Let’s start with the basics. Vampires 101.

Vampire basics 101. Pay attention, there will be a test at the end. The winner will be allowed to live.

Vampires:
Are undead- (Not living, not dead. A mix of the two.)
Have fangs.
Survive off blood (preferably human)
Are stronger and faster than normal humans. (Dracula was apparently as strong as 20 men.)
Generally quite intelligent.
Immortal, or long-lived.
Don’t die like normal humans.
Were human once, but became a vampire by another vampire/a dark pact
Arrogant, to be sure.
Most have a problem with their ‘w’s, being Translyvanian.

That’s about all that matches up across the boards. Everything else varies according to source.

Strengths:
Can charm beasts
Can fly
Magic, or magicke
Shapeshifting
Mesmerize humans.
Create vampire thralls.
Wear stylish evening dress all the time.

However, their weaknesses are fairly well known- though the severity of the action is what changes here.
Garlic
Holy Water
Religious items (Christian, for preference.)
Sunlight
Don’t appear in mirrors.
Die by a stake in the heart/having their heads cut off/burning their heart.
Uncontrollable in the presence of blood.
Silver, for some.

Ancient vampires were utterly and undeniably evil. Modern vampires are no-longer so, they are popular, classy, stylish, and ‘rebels’. Their ideals of power at a price is a powerful message, and one that appeals to many in the modern world- what would you do for this power?

That’s enough for now. Lesson 102 will commence soon, focusing on the blood issue.

Remember- Vampires have no souls…