Skin and Fur Trade

## Origins and Overview

Within the territories governed by the Imperial Throne, a dark and highly illegal trade thrives in the form of the skin and fur trade. This sub-article delves into the origins, methods, and prevalence of this illicit industry, which involves the hunting and exploitation of exotic animals for their valuable skins, furs, and meat. Despite strict regulations and conservation efforts, criminal networks continue to profit from this destructive trade, posing a severe threat to biodiversity and ecological balance.

## How the Skin and Fur Trade Operates

The skin and fur trade within the Empire involves various illicit methods to hunt, process, and smuggle exotic animal products. These methods include:

1. Illegal Hunting and Poaching: Organized criminal networks employ skilled hunters and poachers to target endangered or protected species. These individuals often operate in remote regions, using traps, snares, or firearms to kill the animals. Poaching also involves the use of illegal hunting methods, such as night vision equipment or poison.

2. Smuggling and Concealment: Once the animals are killed, their skins and furs are removed and processed. The products are then smuggled across borders, hidden within legitimate cargo shipments or concealed in specialized compartments of vehicles or vessels. Corrupt officials and well-established smuggling networks aid in the transportation and distribution of these illegal goods.

3. Black Market Sales: The skin and fur products are sold through underground networks and black market channels. These networks may include illegal markets, private collectors, or individuals seeking exotic fashion items or traditional medicines. The products are often marketed as rare or luxurious, commanding high prices due to their perceived exclusivity.

## Market, Prices, and Locations

The skin and fur trade within the Empire operates within various locations, targeting specific regions known for their biodiversity and rare species. Some notable areas include:

1. Protected Wildlife Reserves: Criminal networks exploit protected wildlife reserves, where endangered species reside under the Empire's conservation efforts. These reserves become targets for illegal hunting and poaching due to the high value placed on the skins, furs, and other body parts of these animals.

2. Remote Forests and Jungles: Dense forests and jungles, especially those difficult to access or under limited surveillance, serve as hunting grounds for poachers. These areas provide hiding places and natural habitats for exotic animals, making them prime targets for illegal hunting.

3. Underground Trading Networks: The skin and fur trade operates through underground trading networks, often connected to major cities and urban centers. These networks facilitate the sale and distribution of illegal animal products to buyers who seek exotic skins and furs for fashion, cultural, or medicinal purposes.

The prices of skin and fur products vary widely depending on factors such as the rarity of the species, quality of the product, and demand. Exotic animal skins and furs, especially those from endangered species, command exorbitant prices in the black market, reaching astronomical figures due to their illicit nature and limited availability.

## Estimated players

Estimating the exact number of individuals involved in the skin and fur trade is challenging due to its covert nature and global reach. However, it is believed that a vast network of poachers, hunters, traders, smugglers, and buyers contribute to this illicit industry within the Empire. Experts estimate that tens of thousands, if not more, are directly or indirectly involved in the hunting, processing, smuggling, and trade of illegal skin and fur products. This includes individuals at various levels of the supply chain, from those directly engaged in poaching to those facilitating the sale and distribution of these products.

The skin and fur trade poses a significant threat to the Empire's rich biodiversity and ecological balance. To combat this destructive industry, the Imperial Throne must strengthen conservation efforts, enhance law enforcement, and collaborate with international partners to disrupt the networks involved in the illegal skin and fur trade. This includes implementing strict penalties for offenders, raising public awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation, and supporting sustainable alternatives to the use of animal products. Only through concerted efforts can the Empire protect its natural heritage and preserve the delicate ecosystems that exist within its territories.