Kuneiri

In the vast and scorching expanse of The Kuneirmeru Desert, a people known as the Kuneiri have crafted their lives amid shifting sands, unforgiving heat, and a society intricately intertwined with the undead. These tenacious individuals are shaped not only by their harsh environment but also by the spirits of their ancestors and the esoteric teachings of their homeland.
The Kuneiri people are renowned for their mastery of magic. In a land where survival often hinges on the ability to control the elements, the study of arcane and divine magic is not merely a pursuit of knowledge but a means of sustenance. Both mages and priests are commonplace in their society, their spells protecting them from the hostile desert environment and the creatures that call it home. The Kuneiri’s close connection to magic has made them not only formidable spellcasters but also seekers of hidden knowledge, eager to explore new spells and arcane secrets.
Kuneiri society is unique in its acceptance and even reverence of the undead. A significant portion of the population consists of the undead, treated as full-fledged citizens, with a special place reserved for the awoken undead. These unique individuals retain their memories and the ability to think and speak from their previous lives. The Kuneiri believe that the presence of these awoken undead is a sign from the gods, an embodiment of the divine will.
The Kuneiri Desert is governed by a being known as the Grand Archlich, who rarely intervenes in the day-to-day affairs of the land. Instead, the desert’s governance is left to a council, its origins and inner workings shrouded in mystery. Despite the questions surrounding its foundation, the Kuneiri civilization has endured for centuries under the rule of the undead.
Under the guidance of Grand Archlich Khemb-Setia, the Kuneiri people have thrived. They enjoy lives free from hunger, thirst, and warfare, their needs tended to by their undead brethren. In return, those who dwell within the desert agree to be offered to Khemb-Setia upon their death, becoming undead to serve and protect future generations of Kuneiri.
Kuneiri society distinguishes individuals by two additional ranks beyond the typical hierarchy—Forgotten and Forsaken. Those who are Forgotten are compelled to leave the desert until they accomplish a significant feat, earning their return. In contrast, the Forsaken are permanently exiled, having committed grave crimes against their people.

Culture

Culture and cultural heritage

At the core of Kuneiri culture is their mastery of both arcane and divine magics, which permeate their daily lives, religious practices, and social governance. This magical foundation not only allows them to manipulate their harsh desert environment but also enriches their learning institutions, such as magic schools and arcane libraries, which stand as centers of learning and cultural preservation.
Another unique aspect of their culture is the reverential relationship they maintain with the undead. In Kuneiri society, the undead, particularly the "awoken undead," are not feared but are integrated into the community, contributing to governance and cultural practices. This integration underscores their beliefs in the cyclicality of life and death and the importance of ancestral wisdom.
The art and architecture within the Kuneirmeru Desert reflect the Kuneiri's deep reverence for the divine and magical, with grand temples and shrines adorned with gemstones and precious metals, showcasing their intricate murals and frescoes that depict a rich tapestry of mythological scenes and historical narratives. The architecture often incorporates elements designed to celebrate or harness magical and divine energies, aligning with celestial events.
Governance in Kuneiri society is a blend of magical elitism and meritocratic principles, led by the Grand Archlich and a mysterious council selected based on magical prowess and societal contributions. This structure emphasizes stability and the collective good, influenced heavily by magical ethics and ancient teachings.
Central values in Kuneiri culture include respect for the past, the pursuit of knowledge, and communal responsibility, with a strong emphasis on hospitality, respect for elders and the undead, and the importance of education, particularly in magical disciplines.

Shared customary codes and values

The customary codes and shared values of the Kuneiri people are deeply embedded in their magical heritage, their interactions with the undead, and their cultural ethos of community and knowledge. These codes and values not only guide their daily lives but also shape their societal structure and interpersonal relationships.

