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| − | '''Demons''' are evil entities native to the [[Burning Hells]], and are the primary enemies of the ''[[Diablo series|Diablo]]'' series. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can wield a wide range of magical powers depending on their type. They propagate and serve to spread pure chaos, making them diametrically opposed to the [[ |
+ | '''Demons''', otherwise known as '''Hellspawn'''<ref>2014-03-25, [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2u_D43oGb8 Heroes of the Storm: Tyrael Trailer]. ''YouTube'', accessed on 2014-08-12</ref> and the '''Minions of Darkness'''<ref name = "D1M"/> are evil entities native to the [[Burning Hells]], and are the primary enemies of the ''[[Diablo series|Diablo]]'' series. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can wield a wide range of magical powers depending on their type. They propagate and serve to spread pure chaos, making them diametrically opposed to the [[angel]]s of the [[High Heavens]] (who stand for Order and fight for the [[Light]]). The never-ending war between angels and demons is known as the [[Eternal Conflict]]. The armies of Hell are commonly referred to as the [[Demonic Legion]]. |
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| − | The Demons of the Burning Hells are ruled by the seven greatest demons: the [[Great Evils]] of Anguish, Pain, Lies, Sin, Hatred, Destruction and Terror. |
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| − | [[File:SerpentMagus.png|thumb|Serpent Magus]]Demons are bloodthirsty, vicious monsters who only care about being more powerful than the ones they deem weak. Unlike the [[angel]]'s order and discipline, demons are rampant and unorganized. In battle, they relentlessly attack their enemies with brute force. Some are very small like [[Demon Imp|Imps]], or very large like [[Siegebreaker Assault Beast]]s. Demons usually use claws, talons, or fangs to rip apart enemies they fought during battle. Demons can also sustain a large amount of pain and wounds before dying. Demons, unlike angels, are physical beings, and when they die stay where they are. Demon blood has been seen in strange colors, like purple, green, and orange. It is also important to note that Undead are not demons. |
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| − | Demons can crossbreed to almost any other race: there have been precedents of demons mating angels (most notably [[Inarius]] and [[Lilith]]), humans ([[Lady Victoria]] and, to some extent, [[Leah]] are the recent examples of such hybrids) and even [[Ancient Beast]]s of [[Pandemonium]] ([[Deckard Cain]] believed that [[Barbed Lurker]]s are partially demonic creatures). |
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| + | {{Quote|Who can say what drives a demon?|[[Abd al-Hazir]]|Defiled Doll}} |
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| + | Demon physiology differs greatly. Thick hides and claws may be possessed by demons, but that aside, demons of the same dimensions may still have dramatically different weaknesses, depending on their master.<ref name = "D1M"/> [[Megademon]]s are considered to be archetypal demons.<ref>[http://classic.battle.net/diablo2exp/monsters/act4-megademon.shtml Megademon], ''The Arreat Summit''. Accessed on 2014-08-12</ref> Some demons possess wings.<ref name = "Diablerie">''[[Diablerie]]''</ref> |
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| + | Demons, unlike angels, are physical beings, and their bodies remain after death.<ref name = "TVP">''[[The Veiled Prophet]]''</ref> The souls of deceased demons are always reborn in Hell.<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Enraged Phantasm]] Lore''</ref> Demons are apparently spawned from the [[Black Abyss]],<ref name = "D2A4">''[[Diablo II]]'', ''[[The Harrowing]]''</ref> though examples exist of breeds of demon being created through artificial means.<ref name = "D1M"/><ref name = "Awakening"/> Demons do not age, or at least not in a manner recognisable to mortals.<ref name = "BoC"/> |
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| − | The souls of deceased demons are always reborn in Hell.<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Enraged Phantasm]] Lore''</ref> |
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| + | [[File:SerpentMagus.png|thumb|left|A Serpent Magus, a type of demon]] |
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| − | ==Worship== |
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| + | Demons are wont to breed with each other.<ref name = "Awakening"/> They have demonstrated the ability to crossbreed with [[angel]]s (the results being [[nephalem]]),<ref name = "BoC">''[[Book of Cain]]''</ref> and with humans, usually to the horror of the latter. Few children of such couplings survive childbirth, and fewer still survive into adulthood, as they are generally killed by those who know them for what they are.<ref name = "MotS"/> [[Deckard Cain]] also suspected that [[Barbed Lurker]]s (a type of [[Ancient Beast]]) are partially demonic as well.<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Ancient Beast]] Lore''</ref> Encounters with demons by humans can result in psychological scarring that lasts potentially indefinitely, though measures can be taken to minimize harm.<ref name = "TO">''[[The Order]]''</ref> |
