The Diarchy Tradition

The Diarchy Tradition is a tradition unique to the Kingdom of the Kaldrheim Isles. The tradition came into existence when the Kaldrheim Isles united.

The tradition demands two monarchs, one monarch ruling Dáinneyjar and Ard Kaldrheim, and the other ruling Aráinn and Rainnvaig. These monarchs rule the west and the east respectively, but are part of the same realm, the Kaldrheim Isles. Together this realm makes the Kingdom of the Kaldrheim Isles.

Meáinvik Journey
To maintain the unity between the two kingdoms, there is a tradition of the two monarchs travelling to Meáinvik together. This is to find a Meáinviki clan smith that will forge a hammer for the ruler of Dáinn, and two arrowheads for the ruler of Aráinn, symbolizing the weapons of the Valtivar. These weapons are made from strong iron, a material unknown to anyone outside Meáinvik.

By befriending a Meáinviki smith, they show their prowess of diplomacy, and by surviving in the wild lands of Meáinvik, they show their strength and intellect. The bond between the two rulers after this journey is nearly indestructible, as they have endured extreme trials in Meáinvik.

The journey is also a way to prove their worthiness to each of the two councils of Jarls, and seal their place as the rightful ruler of their respective kingdom.

As one ruler might be too old or too ill (such as if they are injured, crippled or otherwise incapacitated) to embark on the journey, and since rulers rarely are elected at the same time, hence unlikely the same age, the part unable to journey may choose a champion to travel in their stead. This champion should they succeed, will be highly regarded and will receive lands and wealth. Being a former champion is also a quick way to a Jarldom or even a chance of election as ruler.

Some rulers have embarked on multiple journeys, but that is rare. Once a king of Aráinn journeyed three times, when turmoil in the Kingdom of Dáinn, cost three kings their lives in a decade of blood. Rejecting a journey is looked down upon, as it is seen as a great honor and blessing by the gods.