House Maelthra

House Maelthra was until recently a minor household of Clan Keltormiir, however since 1112 their fate has shifted somewhat dramatically. A typically Drow household, still holding to many of the older traditions of the Drow. 

In recent years however the House as deviated slightly controversially. The former Il'haress had named a fae as her daughter. This became an oddity when the Ilharess died with no other heirs. This was questioned and fought over, until their home came under attack, at which point the decisive actions of the new fae heir cemented her position amongst the populace, and the faction.

The house has become a prominent contributor to the faction, its members bearing a number of titles of great respect, including High Healer, High Diplomat, Minister of External Affairs, High Mage, General's and even Regent. Every day this family continues to impress and move up within Tarantula society.

Whilst their home territory is a major trading centre for the Underdark, House Maelthra largely leave the trade markets to their own devices and offers little in the way of trade specialities.

Heraldry

House Maelthra can be recognised by a spider, commonly white on black, and often trimmed again in white.

It is typical for members of this household to wear a belt sash of knee length bearing this symbol, it is not unusual for members to carry a variation of this style.

An inverted version of this emblem (black on white) may be worn by those that have been offered the protection or hospitality of the household.

 

Lineage 

Exactly when House Maelthra became recognised as an independant household has been lost to history, however we do know that the house is descendant of Clan Keltomiir of the Aquillari, and are of a small number of the Aquillari that undertook the great ritual to become Drow.

Residence

House Maelthra claim Rivenrock and its outlying settlements as their home.

The populace have a lot of affection for the household, that have stood and bled with its people even during times of war. A particular fondness has grown for the non-drow Dalharil, who rather than be threatened and intimidated by the Demonfey, stood and took strong actions to preserve the pride of the city and the household. There were many casulaties following this decision, yet the people flocked to her - reassured by her strength of will and determination.

 

Leadership

House Maelthra is a traditional drow household, with a few minor exceptions. Whilst the household should typically be led by a drow Il'haress, none of the current bloodline are of age or strength enough to claim the title. So unusually for a drow household, it is currently led by a fae, named as the chosen successor and adopted daughter of the previous Il'haress Sinda Maelthra.

More traditionally, menial tasks are then managed by a number of lesser titles that those within the household will compete over. Quel'Saruk (weapon master) and Seneschal act as the right and left hand of the Il'haress. Again as would be traditional, for matters of faith the Il'haress turns to her Yathrin (priestess).

Recent History

Gathering of 1112

During 1112 The Lady Sinda attempted to make inroads back to her family ties with House Maelthra, and was snubbed - despite her new contacts within Tarantulan 'High-Society'. This was seen as very odd behaviour by all those involved, and after calling on many old favours Tathal was able to uncover the truth.

The Guardians forces were being allowed to pass through the lands freely, and House Maelthra's trade caravans were being ignored by him. They had struck a bargain.

This, obviously, could not be tolerated.

The Lady Sinda lead those of the Household loyal to her, along with Members of Storm Head to destroy this alliance. Ultimately this lead to her taking the chair of Rivenrock and House Maelthra, and now claims the title Il'haress Maelthra.

Despite now taking her home at Rivenrock, Il'haress Maelthra - and indeed her household still hold Storm Head in the highest of respect. For the shelter originally offered, for the introductions into Tarantula society, and for their support in claiming Rivenrock.