The Grandaxe Clan

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The Grandaxe Clan

 

 

The Grandaxes are fire-haired Mountain Dwarves who value their honor above all else, founded by Bogrin Grandaxe the clan holds a reputation for their skill with an axe. Early during the days of Aegis, a disagreement split the clan in two for many years, before taking up the name of Grandaxe once again. During this split, and continued after the Grandaxes gained high positions in power, and many were crowned the King of the dwarven kingdom. During their time spent in Anthos, many of the clan had died out, however since the move to the Fringe many lost members have been found, and the clan is made prosperous yet again before the move to Athera. Vailor has proved to be a success for the majority of the Clan. New identity in Clan Hold have resulted in prosperity for the Clan.

 

 

Lore and History

 

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFIWbac2QiU

 

 

The Grandaxe Clan, a clan of noble mountain dwarves, hold true to an ancient tradition, steeped in honour and glory. Beginning their life as exiles from the Kingdom of Urguan, before the reign of King Simmpa, preferring the fresh air of a mountain to the perilous depths of a cavern, they have had a long and bloody history, but one that has shaped them into what they are today. Before the 'Great Collapse,' a group of dwarves ventured into the northern mountains above Oren, each in search of a brighter future for their descendents. Many however, unprepared for the difficulties they would face, soon died of starvation within the first few weeks, or from the freezing cold weather of the north. Despite all odds, there was one group of dwarves, more hardy and audacious than the rest that through years of intense labour and building, were able to survive and live a life, far different to that of the cave dwarves. This was the beginning of the mighty Grandaxe Clan.

 

The renowned leader of the clan at the time was Bogrin Grandaxe, a grim but fierce dwarf of the mountains. Fabled to have never once backed down from a fight, his honour meant all to him. Even as he drank, it was was said his axe was no more then an arm's length away. He was not so heedless, so as to endanger his brothers however, and was always prepared for the worst. He had lived his whole life on the battlefield and he was known for acts which many thought of as stupidity, others as bravery. While serving under the dwarven Kings, when there was something which no other dwarf dared to do, it was Bogrin who would take upon the responsibility. There were many tales of Bogrin's deeds, including the time he fought a gigantic scaddernack bare handed or the time he rushed straight into a horde of orcs, with nothing but his battle axe to defend himself with.

 

As years passed by, Bogrin returned his clan to the grand city of Kal'Urguan, with the goal of dwarven reunification under King Simmpa. Many years were spent in Kal'Urguan and with Bogrin's eventual passing, Thrain Grandaxe became the new leader of the clan. However, divisions soon emerged between Thrain and another of Bogrin's sons, a dwarf by the name of Decks. Unhappy with King Charles Grimlie's war upon the humans, Decks spoke many ill words against the King, until one night, a warrant was issued for his arrest. Decks led many of his kin from the city and back into the northern mountains, spending a number of years constructing the dwarven hold of Kal'Domhain. Thrain, furious at the actions of his brother, outcasted Decks and those who had followed him from the clan, giving them the new name of Blackaxes, exiled mountain dwarves. Ashamed with the actions of his clan members, he gave the clan a new name, one that would show the infallible loyalty of his kin to the Kingdom of Urguan. These were the Braveaxes. Later however, as Decks grew older, he passed leadership on to his eldest son, Bazian, and so under his leadership, the Blackaxes departed from Kal'Domhain once again and united back with their Braveaxe kin in the grand halls of Kal'Urguan.

 

After many gruelling years, the Braveaxes had ascended to nobility, with times growing harder in the dwarven capital. By this time, past rivalries had diminished and the Braveaxes and Blackaxes held much control over Kal'Urguan's military, with Thorik Braveaxe, appointed to the position of Lord Marshall of the dwarven Legion. Under the reign of King Algrim Irongut, both clans partook in the final downfall of the undead keep, Wrath's Clutch. After King Gotrek Firemane took the throne, Thorik and his Longbeards, decided to create a War Council in order to have more control over their own affairs. More months passed, and with the sudden and mysterious disappearance of the King, the situation was looking bleak. After the failures of the High Council under two Irongut Kings, the Braveaxes and Blackaxes worked together in a military coup to take power from their former rulers, for the betterment of the Dwarven Kingdom. This proved a success and the clans were able to forge the first Grand Council of the dwarves, initially consisting entirely of Braveaxe and Blackaxe clansmen. Leading it was the new King and former Lord Marshall, Grand King Thorik Braveaxe.

 

They ruled the Kingdom for years to come, achieving great feats while in power, notably the numerous military victories against Krugmar and the complete redesign and reorganisation of Kal'Urguan into a dominant military, economic and diplomatic power in Aegis. As the Great War broke out, the Kingdom found that with its military strengthened, it was able to overcome what many would have thought impossible However, after many years, the Kingdom soon began to crumble after the voyage to Asulon, where many of Thorik's advisers had by now, been killed or gone missing. Soon came the supposed assassination of the Grand King himself and the fall of Kal'Karik to the Drakes, during his son, Broski Braveaxe's reign. Even as the Braveaxe reign ended, their legacy continued to exist and have an important impact upon dwarven life for many years to come.

 

With a hold of their own in Kjell Ireheart's Empire of Urguan, the clan, now reunited under the Grandaxe name, sought to restore the old sense of honour and glory that once existed in their ancestors. Acting as the guardians of the northern borders of the empire, within their mountain hold of Kal'Anart, Bazian led the clan into a new age, restoring the old customs of the mountain dwarves and setting them apart from both other noble clans. Upon gaining independence from the Paragon and serving as a part of the Dwarven Coalition of Holds, the Grandaxes remained loyal and true to their old ways, serving the coalition faithfully in the third and longest Dwarf - Orc war. The war lasted half a century and only ended when the Grandaxes agreed to a peace treaty, after the land they had lost in the earlier stages of the war was bravely reclaimed through battle.

