introduce. He had many more ideas for streamlining trade, improving living conditions in the settlement, and storing supplies. The ideas regarding the guards were fully accepted by Kunuga and the council of elders, led by Xekar. However, Kunuga and his trusted friend Xekar did not approve of the remaining ideas. They began to consider Beorf a bit crazy, and his subsequent ideas became increasingly tiresome.

The following summer, another group of people arrived at the settlement. Beorf, as usual, sat on a small bench at the gate and watched the settlers arrive. His trusted friend and deputy, Amex, checked some suspicious newcomers for weapons. If they wanted to enter the settlement, they had to leave their weapons at the nearby barracks, where they could later retrieve them upon leaving. Beorf was alarmed by an elderly, bald man dressed in a simple gray robe with a small bundle on his back. "

Hey you there!" Beorf shouted at him. The man turned around. "Yes, I'm calling you, come here." Two guards immediately appeared beside the man and led him to Beorf. "Who are you?"

They call me Kiseaso." The figure was clearly a bit frightened.

"What do you do? Your Majesty Kiseaso.

I'm an architect; I plan and construct buildings." Beorf seemed interested in the new arrival and waved to the guards, who returned to their posts. "

This is very interesting. So allow me to introduce myself." Beorf rose from the bench. "I am Beorf, Chief Warden of this settlement. Let us sit down and talk." The man put down his bundle and sat down where Beorf had indicated. "What kind of buildings do you build?

Actually, any kind. I can design almost any. But most of all, I'd like to build with stone like the dwarves...

Buildings with stone?" Beorf quickly cut him off. "I didn't know you could build with stone. Stone is hard, and how do you connect it to other stone? Tell me, what did these dwarves build with it and how did they find out about it?"

Dwarves are, after all, the oldest race on Zija; they live underground, carving tunnels and dwellings into the rocks. Despite this, they build towers and gates to their homes above ground, and apparently, they also construct incredible structures underground in vast subterranean halls. The Sajsi Mountains are full of such places," Beorf was silent for a moment. Finally, he said, "

If you speak the truth... then you will be extremely needed here. Provided you know how to build these structures.

I know, the dwarves taught me.

Come to the barracks tomorrow and report to me. For now, find some quiet quarters. If you're in danger, find a manipol and tell him Beorf sent you."

Kiseaso rose from the bench and headed for the settlement. Beorf approached Amex and told him about his conversation with the architect. Amex didn't have much of an opinion on stone buildings, so Beorf set off for Liveb to meet Kunuga and Xekar. Lord Chemosu gladly welcomed the well-liked and capable officer, though Xekar knew he had come to present another of his mad ideas. Tall, somewhat elderly, with a short gray beard, Kunuga sat as always in his large armchair, and next to him sat a similarly sized Xekar in a smaller one.

"Lord, be praised!" Beorf bowed and paid homage to the lord

. "Greetings, Beorf. To what do I owe your visit to Liveb?

I met a new resident of the settlement today, an architect. I learned many interesting things from him. Especially that one can build with stone." Kunuga was surprised at these words, but Xekar listened calmly. "

This must be some mistake. One cannot build with stone, only with wood," said Kunuga.

"I share the lord's opinion," replied Xekar. "How does this architect know that such structures can be constructed?"

He saw such things in the Sajsi Mountains among the dwarves; they taught him, by the way.

It seems interesting, don't you think, Xekar?" Kunuga's attitude towards the idea clearly changed. "If this is true, then this is invaluable knowledge that should be put to use. Beorf.

Yes, sir.

Learn as much as you can about this. And if it is true, come to me again. For now, return to your daily activities."

Beorf left Liveb convinced that this idea had been approved. Many of his ideas had failed to gain support, and this one, though received coldly, had a great chance of success.

This could be of great importance to our settlement, Xekar. Stone walls and buildings would allow us to feel more confident in confrontation with enemies.

I don't know what Kunuga thinks about this, you know Beorf and his strange ideas." Xekar knew far more of Beorf's countless and fantastic ideas than Kunuga. He disliked almost all of them, and he didn't like this one either. "We'll wait and see; for now, he has to present some proof that it's actually possible."

