Overview of the Crystal Industry

Natural Formation and Cultivation:   Magical crystals, while occurring naturally within certain veins across Vidariel, particularly in areas dense with magical energies, are not abundantly reliable for mass extraction. Innovations, primarily developed by the Narilati descendants and later adapted by other cultures, have led to the 'cultivation' of these crystals. Special groves, fields, and caverns known as "Lumin Sectors" have been established where the ambient magical energies are harnessed, channeled, and 'fed' into these growing structures, almost like magical farming. Industry Structure:   The industry isn't monopolized by a single race or organization. Instead, it is an integral part of several cultures within Vidariel, with various degrees of access and control. Narilati descendants hold ancient knowledge and techniques, managing some of the oldest and most productive Lumin Sectors. Their methods are often veiled in secrecy and spiritual rites, tying into their reverence for the luminous legacy of their ancestors. The Caelumans, with their high affinity for magic, have also established themselves as prominent cultivators, using their innate abilities to delicately nurture the growth of these crystals. They tend to have a more scientific approach compared to the traditional methods of the Narilati. Humanoids, especially those in power-concentrated areas like the Emerald Estuary, have industrialized the process, leading to the rise of several competing guilds and companies. These groups often employ skilled magicians, engineers, and crystal farmers, creating a capitalist-like environment around the crystal industry. Regulation and Conflict:   Given the power these crystals hold, there is a significant regulatory presence around their cultivation and distribution. The "Lumin Authority," a council representing different races and parties from across the Fivefold Basin, oversees sector allotments, harvesting protocols, and trade agreements. Conflicts are not uncommon, ranging from legal battles over cultivation rights to outright skirmishes for control of productive sites. Certain radical groups view the industrial harvesting of magical crystals as an affront to Vidariel's natural magic, leading to tensions. Economic and Cultural Impact:   Economically, the crystal industry is foundational to Vidariel's market, contributing to various sectors like transportation, health, military, and infrastructure. Culturally, crystals are perceived differently across communities. While seen as a commodity for some, others view them with reverence, attributing to them profound spiritual significance, especially in communities with a strong Narilati heritage or influence. Accessibility and Usage:   The use of crystals isn't limited to the elite or magically adept. Various processed products, from crystal-lit lamps to healing salves, are accessible to the general populace, though raw, powerful crystals are costly and typically used for significant undertakings. There's also a thriving black market dealing in illegal trade of rare and potent crystal variants, circumventing the strict regulations imposed by the Lumin Authority. This industry, while a sign of progress and prosperity, also highlights the various tensions and disparities within Vidariel, serving as a microcosm of the larger interplay of power, culture, and belief in this magical world.