Notes on the Vrakhiri

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The people of Vale Sangora had different names for these creatures in the past – vampires, strigoi. Now we know that these beings are no folktales – and that their proper name is ‘vrakhiri’.

They are astounding creatures. Since the new knyaz took over Svartrau, and the whole valley with it, we’ve learned that their powers are seemingly limitless. Their blood is the universal panacea – it has even stopped the spread of plague and cured those already affected by it! What I tried to achieve through many years of arduous and fruitless effort, Brencis was able to do overnight!

They are essentially immortal. As long as they drink blood (in moderate quantities, I presume – there’s no need for killing), and avoid sunlight, they can roam the earth for centuries. No surprise, then, that V. is over a hundred years old and doesn’t look half that! Unlike me, a mere human, who can clearly see the ravages of time in my own reflection…

There’s so much to learn about them. V. denies me this knowledge, claiming that it will only lead to damnation. I cherish our friendship, but sometimes his lack of vision shocks me.