Mining on Eufez (Eufez)

Eufez' core is believed to be formed of ice and is geologically inactive, and is part of the reason why magma more rarely seeps out of the mantle. This magmatic intrusion between the mantles could explain the higher quantity of volcanoes around the equator, where tectonic movement occurs more often. The most common metals on Eufez are iron ore, nickel, copper, zinc, silver, gold, tin, and platinum. Most ores are found near the poles, which are believed to be due to the cooling effect of the planet's magnetic field. Mining activities are restricted by how one defines "ore" as different races have different definitions (particularly dwarves). For example, a dwarf considers any metal as an ore, while humans consider only precious minerals as such.

Because of the scarcity of natural resources since the beginning of the elemental crisis, mining operations have become very important in the development of Eufezian society in response. The largest mines are located in the southern region of the planet. However, these operations are not without controversy. While many miners view themselves as selfless heroes saving the world from starvation, critics in literary journals see them as greedy villains destroying the environment for profit. Regardless, the demand for rare earth elements, particularly neodymium and dysprosium, has skyrocketed in the last two decades.

The logistics of the escalation in mining is largely tied to food shortages. With so few crops able to grow in the harsh climatic conditions of Eufez, many nations have resorted to using mining resources in economic negotiation.

Furthermore, underground water sources have appeared to be unaffected by the decay of the elemental crystals. Since this water can be used to irrigate fields and forests, it has created a boom industry. A great deal of money made by the mining industries of kingdoms is invested into farmers. The largest source of revenue comes from selling the processed minerals extracted from the planet's crust for use in certain substances and potions.

Complaints have been made against the dwarves, for it is believed that they have been affected the least by Eufez’ elemental crisis. The waning of the crystals has mostly affected the climate above ground and in the oceans, resulting in famines and strange weather patterns for men, elves and mermaids. Dwarves however, seem to have remained immune to the effects of the crisis and continue to mine the mineral rich soil below. Because of the increase in famines, there have been claims of subterranean farms producing enough food to feed an entire kingdom Though this claim remains unsubstantiated.

In response to these criticisms, the dwarves have argued that they have been exploited during the crisis and that their assistance has been greatly understated. Many isolated dwarven communities have even made startling claims of effective slave labor for faeries. In truth, the dwarves claim that their isolation from the rest of civilization has allowed them to avoid being infected by waning of the crystals.

Additionally, they argue that they are not without their own troubles. Dwarves have reported that the waning of the earth crystal has caused a rise in the number of monsters roaming through the tunnels, which have forced them to adapt their methods of excavation. They also say that their ability to produce steel has diminished due to metals rusting far faster than they used to, requiring them to import certain raw materials. Foul stenches have also been reported in some caves.