The Deep Republic

Summary

The Deep Republic is a technocratic society where power is shared between elected officials of the Underground Assembly and tenured experts, primarily in the fields of science, engineering, and magic. The leader of the Republic, Grand Councilor Vilarin Stoneshaper, is an accomplished and highly respected figure known for his deep knowledge of geotechnical innovations and geothermal engineering. Under his leadership, the Republic has thrived as the primary scientific and technological force behind the Dwarven industries of the The Kingdom of Kazad'Zar and has been the spark that ignited the technological might of The Empire of Mori.

The Gnomes have made critical contributions to the advancement of dwarven society, especially in the realms of electrical and steam technology, improving the dwarves' forges, steam-powered machinery, and the efficiency of their underground holds. Their expertise in crystal-based energy storage and geothermal engineering has played a vital role in the dwarves' success, making the Gnomes invaluable allies in the ongoing development of the Vulgnor's Range.

Holdings

The Deep Gnome cities of the Deep Republic are marvels of engineering ingenuity and arcane innovation, seamlessly blending natural caverns, crystal formations, and mechanical constructs into sprawling subterranean metropolises. Unlike the grand stone fortresses of the dwarves, gnomish cities prioritize functionality, modularity, and adaptability, often appearing as a labyrinthine mix of mechanical lifts, hanging platforms, and bioluminescent gardens.

• Location: Deep below the Dwarven city Dol-Karaz.
• Description: The capital of the Deep Republic and the seat of Grand Councilor Vilarin Stoneshaper, Svir'Zanad is a vast underground metropolis built around a massive crystalline cavern. Its most striking feature is the Crystalheart, a colossal magical geode that emits a soft, radiant glow, illuminating the city in hues of blue and violet.
• Key Features: The city is home to the Central Council Hall, where Sverfneblin leadership convenes, and the Arcane Engineworks, where cutting-edge magical machinery is developed.
• Cultural Significance: Known as the "Heart of Innovation," Svir'Zanad attracts scholars, artificers, and magitech engineers from across the Deep Republic.

• Location: Deep inside the volcano in a warren of tunnels and caverns.
• Description: A sprawling network of industrial caverns, Glimmerdeep is the industrial hub of the Deep Republic. It houses colossal assembly lines, steam turbines, and alchemical forges powered by crystal energy batteries.
• Key Features: Known for its automated workshops and construct forges, Glimmerdeep produces everything from mechanical tools to crystal core-powered constructs.
• Cultural Significance: The city embodies the Sverfneblin dedication to efficiency and innovation, with every inch of space meticulously planned and utilized.

• Location: Build on top of one of the snowy peaks of the range.
• Description: Built on top of one of the highest peaks a small enclave of Deep Gnomes operate the Svirneblin Observatory. A gigantic telescope with lenses crafted from the finest crystal of the mountain, Netherspire serves as the Republic’s primary center for research and studies of the stars.
• Key Features: The Svirfneblin Observatory atop the spire allows gnomish scholars to study the stars, the moon, planets, and the lingering effects of the Scarring.
• Cultural Significance: A center of scholarship and mysticism, Netherspire is revered as the "Mind of the Republic."

• Location: Build on top of one of the snowy peaks of the range.
• Description: Built on top of one of the highest peaks a small enclave of Deep Gnomes operate the Svirneblin Observatory. A gigantic telescope with lenses crafted from the finest crystal of the mountain, Netherspire serves as the Republic’s primary center for research and studies of the stars.
• Key Features: The Svirfneblin Observatory atop the spire allows gnomish scholars to study the stars, the moon, planets, and the lingering effects of the Scarring.
• Cultural Significance: A center of scholarship and mysticism, Netherspire is revered as the "Mind of the Republic."

Government

The Deep Republic is democratic with every citizen eligible to vote and run for public offices. Elected officials make up the legislative body and judicial positions are granted by approval of both the executive and legislative branches usually for life. This body is called the Underground Assembly. Separation of powers is achieved by having a cabinet of selected experts and scholars by the elected parties. The Grand Councilor is elected directly by the citizens and holds the highest executive position.

They convene every day in the Central Hall of the Council to debate and discuss matters of state.