Though often mistaken for vampires, they are born rather than created. Entire bloodlines have existed for centuries, passing down families, traditions, and histories long before human folklore gave them a name.
Most Faded live much like humans during childhood. As they mature, fangs emerge, their connection to blood strengthens, and hunger becomes impossible to ignore.
By adulthood, blood is no longer a desire.
It is a necessity.
The passage of time affects every Faded differently. Some remain youthful for centuries, while others age gradually. Immortality grants them time, not freedom from it.
The Hunger
Section titled “The Hunger”Blood is the only thing that truly sustains a Faded.
Food and drink may still be enjoyed, but neither can replace it. The hunger never disappears; it can only be managed.
Every Faded lives between starvation and indulgence.
Too little blood weakens them.
Too much risks something far worse.
The Balance
Section titled “The Balance”A Faded’s relationship with hunger shapes both their power and state of mind.
Hungry Faded appear more human and find self-control easier, though they are weaker.
Satiated Faded exist in balance, drawing enough blood to thrive without surrendering to hunger.
Overfed Faded become extraordinarily powerful. Their abilities intensify, their predatory traits become more pronounced, and many qualities associated with vampire folklore emerge more strongly.
The temptation is obvious.
So is the danger.
Ferality
Section titled “Ferality”Every Faded fears becoming Feral.
Ferality occurs when hunger overwhelms the individual. Instinct replaces reason, the body twists into something monstrous, and the person beneath begins to disappear.
Feral Faded are among the most dangerous supernatural beings in existence. Some develop elongated features, unnatural limbs, vestigial wings, bone growths, or other grotesque mutations. No two transform in exactly the same way.
To most Faded, Ferality is a fate worse than death.
Bloodcraft
Section titled “Bloodcraft”All Faded possess a supernatural connection to blood.
This commonly manifests as enhanced strength, speed, reflexes, and endurance, alongside unique forms of blood manipulation. These abilities grow stronger the more a Faded feeds.
Like hunger itself, power and restraint are inseparable.
Weaknesses
Section titled “Weaknesses”Despite their immortality, Faded can be killed.
Sunlight, silver, and certain supernatural protections remain dangerous to them. Unusually, these weaknesses become more severe the more blood a Faded has consumed.
A Hungry Faded may survive what would cripple an Overfed one.
Power always comes at a cost.
Society
Section titled “Society”Because they are born rather than created, most Faded are deeply tied to family and lineage. Some families are protective and close-knit. Others are divided by ancient grudges, rivalries, and conflicting views on hunger and restraint.
Despite their differences, most Faded understand one truth:
No one survives immortality alone.
Themes
Section titled “Themes”Faded stories often explore:
- Hunger and restraint
- Family and legacy
- Addiction and dependency
- Power and consequence
- Immortality and identity
- The fear of losing yourself
A Faded is not defined by their hunger.
They are defined by how they choose to live with it.