Vampirism
One of the most famous and widespread of the high functioning undead, vampires have earned their spot in history by being dangerous forces of nature in some areas of the universe, shaping the very lay of the land. Most who willingly become a vampire do so for the seeming immortality, enhanced strength and speed, and boost to their power it gives. Mages without the time needed to figure out lichdom or desire to need illusions to not appear like a corpse will often take this route as it gives much of the same benefits.
Transmission & Vectors
The condition is transmitted via the bite or blood of another vampire.
Causes
A vampire is created in one of two ways: the first being a direct turning by an elder vampire (often results in a vampire spawn; only a strong soul will accend to become a higher vampire) and the second is as the result of powerful magic (ie a deal with Dark Powers).
Symptoms
If the person is being turned, they will show signs of severe blood loss such as paleness of skin and a tendency to sleep for long periods of time.
A person who has finished the transformation will still show that unnatural paleness but have all the typical traits of the undead as well as finding sunlight painful, running water difficult, holy symbols horrendous, and a much greater healing capacity to make up for the damage they cause.
Treatment
A yet-to-be turned victim can have the process reversed simply by having the cause (be it a vampire or yet to be finalized agreement) taken away. Most of the time though the only way to truly heal those infected is to behead them or stake them while they lay at rest. Many experts also suggest burning the body, but, as the extremely powerful ones have shown, that won't always stick and may just assist in the vampire's escape.
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