Duke Valdemar Grimhall
Do not fear death, men;defy her, and you drive her into the enemy's ranks.
Social Rank: 3
Concept: Eager Warrior
Fealty:
Thrax
Family:
Grimhall
Gender: male
Marital Status: married
Age: 29
Birthday: 5/23
Religion: Pantheon
Vocation: Soldier
Height: tall
Hair Color: blond
Eye Color: blue
Skintone: pale
Description: Tall and broad of frame, Valdemar is lean and powerful, a natural warrior and athlete. His blonde hair falls freely to his shoulders most of the time, as he rarely wears it bound in any fashion. While he is naturally fair of skin, he does typically have a light tan thanks to long hours spent in the sun aboard ships and at weapons practice. Prominent brows and cheekbones give him a stern countenance, something which is accentuated by a strong jaw that is most often covered in a well-groomed beard. In spite of this, he smiles more often than his family name might lead one to expect, a charming curve of the lips that brightens his features when it happens.
Personality: Hungry for greatness in the way most young warriors are. He is proud of his family and legacy, and wishes to earn an exalted place in the annals of Grihems Point, but it not entirely chained to tradition. He enjoys being liked and is better at it than many might expect of a Grimhall, but loses no sleep if he must settle for being feared.
Background: The oldest son of Harald and Anneke, he was an obedient child brought up in a firmly traditional Thraxian manner. He always knew what his role was expected to be: captain of a ship, with steel in hand. If he did well enough, perhaps one day he'd lead a fleet against great foes in a famous battle. Grimhall boys often dreamt of such things. What Valdemar never dreamed of was that one day his father would take the position of Duke by force, keeping the House steady and stable during times of turmoil and war within the compact. Suddenly he was not just another warrior dreaming of glory, but the heir to his House.
He served as the Sword of Grihem's Point, wielding the famed Grimhowl against threats to Thrax and the Compact. Yet not all of his battles were steel and blood. He faced great criticism from many of his fellow Islanders when he married the scandalous Vanora Pravus, the former Marquessa of House Kennex until a divorce. That he wed the former wife of Grimhall's most influential vassal caused a great deal of talk, but the match was a canny political move arranged by Duke Harald. Grimhall and Pravus had been rivals, and sometimes enemies, for decades on end, and it was this union that prevented more sabotage and bloodshed, sealing the two Houses as allies.
When the Great Grim Duke lost his life defending the Compact, Valdemar ascended to rule. Guided by the lessons of his father and his own ambition, he has attempted to lead his House to greatness despite turmoil in the Isles. Always walking the line between Grimhall traditionalism and the Thraxian reformers, he continues to work towards the glory he dreamed of as a boy.
Relationship Summary
Acquaintance:
Family:
Ally:
Deceased:
Spouse:
Friend:
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| Name | Summary |
| Adalyn | Shared a drink with him at the Hart. A delight to meet him, I'd like the chance to talk with him further. |
| Adora | His wife has good taste. His name is awful. I don't like him. |
| Aella | Duke Valdemar is a man of the sea, and someone I hope to continue developing a mutual relationship with as his protege. |
| Aethan | Ian respects him, and that counts for a lot in my book. Also probably a good fighter. I'll have to see how good sometime soon. |
| Aiden | The man was drinking alone in the Ambassador Salon of all places and upon initial conversation, I feel he carries an old wound for how his people are viewed and that perhaps, is a burden that weighs upon him. However, his politeness led to an invitation at his table, where we, two whom find ways to avoid the common spaces of the city, chanced a conversation to discover such similiarties about one another. |
| Alarissa | As stoic and steadfast as his father. |
| Alecstazi | A proud son of the Isles. His father's son, it would seem, which is only good news for Grimhall and its vassals. He is a strong warrior and an able teacher. Grimhall has a good future ahead of it. |
| Alessandro | Duke of Grimhall -- and the name is well-deserved, but while he may be a little grim, he is obviously a good man to have on one's side. |
| Alexio | A man of House Grimhall. He seems a brave sort. A good person to be friends with. |
| Alrec | The hairs on the back of my neck stand up. It is as if I was transported back in time, to my youth. This time I know better and I am wiser. This time, I will not fail the Grim and he will see a brother in me. |
| Anisha | Duke Valdemar Grimhall is a man who will respect you enough to give you honesty in all your interactions. Even if he does not like you, he will make this plain as he works alongside you. It is a fascinating trait, and I hope, however much polish is applied to the Courts of Grihem's Point, that he never loses his truth. |
| Ann | The Thraxian version of Asger? Which means a lot to me. I'll happily call him an ally any day. I'd love to see our two Houses working together more in the future. |