 

As the Lords of the Empire converged, it was decided that the coalition would be dissolved and a new Kingdom would begin in Kal'Karik, with Hiebe Irongut, Father of the Irongut clan, as its King. The Grandaxes, while saddened at the prospect of leaving their mountainous home, were willing to unite with the rest of the dwarven race once again. However, Bazian had grown old and weary, his days of leading the clan bearing down a great burden upon him. He soon decided it best to appoint his brother, Valen Grandaxe, second son of Decks, to lead the clan. Here, under new leadership and within a united Kingdom of Urguan, the Grandaxes would stand, alongside their dwarven kin. Here, a new age of Kings would begin.

 

As the dwarves fled to the Isle of Elysium, rebellion seemed imminent. While questions to Hiebe's leadership had already been posed by the dwarves of the Goldhand Clan and so too, the Grand Marshal Kjell Ireheart, the Grandaxe Clan had not yet acted. As the opportunity to avenge the death of their former King, Thorik Braveaxe arose, his cousin Valen was the first to act. Marching the Grandaxe Clan in full force into the hold of his killers, they found something they did not expect. Under the possession of an ancient evil, Thorik still lived and with the Hammer of Urguan, was freed from the prison of his own mind. Ondnarch, the bringer of the silent cold was temporily defeated and banished to wander the world as a mortal. The return of the old Grand King had dwarves of all clans and creed rally beneath him as he claimed his right to the throne. With the backing of the Grandaxe Clan, Thorik Grandaxe was once again crowned Grand King of the newly formed Grand Kingdom of Urguan. Though his skin was now wrinkled and his hair greyed, he would do all in his power to restore the lost legacy of his clan and issue in a new era or prosperity for his descendants Beginning with the Treaty of Aturial, forging an alliance with Emperor Godfrey and the Holy Oren Empire, it was his hope that peace would soon ensue.

 

Years passed and the dwarves prospered under the newly written 'Articles of Urguan', as were envisioned by Thorik, Valen and Bazian. Satisfied that his work was done, Thorik stepped down from the throne and called for an election. As Lords, Valen and Bazian continued to serve under the newly crowned Grand King, Omithiel Strongbrow. This time saw the emergence of a new bloodline of the Grandaxes, known as the Grimaxes. These were of the line of Herot, who were distinct among the Grandaxes for their darker complexions. The peace did not last long as the new Orcish Rex waged war upon the Grand Kingdom of Urguan and its allies. The Grandaxes played their part in the war, until the races set sail for the newly discovered lands of Anthos. Here, the dwarves won a major victory at the crossroads, taking it under their control and forcing the war to a closure. With the Grandaxe Clan now living within the grand city of Kal'Azgoth, Bazian resigned as a Lord, in order to pursue his duties as a Remembrancer. In his place, his younger cousin, Arcane Grandaxe was selected to follow on in his footsteps.

 

As Grand King Omithiel's reign led to a closure, sad news dawned upon the clan as Lord Valen Grandaxe passed away peacefully at the summit of the mountain, where stood the great shrine of Yemekar. After much consultation with the Brathmordakin, Archbishop Aengoth Starbreaker declared Valen a Paragon to be known thereafter as 'The Wordsmith.' Valen was the second Grandaxe to become a Paragon, after his grandfather, Bogrin. Arcane Grandaxe was subsequently named the clan father of the Grandaxe Clan. As Omithiel stepped down from the throne, an election was called and with it, a new Grandaxe King was crowned. Thorin Grandaxe, of the Grimaxe bloodline took the throne and under him, the Kingdom's economy prospered. He took a tough stance towards his enemies and was renowned for his skills in diplomacy. During this time, Thorik Grandaxe, the former Grand King took Arcane's place as Clan Father after his disappearance.

 

After a Lord was killed on his way into Kingston by a crossbowman of the White Rose, an ultimatum was delivered to Oren and the blood pact left in tatters. In a bold move, Emperor Horen V declared war upon the Grand Kingdom of Urguan and battled them back from the crossroads as the dwarves begun their advance. However, to the surprise of many, Emperor Horen V and the White Rose marched their armies into the north, allowing Thorin to push forward with an invasion. The Hightowers, long time friends of the dwarves, agreed to Thorin's terms and joined the Grand Kingdom of Urguan, while Oren was left to give up many of its lands to end the war. Grand King Thorin was immediately looked upon as a liberator in the eyes of many, making a pledge that dwarves would never allow an Empire to form again. Morgrim Grandaxe was made a Lord for his efforts in assisting Thorin during his rule. Furthermore, it was during this time that the first Grand King, Thorik Grandaxe, passed away. He was the third member of the Grandaxe Clan to be declared Paragon, known as 'The King of Kings' for his work in restoring the Grand Kingdom to its glory. His successor as clan father was Wulfric Grandaxe.

 

However, further tragedy befell the dwarves upon the news of Thorin's death at the hands of the fallen Aengul, Ondnarch. In his final act, he declared that the Kingdoms of Oren were granted independence. However, in the subsequent election Dizzy Irongrinder was elected to power and with the deaths of so many, the Grandaxes played a diminished roll within the Grand Kingdom. Wulfric Grandaxe eventually stood down as Clan Father and the position went to Ognar Grandaxe. However, this was short lived and the position soon went back to the former clan father Bazian Grandaxe. Upon Dizzy's removal as Grand King, Farren Starbreaker allowed Morgrim Grandaxe to make a nomination for Grand King, to which he chose the reigning High Prophet, Indago Stormhammer. Grand King Indago won the election and in a renewed attempt to increase the clan's influence, much of the clan took upon positions on the King's Council. During this time, Bazian went missing and so Fili Grandaxe decided to step up in succeeding him as Clan Father.

