Cities in Chains

The concept of cities in chains is so vivid and unique. I'm curious whether the idea came from existing stories or if it was entirely imagined from scratch.

The way magic and sci-fi elements coexist adds layers to the story. I'm wondering if this blend was planned from the beginning or evolved during writing.

Their personal stakes and conflicts seemed to keep the plot moving. Did the characters’ backstories influence the plot development more than planned?