The Arshaum were a race of nomads who lived in Shaumkil, west of the Shaum in the Pardrayan steppe. They invaded the western part of the steppes, pushing the Khamorth east of the Shaum river. The Khamorth view them as near-supernatural figures of dread. The Arshaum are divided into many clans and kindreds, led by khagans in a manner similar to the Khamorth. The Arshaum are fierce warriors and have physical characteristics that include flat faces, little facial hair and slanted eyes. They have a shamanistic religion that involves worship of the various spirits, notably the wind spirits.