Yaksha

Description
Yaksha are a variable group of fae and spirits. Common in Buddhist, Hindu and Jain literature, they tend to be given roles by the gods to protect certain places or artifacts, or to be the caretaker of nature as a whole. Some serve gods directly, such as the yaksha that served under Bishamonten.

They may be very similar to humans in appearance, or they may be somewhat similar to the Japanese oni, having horns, fangs and other ogre-like traits. Their appearance often reflects their role-- the more fae-like yaksha tend to be the benevolent nature spirits, while more ogre-like yaksha are fearsome warriors and protectors.

Origin
Idols and symbols of yaksha go back as early as 300 CE or even before, so they do not seem to be a particularly new race. They may have been the creations of the gods they serve or worship, and so their possible creation as a species could be traced back very far.

Characters of this Species

 * Konngara - Previously a servant of the god Bishamonten before an untimely death, and has become a rather capable ghost. One of the tormentors of Jigoku.

Related

 * Oni