Belequel

Belequel /bɛliː'kwɛl/ (norte /'nɔːrtɛ/, noarte /'nwɑrtɛ/ in bukk) is a rare metal, known for its extraordinary density and mass. A coin made of belequel can hardly be picked up by a strong adult. It is the heaviest element on the Continent, and its extreme hardness and robustness makes it difficult to work and shape. It's melting point is the highest of all the elements discovered, melting at 3,512 °C. It is usually toxic to mammals and humans in particular, especially when its hot, although individual tolerance varies.

Belequel is known for its glossy black color. It is mainly found in mineral form and occurs in several places around the world, most notably in northern Tarnaria where it was first discovered, near Lake Grajoon and in the Bahria volcano.

Its application was extremely limited until the discovery of superhero warriors with the ability to lift up and wield belequel easily.

Etymology

"Belequel" is derived from Mandae and means "immovable". It is a translation of the original name "norte" used to refer to the metal in northern Tarnaria in bukk, which also means immovable. The word also takes the form of "noarte" in the beginning of the second revolution, specifically in regions south of Mantar. Belequel becomes a common term by the beginning of the third revolution, although it is frequently used by scholars and more educated people in as early as 16th century. New Dawn has also contributed to using the mandaean version of the word.

History

First documented records of belequel go back to the end of the first revolution. Described as "immovable rocks", it was discovered in mineral form in norther Tarnaria. Belequel was a source of constant challenges, frequently blocking the construction of mines and requiring an inordinate amount of manpower to dislodge and move out of the way.

Due to the extraordinary density of the metal, its initial applications were very limited and involved only tiny amounts. Belequel would be used as part of alloys. Thin belequel rods were sometimes used in defensive wall constructions in order to support large stones.

Gened was the first documented superhero warrior capable of wielding belequel and this led to the creation of several belequel weapons, including Featherwing and Priol.

As a result of Gened's fame, trace amounts of belequel began to be used as parts of weaponry. Adding small amounts of belequel to bronze creates an alloy known as royal bronze. Royal bronze began to be used in swords, armor and shields in royal armies in the beginning of the second revolution in northern Tarnaria. It is claimed that royal bronze has an increased durability, although the claim is disputed. Royal bronze is significantly heavier than normal bronze.

Economy

Although the amount of belequel in known deposits qualifies it as possibly the rarest metal on the planet, due to its high density and typically minuscule amounts required, belequel itself is not expensive. What's expensive is transporting and working belequel, which is almost exclusively done on the Laeooy Coast. Belequel forges are also setup near Lake Grajoon. Bahria belequel deposits have been confirmed, but have not been actually mined.

Laeooy Coast is the sole producer of royal bronze, with the city of Jegin specializing in the creation of custom fully belequel weapons. Both Featherwing and Priol were made in Jegin.