Dhampyr

Dhampyrs, also known as "daywalkers," are living creatures who have inherited some of the tainted blood of vampires. Some are the descendants of male vampires and mortal females, but many others have dhampyrs for parents and some result from a vampire of either sex biting a pregnant female. A dhampyr's powers may lie dormant for years before being quickened; dhampyrs may also have children who are normal in every respect. Possessing some of the strengths of vampires and none of their traditional weaknesses, dhampyrs are simultaneously valued and discriminated against by both sides of their heritage.

Basic Information

Ecology and Habitats

Dhampyrs may be born into mortal society or they may be raised by vampires and treated as special but lesser members of a vampire clan. In the former case, how dhampyrs are treated depends largely on whether or not the dhampyr's neighbors knows of their true nature. In cases where a dhampyr's heritage is a secret known to only a few, many can safely pass as normal without incident. When a dhampyr's true nature is known, however, they are frequently mistreated, though in some cases their vampiric ancestry is treated as a boon rather than a curse. Dhampyrs raised among vampire are another matter. Most vampires see their progeny as special creatures, above the average mortal though of less value than a true vampire. As a result, dhampyrs are the favored thralls of true vampires, who utilize them as soldiers and assassins, giving them tasks that are beneath a true vampire but allow opportunity for prestige nonetheless. In some cases, dhampyrs are even allowed to use the names of vampire clans as their surname, a high honor on vampiric society.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Dhampyrs are thin and willowy, with pale skin and slightly pointed ears. They have slightly pronounced canines and blood-red eyes. Dhampyrs are unharmed by sunlight or positive energy the way true vampires are. Many dhampyrs feel the characteristic bloodlust of a vampire as well as the ability to feed off of blood for sustenance or healing, though their thirst is much milder than that of true vampires and not all or even most dhampyrs carry out the practice.

Genetic Ancestor(s)