The Chief Warden returned to his barracks by the gate and his daily duties. The rest of the day passed peacefully, though he still thought about the stone structures.

The next morning, Kiseaso arrived. Beorf was still asleep, so Amex told the architect to wait another hour. As soon as the Chief Warden rose from his bed, he eagerly welcomed the newcomer. They talked for quite a while. Beorf was interested in everything related to stone structures, how they were built, how they were designed, and even what materials and tools were needed. He was also interested in what structures could be constructed and what Kiseaso could design. Beorf gathered a wealth of important information, which proved beyond a doubt that such structures could indeed be constructed. Building stone walls surrounding the settlement would greatly facilitate defense, strengthening the position of the entire Chemos region. However, there were many problems along the way. For example, where to obtain so much necessary stone and the tools to work it? But Beorf didn't worry about that. The hardest part was convincing the elders, Xekar, and Kunuga himself, though he seemed to understand the importance of the entire undertaking.

In the afternoon, Beorf went to Liveb to meet with Kunuga and Xekar. As usual, they were sitting in the main hall. "

I spoke with the architect Kiseaso and gathered a lot of important information," Beorf began. "From what I've heard, I can say that it's possible to build stone walls and houses in the settlement. I vouch for this. I know that with the help of Kiseaso and the inhabitants of Chemos, we will be able to build a stone city.

What if he's lying?" Xekar asked .

He presented me with so much evidence and descriptions that Amex and I considered them credible. "

How many people and stone will it take to build it?" Kunuga seemed convinced of the idea.

I can't say that. But it will certainly be a lot, and tools will also be needed.

And where will you get the stone for construction? The mountains lie beyond our lands?" Xekar still refused to be convinced.

Numerous rocks lie near the settlement. We'll draw our building materials from them.

And what about the people? We'll need a lot of them." Xekar spoke again. "

Easy, my friend," Kunuga said quietly to his friend. "We have plenty of people here, and I've already decided. Beorf, you'll be responsible for the reconstruction of the settlement and all related activities.

And what about the Council of Elders?" Xekar asked, although Beorf wanted to ask the same question. "

Don't worry about the Council. I'll convince them, and for now, there are more important things. Now let me go, I need to rest. I don't want to talk about any further opposition." Kunuga heaved himself up from his chair and headed to his chamber. As soon as Xekar had left, he said to Beorf.

I just hope you won't ruin our little kingdom with another crazy idea of ​​yours." Xekar hurriedly left the hall and went to the village elders. Beorf stood in the hall for a moment before finally smiling and shouting, "

I won! Ha! Finally, one of my ideas will come to fruition."

He turned and, smiling, returned to the barracks. Walking back through the settlement, he pondered what to do next. Lord Kunuga had given him free rein, so he could implement many of his previous ideas that had lain dormant. He would deal with creating a cadre of skilled builders, and the writing he had created could see the light of day. He would also begin building warehouses, and not just for food. When he returned to the barracks, Amex and Kiseaso were waiting for him.

"Friends," he said to them excitedly. "We will begin construction." At these words, they both smiled

. That meant Kunuga had agreed.

Yes, Amex, he had agreed. What's more, he had given us complete freedom. Kiseaso, get to work as quickly as possible.

It's not that simple. It will be a long time before construction begins.

And why is that? "Beorf's enthusiasm waned somewhat.

First, I need to inspect the settlement more thoroughly, draw up plans, and gather and train workers. There's also the matter of materials and organization...

So, focus on what you can do now," Beorf interrupted. "Amex will gather the men and tools, and I'll take care of the materials and organization. So let's get to work. If Kunuga and the council don't see results soon, we can say goodbye to our plans. And I wouldn't want that."

