Rare is the individual that does not face some form of societal stigma in The Strata of Harmony, however, for the Mudborn, stigma, distrust and discrimination are a daily occurrence. Collectively called Mudborn, or Muddies, people who are born outside Harmony's great wall are lumped together as social outcasts and seen as an inferior caste of persons.
This being the case, why would an individual subject themselves to this level of harassment and ostracism?
Harmony is where the money is. It is the seat of power, industry and medicine for a continent, and many born beyond it's walls have need of services that can only be found in the city. These needs are a powerful driver for Mudborn to travel the rails, battle prejudice and seek their fortune in a place where many dreams are dead on arrival. For this reason, many Mudborn are drawn to Rail-Jock Crews. When among other misfits and misanthropes, Mudborn are often welcomed.
Mudborn have much to offer these crews, with life outside the walls and on the frontiers instilling a strong attitude of self reliance, physical fitness and strength of arm. This usually makes them excellent physical combatants in the tight quarters of a train, as well as reliability when beyond the city limits. This awareness of the world outside Harmony is a subtle asset that cannot be overstated, as many Rail-Jock's are blind to the world beyond the city.
Regardless of stigma or distrust, Mudborn are hardy survivalists that are just trying to get by in a world they didn't choose, giving them an affinity for camaraderie and teamwork that is all to rare in this age of industry and capitalism.
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