Vampiric Dragon

by Ken Dirk (dirkkenn@cwis.isu.edu)

Draco Sanguisuga (Orientalis/Occidantalis)

Identification

At first glance this dracoform looks like that of a normal dragon (assuming lighting conditions are poor). Closer examination reveals that its once sparkling scales have taken on a dull sheen, and that a thin white film covers them. A slight odor of decay will often eminate.

Parabiologists have concluded that this dracoform is not a separate species but is instead infected by DVV (Dracoform Vampiric Virus) which has strange similarities to HMHVV. Only the eastern and western dragon subspecies have been infected. It is yet uncertain whether the feathered serpents are immune.

Magic Capability

All vampiric dragons have magic resistance. None are known to cast spells. It is hypothesized that the virus strips these creatures of their magical ability.

Habits

These creatures are nocturnal and only hunt at night. They have a strong hatred of normal dragons and will often plot to infect other dragons with the virus.

Vampiric dragons lair in dark underground caves often guarded by creatures they have enslaved.

Economic Value

Vampiric dragons hate and are hated by other dragons. Lofwyr the great western dragon has place a large bounty for the death of any of these creatures.

Commentary

These creatures take extreme delight out of suffering of their prey. Often, they will play cat and mouse games. Some scientists believe that the virus causes mental instability in the creatures, but this in not yet proven.

Statistics

      Bod  Quick  Strength  Char  Int  Will  Essence  Reaction
       *     *       *       *-1   *    12   12+2D6    7+3D6

*=as normal for dragon of previous type (Western or Eastern)

Powers

Enhanced Senses (as normal dragon), Compulsion (LOS), Venom (on claws), Essence drain (permanent or temporary), Fear (LOS), Regeneration, Immunity to normal weapons, Immunity to age, Immunity to pathogens, Partial immunity to Poisons, Magic Resistance

Weaknesses

Allergy (Sunlight, Extreme), Allergy (Silver, Severe), Essence loss (at a rate of 1 point per 1D6+ months)