Written By Valdemar
May 2, 2020, 2:14 p.m.(3/20/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
It felt good to tell and hear your stories, Father. To celebrate your life with people who knew you and missed you, as well as those who never got the opportunity. Even one of your grandsons, who will be Duke after I am gone, told one that I am sure he must have first heard from you when he was still very young. Your name and deeds live on, and shall do so for generations to come.
Written By Eirene
May 1, 2020, 2:07 p.m.(3/18/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
I taught Harald's grandsons a few new phrases; he would likely be bellowing a laugh if he heard it.
Written By Eirene
May 1, 2020, 8:58 a.m.(3/17/1013 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
You are remembered, my friend. Your deeds were sung in the longhouse of your kin and your name was praised to the Wheel and back. Your son and your son's sons know of your bravery and valor. Until the next spin spits you out, may you be as hard headed and as stern as ever.
To the Grim Duke.
To the Grim Duke.
Written By Victus
Aug. 5, 2019, 3:27 a.m.(8/5/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
I look back fondly on the day I asked him to serve as my Voice. I, ready made with all the political rhetoric. He just looked at me and said, “You need someone to remind the Compact how fucking nice you’re being”.
He said so grimly with a scowl, and then chortled before accepting. That was the day he and I came to understand each other perfectly. I should have expected as much however, the man fashioned goblets from skulls to drink his mead.
I needed someone to represent the cold, the ruthless, the brutality of life within the Mourning Isles. He did exactly that and even more than I could have asked. Loyalty while standing before an endless barrage.
There are many words I’m saving for the day we reunite in the shadow lands.
He said so grimly with a scowl, and then chortled before accepting. That was the day he and I came to understand each other perfectly. I should have expected as much however, the man fashioned goblets from skulls to drink his mead.
I needed someone to represent the cold, the ruthless, the brutality of life within the Mourning Isles. He did exactly that and even more than I could have asked. Loyalty while standing before an endless barrage.
There are many words I’m saving for the day we reunite in the shadow lands.
Written By Valdemar
May 14, 2019, 10:39 a.m.(2/7/1011 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
I have heard the phrase "labor of love" many times before, but until now I don't think I ever really understood its meaning. With the Harald Grimhall Naval Academy now open and the first classes getting ready to begin, I do now. This school will mean a great deal to the future of my people, and more personally, serve as a testament to my father's legacy. I am certain he would have been proud to see it, and he deserves it, having taught many among my generation of nobles about our tradition of naval excellence, not just his own sons. My satisfaction in seeing it done is immense.
There are many people who deserve recognition for this. Duchess Vanora Grimhall, Countess Carita Darkwater, Lady Katya Grimhall, Lord Erik Grimhall, Count Turo Navegant, Baroness Lucita Saik, and Baron Edward Stormbreak all played important parts in this project, and have my gratitude as not just a Duke, but as a son seeking to honor his father.
The Academy of War deserves special thanks, though. This idea took root when my father still lived, right after I joined that organization, as a result of a conversation with the head of it at the time, Marquis Kael Keaton. And once we were ready to break ground, Natalia Whisper worked hard on their behalf to assist us in getting it constructed and finding instructors. I look forward to seeing what comes of the students sponsored by the Academy of War who will be coming to us for education in naval tactics and strategies.
There are many people who deserve recognition for this. Duchess Vanora Grimhall, Countess Carita Darkwater, Lady Katya Grimhall, Lord Erik Grimhall, Count Turo Navegant, Baroness Lucita Saik, and Baron Edward Stormbreak all played important parts in this project, and have my gratitude as not just a Duke, but as a son seeking to honor his father.
The Academy of War deserves special thanks, though. This idea took root when my father still lived, right after I joined that organization, as a result of a conversation with the head of it at the time, Marquis Kael Keaton. And once we were ready to break ground, Natalia Whisper worked hard on their behalf to assist us in getting it constructed and finding instructors. I look forward to seeing what comes of the students sponsored by the Academy of War who will be coming to us for education in naval tactics and strategies.
