Umbracrin

Umbracrin is one of the notable dyes of the world. Not only noted due to the vibrant color, but also the unique odor associated with it. While Umbracrin enhances the colors of minerals within the container where it grows, this color lasts only briefly after the Umbracrin has been ground and made into a paste. While the time tends to vary with how the application of the Umbracrin was conducted, the luster of the colors fades quickly, leaving behind a dark shadow where the colors were once applied. Created from the growth of a fungus that grows within poorly ventilated and damp containers, Umbracrin is easy to grow and abundantly available. However, its use is limited by the foul stench that lingers even after processing. Many textiles refuse to use Umbracrin because it does not hold color for long periods of time, many similarly refuse to use Umbracrin strictly due to the smell. Regardless, the color obtained through Umbracrin is unparalleled and is yet to be contested by any other means.   Traditionally, and still maintained by certain Lotperama, Umbracrin is an agent for tattooing. Lotperama Saltators are often ornately decorated with tattoos that reflect the stories of their dances. Due to the quickly deteriorating color, the tattoos are reapplied constantly and in some respects are a daily ritual. Those who fail to renew themselves each morning are left with the dark stains of forgetten "stories" that the Lotperama Saltator have lost. For many, these are scars that are negatively viewed within the community and are not easily removed. Thus, Umbracrin is found collected in large pots and carried with them in their travels. While the Umbracrin is essential to the dyes and inks used in these traditions, the foul odor is hard to ignore. The connection between the Lotperama and Umbracrin has thus led to their direct association. As many people have come to say that, "when the Lotperama arrive, you can smell it on the wind long before seeing their carts on the horizon."