| Belladonna | A man that is in control. Quite admirable trait, makes it easy to work with him. Vanora seems to like him quite a deal. |
| Berenice | Entirely unappreciative of warmer climes! Ridiculous. |
| Bethany | These fighting men can certainly take a lot of hits to the head, can't they? |
| Bethany | Duke Grimhall, despite the reputation, was spotted smiling. He was not smiling at me, but we can change that yet. |
| Cadenza | Very charming and easy to talk to! Seems pretty laid back. |
| Caith | I felt so safe with him around! He was very nice and polite and charming but it definitely felt like something was weighing on him. Probably responsibility! Responsibility weighs /a lot/! I hope our paths cross again soon. |
| Calla | Another House leader, haven't met many Dukes yet. Pleasant and easy to strike up a conversation with, he offers some very interesting insight into the mix. |
| Calypso | I understand why his wife would take his hand for marriage. He does not need rank or title to be a man of position and principal. He stands on his ground and does not need you to tell him where he is. I deeply respect that fact, and his intelligence towards matters of stewardship to the Compact as a whole. Thrax has a valuable asset in the heir to Grimhall. |
| Cambria | Hardly a most auspicious first meeting, one could argue. Yet I do believe I found a kindred spirit. It warrants further encounters. |
| Caprice | A man who is not shaped by his heritage, but enriched for it. He was an unexpected, but delightful surprise that inspired Caprice to design a few pieces that may be some of her favorites yet. |
| Caspian | Little does he know I'm not down to earth! He explained to me the history of his house's sword, which was pretty interesting. Learned something new! |
| Celeste | Duke Valdemar was a fierce fighter and stalwart commander during our foray against the Sons of the Centipede. A man that deserves respect. That he's married one of my favorite cousins is just another mark in his favor. |
| Cristoph | It was a pleasure meeting Duke Valdemar for the first time, it's not often that I get to spend an evening just talking to peers and those who wear the same amount of weight around their soldiers. He seems like a solid, practical leader. Which is something that I can get behind. |
| Cullen | The Duke seems quite the warrior with a genuine interest in the well-being of his people and the Compact. I will lend him my sword and assist his academy with enthusiasm. |
| Dacian | Traditions are respected by the Duke but they do not rule him to consider treachery to preserve them. Though what I find most memorable is he opened his Hall to all those who would give him council, and he did not turn away the council of a merchant - for that alone, speaks volumes. |
| Daria | The Duke Grimhall seems personable and willing to accept aide. I hope I can be of assistance. |
| Delilah | Rather enjoyable company. He seems just as lost as I do in an event as big at this, but he's focused his attention on those around he seems to be enjoying the show. |
| Delilah | Not what one would expect to encounter a Thraxian, and yet someone who knows the nature of his land, and kin to it, in a fashion. Clarity to his words, affection for his family. He would not be someone I would wish to anger, but no doubt has a fascinating outlook on life. |
| Desiree | An arrestingly good Duke to help me out. Easy to talk to, observant as well. Delight in the eyes. |
| Dianna | Wise and perceptive enough to know and appreciate a keen mind. |
| Dio | A leader capable of bringing in the best for his people and his vassals. |
| Domonico | No nonsense and with a good head on his shoulders. Commands an impressive fleet as well. |
| Dycard | It's good to see the Duke again. Ever the statesman, he guards his opinions of others carefully. |
| Ember | I have long admired Duke Valdemar for the path he has taken in life. His own journey has been as unconventional as my own, and in that I find some kindred aspect, to say nothing of his status as a fearsome warrior. |
| Erik | My cousin, the new Duke of Grihem's Point. He has risen to fit the role well, keeping the strong and stoic qualities expected of a Grimhall lord. I'm sure we'll prosper under his guidance. |
| Erik | Finally a concise and to-the-point report of what has been going on while I have been cloistered doing research. I am proud of this family. |
| Esme | He seems like a good and fair man. I think there is hidden depth and humor. I shall of course find it as we are on the road to best friend status. |
| Evaristo | He's certainly made his mark, a man well known and talked about. Glad to finally meet, even if very brief and during a busy ball! |
| Evelynn | I've known him as a formidable warrior but it was a delight to see the introspective, warm individual beneath. |
| Ezekiel | A gruff seeming fellow, but he has entertaining banter and did quite seem to enjoy my music! |
| Faruq | Thraxian if I recall correctly, likes the bigger swords. I'd claim he was just overcompensating but then I would be too! Hah! Seems a good man, if a bit to serious sometimes. |
| Fatima | An even-keeled leader for his house, and I would say, a practically-minded man. Although many approach me with interest in Eurus, few seem to have a grasp of what is actually at stake there. I hope we'll have a useful partnership in this regard. |
