As a result of the expansion and contraction of mandala, places of importance are known by more than one name.

Muang Sua is the name of Louangphrabang following its conquest in 698 by a Thai prince, Khun Lo, who seizes his opportunity when Nanzhao is engaged elsewhere.

Khun Lo had been awarded the town by his father, Khun Borom, who is associated with the Lao legend of the creation of the world, which the Lao share with the Shan and other peoples of the region.

Khun Lo establishes a dynasty whose fifteen rulers will reign over an independent Muang Sua for the better part of a century.