The Hill Union is a mining organization that has gained significant prominence within the Nima Province of the Kami Concord due to its control over several mining operations in the Crystal Hills. These hills are renowned for their rich deposits of rare cloud crystals, a remarkable mineral with the unique ability to manipulate gravity. The Hill Union has become a crucial entity within the province and holds substantial influence in the world of arcane-powered airships, as the cloud crystals are highly sought after for their usage in powering these advanced aerial vessels.

History

The Hill Union traces its origins to the discovery of the cloud crystals within the Crystal Hills. Originally, the region attracted High Elves who arrived to mine for gold. However, they stumbled upon the rare gems known as cloud crystals, which proved to be far more valuable and captivating. Recognizing the potential power and significance of these crystals, the High Elves established the Hill Union to harness and control their extraction, processing, and trade.

Abilities

The Hill Union specializes in the mining, extraction, and processing of cloud crystals. Over time, they have developed advanced techniques and expertise in handling these delicate and powerful minerals. Their knowledge extends beyond mere extraction, as they possess an understanding of the unique properties and potential applications of cloud crystals. This expertise allows them to provide the necessary raw materials for the production of arcane-powered technologies, particularly airships.

Hierarchy

At the top of the Hill Union's hierarchy is the Company Chief, who serves as the Head of Operations. They oversee all aspects of the Union's activities, including strategic planning, resource allocation, and decision-making. Each mining operation within the Crystal Hills is led by a Company Underchief, responsible for managing the specific mine and its workforce. The Company Workers form the majority of the Union, carrying out the day-to-day tasks of mining, extraction, and processing operations under the guidance of the Underchief.

Company Chief, Fennri Winters, a Foxkin woman, is a notable figure within the Hill Union. As the operator of the largest mining operation, she holds significant influence over the Union's activities. Fennri is known for her exceptional skills in resource management and her relentless pursuit of wealth and power. Her greed is renowned, and she is willing to go to great lengths to maximize the Union's profits. Despite her reputation, Fennri is also respected for her shrewd business acumen and her ability to navigate the complexities of the mining industry.

Company Chief, Cato, a Human man, is a controversial figure both within the Kami Concord and the Nagan Empire. He has garnered dislike and suspicion from many due to his dealings with the Vache Kingdom, which has strained relations between the Union and other factions. Cato's involvement in exporting a significant amount of gems to the Kingdom for their air fleets has caused resentment among those who believe he prioritizes personal gain over the welfare of the Union and its members. His actions have raised concerns about the Union's independence and loyalty, and his reputation has suffered as a result.

Beliefs & Goals

The Hill Union holds strong beliefs centered around their mining operations and control of the Crystal Hills. They consider the hills and mountains to be their fortune and the source of their prosperity. They believe in the ownership and exclusive right to mine the region and are determined to safeguard their interests. The Union emphasizes vigilance, understanding the value of protecting their claims and preventing unauthorized mining activities. They are unwavering in their conviction that these lands belong to them until the gods decree otherwise.

A primary goal of the Hill Union is to maintain exclusive rights to mine the Crystal Hills. They view themselves as the sole guardians and custodians of the region's resources, fiercely protecting their monopoly over the extraction and distribution of cloud crystals. Their continued dominance in the mining industry enables them to exercise significant influence in the world of arcane-powered airships, positioning them as key players in the technological advancements driven by the utilization of cloud crystals.

Union Rules

The Hill Union operates based on a set of rules that govern its members' conduct and operations. These rules include strict regulations on mining rights, stating that only the Union has the authority to mine the Crystal Hills. They prioritize the security and secrecy of their operations to prevent theft or trespassing by outsiders. Additionally, they maintain a unified front, promoting loyalty and unity among their members. The Union encourages a sense of community and cooperation, fostering a collective spirit among its workforce.

The People of the Union

The Hill Union is comprised mainly of High Elves, who initially came to the region seeking gold but shifted their focus to the cloud crystals upon their discovery. They form the majority of the Union members, leveraging their keen intellect and affinity for arcane knowledge. The Foxkin, a significant population present in the region prior to the Union's establishment, also constitute a substantial portion of its membership. Other races, such as Humans, are a minority within the Union but are welcomed if they share a mutual interest in mining operations and adhere to the Union's rules and objectives.

Cloud Crystals

Shards of the Gods

Cloud Crystals is the name given to the rare and mysterious gem found in the hills and mountains of the Nima region. A transparent gem that have the power to make things around it hover. It can pull and push gravity around itself. They are found both underground and on the top of the mountains. At first it was used for grand monuments for the Nagan Empire, but after the rebellion and the establishment of the Kami Concord some people managed to obtain complete control over the minig in the region. It was later exported across the world. The Vache Kingdom took great interest in the gem and has used it for many of their airship variants.