For many months, intense preparations for the start of construction were underway. Kiseaso estimated the amount of materials and drew the first plans for the walls, while Amex, along with the soldiers and workers, extracted and gathered stone. Beorf took care of the rest, and on top of that, he had to repeatedly convince the council to implement "necessary" ideas. Finally, winter arrived. The plans were ready, and the piles of stones in front of the palisades were already covered with snow. However, tools and cement were still lacking, and the Council and Xekar himself didn't make the preparations any easier, believing the construction would ruin the settlement. Furthermore, attacks by bandits and ghouls were intensifying, and although Beorf easily contained them, the Council used this fact against him. Xekar claimed that dismantling the palisade would result in disaster, while Beorf argued that if they didn't build walls, the settlement wouldn't withstand a major enemy attack.

Despite this, by mid-March, Beorf managed to gather all the necessary materials. And in early May 4836, construction of the first section began. Beorf ordered the gate to be dismantled and scaffolding made from wood. Construction progressed slowly, but he still had the support of Kunuga, and with him the inhabitants. Throughout the spring and summer, only the gate and 20 meters of walls were built. The Council constantly showed its dissatisfaction, but Lord Kunuga remained silent. However, not everything progressed so slowly. Beorf implemented his alphabet, and soon orders began to be sent by letter, enabling the creation of a network of information and documentation of all activities. Beorf no longer had to travel anywhere in person or send an Amex. This was already a success. While the Council argued with Kunuga, Beorf ordered another section of the palisade to be dismantled in the fall. He hoped that the workers would build the next section before the first snows.

Everything was in Beorf's favor, especially since there had been no attack all summer. However, just after another section of the palisade was dismantled, ghouls appeared beneath the settlement. No one noticed them, so the dismantled section was not heavily guarded. In mid-September, at night, they struck directly at the breach and entered the settlement. There were not many of them, so they were quickly dispatched by the guards. However, many of them managed to get into the huts and kill the inhabitants.

The cup of bitterness overflowed. The elders blamed Beorf and Kunuga for what had happened. The Lord's friend, Xekar, also joined them and ordered a halt to the construction work. The Council also demanded Beorf's resignation, but Xekar did not support this. He knew he would not resign, and even if he did, the guards would certainly not allow him to. Kunuga, however, rejected the Council's order to halt construction, which only added fuel to the fire. Beorf himself had no intention of stopping the work, and when he received the order from the council, he declared he had no intention of respecting it, especially since he disliked Xekar. Thus, the matter spiraled out of control. On

October 14th, the Council summoned Xekar and informed him that he had been unanimously elected the new Lord of Chemos. Xekar gathered a dozen or so armed citizens and marched to Liveb. Seeing the armed column, the guards closed in with Kunuga inside. However, Xekar's followers, who were inside, overpowered two of Beorf's men and opened the gate. Xekar entered and stood before Kunuga. For a moment, they stared into each other's eyes, then Xekar said to Kunuga, not as friend to friend, but as enemy to enemy: "

The Council has unanimously stripped you of your position because you are no longer capable of ruling Chemos. Therefore, by the vote of the Council, I was appointed the new Lord of Chemos, a decision I accepted.

How could you?! Kunuga stood up and roared at Xekar. "We've been friends for so many years. You betrayed me." Xekar didn't react.

The Council has simultaneously sentenced you to death, which I must carry out as the new Lord of Chemos." Xekar suddenly drew his sword and plunged it into Kunugi's stomach. It is said that the new Lord shed a tear when he killed his former friend, but no one knows if this is true.

"You two go to the barracks and convey my words to Beorf." Xekar turned and said to the two rebels. "

Tell him that I am the new Lord and that I summon him before me. Let the Chief Warden know his new duties. '

Sir, but the Council wants Beorf to step down,' one of them said. '

I know, but he has 100 of the best warriors in the settlement under his command. He is well-liked and respected. Whose orders do you think these men will follow? They will surely obey Beorf. He must abide by the Council's decision, or we will not rule for long. Now, go.'

In reality, Beorf could count on the support of his soldiers and others. The most important people in the settlement were his good friends: merchants, a blacksmith, and the granary and warehouse manager. Most of the guards patrolled the walls and the settlement, while only thirty, plus Beorf and Amex, were in the barracks. However, it was a sufficient force to halt the Council's actions.