 

During Indago's reign, the Grand and his Lord's Council chose to assist in a rebellion against the Carrion rulers of Oren, a decision that was opposed by the majority of Clan Grandaxe. The rebellion failed however and the war soon made its way to the dwarves. The clan then went on to assist in the holding back an invasion force from Oren and Krugmar in the north, while battling Ondnarch in the south. They refused to surrender to either threat and remained steadfast in their loyalty to the Grand Kingdom of Urguan. However, many in the Grand Kingdom at this time had begun to doubt the integrity of the Articles of Urguan and their functionality. Many, whom the Grandaxes deemed traitorous, had even begun to sympathise with King Heinrik's invasion. Despite this, the dwarves were ultimately successful in holding back Oren's army and were able to push forth a treaty of peace.

 

Shortly after the end of the war, Grand King Indago passed away and ascended to the halls of Khaz'A'Dentrumm. Therefore an election was held to determine his successor. To the surprise of many, Lord Hogarth Irongut nominated Wulfgar Grandaxe, the son of Morgrim Grandaxe, a young Legionnaire who had witnessed the full horrors of Heinrik's invasion. However, he won the election on the promise that he would restore a sense of respect to the dwarven nation and lead them into an era of enlightenment. Upon his coronation, Wulfgar quickly set about improving the state of dwarven society, creating a Clan Council and ensuring that guilds were working to the best of their abilities. Furthermore, he agreed upon a defensive alliance with the Rexdom of Krugmar, the first alliance of orcs and dwarves since the reign of Thorin Grandaxe. He firmly upheld the treaty with Oren and fought by their side in battling the Black Scourge back into the north.

 

It was during Wulfgar's reign that the fallen Aengul, Ondnarch, was defeated and restored as the uncorrupted Wyrvun. The Grand King had thus avenged the death of his father by Ondnarch's hand. Additionally, Fimlin Grandaxe arose as a Lord, following after his grandfather and uncle. However, Wulfgar's first true challenge came during the supposed attack upon the Conclave of Malin by King Heinrik's men. Though he ultimately chose to remain neutral in the war, he grew suspicious of Oren's motives. These suspicions were intensified as the nations traveled into the Fringe. There, Wulfgar established the city of Kal'Arkon, but came into many borders disputes with the Holy Kingdom of Oren. Knowing that threats were still being made against the Conclave, Wulfgar chose to sign the Treaty of Zion, creating a defensive alliance between the nations of Urguan, Krugmar, Malin and Alras. He hoped that this would deter Oren from taking any offensive act. However, his plan backfired and as dwarven Lords traveleld to negotiate with Oren, they were attacked by men who were angered by the Treaty.

 

As outrage flooded the Grand Kingdom of Urguan, Wulfgar issued an ultimatum to King Heinrik. That he was to stand down from the throne for the actions he had set into motion by marching upon the Conclave or face invasion. Heinrik refused, mobilizing his army as the forces of the Alliance and Oren clashed on the battlefield. Ultimately, the Alliance was victorious and King Heinrik slain by a volley of arrow fire. Thus chaos erupted within Oren. Though House Carrion attempted to name Heinrik's successor as Franz-Joseph, he was assassinated by his own guards, as the Church claimed his rule as heresy. With Heinrik dead and a truce declared between Oren and Urguan, Wulfgar chose to relinquish the Throne of Urguan, to take upon an advisory role in the Clergy of the Brathmordakin. An election was subsequently called to determine his successor.

 

Fimlin Grandaxe takes upon the title of Clan Father after his brother, Fili Grandaxe agrees to give it up. The son of Thorin Grandaxe, Ognar is named Grand Marshal after Fili resigns. Hogarth Irongut is crowned Grand King but resigns after the weight of the throne overcomes him. Fimlin, Vorstag and Jorik Grandaxe are nominated for Grand King, and the election favours Vorstag in the end. After rash and repeated outbursts of starkness Vorstag is removed, in his rage he hands out kingdom money, keys and secrets that still belonged to him. Midgor Ireheart is crowned and promises many changes, and makes a large push to change the articles greatly, though most Grandaxes were hesistant to change from the government they had sworn to protect, the clan reluctantly supported the change.

 

The Races of the Fringe flee to Thales and found Kal'Klad, but with freezing winters and little food construction of a mighty ship is started in order to flee to what is later known as Athera.

 

Soon after the move to Athera, Midgor Ireheart is removed from Grand King, to be replaced by Fimlin Grandaxe. The reign of Grand King Fimlin was a relatively long but unstable one. At first he set about fixing loopholes in the revised articles and laws, as well as trying to increase the Kingdom's pockets., later he warred aainst the High Elves, and settled the grudges that were made against them. Subsequent to the High Elven War the Ironborn-Starbreaker Alliance declared an invasion on him,  the Ironborn, who had by now returned. The remnant of Clan Ironborn had called upon its allies in the Undead to retake the Empire of Khorvad, and in response the various races of Athera unite with a treaty to defend against the Undead-Ironborn attack. Unfortunately the Grand Kingdom was not prepared for the powerful undead magic, and the ironborn succeed in taking the Capital; Kal'Agnar. During this time much criticism was placed on Fimlin's reign for losing the Capital, however as soon as they were properly prepared, the allied forces of the land marched and successfully retook the Grand Kingdom of Urguan. With Kal'Agnar destroyed, a new city named Kal'Karaad was built, though its progress was slow, as each proactive move Fimlin made to bring the project on was vetoed or disapproved by the Thanes Council. A stone month later, the city not fully built Fimlin is removed from kingship by the Thanes Council as a result of a claim that he was inept in his position.

