Clockwork

Invented by the Gnome people, clockwork is known as one of the most revolutionary technologies invented since the Cold-Con Process. Imbued with magic and technology in equal measure, clockwork items are some of the most highly prized treasures in the world.

Utility

Clockwork has been used for a variety of purposes over the centuries. Aside from baubles and children's toys, clockwork has been seen in locking mechanisms and buildings. The most unique and fascinating use of clockwork however is in prosthetic limbs. These limbs are used to replace limbs lost to accident, war, and genetic lottery. These come in a variety designs and are often modified to house tools, spell components, or weapons. Rumors also hold that clockwork has been used to create walking and flying machines in gnomes cities. Though most scholars dismiss such claims as wild fantasy.

Manufacturing

While the exact process of manufacturing is unknown outside of gnomes, metals such as copper, iron, or bronze are common materials used. Some more exotic models may include hidden compartments, installed weapons, or made of other materials such as bone, or wood.

Social Impact

The exceptional few individuals who possess clockwork limbs will often hide the mechanical nature of their limbs. Usually done with illusory magic or long clothing. Openly presenting such rare and valuable items would make anyone a valuable target for theft. A limb can sell for thousands of gold a piece, far more than any commoner would expect to earn in decades.

Access & Availability

Exceptionally rare outside of gnomish communities. Such items are rarely produced by non-gnomes and are considered small miracles unto themselves. Though to the gnomes themselves, clockwork is a trivial matter. Children play with automaton trinkets and toys, and adults use intricate clockwork mechanisms for doors, locks, and even bridges. Though fairly common amongst the gnomes, they rarely if ever give the technology to outsiders. They have on occasion given children's baubles as gifts to foreign dignitaries. Though these foreigners are wary of such gifts, as these trinkets make them targets for theft.

Complexity

Clockwork, when disassembled, resembles a complex system of gears, pulleys, and piping. Non-gnomes who have acquired clockwork note that while the material components are replicable, there is a magical component which has yet to be fully imitated. This leaves engineers and wizards alike scratching their heads as to how understanding can be close yet so distant.

Discovery

The invention of clockwork is attributed to the gnomes however no one outside the gnomes knows who the individual was that invented it. To claim such a thing would be the same as asking who invented the sword or bread. It is something which has existed for so long, at least among the gnomes, that it is simply a matter of life.

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