Mud Mask

To navigate the particularly muggy environments of Kauzen III, mud masks are essential. The atmosphere is thick, sodden with floating soil particles. Mud masks are worn by kauzenians around the Tanvashan Belt, a series of marshlands with a number of large cities.

Mud masks are considered a trendy fashion item elsewhere in the planet. While they aren't functional outside of the Tanvashan Belt, they serve as part of an aesthetic referred to as 'mudcore'.

Functionality

Mud Mask by Mochi

Mud masks function the same as any other ventilating mask. It protects the wearer from harmful particles, in this case mud in the atmosphere. These masks filter out the mud, releasing it back into the atmosphere. This usually leaves a visible trail wherever someone walks, and in large cities, becomes a thick smog that can only be dealt with using giant industrial ventilators.

The masks are easy to wear, simply wrapping around the head with two straps, one above the ears, and one below.

The central filter takes in air. It is the heaviest part of the mask.

The two cylinders pump out harmful particles in the air.

Scent filled wiring cartridges give the air a flavour.

Mudcore

Soil Parasites

Clean your masks!

Very rarely, parasites can enter these masks. If they are ingested they cause a host of health problems, some parasites fatal. It is important to keep your mask clean.

Kind of offensive bro, wearing that mask. You know the people of the Belt deal with parasites in their masks? It's either the parasites or they choke on mud.

The mudcore aesthetic is popular with the youth outside of the marshlands. Clothing and apparel worn out of necessity in the marshes are seen as a fashion choice elsewhere. Some people find this offensive, deeming it cultural appropriation.

The debate of cultural appropriation has gone on for years, with people claiming they appreciate and respect the origins of the masks. Others simply appreciate the aesthetic, having no interest in its cultural roots.

Mudcore goes beyond these masks. People living in the Belt wear silicone-based clothing, as mud struggles to stick to it. The mudcore aesthetic revolves around sleek silicone outfits. While people in the Belt wear one layer of clothes to avoid overheating and decreasing mobility, people elsewhere wear multiple, deeming it more fashionable.

Item type

Clothing / Accessory

Base Price

20 charms (low quality)
80 - 100 charms (high quality)

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