Story of Keshen

4th Day of Aztina to 7th Day of Aztina, 3315, written by High Priest Nila Khoruni

On my journey to Giasam, I saw a few of the creatures we have been warned about. Some with legs like wild beasts, others with heads like livestock. Hagadolza Ilari Ma Azamey, however, they did not attack, instead watching as my caravan traveled through the forest called Iza.

It took me time to realize when we were in the city. The hovels looked like they were carved into mountainsides and cliffs or buried under the roots of trees. The people looked decrepit, with almost emaciated features and seemingly little to enjoy in their lives. The children ran about in dark cloaks while the adults had gaudy displays of color thrown onto their bodies in the form of wool and linen garments. What struck me most was the women. Such uncovered hair, short sleeves and other displays of immodesty would be unthinkable in a more civilized society such as those in Merenga and the palace at the heart of this din.

I was greeted by a giant who took my horse in his hand like a human would a cat, and set it somewhere I did not see. The gates I entered through were dwarfed by the large opening of the palace through which I presumed the Lord of this realm entered. I could not see any women within the halls, rather just men who looked larger and more happy than their subjects outside the palace.

The journey was long, as could be expected given such a grand place. I felt insignificant despite myself as columns of polished stone seemingly rising from the floor loomed overhead. Finally we came to a chamber large enough to fit the entirety of Merenga within its walls. On both sides there were windows that stretched from twice my height above the ground to the ceiling, which was covered in a design that resembled the ceiling of a forest. At the end opposite of the entrance stood a gleaming throne of gold, copper and jewels, and atop it sat a man shrouded in shadows despite the light in the room. My escort bowed in his presence, and I could not help but feel awestruck.

Lord Halon, for that is his name, asked first why I did not bow to him. I simply responded “long ago, in our ancient homeland, there was a tyrant who demanded his subjects bow to him. One man defied him, saying ‘I bow in the presence of none but Hamara.’” This response seemed to amuse him. Though I could not see his face, I could hear a deep rumbling laugh that echoed like thunder.

“What is it you want?”

I responded. “Your subjects speak of your longevity and the history you yourself have on that throne. I wish to know how you have managed to retain your power.”

“You seek power over your people?”

“I want to know how to keep my people secure and strong, as you appear to have done.”

He explained to me the powers of his sorcerers, stories I am hesitant to believe. He described that there was no secret to his might, only staying focused on their safety of one’s people. He explained the state of the world when he rose to power in the first place, protecting his people from the catastrophe that he believes laid the curse on the land we inhabit today. He explained how his benevolent guidance appealed to his people and how they revere him still today, even centuries later. He said that the secret to a long life is the determination to achieve it. He advised me to remain watchful over my people, the Mitzianga, and that I should cut out any group that seeks to undermine the people’s safety no matter what.

The lord of this palace eventually offered me food, which was prepared by his human cooks, which he kept around for guests my size. The fruits were strange, and I did not touch the meat, but the dairy products and breads were unlike anything I have ever tasted. Then I was led on a tour of the palace, viewing halls of treasure and powerful weapons. There were rooms where giants sat around tables, humans milled about their work and more. The fineries I saw being worked on were magnificent, superior in craft to even the best workers of our people. I believe that continuing trade with the Enyesem, both in material and thought, could only benefit our people.