The Mouse Deer Society

Glossary

Disclaimer:  The Glossary page will be updated as the story and chapters unfold. These terms are to explain some existing and fictional beings, creatures, situations, and environments within the world of "The Mouse Deer Society" hence, some of the descriptions may be different than the tales and stories that you are told.

Buniyan ~ Notably called Bunian or loosely translated into English as elves are no different than the everyday man. They inhabit the Earth but are unseen because they live in a different plane than ours; some say their time works differently and despite being more advanced, their clothing and manners still reflect the old ways. Nevertheless, even though sightings of them are rare, the Buniyans can see us more clearly than we can see them.

Djinn ~ A Djinn or genie is a mythical creature not unlike the Buniyans except they are not limited to the form of men. These creatures are capable of shape-shifting into any animal and even dwell within inanimate objects. However, a Djinn can be exploited by a Dukun so that their colossal powers can be harvested to protect loved ones or cause harm. 

Dukun ~ Literally translated into English as a shaman or a witch doctor, a Dukun are powerful witches and shamans who are enlightened in varied ancient and supernatural skills including exorcisms, prophecies, curses, and charms as well as spiritual communications.

Great Spirit or Raya Spirit ~ A Great Spirit or locally known as the Raya Spirit is usually manipulated by a Dukun to manifest as the shaman's double in situations whereby the Dukun needs to be in two places at once (or create a compelling alibi). However, the true form of a Great Spirit is a creature covered in long black fur with piercing red-eyes. This spirit also possesses remarkable strength to aid a Dukun in bringing down their enemies.

Oil Man ~ A man-sized creature covered in crude oil who was cursed to abduct women at night in order to be rewarded great powers in the black magic by the Devil. This phantom is able to evade capture, run away in the darkness of the night and slip through even the tiniest of alleyways because of the coat of oil on its skin. 

Penanggal ~ A horrifying nocturnal vampire that is described as a bodiless floating woman's head with her bloodied inner organs still attached to her neck. A Penanggal is a mortal woman who practices black magic and had transformed into a vampire by submerging her body in a vinegar bath; this allows the woman to separate her head from her body and travel through the night by riding the skies with her floating head. 

River Spirit ~ According to legends, the River Spirit was in fact a Djinn (a genie) who steals fish from the cages and traps constructed by local fishermen. The monster-like spirit was famously captured in the past by a man named, Badang who made a deal to release the spirit if it granted him a wish.