Written By Vanora
Nov. 23, 2018, 3:37 p.m.(1/17/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
I found this tucked into the blackwood box where he'd know that I or Valdemar would see it before long.
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My children,
Grimhall has been greater than any one man since our ancestor Grihem forged our family in steel and blood, centuries ago. In the days ahead, a strong House, guided by fiery youth and tempered by wisdom will serve our people better than the cold house of an old man.
I have no doubt that our people will prevail against the coming storm; you must not fear the sacrifices that victory will demand, for fear is the guardian of hate. In times of trial, know that my eye remains upon you. May you all grow greater than your father, and do deeds worthy of legend. Until we meet again beyond death, fare well and remain strong.
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He did not sign it, he did not need to.
Thank you for this.
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My children,
Grimhall has been greater than any one man since our ancestor Grihem forged our family in steel and blood, centuries ago. In the days ahead, a strong House, guided by fiery youth and tempered by wisdom will serve our people better than the cold house of an old man.
I have no doubt that our people will prevail against the coming storm; you must not fear the sacrifices that victory will demand, for fear is the guardian of hate. In times of trial, know that my eye remains upon you. May you all grow greater than your father, and do deeds worthy of legend. Until we meet again beyond death, fare well and remain strong.
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He did not sign it, he did not need to.
Thank you for this.
Written By Alrec
Nov. 21, 2018, 7:01 a.m.(1/13/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
Tears in your wake, never at your wake. I hope I am afforded the same Glory you were, to die in world ending battle.
Written By Orathy
Nov. 20, 2018, 6:06 p.m.(1/12/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
Ya shoulda hired me ta protect ya... shit, ya would've been a good reason ta die for, Old Grim.
Maybe yer son will consider a contract, eh?
Maybe yer son will consider a contract, eh?
Written By Edward
Nov. 18, 2018, 8:49 p.m.(1/8/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
The Grim Duke was to me a father, mentor, and friend. I will miss the quiet times drinking with him in the library and talking about the history that he saw pass before his eyes.
Written By Reese
Nov. 18, 2018, 5:01 a.m.(1/7/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
Duke Harald was a great man. He taught me how to sail and how fight at sea. He helped to prepare me to fight at Maelstrom and me to stand against the Gyre's forces at Setarco. He wasn't so sure about about a blonde Grayson Princess joining sea battles at first, but he gave me the lessons and with time came to be believe me in.
He was with me when Lord Killian died. We went against Dame Zhayla's killers. This battle was one of the most difficult of my life, maybe the most difficult. Duke Harald and his son were injured, but they survived.
Near Farhaven Duke Harald risked his life to give us all a chance to escape from the slaver. Without him many of us would have died.
I cannot say I am surprised he had a hero's death. He used to say that since he had a heir to his house, he would risk his life as needed for compact and the greater good and he did.
Compact lost a brave man, a great fighter and a great tactician.
My condolences go out to House Grimhall. I have complete faith that tDuke Valdemar and Duchess Vanora are more than up for the task of continuing Grimhall's greatness.
Reese.
He was with me when Lord Killian died. We went against Dame Zhayla's killers. This battle was one of the most difficult of my life, maybe the most difficult. Duke Harald and his son were injured, but they survived.
Near Farhaven Duke Harald risked his life to give us all a chance to escape from the slaver. Without him many of us would have died.
I cannot say I am surprised he had a hero's death. He used to say that since he had a heir to his house, he would risk his life as needed for compact and the greater good and he did.
Compact lost a brave man, a great fighter and a great tactician.
My condolences go out to House Grimhall. I have complete faith that tDuke Valdemar and Duchess Vanora are more than up for the task of continuing Grimhall's greatness.
Reese.
Written By Skye
Nov. 17, 2018, 9:37 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
You took me under your wing when I first arrived at Arx. You provided me sound critique on my ship designs and pushed me to be a better shipwright. In the absence of my father, who has been missing from my side these last few years, you filled that role as the gruff advisor. You were kind in your own way to a lost girl who struggled at first after losing her home. You helped me along the path of rebuilding Blackshore.
