Halvard Bjornulf Thorsson
Master Halvard Bjornulf Thorsson (* 1834) is a teacher at the Greannmhar School of Magick. Hailing from a long line of Scandinavian wizards, he is an expert in runecrafting, sigil magic, and magic circles, with his family roots tracing back to Old Norse traditions. At 189 years old (by 2023), he is notably aged even by magus standards. Throughout his extensive career, he has served as a councilor in royal courts on matters of occultism and divination. Despite his stern and somewhat grumpy demeanor, he is a dedicated and effective teacher.
Personality
Master Thorsson is known for his stern and serious nature. His long years of experience have made him wise but also somewhat grumpy, particularly when dealing with frivolous behavior. However, beneath his rough exterior lies a genuine dedication to his students and a passion for imparting his vast knowledge. He expects discipline and hard work, but he is also fair and just, rewarding genuine effort and skill.
Appearance
Halvard Thorsson’s appearance is as imposing as his reputation. He has a wrinkled face, with white hair and a long, flowing beard that speaks to his venerable age and wisdom. His face is slightly crooked, with a pronounced crooked nose and his left eye positioned slightly lower than his right. These features, combined with his piercing gaze, give him a distinctive and somewhat intimidating presence.
Teaching
At Greannmhar School of Magick, Master Thorsson teaches runecrafting, sigil magic, and the creation of magic circles. His classes are rigorous and demand a high level of precision and dedication from his students. Thorsson places great emphasis on the historical and cultural significance of the magical symbols and encourages his students to understand the deep-rooted traditions from which these practices stem. His lessons are known to be challenging but immensely rewarding for those who put in the effort.
Personal History
Born into a prestigious family of Scandinavian wizards in 1834, Halvard Bjornulf Thorsson’s lineage can be traced back to the Old Norse era. His family's roots lie deep in the ancient traditions of magic, with ancestors who served as seers and shamans to Viking chieftains. In 1865, at the age of 31, Thorsson began serving as a counselor in the Austro-Hungarian court under Emperor Franz Joseph I. His role was crucial in advising on matters of occult significance, interpreting omens, and providing solutions to political and social dilemmas. Thorsson’s knowledge of runecrafting and sigil magic made him an invaluable asset, particularly in matters of diplomacy where his divinatory skills were employed to foresee political outcomes and ensure favorable treaties. He also served as a liaison between the royal court and the Austro-Hungarian Magistry.
Halvard's tenure at the Austro-Hungarian court was marked by several notable events, including the interpretation of a rare celestial event that was believed to signal a prosperous era for the empire. His reputation for accuracy and wisdom in occult matters earned him the respect of both the monarchy and the nobility. After the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, Thorsson faced a period of uncertainty.
From 1918 onwards, Thorsson traveled extensively across Europe and the Middle East, seeking out ancient magical knowledge and artifacts. He spent several decades in Egypt, where he studied ancient Egyptian magic and integrated it into his practice. During the 1930s, Thorsson returned to Scandinavia, where he focused on preserving and revitalizing Old Norse magical traditions. He joined a secretive magical society dedicated to the study and practice of ancient runes and sigils, which operated discreetly during the tumultuous years of World War II.
In the post-war years, Thorsson served as an advisor to various magical councils and academies across Europe. His extensive travels and scholarly work made him a renowned figure in the magical community. He published numerous papers and books on runecrafting and sigil magic, contributing significantly to the academic study of these fields.
It wasn't until the late 20th century that he was invited to join the faculty at the Greannmhar School of Magick. Although he is officially retired, he accepted the position, eager to pass on his vast knowledge to the next generation of wizards. Since then, he has been a cornerstone of the school, known for his rigorous and deeply insightful teaching methods.
Wand (Staff)
Unlike the typical European wands, Master Thorsson wields a staff, a testament to his unique approach to magic and his deep respect for his heritage. The staff, crafted by Thorsson himself, is made from yew wood, a tree native to Scandinavia and known for its magical properties. The tip of the staff features an intricate pattern of roots twisted and woven together. Runes of power are meticulously carved along its length, each symbol representing a significant aspect of his magical practice. This staff is not just a tool but a symbol of his connection to the ancient traditions of his ancestors.