Xekar's envoys arrived at the barracks and immediately demanded to speak with Beorf. He sat behind a desk, over which Amex and Kiseaso were leaning. When the guards ushered the envoys in, one of them said, "

Chief Warden," the first said, "We bring you news from Lord Xekar, the new ruler of Chemos. Today the council dismissed Kunuga and sentenced him to death.

You, on the other hand, have been summoned before Lord Xekar to learn of his new orders. For, contrary to the Council's order, Lord Xekar will retain you in your current position," the second replied. Beorf was silent for a moment. His chief officer, Amex, looked at him for a moment, awaiting his decision. Kiseaso stepped back, terrified by the events. "

Whatever you decide, I'll follow you," Amex whispered, adding, "If you want a friend, you have to be willing and fight for him.

You traitors," Beorf replied quietly, looking at the table. He raised his head and continued, "You deserve death." Suddenly, he stood up abruptly and drew his sword, pointing at Xekar's envoys. "Take them!!

Guards!! Take them!" Amex, having divined after Beorf, drew his sword and charged at them. The guards quickly grabbed both terrified envoys and disarmed them. "

You are the traitor!" shouted one of the captives. Beorf turned to him, approached him, and said, "

Take them beyond the palisade and kill them. Throw the bodies into the river, only so that the current carries them to the Ocean of Demons. Let the fish of Neki devour their flesh." The guards wordlessly led the prisoners toward the gate. "

And what now, Amex? What am I to do now?" - Said Beorf dejectedly.

I don't know... but I think you've already made your decision." Beorf remained silent, staring out the small window at the city. "

So gather your men and let's fight this rebellion. Kunuga must return to the throne. You, Kiseaso, remain here."

Beorf, along with Amex and 30 guards, set off for Liveb. Along the way, they gathered a few more manipolas and, with 50 men, reached Liveb. Several of Xekar's men stood in front of the building, but seeing the armed and battle-ready guards, they threw down their weapons and surrendered. Beorf and his men burst into the main hall of Liveb, where Xekar and the Council of Elders were. They looked at the guards with horror. Xekar's predictions proved correct.

The guards stopped, and Beorf himself moved forward without a word, sword drawn. The council members suddenly moved aside, leaving the path to Xekar clear. For a moment, he thought Beorf intended to surrender. But he was wrong. Beorf approached the seated Lord, plunged a bronze sword into his stomach, and then drew it back. The rebellious Lord, snarling, slumped from his throne and fell to the floor. "

This is how traitors end!" He shouted to the terrified Council members. "Where is Lord Kunuga?

Kunuga... is dead," stammered one of the elders. "

So who will be the new Lord?" Amex said quietly to the furious Beorf, who suddenly appeared beside him. "Now we hold the power, and they know it.

I don't know. It's all too complicated."

Suddenly, one of the elders, probably wanting to save the Council, shouted that Beorf be named the new Lord of Chemos. The others took up the cause and together recognized him as the new ruler. Beorf himself tried to raise objections; he didn't want the title. Despite this, one of the elders ran into the market square and announced to all that Beorf had been appointed the new Lord of Chemos. And so it was done. Beorf, though reluctant, an hour later solemnly accepted his new title, the authority over the settlement and all of Chemos. He then went out to the people gathered before Liveb and confirmed the words of one of the Councilors. Now he could implement all his ideas. A time of great change was approaching.

The first thing he did the next day was to establish the Chemos Army in place of the guards. He placed Amex at its head. He also increased its strength to 200 and introduced a 50-man conscript regiment, rotating every three years. He dispatched 80 of the soldiers to a newly established settlement near the Hyron Forest, which he named Owhur. He also stripped the Council of Elders of all privileges and limited its duties to advisory purposes only, with no decision-making power. Although he initially intended to sentence everyone to death, Amex dissuaded him. He assigned additional workers to the construction of the walls and ordered the settlement to be named after himself. He also introduced numerous ideas, both significant and less significant, which the inhabitants quickly felt. Construction of the walls began in full swing. Beorf also ordered the demolition of the barracks and the Liveb to construct new, larger, interconnected stone structures. He postponed the rest of his plans to further investigate the situation and address the current problems.

