Demon

The demons of the Hells were created by Undeath as an attempt to forge a race that embodied the best traits of all species—power, intellect, and a deep affinity for magic. While originally conceived to maintain balance and order within the Hells, the demons' connection to chaotic, dark magic led them down a path of corruption. Over time, as the plane of the Hells shifted and the attentions of Undeath grew distant, the demons’ nature transformed, and they evolved into beings ruled by ambition, fear, and dominance.

Physically, demons are humanoid in shape but vary greatly in size and form, often with distinct features such as horns, claws, and glowing eyes. They are deeply attuned to magic, and their abilities range from powerful sorcery to fear manipulation. Demons live in a strict hierarchy, with demon lords at the top and lesser demons beneath, each vying for power and influence. Their society is built on strength, with magic and physical prowess determining one's status.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Demons were created by Undeath to incorporate the best traits of all living species, and as such, their forms vary, though they share several common features:

• Demons typically have a humanoid build with two legs and two arms. Their size and shape can range from lithe to towering, muscular figures depending on their particular roles within the hells.
• Their skin is often tough and leathery, capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of the Hells. It can be various shades of red, black, or even translucent.
• Many demons possess unnervingly vivid eyes, which can glow or shift in color based on their emotional or magical state. Their vision is enhanced by their ability to see through magical auras and perceive the energies around them.
• Demons have internal energy channels that allow them to channel raw magical power more effectively. These "veins" are sometimes visible, glowing faintly beneath their skin.

Genetics and Reproduction

Demons reproduce in a manner similar to many humanoid species, with male and female demons mating to produce offspring. However, reproduction is not always necessary for their continued existence. Some demons are "forged" in the fires of the Hells, their essence conjured through the manipulation of magic rather than birth. When born naturally, demon offspring typically gestate for 9 months, but the process can be sped up through magical rituals or influence from powerful demon lords. Some demons, particularly those from more powerful bloodlines, may gestate in much shorter periods. Demons can also undergo a form of soul-binding, where a demon lord or another powerful being forges a demon’s existence from the soul energy of others, accelerating the “birth” of a demon.

Growth Rate & Stages

Due to their magical nature, demons mature rapidly compared to mortal species. Most demon young reach adulthood in a matter of years. Depending on their environment or experiences, demons can go through transformations, such as acquiring additional limbs, wings, or abilities. This is often influenced by the demon's exposure to certain magical forces or their service to a demon lord. Demons do not age in the traditional sense. Their bodies remain youthful for centuries, though their minds can become more twisted or corrupted by time. Many demons choose to undergo rituals to enhance their powers rather than naturally age.

Ecology and Habitats

Demons thrive in places of intense magical energy, like the Hells, where the magical currents are potent and ever shifting. Their connection to the arcane and the ethereal realms makes them well-suited for these environments. Demons often build their homes within the depths of the Hells, carving out niches in the harsh and desolate landscapes. These can range from towering fortresses to hidden caves filled with arcane relics. Though they are most comfortable in environments steeped in dark magic, demons can survive in many climates. They are particularly resistant to extreme temperatures and harsh conditions, including the oppressive heat of volcanic regions of The Scorched Expanse and the freezing cold of the The Abyssal Gloom.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Most demons do not require food in the traditional sense. Instead, they sustain themselves through the consumption of magical essence, souls, or the life force of other beings. Demons absorb energy from magical sources, the fear and despair of others, or even the ambient magic of their environment. Some demons may hunt for mortal souls to feed on, while others may harvest the fear of mortals or weaker creatures.

Biological Cycle

Due to their origins from Undeath, demons are less affected by the biological cycles of living creatures. They do not require sleep or sustenance in the way mortals do, though many choose to rest or meditate to replenish their magical energies. Demons are attuned to the ebb and flow of magic in their environment. Some experience heightened abilities during certain magical phenomena, such as eclipses or the alignment of ley lines.

