Kirkwall Qunari Invasion

Lore & Background

The Qunari are a powerful empire from across the ocean who follow a strict code known as the Qun, which dictates every aspect of life. Unlike the free-willed societies of Thedas, they believe individuals must serve a specific role for the greater good. Their arrival in Kirkwall was initially diplomatic but quickly turned hostile when local authorities resisted their demands. The invasion forces utilized naval blockades and ground troops to pressure the city's leadership. The Chantry viewed them as heretics threatening the Divine order, while common citizens feared enslavement or forced assimilation into Qunari society. This ideological clash created a powder keg that Hawke had to navigate carefully. Military tactics involved guerrilla warfare within the city streets and a decisive naval engagement at the docks. The Qunari forces were disciplined and heavily armored, posing a significant challenge to the uncoordinated defenders of Kirkwall until leadership was consolidated.

In Their Own Story

Smoke curled from the burning warehouses as Hawke stood atop the battlements, watching the black sails of the enemy fleet against the twilight sky. Below, the streets echoed with the clash of steel and the cries of the wounded. The Arishok had promised order, but all he brought was fire. Varric leaned against a stone pillar nearby, reloading his crossbow with practiced ease. "They're waiting for us to break," he muttered, glancing up at Hawke's silhouette. Hawke gripped their weapon tighter, knowing that if they faltered now, Kirkwall would cease to be free forever.

Reader's Guide

The conflict begins when Qunari ships blockade the harbor, signaling an intent to claim the city for the Qun. When negotiations fail, open warfare erupts across the district streets. Hawke must rally companions like Varric, Anders, and Aveline to coordinate the defense. Key decisions involve securing allies in the Hanged Man or dealing with Fenris's past regarding his Qunari captors. The climax occurs at the Docks, where the Arishok prepares to depart after a failed conquest attempt. Players choose whether to confront the Chantry's extremism during the chaos, potentially leading to Meredith's death or survival. Ultimately, the Qunari fleet withdraws, leaving Kirkwall scarred but free. The aftermath shapes Hawke's legacy as the city's protector, though political instability remains high for the future.

Did You Know?

• The Qunari are taller, larger, and more physically robust than other humanoid races in Thedas, with skin of varying metallic colors and eyes like violet, red, silver, or yellow.
• Qunari mages are termed Saarebas, meaning 'dangerous thing,' and are physically shackled due to the Qun's deep distrust of magic.
• The Qunari government is a totalitarian regime ruled by a triumvirate representing the body (military), soul (priesthood), and mind (merchants and craftsmen).
• Individuals who abandon the Qun's fundamentalist teachings become known as Tal-Vashoth and are considered traitors or enemies to Qunari society.
• The Qunari are locked in a perpetual conflict with the Tevinter Imperium and often seek to spread their influence throughout Thedas via covert agents or military offensives.