Archdevils
The Archdevils are not deities in the traditional sense; their accrued power is garnered through a mixture of worship and direct action. They have all gained their titles by appointment or usurpation, succeeding the archdevil before them. As one descends further into the Nine Hells, each archdevil wields greater power and influence.
Structure
Each Archdevil rules a layer of Hell. These positions grant them unique status among the hells, including absolute rule of their layer. Each archdevil is considered powerful in their own rite, but they are typically "subservient" to the one below them. To climb the hierarchy is to oust the archdevil beneath them. Thus, each has greater influence over those lesser to them, especially where deals and law are concerned.
As each level of Hell is unique, the duties undertaken by an Archdevil are specific to their layer. For example, Abyssus rules Maladomini, the prison of Hell, and so acts as warden and enforcer.
The Archdevils are also the ruling body of law in Hell. Each must tailor these laws to their layer, but adhere to strict rules for trade, military, and worship.
Tenets of Faith
The laws that govern faith, politics, and hierarchy alike are detailed here: The Concordat of Hell
Worship
What mortals serve the Archdevils are ones who seek power. They provide items from the material planes and act on the wills of the archdevil they serve. Within Hell, devils serve their master in very direct ways, such as military or labor.
Sacrificing lambs, goats, and people is a common way to pay tribute to the Archdevils. People in particular are a form of wealth and coveted trade resource in Hell, and so this is also the most lucrative for both parties.
Even when not in Hell, devils and Archdevils are bound by their laws, whereas mortals are not bound by the large majority of such rulings. Certain laws extend to the followers of Archdevils, and so some still bind their actions.
Priesthood
Priests of the Archdevils are usually devils loyal to the individual. They are awarded cozy lives above other devils and the right to issue demands and orders, as well as direct rituals. They usually dress in general mimicry of their master.
Granted Divine Powers
Some devout followers are granted perks such as command of small bands of devils, use of fiendish pyromancy, and magical artifacts.
Sects
There are innumerable cults, sects, and worshipers that follow the Archdevils. To list them all would be absurd, and so below are a selection of notable examples.
Avernus' Palm - Mortals in service of whichever being currently holds the title of Archdevil of Avernus.
Oberusk - A mixed cult of devils and mortals that commonly employ enslaved fire elementals. Most are renegades, still directing their praise to the Archdevils, but considered rogue under the terms of the contract formed with Ensear.
The Cascading Hellfire - A cult of pyromaniacs who set fires in a misguided attempt to impress the Archdevils. Unintentionally, they have drawn attention for a very different reason; they are used by all of the archdevils as a blunt tool of destruction. They find them useful more than pious, and thus have allowed them to continue to operate, occasionally rewarding them for their services.
The Long Arm - These followers serve Abyssus, the Imprisoner. They capture devils and other beings who have either been sentenced, labeled outlaws, or become traitors. They send them directly into Maladomini, or claim their souls to be given to Abyssus.
Type
Religious, Pantheon
Alternative Names
The Lords of Hell, The Lords of the Hells, The Devil Lords
Demonym
Archdevil
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