phsyiology

However, just as a left-handed person could learn through practice to
use either hand equally well, it was entirely possible for dhampirs to follow
the tendencies of their human genes and live just as mortals did. And, while
they might have nearly half the strength, sight, hearing, and other physical
advantages of a true vampire, it was that adaptability that was their greatest
asset. With that fifty percent, they had a measure of power within them no
human being could hope to attain, allowing them to cross swords with the
Nobility by day or night.

Still, while it was true they could resist their fundamental biological
urges, it was also undeniable that operating in daylight severely degraded a
dhampir’s condition. Their biorhythms fell off sharply after midnight,
reaching their nadir at noon. Direct sunlight could burn their skin to the
point where even the gentlest breeze was pure agony, like needles being
driven into each and every cell in their body. In some cases, their skin might
even blister like a third-degree burn.

Ebbing biorhythms brought fatigue, nausea, thirst, and numbing
exhaustion. Fewer than one in ten dhampirs could withstand the onslaught
of midday without experiencing those tortures.

“Still, it looks like you don’t have any problems at all. That’s no fun.”
Lina pursed her lips, then quickly hauled back on the reins.

1 - 2