Behaviour

Demons are typically organized into hierarchical societies ruled by powerful leaders, usually demon lords. Their social dynamics are heavily influenced by strength and magical prowess, with weaker demons often serving those stronger than themselves. Demons are ambitious by nature, often seeking power, dominance, and the chance to overthrow those in charge. Their competitive and aggressive instincts drive them to strive for greater status within their society. While demons are typically seen as ruthless and unfeeling, many are deeply insecure, having been shaped by the intense conflict and betrayal inherent in the Hells. These insecurities often manifest as paranoia, aggression, or obsessive power-seeking behaviors.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Most demons possess extraordinary vision, able to see in near-complete darkness, and perceive magical auras or hidden entities. Due to their connection to magic, demons have an innate ability to sense magical fields and ley lines. They can easily detect the presence of spellcasters or magical artifacts in their vicinity. Certain demons, particularly those with heightened senses, can "see" through sound waves or detect magical signatures through their sense of smell. Some demons possess telepathic abilities, enabling them to communicate silently or even manipulate the thoughts of weaker minds.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

First Names:

Demon names often reflect their origin, purpose, or the attributes that their creators wanted them to embody. Their names are typically sharp, harsh, and carry a deep, magical resonance, often invoking their ties to Undeath or the elements.

• Male First Names:
• Karnath, Dovash, Rethak, Zalrex, Therin, Vrothar
• Female First Names:
• Zevana, Varesh, Kirael, Ryska, Vhalta, Lysira
• Gender-Neutral Names:
• Sarvik, Zoran, Jaxan, Vaeth, Vael

Last Names:

In the Hells, demons typically do not use family names in the same way that mortal species do, though high-ranking demons or those with notable bloodlines may adopt titles or honorifics.

• Common Last Names:
• *Zorath (meaning "ruler" or "conqueror")
• *Morthak (meaning "shadow" or "darkness")
• *Xalgar (meaning "destroyer" or "devourer")
• *Vrothas (meaning "eternal" or "immortal")

Demons often emphasize their titles over family names, particularly for those in positions of power. For example, a demon who has ascended to a high rank might be known as “Zevalia, the Dread Tyrant” rather than “Zevalia Morthak.” This reinforces their unique identity and their mastery of their domain. Young demons or those newly created may be given names that reflect their emerging roles. For instance, a demon born into a military faction might be named “Karnath the Bloodthirsty.”

Beauty Ideals

For demons, beauty is defined not by physical appearance, but by magical prowess, strength, and dominance over fear. They prize individuals who exhibit power, authority, and the ability to command respect.

• Physical Beauty: While demons often value physical strength or agility, their beauty is tied more to their aura of power and confidence. Tall, imposing figures with sharp features, dark eyes, and arcane markings are often seen as ideal.
• Magical Beauty: Demons who display extraordinary mastery over magic, particularly dark or destructive forces, are considered the most beautiful in the eyes of their kin. The ability to wield powerful sorcery, to instill fear in others, and to bend the will of lesser beings is a form of beauty in itself.
• Fear as Beauty: The most revered demons are those who can evoke fear without even trying, whose mere presence makes others cower. Beauty is not about gracefulness but about dominance.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

On Mortals:

• Mortal Species: Demons view mortal species as both tools and prey. Most demons believe that mortals are weak, fragile creatures who live only to serve higher beings. While some demons may form temporary alliances with mortals for mutual gain, most regard them with disdain. They view mortal fear as a natural resource to be harvested.
• Respect for Power: Demons may grudgingly respect mortals who prove themselves to be powerful, clever, or resilient, such as those who become capable adventurers or sorcerers. However, they still see these mortals as inferior beings in the grand scheme of existence.

On Other Immortal or Sapient Species:

• Elves and Celestials: While demons admire the power and longevity of elves, they also see them as rivals for dominance. Elves, with their connection to magic and long lives, are viewed as distant and aloof, and demons may sometimes seek to prove their superiority over them.
• Undead and the Necromantic: Demons have a complicated relationship with undead creatures, as they share a connection through Undeath. Some demons, like Zevalia, may consider undead to be tools for fear manipulation, while others view them as rivals for mastery over the forces of death and decay.
• Other Demons: Within their own kind, demons view each other through the lens of strength and power. Those who are weaker are often seen as expendable, while more powerful demons are either allies or rivals, depending on the situation. Internal strife is common, as demons are fiercely competitive.

Geographic Distribution

• The Hells

Discovered by

Hydall God of the Arcane