Mahada (ma-HA-da)
The Mahada consist of nine large families that have become entertwined over the years, so that they are simply one big clan. These are the descendents of the nine casters who took control of the Khaldai region after they discovered the healing properties of Aspium on the magically talented.
The original members of the Mahada were refugees, forced from mainstream society into the dangerous lands of the Kebat Hills, the southern portion of the Valdare Range, around 220 AS. Suffering from the Pains and running short on supplies, they took what shelter they could in the volcanic area. Here they found the silvery-white powder that was Aspium, and in their desperation they tried it, washing it down with bad wine, all they had left to drink. The relief they felt was instant, and they began to collect what was loose on the ground.
As their ability to use their powers without pain returned to them, they were able to locate the sources deep beneath the ground. This was what they needed. With the help of Aspium, they conquered the whole of the Khaldai region, using magic, and sweeping up casters and other supporters on their way. The cure was one that only they knew, and they held that secret tightly. They set their capital in what is now Maidus, and began building the massive Juratha Palace. Each of them married a fellow caster, so that magic would stay in the bloodline, and any children who did not have the talented were culled from the group. Since then, all marriages have been within those nine families.
So the eldest magic-talented children of the families of the Mahada have continued to reign, monopolizing power and Aspium, both. As the only effective magic-wielders in Khaldai, and so exclusive and close-knit, they have developed almost a mythos about them. The Mahada are seen as unassailable rulers, in an eternal dynasty. The only thing to shake that appearance was when their northern neighbors, Polira, were also able to obtain Aspium, courtesy of an exiled family member. They are much harsher with those who do not meet their standards, now, issuing a sentence of death to any offspring not able to wield magic.
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