Umphunga

Umphunga

Umphunga is one of The Cardinal Swords of Tau. The sword was forged by the Noghri Bladesmith Sekou Tau himself and embodies the essence of steam.

Forging

Umphunga was forged third among the Cardinal Swords. The master smith embodied Umphunga with the essence of the steam. The essence itself is clouded in mystery but there is one part that is known, that being elemental steam itself. This essence of steam gives the blade an added combat advantage. When Umphunga is swung through the air, it generates a steam cloud, distracting an opponent and shielding its user. When it connects with an object, the sword generates a burst of highly concentrated steam. This steam is hot enough to scorch the skin of most sentients, even through armor, giving Umphunga's user a distinct combat advantage. Due to the care that is required to avoid being steam burned, the forging process for this sword was approximately a month in length.

Battle-testing and Ownership

Upon the completion of the forging process, the sword is turned over to a Var Kelen high priest. This priest endows it with special Force powers, unique to the Cardinal Swords. Once this was done, an acolyte field tests the weapon, ensuring that it was of sufficient caliber to be sold. Umphunga easily passed the trials. A group of Kintan Striders was the target of Umphunga's acolyte user. Having passed the combat testing, Umphunga was placed on the market, but not just to anyone. The Cardinal Swords are priced to be for those who understand their true value and will thus put them to good use. Umphunga ended up in the hands of Zaff Daroona.