 

While the new elections continue on, Fili and Fimlin Grandaxe as well as Zahrer Irongrinder begin construction of a hold, naming it Ote'Kathaz. While the land of the hold was meant for farms and housing, but this hold was soon abandoned in favor of a plot of land in the North.

 

The undead-controlled castle of Hanseti is taken by the dwarves and cleansed for the move of the Grandaxe clan, naming the hold Kal’Bogrin. After another election, Zahrer Irongrinder is elected Grand King and tries to re-implement the Lords Council, the proposition is voted against by the Grandaxe and Frostbeard Clans, but the Thanes remove the Frostbeard clan on the spot replacing them with the Doomforged, who agreed with the implementation. When the new Lords are chosen, the Grandaxe Clan is left out as they had gone against it, re-creating the tyrannical Lords Council the clan had fought against many years past. Still angry at the Grandaxes, the Lords Council tries to banish the clan using the excuse that a member insulted the King’s elf wife, King Zahrer refused, but was removed from King so the edict would pass.

 

Anticipating the unjust banishment from the Kingdom, and in defiance against the corrupt council the entire clan packs up and calls The Great Exodus to Kal’Bogrin, where the clan stayed under its own rule. Over time more and more dwarves move to the Hold of Kal’Bogrin in support of the fall of the council, until only the Lords are left living in Kal’Karaad, when they give up the land to the leadership of the Grandaxes. On the way out a candidate abstains from the election and replaces himself with Hodir Doomforge, who besides being the only candidate, won by a landslide.

 

The Kingdom of Oren, seizing the opportunity declares war on the Grand Kingdom, claiming that they hold a “rightful claim” on all northern holdings being once owned by humans. By the time the Orenian army had marched to Hiebenhall, the dwarven clans were re-united and the Battle of Hiebenhall was won.

 

Soon after an attack on an Orenian castle known as ‘Drakenburgh’ is staged by the Grand Kingdom, but the battle is lost as the horde of humans charges from their gates. With little but a stone day after the Orenian navy showed up at the dwarven harbor, the dwarves prepared for an easy-win naval battle, boarded their boats. Before the boats were fueled the Orenians activated dark magic allowing them to swim in water with armor, and climbed up the boats, knocking the Grand King overboard and drowning him.

 

Unanimously Balek Irongut is elected the Grand King of Urguan, and immediately sets about improving Kal’Karaad, the Guilds System, and the Legion, attracting many dwarves and other races to live in the city. Fearing an attack on their hold, the Grandaxe Clan petitions for a plot of land south of the capital within the Kazradin Foothills, the land is granted and the hold is named Kal’Eknar, meaning city-in-the-foothills. Hiebenhall is taken by Oren after a surprise-attack on the castle garrison, the too Legion busy in an ancient hall to defend it. Kal'Bogrin and Kaz'ad Rum are left abandoned by the Grandaxe Clan, and humans begin to settle the land. Grand King Balek Irongut signs a peace treaty with King Olivier de Savoie of Oren after all the dwarven holdings in the north had been lost, the King accepts and the Grand Kingdom loses it's first war.

 

A few stone months  after the war with Oren ends, Vrograk'Gorkil, the Orcish Rex, declares war on the Grand Kingdom and defeats the Legion at the Battle of the Withering Woods. Having pushed back the dwarvish Legion the Rex marches his army southwest, besieging the Grandaxe hold of Kal'Eknar until the Legion arrives and charges out from the castle and routes the Rex's army.

 

The Grandaxe, Ireheart, and Frostbeard clans form a blood-pact to defend each other and assist each other in strenuous times.

 

Athera is attacked by large Wyrms and the inhabitants flee to the Isles of Vailor, where Grand King Balek establishes Kal'Akash. The Frostbeard Clan, having grown more powerful and confident, founds a hold in the mountains south of the Kal'Akash valley. When Fili goes missing in the mines Fimlin takes up the role of Kazrikkin and the Frostbeards use this as an excuse to break the blood-pact, ensuring an endless grudge for the dishonor they brought to the clan. Grand King Balek Irongut goes missing at sea and does not return, thus an election is held with the primary candidates being Skippy Irongut and Verthaik Frostbeard. With the dishonorable Frostbeard winning the race, the clan puts all its support towards Skippy and he wins the elction. Verthaik, angered that he did not win the race, declares war on Skippy to place himself on the throne. Without question the Grandaxe Clan sided with Skippy and the revolt was easily put down.

 

The Avaros Age

The Isle of Avar was first colonized by the Grand Kingdom under Balek Irongut's rule, where he sold the Adunians a large plot of land on the eastern side of the island. Towards the end of his reign he realised the Adunians alone were not populating the island enough, and so he granted Kazrikkin Fimlin Grandaxe Jarldom over the island. When Balek died and the Frostbeards rebelled, the Grandaxes' hold over the island was weak, so they set sail and landed in the northwestern corner. Upon arrival the Grandaxes gave the island the name "Avar" and established the hold of Kal'Valen where they landed.

