Physical Traits
Similar to most other races of Ruina, the Mhar have epicanthic folds and straight, dark hair. What sets them apart from other races and ethnic groups is their extremely pale complexion and light eye color. The most common eye colors are shades of blue and green, while other colors such as shades of yellow and violet are not uncommon. The sirn immortals, those who are fully enlightened in the way, are said to lose their eye colors and instead have glowing irises of silver.
Hair and Head Accessories
Gender differences are virtually non-existent in Mhar culture, and this likewise applies to their attire. Both men and women typically have long hair and, in fact, are generally expected to never cut their hair for their entire life. Hair is commonly braided into many microbraids, often symbolizing ones level of enlightenment, their purity, and the cultivation of lirmrlam. If an individual commits a great crime or continually fails to follow liem and the way of the mysterious feminine (Meagler), then their hair will be cut short and they will lose all of their braids. It is believed in Mhar culture that ones hair grows alongside their cultivation and growth as a person. If they don’t follow the way and they cultivate the wrong ideals, then their hair should be severed and they must be given a second chance to start over. Those who are fully enlightened as sirn immortals and those who truly aspire to become sirn adorn their hair with exactly 170 (2528) braids following a duodecimal braid pattern of 110111011 (44310, 6738), both numbers being sacred in Mhar culture.
Braids are often adorned with silver, shells, ribbons, and turquoise among other things, usually in shades of blue, violet, and silver. Thin silver chains are also commonly intertwined with the braids or adorned as separate strands. Silver or white hair is often viewed as a sign of enlightenment and wisdom, and so silver chains may be worn to signify that one aspires towards enlightenment. If one is successful in in self cultivation, then their hair will gradually turn silver and the chains are discarded or passed on to others. For ceremonial purposes, a special headdress in the shape of a large disk is worn. The braids of the wearer are woven through the edge of the headdress and hang down to mimic the tentacles of a jellyfish. Such a headdress is worn when honoring the Goddess Meagler and when couples are to be married.