Free City of Gearford

Gearford, a sprawling city-state, is governed by a Technocratic Council known for its expertise in science, engineering, and magic. The city was founded many centuries ago by the gnome race, and has since opened its doors to anyone in pursuit of knowledge.

Demographic

Gearford is populated by many different races. The government itself embraces multiculturalism and strongly condemns any form of racism.

Government

Technocratic Council

In the city-state of Gearford, the technocratic form of government places the reins of power in the hands of experts (scientists, engineers, magicians, scholars) chosen for their knowledge, expertise, and contributions to their fields. This governance model emphasizes rational decision-making, innovation, and the application of technical knowledge to solve societal problems, improve living conditions, and drive the city-state's development forward.

Members of the Technocratic Council are selected based on their achievements, inventions, research contributions, and ability to apply their knowledge for the public good. This process ensures that only the most qualified individuals, who are respected in their respective fields, can influence the governance of Gearford.

Culture and Society

Innovation and Resilience: The culture of Gearford thrives on innovation. The drive to invent and improve is seen in every aspect of life, from the towering structures of the surface to the intricate networks of the undercity.

Duality of Life: Life in Gearford is marked by its stark contrasts between the bright, bustling streets of the surface city and the shadowy, labyrinthine depths of the undercity. This duality shapes the gnomes' worldview, fostering a society that values both the light of discovery and the shadows of caution.

Pursuit of knowledge: To aid in the development of new talents, the council sponsors a university that covers a great variety of fields, such as politics, economy, engineering and magic. Entering the University of Gearford might be a daunting task due to its steep fees and large volume of admission requests every year, which is why the council also sponsors a yearly convention, where anyone may participate freely and display their inventions in any field. This event is utilized by the university to give scholarships to promising talents.

Festivals and Competitions: Gearford celebrates its culture with festivals that illuminate both the surface and the depths, featuring competitions that showcase new inventions, magical prowess, and artisanal crafts. These celebrations are crucial for maintaining social cohesion and uplifting undercity inhabitants.