Under Beorf and his trusted men, Chemosu began to grow rapidly in strength. Two years later, the entire walls and the new Liveb were completed. The Lord's palace was low, with sloping walls, but wide and long. Inside, it was full of various rooms and open spaces with small pools. The main hall was a forest of enormous columns with varied capitals. All the walls, both external and internal, and the columns were covered with numerous paintings and bas-reliefs. The entire structure was located at the end of the city behind the wall, instead of right next to the market square as before. Kiseaso himself left ample space within the walls to expand the palace and barracks, as well as the entire city, in the future. While Beorf attracted ever-increasing crowds of newcomers, Kiseaso created the unique architecture of this small state.

In the spring of 4833, Beorf convened the first great council in Liveb. All the most important people in the city were there.

The construction of the walls has been completed," he began. "As you've probably noticed, the area they cover is much larger than the houses. I ordered this done so there would be enough room for new buildings. Now that we've dealt with this undertaking, we can begin the next tasks.

Well, will these be the tasks?" Blacksmith Jikul spoke up.

We must develop our small kingdom. We almost have a stone city, but that's not all. We must engage in trade, which will bring us strength and money." Signs of support were visible among the gathered people, so Beorf continued. "We must also build more fields and mills to feed the new inhabitants. New forges must be built to produce weapons and tools. In Owhur, we need new carpenters and blacksmiths to strengthen this city and utilize the trees from the Hyron Forest. We also need more warehouses, villages, and we must teach the entire population to write. So, as you can see, many other buildings and activities are still needed. Each of you will take up one of these most important fields. If we are up to this task, our country will become strong and wealthy.

But what if one of us fails?" asked one of the merchants. "

Then he will be replaced by someone else." Beorf smiled. "We must also build a school to teach young boys their future crafts.

If our country is to develop, we must increase the number of troops.

Good point, Amex." Therefore, increase the number of soldiers to 700, including 300 conscripts. Let our army be an expression of our strength.

General Amex was clearly pleased with these words. The army was the apple of his eye, as well as Beorf's, so he had his support in almost every decision he made. Ghoul and bandit attacks were weakening, the new walls effectively defended access to the city, and the losses to Chemos's enemies were quite heavy. Besides, this didn't matter much, as Beorf and Amex were already seriously considering attacking the bandit stronghold beyond the Keffu River. There, in the Dead Hills in Ahad territory, the bandits had numerous hideouts from which they attacked surrounding towns and settlements. It wasn't far, but these areas remained outside the Lord's jurisdiction. Beorf, however, wasn't concerned.

The Dead Hills were the most dangerous place on Ket, northeast of the Forest of Shadows. The incredibly steep, high, and slippery limestone cliffs created an incredible landscape. There were few trees there, and many narrow, winding, and dangerous paths. Numerous caves and grottos provided shelter for the most wanted criminals, both now and in the distant future. Many humans and even more dwarves died there trying to penetrate these dangerous regions. No one has ever known all the roads that ever existed there, nor the numerous and deep caves. Those who knew such paths were highly valued. Thanks to them, traversing those paths was much safer.

Beorf knew this, so he ordered people to be found in Chemos who knew the passages. They were to lead his small offensive against the bandits. Amex's soldiers found three guides who agreed to lead the banners through the Dead Hills for a fee. One of them even claimed to know where the bandits had their headquarters and treasury. This was invaluable information. "

I have decided to personally lead the operation against the bandits," the Lord stated during the council. "But first, we will prepare plans for the development of the country, while Amex and I will be busy.

And who will take over in our absence?" Amex asked . "

Kiseaso will take over the main tasks. But before we set out, I wanted to build a temple in the city dedicated to one of the gods. Let the people find support in their faith, and we in the grace of the gods." Silence fell, Beorf surprising everyone with his decision. Until now, everyone had focused on the affairs of this world and had given no thought to the gods, magicians, and priests. Beorf's confession signaled a huge change in Chemos. "I see you agree. The time has come for such a serious decision.