| Faye | Seems to be a strong leader for his people, even as he is faced with difficult decisions. I encourage him to make the best of these changes and find advancements where he can. |
| Galen | A loyal and steadfast man, like his father, and someone with respectable initiative. We will work together to make the Mourning Isles safe. |
| Gaspar | I met the duke on the evening of revelry following the birth of the newest Tessere. I had not expected him to be quite as charming as he was, but that was a pleasant surprise all the same. |
| Haakon | Quiet sort, with a fine axe, many sons, and a fair wife. According to him, she's fair, so... Might just be saying that. |
| Harald | My eldest son and the Sword of Grimhall. Though he has a measure of. hiss mother's cheer, he will win his place as young warriors should. |
| Harlex | I know that look, had it myself. As one warrior to another, I hope he finds what he needs to carry on. |
| Ilira | I respect his resolve and place faith in his height of experience, though mercy is a component of war as any other. |
| Ingrid | My beloved brother. Valdemar has grown so much over the years and I am very proud of him. |
| Ingrid | My brother, I have many but I like this one more than most of the others. I hope he won't tell that. |
| Ingvar | My older brother, he seems to be handling family matters in my Father's Stead in the city, and seems to be doing a good job of it. It's nice to be reunited with my Kin again, even if it is on the mainland. |
| Isabeau | I suppose he would be imposing if he were glowering at me, but I rather find him charming since he isn't. |
| Iseulet | A capable conversationalist and hospitable host, I look forward to working with him and his House and being his protege. |
| Jacque | The Sword of Grihem's Point, working to earn his place amongst the great champions of our Compact. Humble, resolute. Good traits to have. |
| Jaenelle | A man who shows pride in his people with both actions and words. Stalwart defender of tradition but open to reason and rationality. Those who count him ally are lucky. |
| Jasher | Voice of Grimhall. Fierce. Sharp. The coming times will truly test his mettle to lead, as it will mine. |
| Jordan | Brave Lord, and one that spars knowing that practice is meant to teach one how to fight in real situations. I appreciate the candor, and the bravery. He charges like a man possessed. |
| Jules | You met the good lord in the Hart while he was having a drink. He was pleasant company and worth listening to what he had to say. |
| Kaia | A seasoned soldier and fine connoisseur of alcohol it seems! I could tell, from when I first heard the Duke of Grimhall speak, that he is an intellectual man. Pleasant company; most polite and amicable. Truly, I look forward to getting to know him more. You should too! |
| Karina | Didn't realize how much I missed my fuzzy older cousin until I was laughing with him again. The world is a little less intimidating with him around. |
| Katarina | I will not tell Lady Vanora about his awful, egregious faux pas! I will, however, intimate how awful and egregious it might have been, to watch the way a soldier handles this. |
| Khanne | I am sure he writes beautiful letters. Possibly should also try basketweaving, in between all the paperwork and what not. But, seriously, was a pleasure sharing the feast with him. |
| Klaus | A noble who cares about his people it is clear, and sees them as more than pieces on a board. It is good to be with a man who understands that view. |
| Lianne | Earnest in such a way that it presents as strength rather than vulnerability. Keen-minded and skilled in debate. A very fine match for my most inquisitive cousin. |
| Lou | I cannot imagine what Lord Valdemar is going through with the loss of his father, but should he have need of the Society of Explorers for anything, he need only ask and we shall answer. |
| Luca | A gracious host. I have not been to the Grimhall longhouse in the Thrax Ward in some time, but I never remember it being more welcoming. He has captured a wonderful bride. I will have to send him one of those 'On the Care and Feeding' guides, to Lycene women. But we all know every House could use one. Or ten. |
| Lucita | Polite, knowledgeable, exhibits a certain strength of personality. We worked together well in discussing the intricacies involved in overseeing holdings, a noble duty. |
| Mabelle | To finally come face in face with the Duke I heard much about. Just as I imagined, he is commanding and oozes authority and yet still maintains his smile. |
| Macda | Wonderful whispering weapons whilst wishing whimsy was worth waiting. Or something. It was good fortune to have been seated next to him. |
| Maren | Though of sturdy and stoic demeanor like what any Thraxian lord should aspire to, the young Duke of Grihem's Point holds a subtle kindness and more importantly a keenness that makes for intriguing company. I hope that our paths will soon cross again. |
| Marena | I caught him in a pensive moment, which can occasionally make for awkward conversation straight off the bat, but the Duke was effortlessly gracious and helpful. I suspect our paths will cross again, in perhaps a less pensive place. |
