The Mercadian Pass
The Mercadian Pass
The Mercadian Pass, a haven run by the notorious criminal organization known as the Consortium, holds a significant place in the history of illicit activities. Its establishment, believed to have taken place sometime between 16670 and 16675, marked the Consortium's foray into the secondary source of their mining operations. While many of their more nefarious criminal endeavors occur elsewhere, the Mercadian Pass serves as a strategic location for their operations. Interestingly, despite its name, the Mercadian Pass is not officially under the control of any of the four main races inhabiting the continent. This unique circumstance has allowed the Consortium to operate within its boundaries with little interference. By avoiding direct entanglement with the ruling powers, the criminal organization has been able to exploit the pass's advantageous position, which leads to the Kingdom of Mercadia in the northwestern portion of the continent.
The Consortium's choice of the Mercadian Pass as a haven is not without reason. The pass provides easy access to the Kingdom of Mercadia, an area with vast resources and potential for wealth. Additionally, its geographical proximity to the ruins of Olverton played a crucial role in the Consortium's activities. Some speculate that survivors who had previously helped excavate the mines near Olverton were conscripted by the Consortium. Their knowledge of the region and familiarity with mining operations would have been invaluable to the criminal organization. Within the Mercadian Pass, the Consortium's influence is palpable. Their mining operations, although secondary to their overall criminal enterprises, thrive in this region. They exploit the resources available, likely including precious metals and gemstones, to further their wealth and power. The Consortium's strong control over the pass allows them to establish a sense of authority, creating an environment conducive to their illicit activities.
It is important to note that the Consortium's activities within the Mercadian Pass are not limited to mining alone. While the pass serves as a vital source for resources, it also acts as a base for various criminal operations. It is rumored that the Consortium uses the pass as a hub for smuggling goods, conducting illegal trades, and even organizing clandestine meetings. The remote location and lack of direct control by the ruling races make it an ideal place for the Consortium to carry out their more secretive activities away from prying eyes. Given the Consortium's vast influence and the strategic significance of the Mercadian Pass, it has become a well-known name in the realm of criminal organizations. Its establishment and subsequent operations have left a lasting mark on the region's history, showcasing the Consortium's ability to exploit favorable circumstances to their advantage. However, it is worth noting that the Consortium's dominance in the Mercadian Pass does not go uncontested. As their presence and influence grow, rival factions and opposing forces may seek to challenge their authority, potentially leading to conflicts that could shape the fate of the pass and the criminal organization itself.