1. Reverence for the Undead: A fundamental value in Kuneiri society is the reverence for the undead, especially the awoken undead who retain their cognitive abilities and memories from their previous lives. This reverence is rooted in the belief that the undead are manifestations of divine will and ancestral wisdom. As such, the Kuneiri treat the undead with honor and dignity, integrating them fully into society. This value fosters a unique societal structure where the living and the undead coexist and cooperate, with the undead often taking on roles that involve laborious tasks or sharing ancient knowledge.
2. Pursuit of Magical Excellence: Magic is at the core of Kuneiri culture, and the pursuit of magical excellence is a shared value among its people. This includes a commitment to constant learning and exploration of both arcane and divine magical realms. Education is highly valued, and scholarly pursuits are considered noble. The Kuneiri also place great importance on innovation in magical practices, encouraging individuals to develop new spells, refine existing techniques, and recover lost magical knowledge from ancient times.
3. Communal Responsibility and Contribution: Community is central to Kuneiri life, and there is a strong ethos of mutual assistance and collective welfare. This is partly practical, but it is primarily a cultural preference. The Kuneiri believe that each individual’s well-being is tied to the community's prosperity. As such, contributing to the community, whether through magical advancements, participation in governance, or support during community rituals, is a deeply ingrained value.
4. Equality and Respect for Individuality: Due to the leveling effect of magic and the societal roles filled by the undead, the Kuneiri culture has developed a strong sense of equality and respect for individuality. There is a pervasive belief that every person, regardless of their background or magical prowess, has a valuable role to play in society. This respect extends to accepting various personal expressions and lifestyles, fostering a tolerant and inclusive community.
5. Honor and Integrity in Personal Conduct: Integrity is highly valued in Kuneiri society, reflected in both their legal systems and personal interactions. Honesty and honor in dealings are expected, and breaches of trust, particularly those involving magical practices or community harm, are met with severe consequences. This value is crucial for maintaining the social fabric in a community where powerful magic and historical knowledge are common.
6. Respect for Tradition and Innovation: Finally, the Kuneiri hold a dual reverence for tradition and innovation. They deeply respect their historical and magical traditions, seeing them as links to their ancestors and the gods. However, they also encourage innovation, particularly in the realm of magic and community organization, believing that progress and adaptation are essential for survival and prosperity in the ever-changing environment of the Kuneirmeru Desert.

Common Etiquette rules

1. Greetings and Communication: Kuneiri greetings often involve a gesture that symbolizes respect for both the individual's magical nature and their spiritual essence. A common greeting might include a slight bow combined with a hand gesture that is reminiscent of drawing energy around the heart, symbolizing an open and respectful acknowledgment of the other person’s magical presence. In conversation, it is considered polite to speak clearly and thoughtfully, reflecting the society's value on wisdom and measured speech.
2. Interaction with the Undead: Interacting respectfully with the undead is a fundamental aspect of Kuneiri etiquette. When addressing awoken undead, it is customary to use formal titles and acknowledge their past contributions to society. Physical contact with the awoken undead is avoided unless it is initiated by the undead themselves, out of respect for their different existential state. The undead—including those that are mindless—are always thanked for their services, emphasizing their integral role and continuous contribution to Kuneiri society.
3. Hospitality and Hosting: Hospitality is highly valued, with hosts going to great lengths to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of their guests. This includes offering refreshments that suit the guest’s taste and dietary preferences and creating a comfortable environment conducive to both casual and serious magical discussions. It is customary for guests to bring a small gift related to magic or knowledge, such as rare ingredients for spells, scrolls of ancient lore, or even tokens of magical creatures, which are appreciated and reciprocated.
4. Public Decorum and Ritual Participation: Kuneiri are expected to maintain a dignified and composed demeanor in public spaces, especially during communal rituals or gatherings which are frequent and highly significant. Participation in community rituals, whether they involve magic or traditional practices, requires one to wear appropriate attire that reflects their role and the occasion’s gravity. Interruptions during these events are considered highly disrespectful, as these moments are viewed as sacred communications with the divines.
5. Respect for Privacy and Personal Space: Despite the communal nature of Kuneiri society, there is a strong respect for individual privacy and personal space. It is considered impolite to inquire too deeply into another's personal matters or magical practices without invitation. Homes are treated as private sanctuaries, and entering without explicit permission is a serious breach of etiquette.
6. Conduct in Magical Exchanges: In a society where magic permeates every aspect of life, there are specific etiquettes related to magical exchanges. It is crucial to be transparent about the intent and components of a spell when collaborating with others. Surprise or unannounced magic, especially in a public or communal setting, is frowned upon unless it’s a part of an agreed performance or demonstration.

Common Dress code

Basic Garments

The basic garments of the Kuneiri typically feature lightweight linen tunics that are ideal for the desert climate. Both men and women wear these tunics, which are typically white or light-colored to reflect the sun's heat. These are often paired with shawls or capes, draped elegantly to provide additional protection from the sun and to signify status.
The Kuneiri favor embroidery and vibrant, colorful patterns, especially along the hems and neckline, adding a layer of complexity and artistry to their attire. These garments are typically loose, allowing for ease of movement and airflow, crucial for comfort in the desert heat.

