The Great Republic is a prominent state located along a vast desert river system and consists of various local cultures collectively known as the Wetrepian people. The republic is unique in its combination of democracy, oligarchy, and republicanism, with significant public participation in governance, a largely matriarchal structure, and a deep connection to its riverine geography.

Government Structure

The Great Republic's government is characterized by an extended separation of powers, with a blend of democratic and aristocratic elements. At the top are three Presidents, always women, who oversee the executive and judiciary. High-ranking officials, while typically women, may also include men. Public participation is valued, with trade unions, town assemblies, and a People's Assembly facilitating citizen engagement in decision-making.

Council of Advisors

The Council of Advisors, composed of wealthy aristocrats, influential families, and priests, is responsible for advising the presidents on key matters, particularly finance and foreign policy. Decisions made by the presidents and council must be unanimous; if not, an election involving the entire populace is held to resolve disputes, underscoring the republic's commitment to direct democracy.

Military and Judicial Oversight

The republic separates military from political affairs, with elected generals responsible for overseeing the armed forces. Judges serve two-year terms, overseeing military actions to ensure they align with republican values. This distinct separation and oversight ensure that the military remains aligned with the state’s civilian values and governance.

Cultural and Social Structure

The Wetrepian people are unified by their river-based lifestyle and are known for a culture that values literature, philosophy, and craftsmanship. Although united under a shared Wetrepian identity, the culture includes a range of local ethnicities, each with unique customs and traditions.

Customs and Social Practices

Wetrepian customs include the application of coal around the eyes, the practice of polygamy (with women often having multiple husbands), and matrilineal inheritance. Known for a liberal approach to sexuality and hedonistic festivals, such as "orgy festivals" and communal cannabis smoking, Wetrepians also conduct grand gladiatorial battles in massive arenas. Color symbolism is used to represent cardinal directions, and it is common for priests to display their faith by appearing naked in public.

Appearance and Attire

Wetrepian appearance is distinctive, with skin tones varying from light brown in river deltas to darker tones in inland areas. Hair is often black or dark brown, frequently curly, with piercings common across ears, noses, and navels. Clothing is minimalistic and light to suit the hot climate, especially in metropolitan regions, and young children typically have very short hair or shaved heads.

Economy

The Wetrepian economy relies on agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade along the riverbanks.

Agriculture

Wetrepian farms are concentrated along the river, growing crops such as wheat, barley, stone fruits, and specialty peppers. Hemp is widely grown for both smoking and textile production. Rice farming is also practiced, particularly popularized by Finfolk traders within the republic.

Livestock and Fishing

Animal husbandry includes the farming of cows and goats, as well as crocodiles, snakes, and other reptiles. The fishing industry is significant, especially near the delta, and Wetrepians also maintain unique insect farms for protein sources.

Trade

Gold mining in the desert regions has made the Great Republic one of the largest exporters of gold, alongside a robust salt trade derived from sand mines. Wetrepians trade widely with the continent Meda, importing fruits, spices, and silk. Dinosaur horns are an expensive local commodity and status symbol.

Currency

The republic uses engraved coins made of base metals, with gold coins reserved for larger denominations. Coins are typically round and minted by the state.

Military and Armor

Wetrepian warriors favor lightweight weaponry such as swords and daggers, ideal for stealthy operations. They wear light scale armor crafted from the scales of desert serpents, with feathers from terror birds adorning their equipment. This armor includes utility belts carrying poisons, notebooks, and other essentials, making Wetrepian fighters both resourceful and resilient.

Arts and Architecture

Jewelry and Decorative Arts

Wetrepian artisans are renowned for their intricate jewelry, often crafted from dinosaur teeth and horns, as well as feathers. Blue and white hues are favored, symbolizing the river and prophetic guidance.

Architecture

Wetrepian architecture reflects the republic's arid climate. Common building materials include sandstone, mud bricks, and palm wood, with cedar reserved for high-status structures. Metropolitan areas feature elaborate structures built from imported cedar, while rural villages often utilize local materials.

Transportation

The Wetrepians are expert riders of terror birds, using various breeds specialized for speed, strength, or endurance. Camels are also commonly used, while the wealthiest nobles import elephants for transport and display, particularly from the eastern beastmen states.

Ethics and Social Roles

Wetrepian culture is marked by xenophilia, with a strong openness toward outsiders, including Beastmen, who often form vibrant subcultures within the republic. The pursuit of a hedonistic lifestyle is not condemned but is viewed as a natural expression of Wetrepian philosophy. Gender roles vary by region: in metropolitan areas, roles are flexible, whereas rural regions adhere to traditional norms. Women generally hold higher social status, with family leadership vested in the mother. Homosexuality is accepted and regarded as "typically Wetrepian," considered exotic by neighboring cultures.