Zhuma

Zhuma is governed by two sisters. Marjanah, the Marchioness, Water-Witch and Protector of the Realm, is a powerful witch who maintains an iron grip over Zhuma's politics. She is considered the only legitimate governor-wizard in Erwt. Her younger sister Serafima, Countess of Zhuma and Chief of State, has no magical powers, but possesses enormous political and economic ability. Together, they have ruled Zhuma for 60 years, growing the minor desert nation into a major economic and cultural power by leveraging mineral riches (especially gold and iron) and building an advanced network of aqueducts and irrigation systems to support the population.

The wealth generated by the laborers in the mines is concentrated in the hands of the few who control the mineral resources, the water, the food, and the ports. In Zhuma, the water is the limiting resource, so the wealth is concentrated there, and that's the Marchioness. The palace and the Temple of the Chalice are far and away the most opulent in Zhuma, and perhaps the world, because few places have such a centralized economy.

Zhuman mineral wealth is chiefly in gold and iron. Some gemstones such as tourmaline, olivine, and emeralds are also mined.

The capital of Zhuma is called Spring. Originally its name was Guigur, but the Chalice Temple or Cistern was built outside the old city. The Chalice complex spread out and developed, until it became the wealthy district of Diso, with poorer districts arranged around it, Guigur being the oldest and poorest of the lot. After one of many uprisings, the reigning Wizard-King constructed an enchanted stone wall around Diso. Whosoever touches the wall is turned to stone immediately, so it is an effective barrier between the social classes in Spring.