Vampirism

Vampirism is a rare genetic condition that affects both mind and body, manifesting in delusional survival instincts and slight physical deformities. With its origins shrouded in myth and mystery, it is stereotypically characterized as an unnatural need to consume blood to survive. The condition is hereditary, and mostly affects men. Unaffected women may pass it on to descendants. A person suffering from vampirism is called a Vampire.

Vampires have long been the subject of folklore and legend, with stories of bloodthirsty monsters that prey on innocent victims appearing all over the world. In many cultures, they are portrayed as immortal beings that can only be killed by very specific means, such as a stake through the heart, exposure to sunlight, or being thrown into running water. They are also said to have supernatural powers, such as the ability to shape-shift, control the minds of others, and move at superhuman speeds. However, modern research has shown that the reality of vampirism is far less complex than these stories suggest. Many vampires lead normal lives, as they are mortal humans after all.

Symptoms & Traits

Psychological

The foremost and most debilitating trait of vampirism is the perceived need to consume human blood, flesh, or other things that would constitute cannibalism. Commonly just referred to as "thirst" or "hunger," it is an instinctual feeling, a basic need that must be met in order to survive. Except for a slight feeling of gratification, engaging in cannibalism provides the vampire with no benefits beyond calories consumed. This thirst or hunger can be difficult to control, especially among the young, and if left unchecked, can lead to dangerous and violent behavior.

There is a prominent myth saying vampires are harmed by exposure to direct sunlight. There is a grain of truth to this. While they are not harmed by it, they have an irrational hatred for bright light. Although this trait can be suppressed through rigorous mental training, most vampires end up as nocturnal.

Physical

All (known) vampires have longer, sharper canine teeth than regular people. While that factor remains a constant, individuals may be born with more physical deviations. Prominent facial bones and muscles, pointed ears, and grey or yellow-ish skin are all fairly common among them. Rarer traits may include being severely hunchbacked, having bioluminescent purple or pale blue eyes, scaling of the skin, and claw-like fingernails.

Other symptoms of vampirism may include a variety of beneficial traits, such as heightened sense of smell, sight, or hearing, and increased potential for strength and agility. Undoubtedly giving way for exaggerated stories, these traits do not turn vampires into superhumans by any means.

Treatment

There is no known cure for vampirism, and primary methods of treatment focuses on suppressing their cannibalistic hunger to a manageable degree. Some achieve success through the consumption of raw meat of animals, with higher success rates should the vampire commence eating the creature while it is still alive. Some drain a non-lethal amount of blood from other humans, and though effective, the risk of infection and subsequent sepsis is high.

The treatment of vampirism is a controversial issue, with some countries advocating for extermination of those affected as the only viable solution. Ghardaise monks, however, have discovered that at least two vampires have completely eradicated their unnatural hunger by regularly consuming human breast milk over the course of several years. They are adamant this is not only the most humane treatment, but also the most effective, giving hope to future victims of this horrible condition.

Type

Genetic

Origin

Mutated

Cycle

Chronic, Congenital

Rarity

Extremely Rare