Qunari

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The Qunari (literally, "People of the Qun") is the umbrella term most commonly used to describe the white-haired, metallic-skinned race of large humanoids and their society that governs the islands of Par Vollen and Seheron, as well as the settlement of Kont-aar in northern Rivain, and Qundalon in the Anderfels.

Members of any race who adhere to the teachings of the Qun can become "Qunari", but those other than the original giant race, that is humans, elves, and dwarves, are called Viddathari within the Qun. Humans of Rivain and elven slaves of Tevinter are especially susceptible to conversion, although it is not unknown for members of other groups to embrace the Qun.

Members of the aforementioned race born outside of the Qun are not considered to be Qunari within their own society. They are called "Vashoth", which means "grey ones"; likewise those who abandon the Qun willingly are known as "Tal-Vashoth", "true grey ones". Most Tal-Vashoth are former soldiers and become mercenaries, and are considered by Qunari to be worse than bas—who are non-Qunari foreigners. Vashoth are considered "redeemable," while Tal-Vashoth are not.

Members of the Qunari race are rarely seen outside of their lands with the exception of Rivain. During the Dragon Age, a fleet of Qunari ships sank in the Waking Sea between Ferelden and Free Marches, which resulted in Qunari presence in both of these lands. Tal-Vashoth are much more present in non-Qunari lands, most commonly as elite mercenaries, such as the Kadan-Fe in Ferelden and the Valo-Kas in the Free Marches.

### Naming Conventions:

There are very few if any Qunari who know their birth name. These names, kept by the Tamassrans, are made secret. Instead, Qunari are named for the role they play in society. For those of the Beresaad this is specifically a military rank. Some suitable ranks are given below, with descriptions in parenthesis. The Tal-Vashoth, having generally rejected Qunari society, do not abide by these naming conventions. Since the names of their ancestors are lost to them, many take to choosing a qunlat word and using that as their name. Examples again are below, with descriptions in parenthesis.Those who follow the Qun will only call others who follow the Qun by their rank in the Qun. Individuals can give themselves their own name to accommodate for the naming in Conan.

Male Names:

1. Sten (infantry platoon commander)
2. Arishok
3. Saarebas
4. Tamassran
5. Adaar
6. Krem
7. Iron Bull
8. Tallis (assassin)
9. Qamek
10. Gatatog
11. Adaar
12. Ashaad (scout)
13. Qunasala
14. Shokra-taar
15. Rasaan
16. Tamaan
17. Qataar
18. Havard
19. Inaam
20. Karasaad (mid-rank infantry soldier)
21. Karashok (Private)
22. Karasten (corporal)

Tal-Vashoth names:

1. Aban (the sea)
2. Dathras (Cattle)
3. Hissra (Illusion)
4. Issala (dust)
5. Kadan (Death)
6. Maraas (nothing)
7. Sataa (the world)
8. Shok (Struggle)
9. Taam-kas (Battle axe)

Titles and Ranks:

1. Arishok (Military leader)
2. Saarebas (Mage)
3. Tamassran (Teacher, especially responsible for raising the Qunari children)
4. Viddathlok (Priest)

## General Appearance:

### Height:

Qunari are notably tall and imposing, often towering over humans and other races. Male qunari, in particular, can reach heights of 7 feet or more. 170-220 cm

### Build:

Qunari possess a robust and muscular build, reflecting their strength and physical prowess. Their bodies are adapted for combat and endurance. Qunari VERY RARELY have tails, but can choose whether they have horns or not.

### Facial Features:

#### Horns:

One of the most iconic features of qunari is their large, curved horns that protrude from their foreheads. The shape and size of these horns can vary among individuals, and they are often a source of pride and identity.

#### Eyes:

Qunari eyes are typically vibrant and intense, with colors ranging from gold and amber to red and violet. Their eyes convey a sense of determination and focus.

#### Facial Structure:

Qunari have strong, angular facial features with prominent cheekbones and defined jawlines. Their skin can range from various shades, including light grays to deep blues.

#### Hair and Beards:

##### Hair:

Qunari hair is typically short and coarse, and it often has a unique texture. Hair colors can vary, including black, white, and shades of gray.

##### Beards:

Male qunari may grow facial hair, including beards, although the style and length can differ. Beards are not universal among qunari, and individual grooming choices may reflect personal or cultural preferences.

#### Skin:

##### Skin Tone:

Qunari skin tones cover a wide range, from pale grays to deep blues and purples. The variation in skin color is often linked to factors such as lineage, regional origin, or specific physical characteristics.

##### Tattoos and Paint:

Some qunari may have intricate facial tattoos or paint markings that hold cultural or personal significance. These markings can denote achievements, status, or adherence to specific roles within qunari society.

#### Clothing and Armor:

##### Qunari Armor:

Qunari armor is often utilitarian and designed for battle. It is sturdy and provides ample protection, reflecting the qunari's focus on combat and discipline.

##### Cultural Adornments:

Qunari may wear cultural adornments, such as jewelry or accessories, often reflecting their role within qunari society. These items may include symbols of the Qun or personal talismans.

#### Distinguishing Features:

##### Qunari Horn Talons:

Some qunari have talons or sharp tips at the ends of their horns. These can be used for various purposes, including combat or personal expression.

##### Qunari Voices:

Qunari voices are distinctive, often deep and resonant. The way they speak reflects their disciplined and straightforward nature, and their tone can convey a wide range of emotions.

##### Qunari Stature:

The overall physical presence of qunari, including their height, build, and horns, contributes to an imposing and formidable appearance, reflecting their role as warriors and adherents to the Qun.

## History

### Ancient Origins:

#### Par Vollen:

The qunari's homeland, Par Vollen, is a vast and distant land across the Boeric Ocean. The qunari civilization developed there, guided by a strict philosophy known as the Qun.

#### The Qun:

The Qun is more than a mere philosophy; it is a way of life that governs every aspect of qunari society. It encompasses social, political, and religious principles, providing a rigid structure for individuals to follow.

#### Arrival in Thedas:

##### First Contact:

The qunari first came to Thedas as part of an invasion force. Their arrival caught the nations of Thedas off guard, and their advanced military tactics and powerful weaponry made them a formidable force.

##### The Qunari Wars:

The qunari wars were a series of conflicts that spanned decades. The qunari sought to impose the Qun on the nations of Thedas, sparking resistance from the established powers.

##### The Peaceful Solution:

Eventually, a peace treaty known as the Llomerryn Accords was established, allowing the qunari to maintain control of certain territories while coexisting with other nations.

#### Current Era:

##### Qunari in Thedas:

In the Dragon Age games, the qunari presence is most prominent in the form of the Qunari military, known as the Antaam, as well as diplomats, spies, and other agents.

##### The Qun in Practice:

The qunari society operates under the Qun, which prescribes strict roles for individuals based on their abilities and inclinations. This includes warriors (Qunari military), workers, priests (Tamassrans), and leaders (Arishok).