I will gladly build a temple for our city, but first I must know which god to dedicate it to," Kiseaso said. "

Practically all the inhabitants worship Daax," the merchant Wamon replied. "They say strange figures appear in the area. Angels, that's what they're called. They talk to farmers and inhabitants of the surrounding lands. People believe in them and worship Daax, who sends them.

So the god problem is solved. Kiseaso, begin building the temple as quickly as possible. May it be enormous and more magnificent than anything so far. You, Amex, gather supplies and prepare soldiers for battle. We will take all the conscripts and 100 professional ones.

Lord, if I may interject, wouldn't it be better to take only the professional ones and leave the conscripts in the city?" Amex interjected. "

They need to gain experience." And eight banners will be enough to defeat the bandits.

And what about Esun, the ruler of Ahad? Will we finally enter his lands? - Jikul raised this important issue.

Don't worry about that. It will be a short, though arduous, expedition. And when Esun finds out about it, we will already be in Chemos.

Even if he finds out sooner, we will let him know that we have no ill intentions and that our only target is the bandits - Amex added.

It had better be that way; Ahad has a large army.

I sense doubt in you, my dear Jikul. If we all approached everything this way, we would surely face defeat. We must believe in victory. And now, there is no time to waste. Let's get to work. Let's prepare for war.

Preparations for the expedition, however, took longer than Beorf expected. He intended to strike that summer, but supply problems caused him to postpone the attack for a year. Meanwhile, Kiseaso began constructing the largest structure in this part of Keta – the Temple of the God Daax.

On Wednesday, July 3, 4832, three guides led eight Chemos banners to Ahad, a few kilometers away, and then to the Dead Hills. They crossed the bridge over Naalh and continued their journey. After three days, they reached the first rocks of the Dead Hills. The journey ahead was much more difficult. The terrain the Chemos army would traverse was more inaccessible than Lord Beorf had anticipated. Soldiers died and were wounded on the steep and slippery rocks, and the winding and narrow paths significantly slowed their progress. As a result, the bandits quickly learned of the expedition and decided to act. Given their advantage in knowing the terrain, they attacked the traveling columns. However, the Chemos forces split, and the bandits attacked the professional troops under Amex's command. The hundred soldiers he had at his disposal were sufficient to repel the attack. Beorf quickly learned of the battle and rushed to Amex's aid. The bandits were surrounded and defeated. Many of them were captured, revealing valuable details about the main camp. He learned that they were near the city of Suyz, and their strength and defenses.

After four days of murderous marching, they reached the entrance to the bandits' cave from the Dead Hills, while Amex blocked all escape routes from the cave complex. A small number of wooden fortifications stood before the cave, but they were unable to stop the attack of the two banners. Beorf did not issue an order to enter the interior. Instead, he ordered the timber from the fortifications to be set on fire and thrown into the cave's crevices and shafts. Soon after, the bandits began to flee through the exits, fearing carbon monoxide poisoning. Soldiers were waiting for them there. At first, the bandits tried to fight, but later, seeing the slaughter of their comrades, they threw their weapons on the rocks and surrendered.

The first major battle was won. Although a hundred soldiers died during the entire journey, half of them en route, Beorf captured numerous valuable items and a wealth of weapons. He returned to the city with numerous treasures and was greeted with great joy.

However, work on the Temple of Daaxa continued, and progress indicated that Kiseaso would not complete its construction for another three years. Despite this, Beorf continued to develop Chemos, building more brick houses, mills, forges, and new villages. The population of Chemos grew, and with it, the land available for cultivation. More and more merchants flocked to the city, and Beorf was already considering building a port. However, the most important thing for the development of the kingdom proved to be the dwarven caravan from the Sajsi Mountains. The dwarves first reached the city of Beorf in May 4830.

A young man, dressed as one of the Chemos officers, but slightly different, burst into the chamber where the Lord was staying. He wore two crossed white loincloths across his chest, partially obscuring the Chemos emblem. It was Fagril, Beorf's recently appointed aide, bringing him all the important news and recording and carrying out many of his Lord's important tasks.