Jewelry and Adornments

By the standards of those elsewhere in Elaris, the Kuneiri are relatively wealthy. Kuneiri men and women embellish their attire with an abundance of jewelry, including gold and semi-precious stone necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. Both genders use makeup, such as kohl around the eyes, not only for aesthetic purposes but also to provide eye protection from the sun.
Headgear, such as elaborate headdresses or simpler headbands adorned with lapis lazuli, carnelian, and turqouise, are common, with designs that may signify one's lineage or magical specialty. Lapis lazuli, in particular, is worn only by priests and priestesses of Amenemua. These adornments are not merely decorative; they serve as talismans and symbols of magical protection and status.

Accents for the Undead

The undead are also adorned to reflect their family's legacy and status. Families often dress their undead in similar fabrics and styles to their own, but with heavy use of metals like gold and silve, which can endure the desert conditions without harming the undead. These metals, which are too hot for the living under the sun, serve as both decoration and a public display of the family's wealth and magical prowess. It is not uncommon to see undead servants with intricately crafted metal accessories that shimmer in the sun, enhancing their presence and dignity in public and private spaces. Each undead additionally bears a small lapis lazuli chip on the back of their left hand, signifying their oneness with Amenemua.

Special Occasions

For rituals and important gatherings, the Kuneiri wear even more elaborate and symbolically rich attire. Garments might be specifically chosen to align with the celestial or magical significance of the event, with colors and patterns that correspond to specific deities or magical energies. During these times, the integration of gold and precious stones into their outfits is intensified, highlighting their connection to the divine and the supernatural.

Art & Architecture

Architecture

Kuneiri architecture is extremely grandiose in its design with intricate detailing all over. Their buildings, particularly temples and shrines, are monumental, often constructed with sandstone and limestone, which are plentiful in their desert environment. These structures are characterized by massive columns, often fluted and capped with elaborate capitals, and large, imposing doorways that symbolize the threshold between the mortal world and that of the divine.
Temples and shrines are the most ornately decorated, frequently inlaid with a plethora of gemstones and precious metals. Turqoise and carnelian are commonly used to create intricate mosaics depicting scenes from mythology, celestial bodies, and magical rituals—and in the case of those including Amenemua, lapis lazuli is made frequent use of. These sacred spaces are designed to be not only places of worship but also visual representations of the Kuneiri's understanding of the universe, with alignments and dimensions that reflect astronomical and magical calculations.

Art

In Kuneiri art, the use of vibrant colors and precious metals is prevalent. Murals and frescoes adorn the walls of both public buildings and private homes, depicting a range of subjects from daily life and magical practices to mythological scenes and landscapes. These murals are not only decorative but also serve as educational tools, illustrating magical techniques, historical events, or moral tales.
Sculpture is another significant aspect of Kuneiri art, often seen in the statues of deities, magical creatures, and notable historical figures that stand guard at the entrances of temples or line the avenues of cities. These statues are typically crafted from stone or bronze, with eyes inset with precious stones to reflect the soul and power of the depicted figure. Rubies are most common for these eyes, but opals, onyx, and marble are also common.

Magical Learning Centers

Following temples in their decorative richness are centers of magical learning, such as arcane libraries and schools. These buildings are meticulously designed to enhance the flow of magical energies, with geometrical layouts and crystal inlays that amplify magical research and spellcasting. Walls may be lined with gold or silver to conduct magical energies better, and floors inlaid with gemstones in patterns that serve both an aesthetic function and a practical one, enhancing the ambient magical fields.

Residential Areas

Even residential buildings reflect the Kuneiri's artistic flair, with exteriors painted in bright colors and interiors decorated with murals and handmade tiles. Homes are designed to be open and airy to cope with the desert heat, with courtyards that often feature small gardens of hardy plants and water features to cool the air.

Foods & Cuisine

Staple Foods and Ingredients

The backbone of Kuneiri cuisine is bread, made from emmer wheat and barley, staples grown in almost every settlement with the aid of undead farmers. These breads are often leavened and sometimes enriched with local nuts, seeds, and honey. Legumes including lentils and chickpeas are prevalent, serving as primary sources of protein and featuring prominently in stews and as dips like hummus.
Other grown crops are a variety of grains such as millet and spelt, often prepared as porridges or ground into flour for different sorts of bread. Dates, figs, and pomegranates provide sweetness as well as several forms of cactus fruit and are key ingredients in both savory dishes and desserts.

