The City States emerged in the aftermath of the Old Dominion’s collapse, founded by groups who sought to rebuild civilisation on different principles. Rather than attempting to recreate the empire, they focused on smaller, self-governing communities.
Each city is effectively an independent polity, with its own laws, culture, and leadership structures. However, they share common philosophical foundations centred on reason, debate, and civic responsibility.
Education and intellectual development are highly valued. Citizens are expected to participate in governance to varying degrees, and public discourse is a central aspect of political life.
Militarily, the City States emphasise discipline and coordination. Their armies are well-trained and organised, reflecting their broader societal values. They also make use of controlled monstrous entities, treating them as assets rather than objects of worship or fear.
Historically, the City States have been more stable than the Hundred Kingdoms, but not immune to conflict. Rivalries between cities can be intense, and alliances are often temporary.
Their defining characteristic is their belief that civilisation can be rebuilt through knowledge and cooperation, rather than inherited authority or divine mandate.
Tags: Reason, citizenship, philosophy, discipline, debate, civic duty, order, knowledge; names are Hellenistic/Greek-inspired, often clean and formal, tied to lineage and polis identity.