Kindred FAQ
What harms Kindred?
Sunlight
Sunlight is fatal to Kindred. Most cannot remain awake during daylight and must seek shelter before dawn.
Sunlight and the Peaks of Opaline
Sunlight remains one of the greatest dangers to the Kindred and prolonged exposure may still result in the Final Death.
However, due to Opaline's high elevation and the unusual atmospheric conditions surrounding its mountain peaks, a near-perpetual cloud layer frequently blankets portions of the region. Whether entirely natural or influenced by more mysterious forces remains a matter of speculation.
This phenomenon often provides periods of diminished sunlight, allowing Kindred greater freedom of movement during daylight hours than might otherwise be possible. Such conditions do not eliminate the dangers of the sun, nor do they grant immunity from it. Kindred are expected to exercise caution at all times during daylight hours.
Fire
Fire is one of the greatest fears of the Kindred. Even the undead possess instincts that recoil from flame.
Hunger
The need for blood is an inescapable part of Kindred existence. Regardless of age, status, or self-control, all Kindred must periodically feed upon the living to sustain themselves and resist the call of the Beast.
As feeding is fundamental to the experience of being Kindred, roleplay acknowledging this necessity is required. Whether feeding occurs directly within a scene or is alluded to having occurred off-screen, Kindred should not ignore or permanently disregard their need for blood.
Kindred may consume mortal food and drink and may even take pleasure in the rituals and social aspects surrounding them. However, unless they possess a specific gift or ability permitting otherwise, the undead body cannot properly process such substances. Eventually, consumed food and drink must be expelled, often resulting in discomfort and feelings of sickness or revulsion.
Wood
Wood itself isn't inherently lethal, but a wooden stake through the heart can incapacitate a Kindred.
Wood and Staking
Though ordinary wood possesses no mystical properties, wooden implements remain a legitimate danger to the Kindred. A wooden stake driven through the heart may render a Kindred immobile and entirely helpless until the obstruction is removed.
Likewise, weapons employing sharpened wooden projectiles, including arrows, bolts, and specially fashioned wooden ammunition, may pose a significant threat to Kindred under certain circumstances.
Sunlight and fire remain the greatest enemies of the undead, yet wise Kindred have learned never to underestimate the danger of sharpened wood.
Bodily Harm
Though resilient, Kindred are not invulnerable. Severe trauma, decapitation, fire, sunlight, and other extraordinary circumstances may destroy them permanently.
Myths and Misconceptions
Garlic does not repel Kindred. Running water does not harm Kindred. Religious symbols possess no inherent power over Kindred.