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| − | There are some cults in Sanctuary that worship demons, most notable the [[Triune]] and [[Dark Coven]]. While the Triune worked more in the shadows, the Dark Coven outright attacks towns and forces the people to do their work. Both cults worship a [[Great Evils|Great Evil]]. |
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| − | ===[[Triune]]=== |
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| − | [[File:Triune_Vessel_artwork.jpg|thumb|Triune Vessel]]The Triune was created by [[Lucion]], [[Lilith]]'s brother, during the [[Sin War (Event)|Sin War]] in order to lead humanity to the forces of Hell. At first they seem kind and compassionate, but then reveal their true intentions to their recruits, darkening their hearts. They worshipped three "spirits", which are actually the [[Prime Evils]] themselves. The Triune was destroyed by [[Uldyssian]] and his [[nephalem]] followers. |
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| − | *''Dialon, Spirit of Determination'': Dialon was represented as a stubborn ram, and was believed to bring purpose to humanity. In truth, worshippers of Dialon were really worshipping [[Diablo]], Lord of Terror. |
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| − | *''Bala, Spirit of Creation'': Bala is represented as a leaf, and taught the ways of nature and architectural triumphs of humanity. In truth, worshippers of Bala were really worshipping [[Baal]], Lord of Destruction. |
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| − | *''Mefis, Spirit of Love'': Mefis is represented as a red circle the Kehjani symbol of the heart. Mefis taught the ways of love and kindness, and the [[Primus]] would often say how vital Mefis would be to Creation and Determination. In truth, worshippers of Mefis worshipped [[Mephisto]], Lord of Hatred. |
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| + | At least some demons can possess humans and masquerade as angels.<ref name = "D2M">''[[Diablo II]] Manual''</ref> To best knowledge, demonic possession of a human cannot be ended without killing the host in the process.<ref name = "Demonsbane"/> |
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| − | ===[[Dark Coven|The Dark Coven]]=== |
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| − | The Dark Coven's origins are unknown, but they appear to be a new version, if not remnants, of the Triune. The Coven is led by the witch [[Maghda]]. However, it should be noted that the Dark Coven worships specifically and only [[Belial]], the Lord of Lies, and as such it cannot be considered an extension of the Triune. |
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| − | ==Presence in Sanctuary== |
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| + | Demons can wield powerful [[magic]].<ref name = "D1M"/> The skulls of some demonic creatures are said to work much like [[gems]].<ref name = "D2M"/> As with mortals and angels, demons carry [[Essence]] within their bodies.<ref name = |
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| − | Demons cannot exist naturally in [[Sanctuary]] and must be summoned through a magical ritual. Their spirits cannot usually manifest itself, so they require mortal hosts in order to take shape. Dark Cultists often summon up demons from the Burning Hells to serve them in battle. Thralls, after killed, are banished back to Hell after they have been defeated. |
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| + | "Rise">[https://us.battle.net/d3/en/rise-of-the-necromancer/ Rise of the Necromancer], ''Blizzard Entertainment''. Accessed on 2017-06-30</ref> |
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| − | ===The [[Sin War (Event)|Sin War]]=== |
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| − | During the Sin War, when [[Mephisto]] and the renegade angel [[Inarius ]]sought to lure man to the forces of dark and light, demons battled the High Heavens relentlessly to gain control. This kept on until Uldyssian made the factions have a brief truce, for the sake of humanity. |
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| − | During the events of Diablo I, when the Lord of Terror had possessed the [[Leoric|King of Tristram]], Leoric, demons were attacking the small town and attempting to gain entrance to the Tristram Cathedral. He then later gains control of [[Prince Albrecht]], after [[Archbishop Lazarus]] impales him with Diablo's soulstone. Diablo then summons countless hordes of demons, making the town an outpost for the Demonic Legion. He doesn't stop there, and summons demons to attack the town, as well as freeing his brothers, [[Baal]] and [[Mephisto]]. The hero then fights his way through the hordes until he reaches the cathedral. There, he kills the rest of the demons and traps Diablo by shoving the soulstone of Diablo into his forehead. |
