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by High Chronicler Valerius of Winterhold
A history of Skyrim's early High Kings
The Ballad of the Skerd (or Skerdskvitha in old Nordic) is a First Era ode dedicated to the dynasty of Ysgramor. While it has fallen out of favor in recent centuries, in its heyday it was a popular and much loved sonnet typically recited at royal ceremonies and events.
- O father Ysgramor, eternal harbinger of us all.
- Avenged the fall of Saarthal when Five Hundred answered his call.
- O fearsome Ylgar, with his father crossed the sea.
- Led Five Hundred through the land and stayed true to the Decree.
- O righteous Heimverlund, the most honorable high priest.
- Betrayed by our wicked elders at the Fateful Feast.
- O fearless Jafnhar, was as brave as any knight.
- Martyred at the Monahven as he sought his birthright.
- O glorious Valdimar, blessed scourge of dragonkind.
- His prayers gave us the blessed Voice which thereafter became enshrined.
- O ruthless Hjornskar, in countless battles blood was spilled.
- O mighty Einarth, our kingdom's rule he did increase.
- Driving back the Ashen Elves he took from them the east.
- O virtuous Hrogar, sought vengeance for brother slain.
- Fought long against the Brazen Beasts, westward he made his claim.
- O honorable Bjarfrud, cunning warlord of the 'kreath.
- Slain by the Heartland Elves, the forests became his wreath.
- O beloved Vundheim, most exalted Harbinger of Whiterun.
- His devotion to the people hath yet to be outdone.
- O wise Valdar, honored keeper of the lore.
- Jhunal-blessed and sighted-far, his deep counsel prevented war.
- O mighty Haknir, stalwart defender of the realm.
- Slew the traitorous dragon, from its bones he forged his helm.
- O resplendent Harald, sought One Tamriel in his day.
- The Exalted Crusade his issue true, indeed it paved the way.
- O unworthy Hjalmer, his rule was Skyrim's bane.
- By grace of Shor his brother own ended the calamitous reign.
- O exalted Vrage, his mighty warhorn truly heard.
- From east to west his empire stretched and brought glory to the Skerd.
- O magnificent Gellir, alongside Mor he took White-Gold.
- His crushing victory against Brazen Beasts must've been a sight to behold.
- O bewitching Yrsa, her long life she served in full.
- Grievously betrayed by her southern kin alongside the Sacred Bull.
- O depraved Borgas, your name is scorned among even bards.
- May Shor deny your soul to walk among true Nords in Sovengarde.