Meats and Dairy

Due to the arid conditions, livestock farming is limited, but goat, lamb, and poultry are common protein sources, with fish being occasional delicacies possibly sourced from oasis lakes or through trade. Meats are typically prepared grilled, roasted, or stewed with a rich assortment of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
Dairy products such as yogurt and cheese are integral, often served as accompaniments to meals or used in cooking. Yogurt, especially, is favored for its cooling properties and is frequently mixed with cucumbers and mint to make refreshing side dishes.

Vegetables and Fruits

Vegetables capable of surviving in the desert environment, such as onions, garlic, leeks, and various beans, are diet staples. These are supplemented by cucumbers and leafy greens grown in magically-enhanced fields or oasis gardens. Fruits like melons and grapes are highly valued for their water content and are often incorporated into meals to provide hydration and relief from the heat.

Spices and Cooking Methods

The Kuneiri cuisine is rich in spices such as saffron, cardamom, and black pepper. Cooking methods typically include slow-cooking processes, whether using the desert's own heat or magical cooking methods, allowing for the developing of deep, complex flavors.

Culinary Magic

Used far more in Kuneiri cuisine than others, culinary magic involves enchantments to preserve food's freshness and enhance its flavors. Magic is also used to cultivate scarce ingredients, ensuring that even in the harsh diet, the Kuneiri can enjoy a varied and rich diet.

Festive and Ritual Foods

During festivals and religious observances, the Kuneiri prepare special foods that often include symbolic ingredients. These involve recipes that are centuries old, passed down through generations, and include foods like honey cakes during celebrations of harvest or spiced lamb during ancestral remembrance festivals.

Presentation and Dining Etiquette

Meals are typically communal, served on large platters and encouraging sharing and social interaction, with diners seated around a low table or even on floor cushions.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

One of the most significant customs is the celebration of the Solstice Alignment, a festival that marks the changing of seasons and is believed to renew magical energies across the desert. During this festival, the Kuneiri engage in elaborate rituals that involve aligning magical artifacts with celestial bodies to enhance their potency. The event is communal, with every member of society participating in some way, whether through magical contributions, preparing communal feasts, or decorating the streets with vibrant colors and symbols that represent their gods and magical heritage.
Another key tradition is the Day of Remembrance, where the Kuneiri honor their ancestors and the awoken undead who continue to serve their society. On this day, families visit necropolises and sanctified desert shrines to leave offerings of food, flowers, and precious gems. These offerings are not only gestures of respect but also serve as magical conduits to strengthen the bonds between the living and the undead. The tradition underscores the Kuneiri belief in the cyclicality of life and death and the value of ancestral wisdom, which they consider essential to both their personal identity and societal stability.
Marriage among the Kuneiri is also deeply ritualistic, often involving contracts that are as much about magical alliances as personal bonds. Couples typically perform a Bonding Ceremony under the open sky, where they exchange tokens of their magical essence, such as stones imbued with personal spells or charms crafted during their courtship. These tokens symbolize the union of their magical and earthly journeys, believed to strengthen their future offspring’s potential in both magical and mundane pursuits. The ceremony is typically followed by festive celebrations that include music, dance, and the sharing of a specially prepared feast that represents the joining of different familial heritages and magical lineages.
In everyday life, the Kuneiri adhere to a tradition of communal meals, which reinforces social bonds and ensures that even the least fortunate among them are cared for. Meals are often prepared in large communal kitchens, where magic is used to enhance both the efficiency of cooking and the nutritional value of the food. This practice is not only a reflection of their communal living but also an embodiment of their deep-seated values of hospitality and mutual support.

