Grindstone

A highly esteemed cultural weapon of the Svartalfar. Considered synonymous with strength and worthiness among them, its name is often used to swear oaths. It resembles a sledgehammer of normal size and made of granite, but its weight varies considerably for each person, some individuals having recorded it as weighing more than a ton.   Made by the smith and carver Steinn Hallhamrrir for king Agni Alvardr, and carried by him until his death, whereupon it was taken up by his son Magni. When there was uncertainty as to the next suitable heir after Magni, the ability to lift the hammer became one of the chief considerations for proving one's merit. Since then, it has become custom and law that all prospective kings must lift the hammer, and it is kept in the center of the council chamber of the Thing, within view of the king and councillors at all times.