 

Besides the Adunians, the Grandaxes found that a city called Ayrith was also there, however shortly after his arrival an old enemy of the clan named Thoromir Armanhk took power over Ayrith and renamed it Armagh. Displeased to know his enemy was his neighbor, and receiving word that he asked for Orenian support to conquer the island, Jarl Fimlin occupied Armagh and returned it to it's original owner, Eadune. The Boulderbears. a small clan of dwarves, fled Armagh upon occupation and lived with the Grandaxes in Kal'Valen. Over time, it was apparent that Eadune's leadership was incompetent, thus Fimlin ordered the destruction of Ayrith and all other abandoned settlements on the island.

 

After the assassination of Skippy Irongut, Uldar Irongut was elected as Grand King and put forth laws and regulations that allowed for greater autonomy for landholders. With those laws established The Huscarls of Avar were made to serve as an army for the Grandaxe Jarldom. During this time multiple settlements sprung up on the western coast of Avar, Zahrer Irongrinder was granted the Earldom of Järnstrand, and the Starbreakers planned to construct a hall to the east of Kal'Valen, however they eventually abandoned the idea when they made no progress.

 

When Uldar Irongut gave up his title as Grand King and tried to pass it to Gauldrim Irongut who split the Kingdom  in two pieces; Avar with Fimlin Grandaxe as King and Azwyrmor with Gauldrim as King. This did not last long, however as the mainland dwarves couped him from power with support from Fimlin, who relinquished his title as King and re-vassalized under the new Grand Kingdom of Urguan.

 

With unanimous support Midgor Ireheart is made Grand King and focuses on rebuilding the Legion, turning the Huscarls into a mere warband. After passing into fits of crazed anger, obsession and all forms of odd behavior the Jarl Fimlin Grandaxe gives the  title of Kazrikkin and Earl of Kal'Valen to Heus Grandaxe and Överste of the Huscarls to Svardin Grandaxe, and began the construction of his new capital in Avar. After getting word of Adunia joining with Oren and leaving Hiraeth, the city is sacked and the land given to a dwarf named Drynn Ireheart.

Rhewen Frostbeard is crowned King at a time with heightened relations with the Kingdom of Oren. As a result, a war soon ensued between the Dwarves of Urguan and the Houses of Oren. During the war, the Island of Avar was conquered as a result of a betrayal from the state of Norland at the time. Norland was killed off but the island was lost in the process. So ended the Avaros Age.

Vailor

Heus Grandaxe steps down from Clan Father. A vote is called for the new clan father and Jorik Grandaxe is given the position from a majority vote. The Clan decides to move back to the main city of Urguan, Kal’Akash. Kal'Ishtul is founded upon the ruins of the previous city. As a result of the complications following war, the dwarf society is plunged into a depression of inactivity. The good king Kardel Irongut attempts ways of revival with little success. Jorik Grandaxe and the Grandaxes meet with Duren Hammerfist and the Hammerfists and recruit the Hammerfist clan into the Grandaxes bolstering their ranks and giving hope to a larger population throughout the entirety of the dwarves. Like many lands before, Vailor was too deemed unfit to dwell in, due to the incident involving the Orc Shamans.

Axios

The Dwarves of Urguan soon found themselves in the lands of Axios, on an isle named Thahn. On this island, they constructed a city inside the northern mountains, named Kal'Nikaer (City in the North). After a short amount of time, Jorik Grandaxe was voted to step down by the majority of the Grandaxe clan, and he honourably accepted to do so. Another election took place, this time the majority of the clan choosing Svardin Grandaxe to be Clan Father. Svardin accepted the position, taking charge of the clan and also afterwards, the Legion, when Torvin Grandaxe took the throne, after Drynn Ireheart, who set the foundations for the Axios Dwarves. Svardin Grandaxe, now the first Clan Father of the Grimaxe clan, and Grand Marshall, also took members of the clan with him, along with other dwarves, to the past after recieving a pendant that would take the holders to the year 181, when Velkan Ironborn was emperor.

 

Culture and Traditions

 

Grandaxes have an affinity for the art of war. These mountain dwarves are skilled in the various weapon styles, including axes, swords, and crossbows, but most renown by the blade of an axe. Their love for war is greatened by their intense hatred for those who would seek to spill the blood of the innocent, namely the orcs. Orcs have been the dwarves most natural enemy since the beginning of time and they still battle to this day. With the Grandaxes valuing honour, glory, valour and respect above all else, they can somewhat relate to orcish culture but at other times, have found it to be barbaric and uncivilized. Since Kal'Anart was so close to orc territory, tensions had never been higher. Raids and bloodshed went back and forth between the two warring societies however the tension between the two ended over time due to many orc-dwarf alliances.

Within dwarven cities, family life remains a prime concern for Grandaxes, and while elders play a diminishing role in childrearing, the relationships between parent and child or siblings remain as strong as ever. Most mountain dwarves are literate and are taught to read at an early age, before being handed off to begin military training. As religion is an important part of Grandaxe culture, various rites of passage are taken before a younger dwarf can be considered a full adult. In the workplace, mountain dwarves are taught to work both for not only themselves and their family but for the greater whole of their clan and most dwarves are, while proud of their work, fairly humble and avoid ostentatious displays of decadence. After a mountain dwarf has expired his or her ability to work physically, they remain a valued part of the community for their experience and wisdom and when they die they are honoured with funeral rites appropriate to their legacy.

 

Appearance

The Grandaxes are on average, half a foot taller than other dwarves. Mountain dwarves are the second most common dwarf in all of the land, behind the cave dwarves. They have light skin that is fair or lightly tanned and silvery blue or brown eyes with long fiery red hair, growing white or gray with age. Males have large beards and moustaches, while the females are slightly shorter and less heavy than the males. Dwarves of the Grimaxe bloodline differ somewhat in that they have darker complexions and are on average, slightly shorter than the rest of their kin.

