In the golden age of Viking Norway (9th–11th century), it was customary for the king to have the best dock reserved for his ship, along with accommodations for his nobles and soldiers. However, during the period of joint rule (1042–1047), Norway was governed by Magnus I "the Good" (1024–1047) and his uncle Harald III Sigurdsson, known as "Hardrada" (1015–1066). They were the son and brother, respectively, of the late King Olaf "the Saint." The only good blood shared between them was that of their deceased relative, as their vastly different temperaments often put them at odds. 

Magnus was mild-mannered and thoughtful, while Harald embodied the archetypal Viking: a skilled warrior, wise yet ruthless. These differences, along with their age gap, often led to disagreements over joint decisions for ruling the divided kingdom of Norway. Their disputes were not only verbal but occasionally escalated further, as each considered himself the rightful superior.

One day, after a voyage, Harald docked his ship at the royal berth, violating the agreement that granted Magnus the right of precedence to the king's dock. When Magnus arrived and saw his uncle’s ship occupying the space, he felt insulted and threatened Harald with war, accusing him of breaking their pact and dishonoring him. True to their natures, Magnus upheld the law, while Harald relied on brute strength.

Realizing Magnus was genuinely prepared to fight, Harald ordered his men to cut the moorings, calmed his soldiers, and relinquished the dock to his nephew. The two later met onshore and quarreled over the incident. Before departing by ship, Harald remarked sarcastically, "It is an ancient custom that the wiser man must yield [the dock]", mocking Magnus and implying that he, Harald, was both stronger and wiser.

Such disputes persisted throughout their co-reign until Magnus I’s death, after which Harald III ruled the kingdom alone with an iron fist. Despite his firm grip, Harald ushered in a prosperous era of trade and strengthened Norway’s currency.