"The dwarven merchants have arrived!" Fagril shouted excitedly. "

I've never seen a dwarf before," Beorf replied curtly, rising from his pile of parchments. "Let's go see them, perhaps they have some interesting wares.

They have plenty, and a crowd of gawkers mills about them.

If they truly possess so many valuable items, trading with them will be invaluable." Beorf and Fagril headed for the market, where Amex was already present, along with a multitude of gawkers. "

Lord," Amex bowed slightly at the sight of Beorf

. "Hello, Amex." Supposedly, dwarves have arrived in the city, so where are they?

They're standing there, setting up a stall." Amex pointed to the crowd, and among them suddenly appeared a small, bearded figure in heavy iron armor. "

It's them!" Beorf said in surprise. "They're very small. They're

dwarves, sir, they look completely different from us humans," Fagril replied. "

I have to admit you're right, so let's go and greet them." Beorf, along with Amex and Fagril, pushed their way through the crowd and approached the stall. "Greetings, my dear friends. I'm Beorf, Lord of Chemos. I hope you'll trade well here, and that you'll take home the best possible experience.

That's what we're counting on," one of them replied dryly

. "If trade thrives, we'll come back," the other added in a slightly more pleasant tone. And that seemed to be the case. Dwarven goods were enjoying great success. Especially weapons and jewelry. Beorf himself took the sword in his hand and admired its craftsmanship, under the dwarf's watchful eye. Finally, he and Amex moved a little further away. "

Their weapons are far superior to ours," Amex said

. "I know. Their swords and axes are made of good iron, but we won't buy them.

Why is that?" Amex was visibly surprised. "With these weapons, we would be the greatest force in this part of Keta. We could conquer any land.

The time has not come for that yet, my dear friend. We will forge our own weapons. For now, we will continue with bronze; later, when we become wealthy, we will think about buying iron from the dwarves. After all, we don't have to fight the dwarves to need weapons as good as theirs. And the ones we make ourselves are already better than the weapons of our enemies."

The dwarves were pleased with their visit to Beorf. Soon, they returned in greater numbers, and their visits became frequent and regular. They brought to Chemos primarily raw materials, tools, knowledge, and, contrary to Beorf's suggestion, weapons, which they eagerly purchased. The dwarves, in turn, exported vast quantities of grain and other foodstuffs from Chemos, which Chemos already had in abundance and which the dwarves in Sajsi were sorely lacking: peat from Owhur, and, of course, gold. Soon, a port was built, and six months later, the first elven ship docked there. Huge, beautiful, and richly decorated, it captured the attention of almost all the city's inhabitants. The elves themselves generated even more interest than the dwarves. Their appearance, attire, and manner of movement and speech caused quite a stir. They were equally eager to sell their wares, but not in such quantity as the newcomers from Sajsi. His beautiful bows were particularly prized, which later resulted in the creation of four banners of archers. But Beorf also saw another benefit in collaborating with the elves. He could build a fleet to defend the coasts of Chemos and the merchant ships. He planned to buy five ships, but his friends opposed this idea. Chemos could not afford such a large expense. So he ordered the elves to build only two small ships.

However, the time of great glory was still approaching. During this time, Beorf began to change; he was no longer the same man he had been before. Amex and Kiseaso, as well as everyone closest to him, clearly noticed this. Even the townspeople changed their attitudes towards him. Power was beginning to change him, but for now, no one cared.

On September 8, 4829, Pei Kiseaso completed the construction of the Temple of Daaxa. The temple was built right next to the gate, so that anyone entering the city had to pass by it. It was enormous, built on a four-meter-high stone platform and consisted of three parts. The first, accessed by stairs, was lower, about seven meters high. It was a structure with sloping walls and a large number of columns between the two walls, supporting the ceiling. Its walls were covered with numerous paintings and ornaments, as were all the walls. The columns were black and enormous, imported especially by the dwarves. Within its walls were the temple guards' quarters. Further on, the platform narrowed and became a square containing a pool, in the center of which stood a huge statue of Daaxa. Further on, the platform widened again, and it was here that the main temple stood. It consisted of three parts. A rectangular structure containing an altar hall filled with a forest of the same columns as before, as well as numerous smaller and larger rooms, as well as small courtyards and ponds. This element of the temple was already 12 meters high. At its two corners were towers, also with sloping walls, with lit flames visible from afar to illuminate the journey of the weary faithful. Both were 14 meters high. At the end of the temple was the same, but even taller tower. All black, rising to a height of 18 meters.

