Ma Tranh (Vietnam)

In Vietnam, a tiger is not merely a powerful animal, but a creature with supernatural abilities. According to folklore, the ghosts of people mauled to death by a tiger are believed to remain trapped in servitude to the beast. These lost souls—known as ma tranh—are believed to assist the tiger in various ways, ensuring its sustenance and survival. They clear traps for the beast, warn the beast of approaching hunters, and lead hikers and foragers astray, making them easy prey.

Ma tranh are unable to reincarnate, and their only mean of liberation is to let another human die at the jaw of the same beast, so a new soul can replace their post.