Vampire

Vampirism
Vampirism is a condition which can impact only those with at least half human bloodlines, in which the humanoid effectively dies and their body is reanimated as an intelligent, undead  being that requires consumption of the blood of the living in order to survive. They retain memories of their past life, but they cease to be those individuals and are reborn, sometimes with completely different personalities or traits than they bore while alive. Vampires are considered their own race, regardless of their original species.

Origins
The origin of vampirism remains a mystery, although myths abound; some facts are known, however. It is magical in origin, although whether arcane or divine is strongly debated in some schools of thought. Similarities between vampirism and lycanthropy have lead some scholars to believe the two afflictions are somehow related. The condition may be spread through a bite wound received from a vampire by a human or half-human. As they are no longer living, a vampire cannot reproduce biologically.

Traits
Vampires are granted improved physical abilities as a part of their supernatural existence: greater strength, increased agility, keener sight, more acute hearing, and even a more sensitive sense of smell. Contrary to popular belief, they are no more intelligent than they were at the time of their transformation into their new state of being; they merely gain in intelligence over their decades or even centuries long lives, much as any elders of another race would. All vampires, however, do indeed have the sharp, extended canines which are so central to many myths about their kind.

As a result of their change a vampire seems immortal and invulnerable, but they do suffer from their own limitations and weaknesses. Their improved abilities are reduced during daylight hours to be only slightly better than that of the average human. When exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, they will begin to weaken. Being a form of undead, they are vulnerable to holy symbols and rites when wielded by the strongly devote (clerics, priests, paladins, etc.). While vampires can regenerate with unnatural speed, they are not immune to damage; their flesh wounds as easily as a human's, and enough damage will incapacitate them. A direct stab through the heart means death to a vampire.

In-World Appearance
These races may be approved as player characters on a case-by-case basis; an Uncommon and Foundling Races Addendum is required with these races. Due to their sometimes unusual appearances, visual approval of the AV may also be required along with the character sheet. See our full rules for additional infomation on AV appearances.