I celebrate the man you were and there are no tears in your wake. Only deep care and respect for the man you were. Recognition for the incredible impact you had on my life.
I celebrate the man you were and there are no tears in your wake. Only deep care and respect for the man you were. Recognition for the incredible impact you had on my life.
Written By Marian
Nov. 17, 2018, 8:19 a.m.(1/5/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
The first time we spoke was at a funeral pyre. The bodies of the fallen were burning and the Grim Duke gave them a sendoff worthy of Thrax. After my battle cry to honor the dead, he told me that for an Oathlander, I would make a worthy Thrax.
You were a traditionalist, a hard man who lived life with a grim frown. But you watched over your people with such fierceness, I had to admire your perspective, even if I didn't always agree. We never let our differences get between our respect for each other.
The world will be a grimmer place without you in it. I shall miss you my friend.
You were a traditionalist, a hard man who lived life with a grim frown. But you watched over your people with such fierceness, I had to admire your perspective, even if I didn't always agree. We never let our differences get between our respect for each other.
The world will be a grimmer place without you in it. I shall miss you my friend.
Written By Tikva
Nov. 15, 2018, 1:57 p.m.(1/1/1010 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
I owe my life to Harald Grimhall. I will never forget that. Whatever legacy I leave upon this world, whatever gifts I grant, the life and health and strength of my family all come from the risk he took to protect me upon the field at Farhaven.
It is a debt I cannot repay, and can only pay on.
It is a debt I cannot repay, and can only pay on.
Written By Archeron
Nov. 15, 2018, 4:23 a.m.(12/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
They say to speak no ill of the dead, so I will simply speak honestly and frankly - it is what Harald often barked at people to do. To just get on with it. I was no great fan of Duke Harald. One one of our few meetings, he called me a coward for being then apprehensive about boats - I had just returned to the city, just returned to Thrax. But, that is personal insult. I hardly cared, and I enjoyed getting a rise from him, from pushing him and seeing how he would react. It told you much about him. His resumption of the old feud between our families with my Cousin of course is one I am less able to forgive - for family is all, none know that more than Tyde and her vassals. And was a sadness as it marked the death of a strange friendship between the two. A rift that is now made permanent by his death.
But what I always struggled with Harald was that he was the man who had fought for Donrai and for Grimhall when their aid broke the stalemate. When my cousins and uncles and aunts looked out on their last morning, alongside the flags of Thrax they saw the flags of Grimhall. Perhaps they will have seen his flag, Grimhall's heir. And he was unchanged it seemed from those times. Of course, I am no child to think war is kind and lovely and my people are sweetness and light. We reaved and raided too - many noble families will see Tyde reborn and think to when our reavers came to their shores in that fight, ruling families crucified on the shores, men of the blood left staked in tide pools for the rising waters to claim them. Tyde has paid a price in blood and silver and it has changed. Thrax has changed, our traditions are built upon, we face the threats from without stronger than ever, more united than ever. I think Harald wanted to change too, but his actions in his later years - rejecting the counsel of some of his vassals, renewing old feuds - showed that he could not.
I did not like Harald. But I could respect him. He was a Duke, and for most of his life he held strong to our traditions, as we do. He never apologised, that is true. But he also never asked from anyone what he would not give himself. He died at the front because that is what he demanded of others. Because that is where he sent others.
Most importantly, his family continues past him - a line unbroken. For a Thraxian lord? That is everything.
But what I always struggled with Harald was that he was the man who had fought for Donrai and for Grimhall when their aid broke the stalemate. When my cousins and uncles and aunts looked out on their last morning, alongside the flags of Thrax they saw the flags of Grimhall. Perhaps they will have seen his flag, Grimhall's heir. And he was unchanged it seemed from those times. Of course, I am no child to think war is kind and lovely and my people are sweetness and light. We reaved and raided too - many noble families will see Tyde reborn and think to when our reavers came to their shores in that fight, ruling families crucified on the shores, men of the blood left staked in tide pools for the rising waters to claim them. Tyde has paid a price in blood and silver and it has changed. Thrax has changed, our traditions are built upon, we face the threats from without stronger than ever, more united than ever. I think Harald wanted to change too, but his actions in his later years - rejecting the counsel of some of his vassals, renewing old feuds - showed that he could not.
