Excerpts from "Book of The Beast" (Edition IV, Circa XXX A.E.)

Transcribed from the sealed archives of the ??? and translated by ???

FEEDING. As aforementioned, vampires, like all creatures, must feed. Yet unlike man or beast, their sustenance is not grain or flesh, but blood. The amount of blood needed to sustain a vampire can vary within the species but it’s estimated that they must at least feed every XXXXXXXXX. Without it, they experience rare weakness and in long famine, may even fall into torpor: a deathless sleep until blood awakens them once more.

Human meals or animal blood can be used as a short fix but cannot solely maintain a vampire alone. In fact, some covens are noted to forbid the practice of consuming anything other than blood, finding the practice worthy of derision.

The most common method of feeding is the bite. Unlike the process of envenomation with the goal of transforming a victim, the feeding bite uses less venom. Instead of prompting conversion, it weakens the senses and brings forth feelings similar to intoxication or even ecstasy. Prolonged exposure to this venom can encourage addiction or create a bond between the vampire and victim. Drinking blood secondhand from a vessel is also in practice. While it’s said to not be as potent, the option is crucial to survival if there are no humans or animals present.

EFFECTS OF BLOOD. Though the act is rare, there exist accounts of humans who have consumed the blood of vampires. The effects are varied, but the threat of destruction outweighs any perceived positive attributes one may receive.

The immediate effects include an accelerated rate of healing - while it may not always heal extreme sickness with one drink, wounds and bodily pains may be remedied. Alongside this, humans can experience heightened senses and vitality that put their strengths higher than the average person.

However, consumption can also end with a deep addiction to the blood. This too can create an unwanted bond between the vampire and human. These bonds are not to be underestimated - it can make humans susceptible to commands and rid them of free will. There is also the risk of falling into a nullborn like state - wasting away until painful death.