Otali Mines

When Astorians were first pushed out by the Hilaelians, they traveled up into the mountains and founded Wakatakte as the first Astorian city. Well-protected and industrially sound, this city became the seat of the Astorian government. One of Wakatakte’s economic strengths is a secure mining industry because the mountain range in which Wakatakte resides is extensive and contains many precious metals and stones. Some of these metals like iron, copper, and tin serve more utilitarian purposes and are used for making tools and armor. More precious materials like platinum, gold, and gemstones are used more for ceremonial pieces, ornate jewelry, and currency/trade. Most of these mines are owned by the Itąčą or Kağȩr echelon of people because of the high value materials they hold, as opposed to most terrace farms, which are owned by the Ojųr echelon.
Despite their original conflict, Wakatakte has a relatively healthy economic relationship with the Hilaelians of Madhiba. In exchange for Madhiba’s lumber and carpentry services, Wakatakte trades metals and gemstones to their Hilaelian blacksmiths and jewelers for their forging skills. Once the artisans are finished, they receive their pay upon successful delivery or retrieval of the piece by their clients.
Some of these mines have been abandoned or closed due to the exhaustion of their natural resources or the presence of hazardous creatures or materials. The less dangerous of these mines are repurposed and transformed into housing. These mountain homes use abandoned mineshafts as a main foyer which branches off into chambers, each with their own purpose to the home. Deeper mines are valued much more because of the larger amount of space.

An abandoned mine, pending housing repurpose

Type

Mine