The Qunari Steel

Lore & Background

When the Qunari first arrived in Thedas in 9:30 Dragon, their steel became a symbol of their unstoppable advance. Human knights found their finest plate armor useless against Qunari blades, leading to widespread panic and a desperate scramble for countermeasures. Over time, the metal has become a coveted commodity on the black market, with smugglers risking death to transport weapons or armor made from this alloy into human cities. Despite its lethality, some scholars argue that the true power of Qunari steel lies in its unique metallurgy and alloy techniques, rather than any reliance on exclusive Par Vollen ore.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the cobblestones of Kirkwall's Docks District as the smuggler clutched the heavy satchel to his chest. Inside lay a single Qunari dagger, its blade shimmering with an unnatural blue-grey light that seemed to drink the dim lantern glow. He could feel the hum vibrating through his fingers, a low thrum that made his teeth ache. A City Guard patrol turned the corner, their iron helmets gleaming dull and lifeless in comparison. The smuggler knew that if he drew this blade, it would slice through their armor like wet parchment, but the sound of steel on stone would be music to the Qunari ears back home—and a death sentence here.

Reader's Guide

Qunari steel functions primarily as an enhancement to weaponry and armor, offering superior durability and cutting power compared to human-made equivalents. It does not require magical enchantment to perform its feats; its strength is inherent in the material itself. In combat, weapons forged from this metal can bypass standard defenses that would normally stop iron or steel blades. Warriors wielding Qunari arms often find their strikes landing with greater force and precision. However, the metal is heavy, requiring significant physical strength to wield effectively without fatigue. Only those initiated into the Qun or trusted allies of the Qunari typically possess authentic pieces. In human lands, these items are rare contraband, usually acquired through theft, black market deals, or as loot from fallen Qunari soldiers. Mages often avoid it due to its resistance to their spells, while warriors seek it for its unmatched lethality.

Did You Know?

• Qunari steel's durability is purely physical, derived from advanced metallurgy and alloy techniques, and it offers no special resistance to magic.
• The metal's distinctive blue-grey color makes it instantly recognizable even in low light conditions.
• No canon evidence exists of Dwarven smiths successfully replicating Qunari steel, as the techniques and knowledge are exclusive to the Qunari.
• The properties of Qunari steel are attributed to advanced metallurgy and alloy techniques, with no rituals binding the will of the Qun into the metal.