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
The Marriage of Grand Duchess Freya and Prince Amantis:
In the heart of the Kythiran Empire, a land steeped in tradition and politics, Emperor Callidus Viromaro sought to strengthen his family's power and the Empire's unity. To achieve this, he arranged the marriage of his son, Prince Amantis, fourth in line to the throne, to the 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 union was not just about politics but also aimed at improving the Viromaro family's public image.
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:
Following their wedding and their honeymoon in Imperia as guests of House Von Dragestein, the newlyweds resided in Sanssouci Palace in the northern Riverlands. However, 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 arrival of the Kaiser of Imperius during the Dervich Incident's final days. 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.