Mishu

Mishu (literal translation, "dirty water," mi - water, shu - corruption, filth) is the Miranen word for people who are a mixture of one or more races or species. While the term mishu most often applies to first-generation mixed people, it can also be applied to those multiple generations down the line if they suffer from any of the markers that are considered signatory of mishu heritage.

The term mishu is considered insulting and derogatory in most instances.

History
The term mishu is derived from the mythological figure of Mishue, primarily through the legend of the Seven Stars. As with many Miranen myths, that particular tale highlights three primary concerns: fear of foreigners or unfamiliar entities, the dangers of helping others, and betrayal through misplaced trust.

Throughout written history, the Miranen have never been fully accepting of mishu or shan. The few recorded instances where shan and Miranen have worked together are invariably to the Miranen society's benefit. That fact mostly serves to highlight the fact that the Miranen experienced a weakness they could not resolve on their own. As mishu are accepted to be at least partially shan, these grudging views combine with prejudice built on folk stories to create an environment of hostility.

Classifications
There are multiple types of mishu. The two most common types are hane-mishu (usually just called mishu) and corran-mishu.

Hane-mishu are the result of reproduction between two separate sentient species, such as a Miranen and a Hangesu.

Corran-mishu are the result of reproduction between two races within a single species, such as a raren and a suren Miranen. Corran-mishu do not typically display the physical markers that are characteristic of the hane-mishu.

Markers
While the term mishu only refers to mixed ancestry and not necessarily any particular aspect of appearance, there are a traits that are considered unique to mishu.

Hair
Most commonly, Miranen mishu exhibit red or rust-colored hair. In some cases, particularly where two non-Miranen mishu produce offspring, the hair may be white. With these unusual colorations, the hair is also usually very finely textured and thin.

Skin
A large portion of mishu have very pale, fragile skin. They are typically highly vulnerable to both injury and sun damage. Hangesu mishu may have a converse condition; their skin, while also typically pale, may be extremely difficult to damage. Soft tissues are still vulnerable and they are very susceptible to illness as well.

Height
Mishu tend to be noticeably shorter than average, most never reaching more than 75% of the average combined height of their parents' races. This can be deceptive in cases where one parent species has a notable height difference. A good example of this is Psirasephes Mijase-Aradenen. While not purely Aiaen-Miranen mishu in nature, he is considered extremely tall by Miranen society but he is very short by Aiaen standards.

Rokan's Syndrome
One of the most devastating illnesses in the MRU world, Rokan's syndrome causes widespread pain through the muscles and joints, depression, and a loss of appetite. The disease is a wasting disease, where the body uses its own organs and bones for fuel. While not pleasant, the most noticeable sign of the disease is readily apparent in that it also causes premature aging.

See also:

 * Illsphoiden