I did not like Harald. But I could respect him. He was a Duke, and for most of his life he held strong to our traditions, as we do. He never apologised, that is true. But he also never asked from anyone what he would not give himself. He died at the front because that is what he demanded of others. Because that is where he sent others.
Most importantly, his family continues past him - a line unbroken. For a Thraxian lord? That is everything.
Written By Iseulet
Nov. 15, 2018, 1:34 a.m.(12/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
I will always remember you as the cunning (and yes grim) man you seemed to be the one time we got the opportunity to speak and I will always remember the night when I was afforded the blessing to be your accompaniment to the Whisper House Gala. I truly regret not getting to know you a bit better.
My heart goes out to Valdemar and Vanora, I know they were very fond of you and adored you.
My heart goes out to Valdemar and Vanora, I know they were very fond of you and adored you.
Written By Vanora
Nov. 14, 2018, 9:57 p.m.(12/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
Let those who would remember him remember other battles he has fought and understand that this, the one that finally took him from us, was no different.
I used to jest now and again that the Grim Duke would outlive us all, and I believed it truly. I did not expect to see him pass until way unto middle age myself, he seemed larger than life. Invincible. And he must have been both of those for all the tales of his heroics to be true.
In the caves once fighting began he charged into the fray a man possessed. I cannot guess what thoughts went through his head, though likely they touched upon clashing weapons with foes he'd challenged before. I am told that the Grim Duke looked his death in the eye long before the caves, long before I knew him. He called his death by name once and came out the other side. Now I wonder. If he intended one way or another to go back, if once a person has seen their death, chosen it, named it....it chooses a person right back.
I know what many do not, what he spoke of only seldom and only if you were truly listening for it. That he, like most Grimhalls he would claim, did not wish to die an old man in his bed, even surrounded by peace and love and family. There was only one 'good death' and it came at the sword, the axe, the knife, or the choke of the sea. That he would have a story that made his ancestors jealous. Are they now? I hope so, for he died as brave and Grim as any who have come before him. Yet there is something of the work left unfinished. A legacy that even in death, or perhaps especially in death, he passes on to his sons and grandsons.
I used to jest now and again that the Grim Duke would outlive us all, and I believed it truly. I did not expect to see him pass until way unto middle age myself, he seemed larger than life. Invincible. And he must have been both of those for all the tales of his heroics to be true.
In the caves once fighting began he charged into the fray a man possessed. I cannot guess what thoughts went through his head, though likely they touched upon clashing weapons with foes he'd challenged before. I am told that the Grim Duke looked his death in the eye long before the caves, long before I knew him. He called his death by name once and came out the other side. Now I wonder. If he intended one way or another to go back, if once a person has seen their death, chosen it, named it....it chooses a person right back.
I know what many do not, what he spoke of only seldom and only if you were truly listening for it. That he, like most Grimhalls he would claim, did not wish to die an old man in his bed, even surrounded by peace and love and family. There was only one 'good death' and it came at the sword, the axe, the knife, or the choke of the sea. That he would have a story that made his ancestors jealous. Are they now? I hope so, for he died as brave and Grim as any who have come before him. Yet there is something of the work left unfinished. A legacy that even in death, or perhaps especially in death, he passes on to his sons and grandsons.
Written By Vanora
Nov. 14, 2018, 9:45 p.m.(12/28/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
I am doing all that I can to be who I am supposed to be in this moment. Stoic and Grim as the traditions and expectations of this house demand. Supportive and patient as I give my husband, his siblings and cousins, and all the other members of this very extended family the room they need to grieve. That I have grieving of my own to do seems especially selfish considering. So I will indulge it here and no where else.
