The Syrgoi (more commonly referred to as the vampires, cursed ones, or the Carpathians (though many of existing Syrgoi have no origin in Carpath)) are the humans tainted by the Dark Source’s corruption of the Ghaulsyr. Their origins exist in the Ghaulsyr's initial of their new-found powers when cursed, corrupting numerous humans with the curse as well. The most prominent case being the intentional corruption of the city-state of Carpath.
Unlike the long lived Ghaulsyr, most Syrgoi have passed their mortal age while being sustained by the powers granted by their curse, or otherwise neglected to keep their bodies functioning in mortal norm, which makes purging their taint merely an elaborate method of slaying one. They remain able to be killed, though most often only by complete destruction or mutilation of their forms. While Syrgoi dislike sunlight and other bright lights (particularly those without control), it does not prove fatal to them. Likewise, the raw power of the corruption keeps them alive and resistant to diseases, though without feeding they will become weakened and frail.
Much like the Ghaulsyr's corruption, the Syrgoi hold a hunger for the life force of other entities, and can absorb it with physical contact. However, most humans lack the magical training or willpower to control this energy once absorbed. This results in often uncontrolled powers, and transmutations into erratic, oft times bestial forms over extended periods. The more strong willed or trained humans fare better, using the additional power to achieve magical feats, and suffering less degradation, with the most powerful maintaining their human appearance altogether.
Either by being interrupted during its efforts, or deliberate control, a Syrgoi can leave a victim alive, allowing the curse to build up in them and make them also a Syrgoi. The transitional phases time-line varies, and those least drained remain longer, but without magical aid will still turn over in time.
Owing to their origin, the Syrgoi are largely scattered in Northrealm, and about the Northern Forest specifically, since the fall of Carpath. Most remain in seclusion, hiding from various forces (prominently the Dawn Legion) that make dedicated efforts to erase them from Akrylonor.