House Hjarta

The Coat of Arms of House Hjarta

The House Hjarta, once known as the House Hjarta-Viromaro, is a noble houses originating from western Ardoragh. They are known for their palatial home, one of the largest in the world, and for their contributions to the preservation of nature across the Empire.

Origins

Amantis and Freya on the day of their wedding

The Marriage of Grand Duchess Freya and Prince Amantis:

During the middle of the Fourth Era, Emperor Alexander Viromaro tried to improve the Empire's relations with the then Six Provinces, specifically Ardoragh. This prompted him to construct a lavish hunting lodge, Skaði Palace, deep in the Ardoraghi forests. It was here where the future Emperor Louis Viromaro and three years later Prince Amantis Viromaro were born. Both youths grew up in Helmira, but when they turned seventeen were sent back to Ardoragh to study at the University of Ardoria. Here Amantis met Lady Freya Hjarta. The House Hjarta, though of noble blood, had served as Knights under the Dukes of Kreonix and were among the poorest noble families in the Empire. The two fell deeply in love, and soon married. Emperor Alexander jumped at the opportunity to show how lower Ardoraghi and the highest nobility can become whole in the Empire, and ensured that the grand wedding was celebrated with unparalleled opulence. The festivities began in Helmira, the Empire's capital, and spread to all the provinces, including Ardoria and Solleria. Citizens from all corners of the Empire flocked to witness the love story of Freya and Amantis. Freya captured the hearts of the peasants with her grace and beauty. The ceremony itself took place inside the White-Gold Tower's throne room and was blessed by the Arch Bishop of Helmira. The couple's love story quickly became a beloved tale across the Empire.

Their Life in Sanssouci Palace and the Creation of Fjarthrond Palace:

Fjarthrond Palace

The Death of Amantis

The tomb of Duchess Freya Hjarta

Following their wedding and their honeymoon in Imperia as guests of House Von Dragestein, and later in the Duchy of Lotric on the insistence of Louis, who was good friends with the Thomas Mace Duke of Lotric, they had a grand vision – to build one of the largest and most opulent palaces in the world. Fjarthrond Palace, nestled amidst lush forests, became a testament to their love and ambitions. They worked tirelessly on its construction, which spanned several years, sparing no expense to ensure its magnificence.

But their love extended beyond the palace's grandeur. Freya and Amantis dedicated themselves to the preservation of nature across the Empire and improving the living conditions of the Ardoraghi peasants. Amantis, with access to the Viromaro fortune, initiated various projects aimed at the welfare of the common people. Their joint efforts made them beloved figures, not only among the nobility but also among the common folk.

The Tragic End of Amantis:

However, their love story, admired throughout the Empire, was tragically cut short. Amantis embarked on a fateful voyage on his ship, the Blooming Rose, to Helmira to welcome the state funeral of his father Alexander and the coronation of his brother Louis. A violent storm in the treacherous Mediori Sea claimed his life, leaving Freya alone with their two daughters.

With Amantis's death, the House Hjarta was stripped of its Grand Duke/Duchess title and relegated to mere Dukes and Duchess. Freya and her descendants continued to live in Fjarthrond Palace, using their fortune for the preservation of the grand forests surrounding the palace. Though still wealthy, they held no real political power, serving as a reminder of their past glory.

Legacy and Remembrance:

The grave of Freya Hjarta became a place of pilgrimage, visited by Ardoraghi peasants, nature enthusiasts, and all those who admired her charitable efforts. They continued to lay flowers and offerings at her tomb, honoring her memory and the love she shared with Amantis. The story of the noble couple, whose love transcended politics and class, lived on as a symbol of hope, unity, and the enduring power of love in the Kythiran Empire's rich history.