Umûni
The Umûni are the veteran captains and lieutenants of the Ekhamâti, sworn to the service of Bârshud II, Warlord of Ekhamât. Hardened by years of warfare across the deserts of Shagâna and the contested fields of Ambarûl and Khûd Zagin, they embody both the military discipline and the ruthless ambition of their master's war-host. Though not bound to any one tribe, the Umûni form the backbone of the Ekhamâti command structure, leading war-bands in the name of conquest.
The title Umûn is derived from the Shagâni tongue, meaning "pillar." Its plural, Umûni, is used for the collective body of officers. The name carries both reverence and dread, as their presence often signifies the will of the Shâr himself. Feared both within and beyond the South, the Umûni are known for their scars, trophies, and uncompromising loyalty. Many of them hold distinct titles—Weaponmaster, Spirit-caller, or Lady of the Pride—each reflecting the specialized roles they play within the armies of Ekhamât.
Role in the Ekhamâti
The Umûni are drawn from among the most accomplished of the Haradrim, elevated by Bârshud II not for bloodline or heritage but for their ability to command men and inspire fear. Their duties include leading detachments of soldiers into battle, guarding key fortresses and outposts such as Dun Shûma and Garash Kâru, executing the warlord's will in diplomacy, intimidation, or assassination, and enforcing discipline among the fractious warriors of the South. Wherever the banner of Ekhamât is raised, an Umûn is usually found at its heart, ensuring that the war-host holds together against both Gondor and rival Haradrim claimants such as Mizâdi.
Notable Umûni
Several Umûni are encountered during the campaign against Bârshud II:
- Khûldim Umûn – Former overseer of Ambarûl and a steadfast follower of the One Who Sees All. Later imprisoned in Girhâzi's Lodge at Iridír, he meets his end at Ashunûg during the quest Searching for Hope.
- Weaponmaster Mâkhragab – Renowned pit-fighter and duelist, encountered in Dun Shûma, The King's Fortress. Wielding axe and twin blades with equal mastery, he commands great respect among the Ekhamâti until he is slain by Mizâdi and her allies.
- Ushdâla, Lady of the Pride – A lion-tamer and battlefield commander, she fights alongside her trained beasts, the Lions of Ekhamât, at Dun Shûma.
- Zidunâm, the Spirit-caller – A sorcerer of Ordâkh who infiltrated Bârshud's host. Though counted among the Umûni, he ultimately reveals his allegiance to Kâlach Hûl, The Black Serpent and takes on the form of Zidunâm, the Serpent Reborn before his defeat.
- Rumûza – Commander of the Ekhamât camp at Garash Kâru in Ambarûl. She is encountered within the largest tent of the encampment.