In terms of clothing, Grandaxes tend to abide by the dress sense of their mountain dwarf culture, preferring to wear various animal pelts or chain mail. Greys and burgundies are perhaps the most prevalent colours amongst Grandaxe clothing, with fur or gold trimming being common for clan elders. As is the same with all clans, the clothing of a Grandaxe will largely depend upon the dwarf's profession, whether it be a warrior of the Legion, a blacksmith, miner, engineer or even a scholar.

 

 

Religion

The Grandaxes strictly follow the ways of the Brathmordakin and the Paragons, with any other godly worship being treated as blasphemous and said dwarf would be shunned. The favoured deity amongst the Brathmordakin is Dungrimm, for his dedication to the ways of honour, bravery and valour. He is the Patron of the Grandaxe Clan and it is he who guides dwarves who sacrifice themselves in the field of battle in service to a righteous cause such as defending their kin. However, in recent years, many elders of the clan have chosen to pledge their loyalty to Ogradhad, the deity of knowledge.

Paragons are dwarves that were once alive, that had obtained such amounts of honour and glory in the first life, that they have become demi-gods. It is the aspiring hope of every Grandaxe to one day become a Paragon or be with the other Paragons and risen dwarves in the grand halls of Khaz'A'Dentrumm, the dwarven afterlife. For this reason, Grandaxes principally worship their ancestors, Bogrin, Thorik and Valen as Paragons. Worship largely consists of festive celebrations, prayers and blessings before battle and rites of passage for younger Grandaxes, in the form of trials, in order to test the dwarf's dedication to Dungrimm.

 

Important Values

 

 

Honour

The value of honour is greatly upheld by the Grandaxe Clan. Honour is what you fight for, your brothers, respect and your homeland. In the old days of Aegis, if a person dishonoured or disrespected a Blackaxe, that person would be forced to their knees or slain, either of which would regain the Blackaxe's honour. Such is not so different now with the Grandaxes. Grandaxes are strict to uphold dwarven law and would consider it a dishonourable act to ever go against it. Thus, they take great importance in holding grudges and will act as some of the most loyal warriors in the dwarven nation, when in servitude of their King, showing infallible loyalty. It is the greatest honour for a Grandaxe to die on the battlefield, fighting for a righteous cause.

 

Glory

Glory is the fantastic feats that a dwarf can accomplish in his lifetime, as all dwarves aspire for greatness which is achieved through glory on the battlefield, in most cases. Usually, after a raid or a battle, the most outstanding dwarf on the battlefield will be recognized at a feast that follows every battle. This dwarf will take a seat with the elders as a special guest, as the feast is in his honour.

 

Valour

Valour and bravery are what drives Grandaxes when in the face of battle. In fighting for a righteous cause, they not only do so for personal prestige but also, for the sake of defending their less able kin, against evil. As the fiercest warriors in the Kingdom, it is mountain dwarves who are first sent in to battle. It would be considered a dishonour to refuse the word of an elder and so Grandaxes must show valour at all times, even under fear of death.

 

Respect

A dwarf must show respect and loyalty to their elders and all brothers. A younger dwarf must always follow his elder's word, even to the death as in doing so, the dwarf is showing the elder his own dedication to the clan. For having lived so long, an elder is always likely to possess the knowledge necessary to get through a difficult situation. Even in the face of an enemy, a Grandaxe must stay calm and unperturbed, until battle has come. Insulting or mocking anybody who has done no wrong is seen as an act of disrespect and will be heavily frowned upon.

 

 

Rites of Passage

 

Trial of Courage

In order for a beardling of the Grandaxe clan to become a full member, the dwarf will first be tasked by the clan father with bringing back the pelt of a wolf, slain in battle. After the pelt has been retrieved, it will be nailed to the beardling's wall, as a show of strength and pride.

 

 

Trial of Faith

Once this has been completed, the clan father will have the dwarf obtain the blessing of the dwarf's patron god, by taking the pilgrimage to their shrine. The shrines are located across the area of land surrounding Kal'Akash. When there, the beardling will be required to make an offering of his choice. Providing he survives the journey, he must return to the clan father and inform him that the task has been completed.

Trial of Strength

In this trial, the Beardling must ask an Orc for a duel. The winner of the duel will recieve tribute from the loser. If the Orc loses, it must give one tusk. If the Dwarf loses, they must give the orc their Beard, their axe, or Mina. It is important that the Dwarf takes only one tusk, and that the Orc is the one to cut it, if they so wish. It is not a Duel in which either fighter is killed, as it is a trial of Honour, not just strength.

Trial of Skill

This trial is either the first trial or the last trial a Beardling will face. This trial determines the skill of a Grandaxe, how he or she can use their axe and if they can match the skill of an Elder. To pass the trial, the Beardling must win a fight  against an Elder, or the Clan Father. Should they fail, they have a day to practice or rest, so they may try again.

 

 

 

The Ritual

Upon completion of each of the three tasks, the clan is gathered for a final feast and ritual, to celebrate the dwarf's rite of passage as a full member of the clan. Here, dwarves will gather, drink ale, sing songs of ancient battles and make tributes to the beardling's past achievements.

 

 

Lineages

 

The Braveaxe Line

Dwarves of the Braveaxe line are the purest in appearance of the original Grandaxe bloodline. They are characterised by their red hair, blue eyes and their fierce devotion to honour and order. Many look upon them as Kings and they make no effort to hide their noble origins. Their personalities tend to be more peaceful and diplomatic than kin outside their bloodline. Most notably, Thorik Grandaxe belonged to this bloodline.

