The core is a star made up of the purest form of energy. it's mist alone is enough to keep a tech-knight going, and when condensed, crystallizes into a solid object.
The masked merchants in Haven are actually sages, the star's oldest inhabitants and of an origin unknown.
Upon finding the star with unlimited energy, the sages decided to make it their home.
It seemed like an eternity of paradise for them, increasing their intellect with time and their understanding of the universe.
Until, like most things that receive power, wanted more of it.