Vampires

Through dark magics and dealings with the minions of Umbra the members of House Myst were able to cast the curse of vampirism upon themselves. According to the histories they desired immortality, which they achieved, at least from a certain perspective.
As vampires they possess enhanced strength, speed, and senses. From the moment of death and rebirth they do not age, do not fall ill, and when wounded heal at an accelerated rate. Their pale complexions reflect years without feeling the sun's warmth, for Aurora shuns them and the light burns their skin. Contrary to some myths, they can eat normal food and drink, but consistent with all the stories they do need to periodically consume the blood of others to sustain their unlife. There are also stories of vampires possessing a particular affinity for creatures of the night: bats, wolves, and the like. It is unclear if these abilities are due to the vampirism or merely a trait of House Myst.
Though extremely hardy, vampires are not truly immortal. They can be killed in manners similar to most humanoids like decapitation, immolation, or being stabbed through the heart. Additionally prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will supposedly burn and blister their skin until they eventually combust and turn to ash, though this story is dubiously substantiated.
It is also worth noting that those cursed with vampirism are rendered sterile, unable to reproduce through normal means. The curse is passed on through secret rites known only to the nobles of House Myst, but different branches of the family have been more liberal in disseminating their "gift." Still, while the total number of vampires roaming the Imperium is unknown, it is most certainly exceedingly small.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Humans

Geographic Distribution

• Angler's Rest
• Blackcoal Island
• The Gray Keep

Related Organizations

• House Myst
• The Nightingales