Ulamba

The Kingdom of Ulamba is a chiefly Xhalantu land located in southeastern Idiri, with a coastline bordering the Sea of Salaah to the east and the Ragged Sea to the south. It is a hereditary monarchy whose kings may be either men or women, supported by a number of landholding noble families who owe their loyalty to the crown. Much of its settled population is located in the healthier heights in the middle of the country, where its capital Dhola impresses vistors with its substantial granite architecture and sweeping views.

Ulamba's prosperity is founded upon the twin pillars of its great cattle herds and the trade in gold and iron from the mines in its interior. It also grows cotton in its river valleys, as well as sorghum and millet. The kingdom is known for its excellent goldsmiths and stonemasons, and has a strong tradition of supporting artisans of all kinds who supply Ulamba's royalty and nobility as well as producing fine wares for export. Strong commercial ties connect it to the nearby demicontinent of Jalanjhur, as well as with the lands of South Idiri and the Sirdabi Caliphate. It has an age-old rivalry with its neighbor the Niyone Confederation, and also finds the piratically-inclined Zendizi Isles to be a frequent thorn in its side.

While not a highly aggressive state overall, Ulamba tends to be engaged in continual border and cultural disputes with Niyone. Warrior societies are important in the kingdom, though their role is social as much as it is martial. Although most of these societies are male-only, a few female groups also exist and are equally respected. Skilled with spear, sword, and shield, the warriors of Ulamba are admired by their friends and feared by their foes, and individual societies can sometimes be found far beyond the borders of the kingdom serving as mercenaries.