Birth & Baptismal Rites

The Kuneiri people celebrate the arrival of a new life with profound joy and a series of rituals that emphasize the child's integration into the community. The birth of a child is seen as a significant event, not only for the family but for the entire community, as it represents the continuation of their cultural and magical lineage. The celebration begins with the Ceremony of First Light, held at the first sunrise after birth, where the newborn is presented to the community at dawn. During this ceremony, the child is gently bathed in waters infused with essences from sacred plants believed to bestow protective properties and encourage a strong affinity for magic. This water is blessed by a priest of Amenemua, further encouraging this magical growth. The community gathers to witness this rite, offering blessings and gifts that often include small magical charms and amulets to guard the child’s health and spiritual growth.
Following the Ceremony of First Light, the Kuneiri hold a baptismal rite known as the Invocation of the Ancestors. This ceremony takes place within a consecrated temple or at a family's private shrine, under the guidance of a priest or a revered mage. The child is anointed with oils specially prepared with magical herbs and the preserved blood of their most recently fallen family member. Prayers and incantations are recited to invoke the protection of the deities, seeking their guidance and watchful eyes over the child’s path in life.
In addition to these rites, the Kuneiri also celebrate the Naming Ceremony, which occurs several days after the baptismal rite. This event is marked by the choosing of a name that often reflects the family’s magical history or the specific circumstances of the child’s birth. During this ceremony, the chosen name is carved into a stone tablet along with magical symbols that are believed to influence the child’s future characteristics and talents. The tablet is then placed in the family’s home, where it lies with a belief that it is bound to the new child. Indeed, when a Kuneiri with a tablet of naming falls and is not raised as an undead within one week, the tablet grows brittle and crumbles to dust, marking what the Kuneiri see as a true death. The table is also destroyed should the member be raised but later destroyed permanently.

Coming of Age Rites

The Kuneiri observe the Rite of Passage, a crucial tradition for young Kuneiri reaching adulthood. This rite involves a series of challenges designed to test both their magical and survival skills. Success in these trials is celebrated with a grand ceremony followed by a long pilgrimage to Khembyset where the soon-to-be adult must stand before the Unbreathing Council where they must promise their life to Khemb-Setia and sign into the Everlife Pact. This rite not only marks a significant milestone in an individual's life but also guarantees their place within The Kuneirmeru Desert in life and death.

Funerary and Memorial customs

When a Kuneiri passes away, the community initiates a series of rituals designed to prepare the deceased for their journey to the capital, Khembyset, where they are to be preserved and eventually join the ranks of the undead as part of the Everlife Pact with Grand Archlich Khemb-Setia. The preservation process begins almost immediately, involving elaborate embalming techniques that are both magical and herbal in nature, aimed at maintaining the body’s integrity for its transport across the desert. This process is carried out by specialized embalmers who are revered in Kuneiri society for their sacred role in preparing the dead for their eternal duties.
The journey to Khembyset must be completed within nine days of death, a period filled with both mourning and celebration of the deceased’s life and future contributions as an undead. Families and friends of the departed accompany the procession, which is often guarded by both living and undead escorts to ensure safe and timely passage. Along the way, nightly vigils are held where stories of the deceased’s life are shared, and prayers are offered to the deities to watch over their soul. These vigils also serve to reinforce the community’s bonds and collective memory of the individual, cementing their legacy until they are raised anew by the Unbreathing Council or Khemb-Setia himself.
For those unfortunate enough to die outside the Kuneirmeru Desert, the situation is considered tragic and a mark of great shame for the family. Such individuals are believed to be lost forever, unable to fulfill their role in the Everlife Pact, and denied the chance to serve in the afterlife. Families of those who die abroad are barred from holding any public symbolic funerals without the body, and should news of a private gathering spread, they will be shamed for such an act. There are no efforts made to recover personal belongings of the deceased unless they hold high magical potential, in which case they are held by the Unbreathing Council.

Common Taboos

One of the most severe taboos is the prohibition against marrying outsiders, particularly those who have not signed the Everlife Pact with Grand Archlich Khemb-Setia. This pact is central to Kuneiri culture and spirituality, linking each citizen to the cycle of life and undeath that sustains their society. Marrying someone outside this sacred contract is seen as turning one's back on the community and its foundational beliefs, and such unions are often shunned, with offspring from these relationships sometimes being treated with distrust or pity.
Refusing hospitality to those in need — including the hungry, thirsty, or weak — is also a major taboo in Kuneiri society. Hospitality is considered a sacred duty, reflective of the community's values of support and mutual aid, crucial in the harsh desert environment. To deny assistance to those in need is to show a profound disregard for communal bonds and the very survival of the society. Such acts can lead to public shame and in severe cases, social isolation, as they contradict the deeply held belief that the strength of the community lies in its unity and compassion.
Another taboo involves communication with or about those who are Forsaken, as well as interaction with those who are Forgotten until they earn their return. The Forsaken are individuals exiled for grave crimes against the community, and speaking to or of them is considered to invoke their misdeeds and disgrace. Meanwhile, the Forgotten are those sent to prove themselves worthy of rejoining the society; discussing or aiding them is thought to interfere with their journey of redemption. These taboos reinforce the community's moral and ethical standards, maintaining social order and collective accountability.
Lastly, abandoning the path of magic despite possessing significant prowess or talent is viewed with suspicion and disapproval. In a society where magic is vital for survival and prosperity, rejecting this gift is seen as a wasteful and selfish act, potentially depriving the community of a valuable resource. Such individuals are often regarded as squandering their heritage and responsibilities, leading to a loss of respect and status within the community. This taboo underscores the importance of magic in Kuneiri culture, not just as a tool for individual power, but as a communal asset that everyone is expected to cultivate and contribute.