 

The Blackaxe Line

Dwarves of the Blackaxe line are the more rebellious counterparts of their Braveaxe kin. They are characterized by their red hair and their distinct brown eyes that have come as a result of breeding with other mountain dwarf families. In the old days, these dwarves became infamous for their raids upon settlements who were deemed to have broken their strict code of honour. There is some disagreement amongst Blackaxes as to how far they should integrate themselves into the Grandaxe Clan. Mostly notably, the brothers Bazian Grandaxe and Valen Grandaxe belonged to this bloodline.

 

The Grimaxe Line

Dwarves of the Grimaxe line are unique amongst the Grandaxes in that they tend to have brown hair and brown eyes. Many are also shorter in stature than most mountain dwarves, due to breeding with other dwarven families. Over the years, they have developed their own identity that has set them apart from the other bloodlines and are known for being more militant and slightly arbitrary. They are the youngest branch of the clan and have much to prove to the rest of their kin. Most notably, Thorin Grandaxe belonged to this bloodline.

 

 

Clan Members

 

Kazrikkin

(Clan Father)

Svardin Grandaxe [Pepto_Bismol_]

Kazakezosmar

(Clan Elders)

 Torvin Grandaxe [Kevinblabla7]

Fimlin Grandaxe [Worldiswar28] 

 

Kazakronulmar

(Clan Brothers)

Aleksis Grandaxe [Aandie]

Dozor Grandaxe [Ender_Panda]

Kailon Grandaxe [Dashing_knight]

Valring Grandaxe [_IronHawk_]

Valrite Grandaxe [_1ns3rtNam3h3r3_]

Fíli Grandaxe [Cpt_Noobman]

Fimlin Grandaxe [Worldiswar28]

Aengoth Grandaxe [Aengoth]

Daros Grandaxe [llorasec]

Ognar Grandaxe [meanking]

Brenich Grandaxe [Brenich]

Heus Grandaxe [spartanred]

Raknol Grandaxe [GrouchyBadger]

Ioannis Grandaxe [ioannis]

Argis Grandaxe [Lekuma_]

Kirrekith Grandaxe [Kirrekith]

Hieden Grandaxe [CynicalKing]

Ketbur Grandaxe [Headcrab790]

Rusilka Grandaxe [Nyxxaa]

Tharggus Grandaxe [Tharggus]

Hackehen Grandaxe [Hackehen]

Freyja Grandaxe [Ayevia]

Tarub Grandaxe [Chaw]

Ezrixus Grandaxe [ExiledBlood]

Torvin Grandaxe [Kevinblabla7]

Dimlin Grandaxe [Beamon4]

Jorik Grandaxe [joenaj]

Duren Grandaxe [MCPancakes]

Astmar Grandaxe [Nerfman_]

Virim Grandaxe [_Gypsy]

Kazadwekimar

(Clan Beardlings)

Maggy Stormpike [HowardRunners]

 

 

Nadrare Kazakronulmar

(Missing Clan Brothers)

 

  Reveal hidden contents

Kaviros Kazakronulmar

(Deceased Clan Brothers)

Gulik Grandaxe [Cosmic_Cowboy]

Magna Grandaxe [ined]

Grimherst Grandaxe [watyll]

Rogan Grandaxe [smithy_Boy]

Stronghold Grandaxe [Mystronghold]

Vod Grandaxe [napaseT]

Chaecus Grandaxe [Meanking]

Othos Grandaxe [AxMaynard]

Valen Grandaxe [Zezimus]

Baorin Grandaxe [DJman13]

Barvek Grandaxe [Lagomorphia]

Delric Grandaxe [itzShambo]

Thorik Grandaxe [luchian]

Thorin Grandaxe [meanking]

Decks Grandaxe [decks13]

Dwinn Grandaxe [TEEbrown]

Oghren Grandaxe [exodawn]

Morgrim Grandaxe [Zezimus]

Terris Grandaxe [patu97]

Borin Grandaxe [sgt_Kipples]

Gortek Grandaxe [burkester]

Reklu Grandaxe [Recon_Soldier96]

Norik Grandaxe [Greenpelt201345]

Kili Grandaxe [mrdigdug118]

Lalkek Grandaxe [Musboris]

Vorstag Grandaxe-Ireheart [Sgt_Kipples]

 

Clan Diplomancy

 

Dwarven Clans:

Clan Ireheart - Blood Allies

Clan Irongut - Friendly

Clan Starbreaker - Neutral

Clan Irongrinder - Friendly

Clan Frostbeard - Neutral

Clan Goldhand - Neutral

Clan Treebeard - Neutral

Clan Doomforge - Neutral

Clan Oathcast - Unfriendly

 

Nations / Large Factions:

The Grand Kingdom of Urguan : Part of

The Kingdom of Oren: Neutral

The War Nation of Krug:  Neutral

The Republic of Salvus: Neutral

The Caliphate of Khalestine: Neutral

The Princedom of Fenn: Neutral

 

Clan Holds & Halls

 

 

Kal'Domhain

 

 

Kal'Domhain, the original hold of the Blackaxes, rested among the peeks to the far north of Oren. Far from the bustling cities of Aegis, it once stood as a home for mountain dwarves who wished to live away from the deep caves of Kal'Urguan. Many Grandaxes still live today who spent their early lives in Kal'Domhain, completing vigorous military training and living off of what the harsh land had to offer. Kal'Domhain was later abandoned when the majority of the remaining Blackaxes returned to Kal'Urguan and was likely destroyed in the fall of Aegis to the undead.

