(For the vampire lore, see the end of this chapter. The vampires in this book are not vampires in the popular sense; they follow the lore Rowling established.)
The young wizards grew even more excited. They were curious about vampires, and the Muggle-born students were especially intrigued.
"Who can tell me what a vampire is?" Lupin asked. "Answers from Muggle folklore or Wizarding World theory are both fine."
Hands shot up all around the classroom.
"Mr. Alvin Bryan."
"Vampires are supernatural beings that sustain themselves for long periods by drinking the blood of humans or other creatures."
"Very good. One point to Hufflepuff. Miles Parker, let's hear your thoughts."
"After Adam and Eve were driven out of the Garden of Eden, they went into the wilderness and had two children. Cain was the elder and the third human being in the world. God punished him for murdering his younger brother Abel, placing a curse on him. Cain became the ancestor of vampires."
"Good, Parker, very good. One point to Gryffindor. Finley McGregor, your turn."
"Vampires fear sunlight and silver, which can kill them, and they can only survive on human blood. A wooden stake through the heart, fire, holy water, or garlic placed in their mouths can all hurt them."
"Not bad, McGregor. Another point to Hufflepuff." Lupin clapped his hands. "All right, that's enough questions. Let's begin the lesson."
Lupin started using a slideshow too—so Snape was no longer the only person standing in a long robe and teaching with slides.
"There seem to be a great many misconceptions and prejudices about vampires. In the Wizarding World, vampires are classified as a subspecies of humanity—living dead. They have equal standing with humans, must obey the laws of the Wizarding World, and are forbidden from harming others without cause.
"And