The entire day of the opening of the Temple of Daax was transformed into a great celebration, which Beorf ordered repeated annually to commemorate this great event. Immediately after the Lord's speech, the priests of Daax began to consecrate the temple. Suddenly, the sky lit up with a powerful, blinding light. A moment later, the light faded, and four figures appeared in the sky, angels of the god Daax. Tall, in white, gleaming armor and with unusual weapons at their sides, they had long white hair and enormous wings, which they, however, did not use. They stood before the temple doors, facing the crowd, followed by Beorf, Amex, Kiseaso, and the priests. Beorf and the others quickly joined the astonished people of Chemos. One of the angels held a small, greenish, jagged stone; it looked so ordinary that it aroused surprise to find itself among such extraordinary figures. "

We are angels of the God Daax. Our lord and creator has heard your prayers and will take care of you." The angel spoke quietly and calmly, yet somehow his voice was clearly audible throughout the city.

"This is the Divine Stone." The angel holding it stepped forward and said to the assembled crowd. "This is proof of our god's love for you." He lifted it into the air and then placed it on the ground. "Place it on the central altar. It will signify that you are children of Daax and under his protection. Thanks to it, our lord and master will be able to descend into this beautiful temple and impart his will to you, as a father imparts his will to his children. But do not touch it. This could end tragically for you. And remember, you are protecting the Stone, for it is the most powerful artifact imaginable. And its loss will mean your eternal doom."

The angels rose into the air again and disappeared in the same blaze. Beorf ordered a wooden stretcher to be built for the extraordinary artifact. The Stone was quickly carried to the temple. As soon as the Holy Artifact was placed on the altar, an individual appeared from nowhere, seemingly human, yet different. His complexion was white and luminous, as was the long robe he wore. Long white hair and black eyes, deep as haramids. "

Greetings, my people," his voice resounded powerfully among the columns, filling the entire temple and spilling outward like a surging wave. "I am Daax. One of the creators of mankind. Do you desire me as your god and spiritual guardian? So be it. You have expressed this by building this magnificent temple. As the first among men to ask me to protect you, I will gladly grant this request. Therefore, let it be known that from today on, all the people of Beorf and Chemos are under my protection! From today on, I will show you the way amidst the darkness of Zia. Remember, therefore, that if you faithfully follow my instructions and laws, my paradise awaits you. However, if you fail me, you will suffer eternal torment, the likes of which no one in Zia has ever known or ever will. So Beorf, let your people grow in glory, for from today on I, my angels and my djinns will support your strength and you can forget about the years of crop failure. Walk on Zija for the glory of Daax!!

Daax disappeared as quickly as he appeared. The people gathered in the temple were stunned by what had transpired that day. The events were so incredible that they were etched in everyone's memory. Beorf, in turn, gained his most powerful ally: a god. The new faith lifted the spirits of the inhabitants of Chemos. The djinn's interference was invisible, but the state grew stronger faster, and the farmlands yielded much more. Crowds of new citizens flocked to the city of Beorf and to Owhur, further encouraged by the existence of the Temple. Trade flourished even more, especially with the elves, for whom their acceptance of the faith signaled the stability and strength of the land. Thanks to the construction of numerous watchtowers along the border, bandit attacks ceased, and no one in Chemos ever again encountered ghouls. In 4827, the construction of the first walled city in history was completed. Chemos itself became the greatest power in this part of Keta. A strong army, trade, and a sizable economic base made Chemos, under Beorf's rule, a small but powerful state.

However, Beorf's time was just beginning, and the shadow of a new day was beginning to fall over the surrounding lands.

End of Chapter One.

01.06.04