 

Kal'Anart

 

 

Kal'Anart, the mountain hold to the north of the dwarven Kingdom is well reputed as one of the finest works of mountain dwarf architecture, as well as one of the most defensive fortifications in Asulon. Originally built by Bazian Grandaxe and his kin during the third Dwarf - Orc war, it withstood many skirmishes by the orcs and their allies in House Flay. The hold acted as a home to the Grandaxes and a vital point for dwarven trade. It was left behind in the move to Anthos, and is believed by many dwarves to have been destroyed.

 

Kal'Azgoth Clan Hall

 

 

The Clan Hall in Kal'Azgoth was more cave-dwarvish then the previous holdings and halls. Despite the difference the Grandaxes resided within the Hall for many years before the move to Kal'Ithrun under Dizzy Irongrinder's reign. The hall was built by Oghren Grandaxe, who died not long after its construction.

 

Kal'Ithrun Clan Hall

 

 

Much like the hall in Kal'Azgoth it was made in the designated clan hall area. It was used rarely by the Clan, as during this time was the Clan's weakest point.

 

Kal'Arkon Clan Hall

 

 

Originally the Clan Hall in Kal'Arkon was in a dark corner far from the center of the city. Once the opportunity arose the hall was sold and a new one constructed just outside the city walls, atop the old fairground. The Hall was used regularly for many purposes, from education, crafting, and most certainly feasting.

 

Kal'Klad Clan Hall

 

 

The Clan Hall in Kal'Klad was positioned under the area known as "The Mountain District" where both Clans Grandaxe and Frostbeard lived. The hall was rarely used as the time spent by the mortal races in Thales was short-lived.

 

Kal'Agnar Clan Hall

 

 

The clan hall in Kal'Agnar moved frequently, its initial location was built into the southern mountainside, extending up three stories. After the removal of Midgor Ireheart from Grand King the hall was moved to a hill along the northern mountainside, however it was later destroyed and looted by the Undead after the fall of Kal'Agnar.

 

Ote'Kathaz

 

 

The hold ran by the Grandaxe and Irongrinder clans located in the Ankulos River Valley, south of the Elven Mountains. This hold is positioned on the coast of the harbor used to dock the dwarvish navy, and gets is primary trade from its accessibility to the ocean. The hold was abandoned after Zahrer Irongrinder became King and the Grandaxe Clan moved North to the lands that became known as Kal'Bogrin.

 

Kal’Bogrin

 

Kal'Bogrin is the hold that the Grandaxe Clan and its allies fled to after being banished by the corrupt Lords Council, and served as residence for the clan for many years. Built upon the ashes of Hanseti and the Undead castle after, the land of the hold was highly coveted by the Kingdom of Oren, who claimed to be the “rightful rulers” of the land because it was once settled by humans. The hold was abandoned during the Great Northern War between the Dwarves & Humans and the clan moved back south where it would later establish Kal'Eknar.

 

Kal’Eknar

 

 

 

A hold located in the Kazradin Foothills, south of Kal’Karaad, positioned next to the naval port and connected to the capital by a railway running through the mountain. The hold guarded the route between Elven Fiandria to the Orcish jungles. It became an important location in the trade of leather and wool materials until a war broke out with the Dwarves and Orcs. During the war with the Orcs the hold was besieged by the Orcish army, but was successfully defended when the defending dwarves charged out and overwhelmed the siege camp.

 

Kal’Valen

 

A hold located in the Northwestern Valley on the Isle of Avar, this is the current dwelling and capital seat of the Jarldom of Avar, which belongs to the Grandaxe Kazrikkin. The climate of the area has mild summers but mostly harsh winters, making it even harder to grow in the primarily rocky soil.

 

 

[Application]

 

Recruitment is currently open. Upon being accepted you will be promoted to a Beardling, and then given trials, or if either the Clan Father or an Elder sees fit that you become fully initiated. Before being fully accepted, you will further be put upon a two week trial to ensure that you are active enough to play the character.

 

The Reason for one's skype being asked for is to add said person to the Grandaxe Skype chat, where information about times and dates of events are distributed, never do we do a group skype call.

 

Professions are: Blacksmith, Lumberjack, Miner, Leatherworker, Woodworker, Farmer, Chef, Fisher, Enchanter, Stonemason, Breeder, and Tinker

 

 

MC Name:

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Character Age:

Character Family Lineage (See above):

Profession (See above):

Appearance:

An image of the skin you intend to use:

Skype Name (If you have it):

 

 

[wolfdwg 2677]

"Yh forgot m'h yh dingus." Virim Grandaxe states with a hurumpf.

[mirofel9 84]

Bruce Vesperi reads through the ancient dwarven volumes.  "I like this Eadune guy.  He really represents.  Too bad there was a coup and ole' Skippy Irongut got assassinated.  Really a shame.  Those were good times."

 

He'd set aside the book, take a long sip of ale, and chuckle to himself, knowing that Eadune was healthy and very much alive.

[ArborGold 85]

MC Name: ArborGold

Character Name: Asfrid (Grandaxe)

Character Age: 148

Character Family Lineage: The Braveaxe Line

Profession: Cook

Appearance:

Spoiler

Description included: http://imgur.com/a/ZrZNV

An image of the skin you intend to use:

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Skype Name: [Already added to Chat]

[TEEbrown 348]

Bazian waddles around Kal'Omith leaning on his cane in one hand and an ale in the other.

 

"Lo ye lazy Grandasses. Its toime to get off yer arses 'nd 'elp rebuildin' th' clan!  Get ah movin' dere is much to do! Dear is ah clan'all to be built!"

 

The old dwarf continues his waddle as he yells at various Grandaxes and thwomps a few dwarves with his cane.