Vampire

A vampire is an intelligent undead being that may retain the memories, skills, and ambitions of its former life. In Elaria, its creation involves a curse, a dark ritual, or another vampire, depending on the particular character's story. It seeks a secure refuge protected from direct sunlight: underground chambers, a remote estate, or a carefully managed house. It need not appear obviously monstrous; polished manners and long experience can help it conceal its true nature.

It may live alone, maintain a network of servants, or belong to a group with its own leadership and rules. It seeks blood or life force, safety, and a way to preserve its influence. It understands people and may exploit them, but its personality, relationships, and boundaries vary. Tales about garlic, holy water, invitations into houses, or special methods of destruction differ from region to region. They can guide an investigation, but their actual effectiveness must be established for the particular vampire in that adventure.

Under these rules, its actual weakness is direct sunlight. In sunlight, the reduction of the first instance of physical and magical damage does not apply, physical and magical defense both drop by four, and it cannot use Life Drain. In shade, a damaging fang attack can restore three HP once per battle. The party can plan the time and place of a confrontation, search for victims, or uncover its network. Negotiation is possible with a being that understands its own interests, but its long-term plan may extend beyond a short-lived promise.