The Grim Duke is dead. He and I had a complicated relationship from the first, one that only grew more so as time went on, and yet by the end he was father to me as well. Not the way he was to Valdemar, nor Ingrid...but he loved me the way a man might his daughter-in-law, the mother to his first grandsons who will carry the name Grimhall with them. He taught me so much, and between us by the end there was affection and respect. I wished for so much more time. There are still so many things I don't know and will never know about him. I wanted very much for him to be there as the boys grew up...for I've never met a man who loves children the way Harald Grimhall did...save perhaps his eldest son.
I mourn in quiet, where my grief cannot distract from those who have lost something more. Yet I mourn him too, and would have all who ever read my whites know this. I'd do anything to have him back here with us, to have spent another ten years, or twenty, learning all that was and would be expected of me. I've lost a father, a teacher, a powerful opposing force and an even more powerful ally.
Thank you for this, Harald. For making me a part of this family, and insisting that at least among ourselves I was never anything less.
We will honor your legacy a dozen different ways, over and over again.
The Grim Duke is dead. He and I had a complicated relationship from the first, one that only grew more so as time went on, and yet by the end he was father to me as well. Not the way he was to Valdemar, nor Ingrid...but he loved me the way a man might his daughter-in-law, the mother to his first grandsons who will carry the name Grimhall with them. He taught me so much, and between us by the end there was affection and respect. I wished for so much more time. There are still so many things I don't know and will never know about him. I wanted very much for him to be there as the boys grew up...for I've never met a man who loves children the way Harald Grimhall did...save perhaps his eldest son.
I mourn in quiet, where my grief cannot distract from those who have lost something more. Yet I mourn him too, and would have all who ever read my whites know this. I'd do anything to have him back here with us, to have spent another ten years, or twenty, learning all that was and would be expected of me. I've lost a father, a teacher, a powerful opposing force and an even more powerful ally.
Thank you for this, Harald. For making me a part of this family, and insisting that at least among ourselves I was never anything less.
We will honor your legacy a dozen different ways, over and over again.
Written By Valdemar
Nov. 14, 2018, 1:02 p.m.(12/27/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
My father is dead. I've said those words many times since it happened, and now even writing them down, it doesn't quite seem real in spite of the fact that I was there when he fell. I was always fairly sure that he would outlast me. He was like a mountain, not only in that he was a tall man, but that there was a sense of permanence to him. No matter what else was changing around him, there he was, staring those changes down, challenging their worthiness. Every time I step into the Great Grim Hall of our longhouse, I still expect to see him in his place at the head of that table. When I don't, the shock of his loss comes flooding back, and I cannot help but wonder how long it will take before this new reality sets in and feels as solid as he was.
Written By Ingrid
Nov. 5, 2018, 9:40 a.m.(12/9/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
It can't be true.
When you are young, you never think about what happens to your parents. You never prepare for the end. They are larger than life, they are immortal.
Oh, not my father please.
When you are young, you never think about what happens to your parents. You never prepare for the end. They are larger than life, they are immortal.
Oh, not my father please.
Written By Luis
Nov. 4, 2018, 7:25 p.m.(12/7/1009 AR)
Relationship Note on Harald
There are moments in our lives where life stands still and we are presented wisdom in multitude, oft thrust upon us unexpectedly.
So it is that I found myself witnessing the passing of a Duke amidst the ending of a cultist threat and the meaning of life did take but a dark blow. So sudden was it over, so swiftly was it complete, that there are lingering after-images that will be carried with me for some time. Your fought well, you struck your opponent in the end and emerged the victor, and thus you may carry such a victory through unto your return.
I salute your passing and may your lineage and the wisdom that you have passed on only be the greater for your line.
So it is that I found myself witnessing the passing of a Duke amidst the ending of a cultist threat and the meaning of life did take but a dark blow. So sudden was it over, so swiftly was it complete, that there are lingering after-images that will be carried with me for some time. Your fought well, you struck your opponent in the end and emerged the victor, and thus you may carry such a victory through unto your return.
I salute your passing and may your lineage and the wisdom that you have passed on only be the greater for your line.
Please note that the scholars may take some time preparing your journal for others to read.