Ideals

Beauty Ideals

In terms of physical appearance, the Kuneiri favor a regal and elegant aesthetic that mirrors the harsh yet majestic landscape of the Kuneirmeru Desert. Sun-kissed skin tones ranging from rich golden browns to deep earthy hues are highly prized, seen as a reflection of the desert’s omnipresent sun and sand. Eyes are considered the windows to one’s magical soul, with vibrant colors like deep amethyst, emerald green, and striking turquoise being viewed as indicators of strong magical lineage and potential. These vivid eye colors are believed to signify a deep connection to the Tides, making them a key aspect of beauty and desirability.
Physicality among the Kuneiri is also viewed through the lens of their environment and lifestyle. A toned and resilient body capable of withstanding the rigors of desert life is highly esteemed. This does not merely mean possessing strength but also exhibiting grace and endurance in the face of the desert’s challenges. The ability to move smoothly and efficiently across the shifting sands is often celebrated in dance and ritual performances, which are both a display of physical prowess and a spiritual offering to their deities.
Mental aptitude and magical ability are perhaps the most crucial components of beauty for the Kuneiri. A sharp mind capable of complex magical understanding and the ability to manipulate arcane forces are considered marks of true beauty. Education and the pursuit of knowledge are highly valued, and those who excel in magical practices or scholarly endeavors are held in great esteem. This blend of intellect and magical proficiency not only contributes to an individual’s allure but also ensures their vital role in the continuation and protection of Kuneiri culture and society.

Gender Ideals

In Kuneiri society, the traditional distinctions between gender roles are significantly blurred, primarily due to the pervasive influence of magic and the extensive support from the undead in daily tasks. Magic, as a great equalizer, and the practical assistance of the undead create a cultural framework where gender ideals are remarkably fluid and based more on individual capabilities than on gender-based expectations.
The Kuneiri hold the belief that magical aptitude and spiritual insight are distributed equally among all genders. This foundational principle shapes their societal structure, where roles typically associated with power, leadership, and expertise are accessible to everyone, irrespective of gender. Both men and women can be found in all echelons of magical and clerical hierarchy, and it is not uncommon for either gender to lead religious rituals, govern districts, or spearhead educational endeavors. This equitable distribution of roles extends to the family and community life, where responsibilities and honors are assigned based on one’s skills and magical prowess rather than gender.
The labor typically associated with gender in less magically inclined societies is largely absent among the Kuneiri, as the undead take on the bulk of physical labor. This includes tasks from the most mundane to the most labor-intensive, such as building structures, tending to agricultural needs, and managing water resources. With the undead relieving the living of these burdens, Kuneiri men and women are free to pursue vocations that foster intellectual, magical, and spiritual growth. This dynamic further diminishes traditional gender roles, allowing a focus on personal and communal advancement in magical and scholarly fields.
Furthermore, in the realm of personal expression and lifestyle, there is considerable freedom. The aesthetic and attire choices, for instance, often blend what might traditionally be considered masculine and feminine elements, reflecting the desert’s practical needs and the people’s mystical sensibilities. Flowing robes that protect from the sun and allow for ease of movement might be adorned with intricate magical symbols and vibrant colors, worn by all genders. The emphasis is on practicality and personal spiritual expression, rather than adherence to gender-specific styles.

