Asmaloch

Asmaloch, known as The Dark Overlord, presides over the domains of war, tyranny, and corruption within the pantheon of the Old Ways. His aura is one of darkness and power, manipulating the hearts of mortals and gods alike towards chaos and destruction. Once a guardian of justice and order, Asmaloch's fall from grace led him to embrace the darker aspects of power, making him a figure of fear and reverence. He embodies the corrupting influence of authority misused, drawing those who seek power at any cost to worship him. His followers are often those who crave control and dominance, seeing in Asmaloch a patron who rewards ambition and ruthlessness.

Appearance

Physical Description: Asmaloch is depicted as a towering figure, his features marked by the scars of his fall. His eyes burn with a malevolent fire, and his armor is jagged and dark, as if forged from the very shadows.
Symbols or Attributes: Often seen wielding a sword that weeps dark flames, Asmaloch is surrounded by motifs of decay and corruption. His presence is usually accompanied by a cold, oppressive aura.
Preferred Manifestations: Asmaloch typically appears in the midst of battle or within tyrannical courts, manifesting as a shadowy figure surrounded by whispers of sedition and deceit.

Followers

Common Followers: Tyrants, warmongers, and those who wield power through fear and manipulation. His cultists include those ostracized by society who seek vengeance through power.
Preferred Followers: Warlords, dictators, and corrupt officials who exploit their positions for personal gain.
Worship Style: Worship of Asmaloch is secretive and often involves dark rituals that include offerings of pain and subjugation. His temples are hidden, fortified strongholds where unspeakable acts are committed in his name.
Temples and Shrines: Temples dedicated to Asmaloch are oppressive structures, designed to instill fear and awe. They are often adorned with symbols of war and subjugation, located in places tainted by historical acts of betrayal or bloodshed.

Teachings

Core Tenets or Dogma: Pursue power by any means, dominate the weak, and spread corruption to disrupt order.
Ethical Stance: Encourages exploitation and cruelty as tools for achieving one's ambitions, viewing mercy and justice as weaknesses.
Taboos: Shows disdain for acts of genuine kindness or altruism, considering them foolish and weak.

Abilities

Divine Powers: Mastery over dark magic, the ability to incite war and conflict, and powers that corrupt both land and soul.
Blessings: Followers might gain supernatural strength, influence over others, or dark magical abilities that enhance their capacity to control and dominate.
Curses: Enemies of Asmaloch may find themselves plagued by nightmares, misfortune in war, or betrayal by their closest allies.

Myths and Legends

Creation Myth: Emerged from the shadow cast by the first light of creation, Asmaloch's essence was forged in the darkness left behind, shaped by the fears and ambitions of all beings.
Major Myths: The Betrayal of Light, where Asmaloch led a celestial rebellion that ended in his fall and transformation into the Herald of Shadows.
Relics and Holy Artifacts: The Scepter of Ruin, a cursed artifact that brings desolation to lands and madness to rulers.

Relationships

Allies among the Pantheon: Aligns with other deities of chaos and destruction, often as a means to his own end rather than true loyalty.
Rivals or Enemies: In constant opposition to deities of justice, peace, and creation, especially those who once counted him as an ally.
Relationship with Mortals: Viewed with a mix of fear and admiration, Asmaloch rewards those who embrace his dark teachings with power, at the cost of their humanity.

Influence

Historical Influence: Asmaloch has been a shadow across history, often a catalyst for wars and the rise of tyrants.
Current Influence: Continues to sow discord and corruption, influencing the darker aspects of politics and power.
Prophecies: Central to dark prophecies that foretell an age of strife and darkness, where his influence will reach its zenith, testing the fabric of the cosmos.
Asmaloch's profile reflects his complex role as a deity of war and corruption within the pantheon of the Old Ways, highlighting how his dark influence shapes conflicts and the quest for power in the mortal realms. His narrative warns of the perils of unchecked ambition and the depths to which the quest for power can degrade the soul.

Title(s)
The Dark Overlord, Herald of Shadows
Domain
War, Tyranny, Corruption
Alignment
Lawful Evil
Symbol
A blackened crown engulfed in shadowy flames.

Divine Classification

Malur

Religions

• Old Ways