In How to Write a Unique Spooky Story, I wrote about how to write a unique spooky story by either creating your own monster, creature, or horror yourself or by finding a monster that is not well known. I advised finding a monster by researching myths and legends in other cultures to find something that has a rich history surrounding it, but that is not considered modern. One of the countries that have some unique myths is Cambodia, a Southeast Asian nation with a landscape of planes, mountains, and coastline. The capital, Phnom Penh, is well known for the art deco Central Market and the Royal Palace.

Manussiha

A manussiha is a creature that was believed to be born of a union between a human and a lion. The child of such a union is known as a manussiha and they are believed to have the head and arms of a human and the lower body of a lion. These creatures are generally seen as guardians of the people and in some ways comparable to the Sphinx. A manussiha is seen as a fierce protector as they are believed to have the intelligence of a human, the ferocity of a lion, and the strength of a lion. Statues of these creatures are popularly built at the four corners of a pagoda in order to entreat the creatures to lend their protection to the pagoda.

Kenar

Kenar are creatures that are half bird and half human; they have the head, chest, and arms of a woman, with the wings, tail, and feet of a swan. They are believed to live in the mythical Himavanta but have been known to leave the mythical land at times to explore. They are seen as symbols of feminine beauty, grace, and accomplishment; these creatures are well known for showing humans their dances, songs, and poems if they are in a good mood. The creatures are generally seen as benevolent, playful, alluring, and a bit mischievous.

Mrenh kongveal

Mrenh kongveal are elf-like creatures whose main purpose is to act as guardians to the animals of Cambodia. They are nomadic creatures that journey through jungles and forests, often staying in different areas for no more than a month before beginning their travels anew. The Mrenh kongveal are the size of small children, yet do not let their size fool you as they have been known to use their size to their advantage in defending animals from poaching and cruelty. They can only be seen by pure-hearted children who are younger than 15; they have been known to play with and entertain the children. It has been rumored that their favor can be bought if one manages to bring them an offering that they approve of. If they accept the offering, they will grant a favor or assistance to the one that provided the offering. However, if they find the offering displeasing or insulting they will often play tricks on the one that left the offering for them in retaliation.