Because of their unusual origins, the Istania have never possessed a singular social structure. They emerged from many different races, and so their societies reflect a wide variety of traditions and practices. The one thread that bound them together, however, was a deep-rooted fear of magic. Every Istania understands the dangers it could bring, and this collective caution pushed them toward martial disciplines and into communities where magic was less prominent.

Over time, as arcane knowledge became better understood, this fear gradually shifted into more of a cultural phobia. One that diminished with each passing generation. Even so, many Istanians continued to distance themselves from magical centers of power, determined to avoid repeating the catastrophe of the Shattering. Others chose the opposite path, studying nullification magic fueled by the Hush, designed to counter and suppress arcane practices. Perhaps to ensure that no force could ever again wield such destructive control over their kind again.