| Marzio | The Duke of Grimhall seems to be a wise man. Knowledgable in combat, both as a soldier as well as a tactician. I feel like he would be someone worth learning from, and one that I could probably enjoy becoming friends with. |
| Marzio | The Duke of Grimhall is a tenacious fighter. I was glad to fight at his side. |
| Matteo | An educated and reasonable man. He has keen insight into war and the current situations. |
| Medeia | Of all the Isles men I have spoken to, he is among the most compelling and engaging. One should fear him, but one should give him the chance to be respected first. |
| Merek | A reserved man that I've met, he seems to be wise in a way, and also is quite attentive to listening. |
| Mikani | Dower. Instead of working towards a bright future he just plods along. We work towards what we see and the obstacles we face seem smaller for it. |
| Miranda | Thoughtful with a sense of humor. Spry for a guy in plate, too! |
| Mirari | He looks like he makes Vanora happy, so I think very highly of him just because of that. I've met him before, briefly, but didn't really get a chance to sit down and speak to him. |
| Nanette | I wonder what the story between him and Duchess Margot is. Perhaps I misread him, but there definitely seemed to be something he wasn't saying when I brought up that I worked for her. Of course, this is no bad thing - I admire people who can guard their opinion well, even when it may be difficult to do so. |
| Narcissa | Pensive with a hint of melancholic air, still smiles are readily gifted alongside intelligent discourse. I would parry words with him again gladly, though it seems more oft' than not we will end up on the same side. |
| Natasha | A childhood friend, now a man grown - they say that heavy is the head that wears the crown, but the weight of it hs yet to crush him. He is just as agreeable as I remember. |
| Niklas | Ford's boss' son and Ford's ex-wife's new husband! Why, we're practically cousins! Apparently a wonderful singer. |
| Niklas | It must be hard to live up to your father when he was such an iconic figure. Especially in these changing times. |
| Noah | We may share a few views on the same things. Oh that poor poor soul. Yet, it means I won't deny him if he wants to come drink at my table. |
| Norwood | I cannot help but think well of House Grimhall for the way that Lord Valdemar carried himself at the Sword Gathering. |
| Orathy | Young Grim, reckon he a chip off his pa's shoulder. He be having a few things to learn yet about opponents who ain't standing still. Reckon he takes a loss well enough, he does. |
| Orchid | Duke Valdemar is harder for me to understand. He seems so distant yet so very kind. I don't mind working for his family. |
| Orelia | The first man to best me since my return. Good to see someone practiced. |
| Pasquale | The heir to Grimhall. Newly wed to a Pravus, the house of Pasquale's liege lords. Pasquale is curious how that will work out, and suspects Malespero will be seeing the Grimhalls again often down the line. |
| Pasquale | He seems to know a lot about all the stranger goings on of late. |
| Petal | I think I know who he is! His wife is frequently at my shop. He seems like an okay Lord. And it sounds like he has been through some hard battles and hard times. |
| Prisila | He seems to be level headed and understands the status quo. Lady Vanora has done well in landing such a man for her partner. |
| Pyotr | He seems a good sort, though with a heavy weight on his shoulders. |
| Raja | Got to speak with the Grimhall about Skald and choice and what it means to me. I hope I didn't confuse him too much. I am no priest. |
| Razija | A man worthy of his reputation, but I've found even less known about him - his skill at teaching? Unsurpassed. |
| Reese | He fought with me against Zhayla's killing, coming at his father's side and quite the father he has! Duke Harald is great man, but I think that Valdemar probably is too. He showed great bravery in the battle. He was ready and willing to die. He took damage, but he was so strong about it. Grimhall blood is strong. |
| Reigna | A proud and noble seeming Thraxian. I want to trust him, I do, he seems to be the sort that is the definition of trustworthy. I just... It is difficult to trust someone willing to overlook Oathbreaking. I am likely being too judgemental, but it is in my bones, steel bends, honor holds. |
| Romulius | The Duke Grimhall is by all accounts as formidable a warrior as they come, but he seems to have a measured approach that I hadn't anticipated. A dangerous man, if crossed, I'm sure. |
| Rosalind | He's super nice! He sounds nicer than he looks! Not to say he looks mean, he just sounds nice. I see why Aella likes him so much! He'd be so fun to go on a sailing adventure with! |
| Rowenova | A kind duke with high regard for his fellow associates, especially the good boy at his side. |
| Rowynna | There is a considerate thoughtfulness about Duke Valdemar Grimshall. He is a reassuring presence about, and I feel better for having met him. |
| Roxana | Such a thoughtful young man, and polite and kind as well. Almost sweet but Thraxians don't like hearing that sort of thing so I won't mention it out loud. |
