AZEMAN

Lore

The Azeman phenomenon takes shape in the distinctive cultural landscape of Suriname; the name literally means "to feed on carrion" and is often applied to a witch or sorceress-vampire.

This vampire exists in three states. By day, it appears as an ordinary person-often elderly or withdrawn. Tells of their nature include chronically bloodshot eyes, toes held in a curled position, and a restless avoidance of eye contact. At night, the Azeman performs a vile ritual, peeling off its skin and hiding it in a rice mortar or secret spot. The skinless body is raw, ultrasensitive tissue that reacts violently even to a faint trace of salt.

Once the skin is shed, the creature becomes a glowing orb-the "death-light." In this form, it slips through keyholes and cracks. Reaching its hunting ground, the orb transforms into an animal; usually a vampire bat, a jaguar, or a striped owl. The Azeman retains human intelligence and a mystical bond to its hidden skin; any damage to the hide is felt instantly. Human blood is its only source of preternatural longevity.