Courtship Ideals

The courtship ideals of the Kuneiri people reflect their unique societal structure, where practical concerns are minimal due to the supportive role of the undead and where magic plays a central role in daily life. This environment shapes a romantic landscape where attraction, both physical and magical, predominates, and relationships are pursued more for personal compatibility and mutual enchantment than for economic or social necessity.
Among the Kuneiri, attraction is primarily driven by a blend of physical appeal and magical resonance. Since everyday survival is not a concern—thanks to the undead who perform most laborious tasks—Kuneiri individuals often seek partners based on a deep, intuitive connection that encompasses both emotional affinity and magical compatibility. This magical compatibility is not just about the level of one's magical power but also about how two individuals' magical auras or energies complement each other. Such matches are believed to enhance each other’s spiritual and arcane growth, creating partnerships that are both romantically fulfilling and magically synergistic.
Moreover, there is a particular emphasis on the lineage and inherent magical abilities of potential partners. Those who come from esteemed sorcerous bloodlines are highly prized in the Kuneiri dating scene, regarded as "good catches" not only for their potent magical capabilities but also for the strong arcane traits they are likely to pass on to offspring. Courtship among such individuals often involves displays of magical prowess or duels that serve as both a spectacle and a test of one's suitability as a mate. These displays are not only about impressing one another but also about gauging how well partners might work together in managing and enhancing familial magic.
Social interactions in Kuneiri courtship also involve a lot of cultural and intellectual exchanges, reflecting the society's high regard for knowledge and arcane understanding. Potential partners often engage in discussions about magical theories, participate in joint rituals, or explore ancient ruins together. These activities serve as opportunities to build intimacy and to assess mutual respect for each other’s intellect and magical perspective, which are just as important as emotional compatibility in Kuneiri relationships.

Relationship Ideals

The relationship ideals of the Kuneiri people are intricately tied to their deep connection with magic, viewing partnerships not only as personal unions but also as opportunities for magical enhancement and communal contribution. This perspective shapes several key ideals that govern how relationships are formed and valued within Kuneiri society.
One prominent ideal among the Kuneiri is the notion of uniting partners from varied magical disciplines. This diversity is believed to enrich the couple’s life and offer their future children a broader spectrum of magical inheritance. For instance, a union between someone with a strong arcane background and another with a clerical calling is highly esteemed. Such combinations are thought to create a more balanced environment for children to learn and appreciate both the structured, scholarly nature of arcane magic and the intuitive, divine aspects of clerical magic. This not only strengthens the family's overall magical capability but also ensures that children have a well-rounded understanding and greater choice in their magical path.
Working on magical projects together, such as developing signature spells or conducting joint research into unexplored realms of magic, is another relationship ideal. These collaborative efforts are seen as both a strengthening of the couple’s bond and a tangible contribution to Kuneiri knowledge. Crafting signature spells together, for example, is not only a romantic and intellectual pursuit but also a merging of distinct ideas and techniques, which can lead to innovative magical practices. Such collaborations allow partners to blend their strengths and cover each other’s weaknesses, fostering a partnership that is both complementary and dynamically beneficial.
Beyond just working together, achieving a state of spiritual and magical harmony is considered ideal. This involves a deep, empathetic connection where each partner is attuned not only to the other's thoughts and emotions but also to their magical and spiritual energies. Such harmony enhances their effectiveness in joint magical endeavors and their day-to-day interactions, making their relationship a bastion of stability and growth in the often harsh conditions of the desert.
Lastly, there is a strong ideal related to contributing to the wider community. Partnerships are often seen through the lens of how they benefit not just the individual or the family but also the broader Kuneiri society. Couples who contribute new knowledge, lead community rituals, or teach young mages are highly respected.

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Table of Contents

Game Mechanics

Custom System

Ability Score Adjustment.

+1 Intelligence

Racial Skills.

You gain a +2 Racial bonus to Knowledge (Arcana) checks.

Quick Learner.

You gain an additional 10% experience points.

Languages.

You can speak, read, and write Kuneiri.

5th Edition

Arcanist

You gain expertise with the Arcana skill.

Kuneiri Magic

You learn one cantrip of your choice from the Wizard spell list. Intelligence is your spellcasting ability modifier for this spell, and you can cast it a number of times equal to your Proficiency Bonus, unless you can naturally cast Arcane spells.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Kuneiri.

4th Edition

To Be Made

3.5th Edition

To Be Made

2nd Edition

Ability Score Adjustment.

Humans from the Kuneirmeru Desert gain a +1 bonus to their choice of their initial Constitution or Intelligence scores.

Skilled.

More than anything, the people of the Kuneirmeru have one chief love—Magic. Due to this, all Kuneiri humans gain the Spellcraft skill without spending a nonweapon proficiency slot.

Pathfinder 2e

To Be Made

Encompassed species

• Human

Related Organizations

• Unbreathing Council

Related Locations

• The Kuneirmeru Desert