Vampire

Vampires are hematophagous and pyrophobic humanoid amphibians. The hearing, smell and tactile senses of vampires are very acute and attuned but their eyesight is very poor, with civilized vampires having slightly improved eyesight. Their hearts beat extremely slowly, in rhythm with their breathing. Other things, such as fingernails and hair, grow even slower. Vampires can be killed, usually with major damage to the heart or head. Vampires themselves are the most likely to succeed in killing their own species, as they are equal to their adversaries. It is assumed from their actions that fire itself can destroy them or be a danger because vampires naturally fear fire, bright lights and the sun. These fears can be conquered through enough training. They are immune to death by old age and generally specialize in one trade. An old vampire can be assumed to be a master at his trade and a helpful teacher if convinced.

Civilized Vampire (Dextros vampyrus familiaris) families are organized into clans, with a definite individual or handful of individuals heading the clan, generally the oldest in the clan. The vampires in a clan live in one place, if not in the same house or building and feel an intense bond for one another. As most members of a clan are related, reproduction within the clan is discouraged and intermarriage between clans can unify them in power and size. Clans may be any size, from two to fifty generations of lineage. Some vampires clans live in underground cities, which are run feudally by Princes; life in a city is one of constant political manipulation and paranoia, as the powers of the city vie for power, control and food.

Wild Vampire (Dextros vampyrus vampyrus) are wild animals. Civilized vampires have societies and cities, while wild vampires are not suited to living with people. Because they are related, there are a lot of similarities, but they represent opposite ends of the spectrum.

Wild vampires are generally bigger and considerably less intelligent than civilized vampires. They are more aware of the natural environment than civilized vampires and tend to attack brashly. Wild vampires don't bond or communicate with humans like civilized vampires can. Civilized vampires have long lasting lineages and hierarchies while wild vampires are unorganized. Wild vampires are born hunters, while many civilized vampires have lost the natural talent. Wild vampires are stronger and larger than most civilized vampires. Wild vampires run and leap from trees, civilized vampires walk. Their blood is essentially the same.