The Maghavans are counted among the gods, for they possess every attribute considered divine: they are immortal, they know the hidden “reverse side” of the world, they perceive the past and future with inner sight, and they read and weave the strands of fate. Their power and wisdom are equal to those of the invisible potencies. Furthermore, none can defeat or slay a Maghavan without succumbing to death themselves; thus, there is no Maghavan in the world who has ever been vanquished while his rival stood over him.
The Maghavans arose in the distant Age of the Azharians as the fruit of the deepest lores and the highest arts. Yet the work of the creators surpassed all expectations; the children outgrew their parents, and the parents could no longer comprehend them. The Maghavans renounced their original purpose and embarked upon their own path.
How does a Maghavan become himself? None know the hidden mystery; only silent legends whisper muddled conjectures. What is certain is that the moment of birth arrives during the Trial, preceded by decades of study filled with renunciation and supreme labor. This study comprises a synthesis of all disciplines that the ancient founders and perpetual refiners deemed to lead like a thread through the darkness toward the goal. The apprentice learns the secrets of nature, matter, the cosmos, culture, combat, emergence, and decay, as well as the mysteries of their own mind. During the final Trial, they perceive their former humanity as a ridiculous caterpillar stage—one that is meaningless without the “Maghavanship” that relates to it as a butterfly. Reaching the goal, their mind turns forever away from the paths of both mortals and immortals, and they embark upon the Pilgrimage.
Occasionally, a wise man might remark that the tales of the Maghavans’ origin and power are inflated by folk chatter; that if they truly possessed such power and wisdom, all strife in the world would have long since vanished under their enlightened guidance and the guarantee of their might. However, someone even wiser often accuses the first sage of an ignorance of history.
The attire and appearance of the Maghavans have remained the same through all ages. There are three branches of the Order: Aiurnant, Kirlanant, and Gandharnant. All share a common mark, the true insignia of Maghavanship—a small diamond set above the bridge of the nose. Furthermore, the robes and armaments of each branch differ slightly; according to ancient traditions, colors and ornamentation are meticulously chosen, with every detail of dress conforming to tradition.
Most Maghavans on Qurand reside in Gandhara. In this land, every community is headed by a Maghavan who serves as a silent advisor and an ever-present arbiter of all affairs. Outside the borders of the Eastern Empire, only a small number reside—mostly in Sairis, with only a few in Garion, Sirgon, and Alpasthanara.