| Rysen | A leader of courage and integrity, whose words and actions prove the unfathomable value of his friendship. |
| Sabella | Lord Grimhall has always been very kind and polite to me and even sweeter to his wife, which means he must be a very great man indeed! |
| Sanya | I'm glad to be surrounded by such a welcoming family. My cousin has been wonderful company and I look forward to working together. |
| Sanya | Calm. Stoic. A picture of strength. I look up to him as if he were a brother. |
| Saoirse | Valdemar was in the bar when Saoirse delivered some of her welcome gifts of wine. He partook and seemed to find her amusing. |
| Scylla | If the Duke's prowess in battle is equal to his conversational skills, the Skal'daja ought to just turn tail now and be done with it. |
| Sebastian | The Duke seems to have settled well into his role, and appears well-aware of the forces at play within his demense and beyond. This bodes well for Grimhall. I'm pleased to have him as a cousin-in-law. |
| Sedna | Handsome, helpfully informative, and very likely not an evil reflection despite being well versed in the subject. |
| Selene | The measure of a man can often be gained by the questions he asks. The duke raises excellent points with a rational, thoughtful approach that speaks to acumen and politics. He has clearly weathered stormy times with great care. A force to be reckoned with and admired. |
| Shard | I'm not sure if we really see eye to eye on anything, but I also don't think that matters too much in the face of things that are more important. He's reasonable, and measured. Hard to read beyond that, though that was certainly a conversation I never expected to have. |
| Sorrel | Serious and thoughtful, the heir to Grimhall seems like the sort of man it is good to know. Not quite as intimidating as his father, but gives a sense of power nonetheless. |
| Talen | A sober Thraxian man who happened to end up with Vanora as a wife. Eleyna's running commentary that he's not unlike Talen's more sullen moods were completely shaken when an entire tea party learned that he sings, too. The Singing Sword of Grimhall. Interesting. |
| Talwyn | I can see why Iseulet considers Valdemar a father figure to her. He has strong stewardship and care for his vassals and wants to honestly see them succeed with wise guidance and a wealth of information. I could see a future in his service. |
| Tarik | I met Duke Valdemar at the Ebb and Flow Inn. I found him to be an interesting man. He built a place for the newly Godsworn because for his wife. There are many virtues in that one act. |
| Thea | I was worried I started out rough with my questions, but he was calm and polite with his answers. In the end, we had an enjoyable conversation. One I hope we can continue and have again. |
| Theron | The Sword of Grihem's Point had one of the most memorable fights at the free-for-all. Good man with a sense of sportsmanship. |
| Thorley | A worthy opponent in the field of battle. My hardest strikes were absorbed by him, but he continued to impress - I will make sure to break bread and drink with this man. |
| Turo | I respect honesty and forthrightness, which this lord demonstrates in abundance. I look forward to doing great things with him in the future, to benefit both our houses. |
| Vanora | They met in the Shrine of the Thirteenth actually, which if it is foreshadowing could be very good or very bad. Vanora was instantly intrigued despite herself. He may come off as an axe-wielding brute and no doubt he is just that, but to imagine that is the /only/ thing he is is to miss out. |
| Victus | His father casts a long shadow, with a mindset that's been set in stone for centuries. I wouldn't envy anyone in his position, but he does well by his family. I'm interested to see where the future leads. |
| Vitalis | A solid and steady presence in the unravelling chaos of armed conflict. I'd have him at my side any day - or better - at my back. |
| Vittorio | The great Duke of Grihem's point. I heard tales of his prowess all the way over at Caith. A brooding type. I like him. |
| Vulpiano | As many things are said about the Mourning Isles and those that inhabit them as there are about the denizens of the Lyceum. So much so that one must make their own mind about each individual. Shocking. Duke Valdemar Grimhall was an excellent conversationalist in that when he spoke, he spoke with meaning and intent, rather than hollow worthlessness. He faces much as Duke of his land, yet he carries on with admirable determination. |
| Willow | Does a magnificent job of balancing progress and tradition. Probably one of the wisest and most thoughtful Dukes in the Compact. |
| Zacharie | Seems about as prone to outbursts of laughter as you would expect from someone of his house, but he's a thoughtful and measured sort who sees what's in front of him clearly. |
| Zaina | A man of many questions is the Heir of the Grimhalls. He is polite. |
| Zara | I'm glad we took the time to meet. I feel a certain optimism after our discussion. |
| Zoey | Polite and charming. |
| Zyanya | There is a quiet and thoughtful consideration that few seem to possess and yet he wields it easily, like a blade learned since childhood. The word in Arvani is, I think, "nobility". |