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| + | Demons need to consume meat to sustain themselves.<ref name = "Demonsbane">''[[Demonsbane]]''</ref> Demons have been known to devour their young if no other nourishment is available.<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Imp (Diablo III)|Imp]] Lore''</ref> Humans may be consumed by demons for nourishment.<ref name = "Awakening"/> |
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| − | ===[[Diablo II]]=== |
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| − | In Diablo II, the [[Dark Wanderer]] summons a group of demons inside a tavern; [[Marius]], the narrator of the story, witnesses the attack and decides to follow him. Diablo leaves groups of demons to slow the group of heroes trying to find and kill him. He also enlists the two [[Lesser Evils]], [[Duriel]] and [[Andariel]], to protect him from the heroes. When Baal is freed, Diablo begins to wrest control of the Burning Hells from the upstart lesser evils that had banished the three brothers. |
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| + | Angels can be turned into demons (e.g. [[Overlord]]s<ref name = "D1M"/> and [[Corrupted Angel]]s<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Act IV (Diablo III)|Act IV]]''</ref>), as can humans.<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Act V (Diablo III)|Act V]]''</ref> |
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| − | ===[[Diablo II: Lord of Destruction]]=== |
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| + | Demons do not need to sleep.<ref name = "Awakening">''[[The Awakening]]''</ref> |
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| − | [[File:Baal_head.jpg|thumb|Baal during the Seige of Sescheron]]Baal, now having his soulstone, leads his demonic army to [[Sescheron]]. He kills a [[Children of Bul-Kathos|Barbarian]] guarding it, and the demons storm the fortress and raze it to the ground. He continues to lead his army on a murderous rampage across the land to [[Mount Arreat]], and lays siege to [[Harrogath]]. The Lord of Destruction leads his army into the mountain, where he hopes to corrupt the [[Worldstone]] and end the [[Great Conflict]] with Hell victorious. |
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| + | At least some demons possess blood.<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Flesh Gorger]] Lore''</ref> Dry demon's blood left on armor can react adversely to water, causing the armor to be destroyed in a flash of green light, after generating sulphur/blood-scented smoke.<ref name = "TEoHJ">''[[The End of Her Journey]]''</ref> At least some radiate [[arcane]] energy.<ref>[http://classic.battle.net/diablo2exp/monsters/act5g-batdemon.shtml Bat Demon], ''Arreat Summit''. Accessed on 2015-09-15</ref> Most greater demons possess lots of horns.<ref name = "Demonsbane"/> |
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| − | ===[[Diablo III]]=== |
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| − | Twenty years after the destruction of the Worldstone, Sanctuary is preparing for a full invasion from the [[Burning Hells]]. But it never happens; attracting the interest of [[Deckard Cain]] to find out why. [[Belial]], the Lord of Lies, leads his Dark Coven and a portion of the Demonic Legion, and besieges Caldeum. Belial is later killed and trapped in the [[Black Soulstone]] by a group of [[nephalem]]. Azmodan, the Lord of Sin, then realizes the power of the Black Soulstone and breaks the [[Demonic Legion]] out from [[Arreat Crater]] to obtain it. He is later thwarted by the same group of nephalem that killed Belial. The victory is short lived because [[Adria]] the Witch reveals that Leah, her daughter, is also the daughter of Diablo. Adria then forces the Black Soulstone into [[Leah]] who becomes Diablo "The [[Prime Evil]]"; Diablo (or Tathamet reborn) then opens a portal to The High [[Heaven]]s and proceeds to wound the [[Imperius|Archangel Imperius]] and destroy the [[Diamond Gates]], leading the full force of the Demonic Legion into the [[Silver City]]. Diablo attempted to corrupt the [[Crystal Arch]] but was killed later by [[the Nephalem]], defeating the forces of hell. |
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| + | Demons are cowardly, and will attack using strength of numbers to their advantage whenever possible.<ref name = "D1M"/> They are prone to "unnatural" levels of distrust, even towards their own kind.<ref>''[[Birthright]]''</ref> Many demons are vain to the point of self-denial.<ref name = "MotS"/> |
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| − | ===[[Diablo III: Reaper of Souls]]=== |
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| − | With the Prime Evil defeated the demons were left largely leaderless. The Demons remaining in Sanctuary continue to be a threat, though far less so then before. [[Malthael]] took the Black Soulstone, altering and using it to trap all demonic essence within it, planning to end the [[Eternal Conflict]]. During his battle with the Nephalem, Malthael shattered the stone, absorbing Diablo's soul to gain more power. His death at the hands of the Nephalem freed all the souls he had absorbed, unwittingly freeing the Prime Evil as well. |
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| + | Wounds suffered from demons' blades don't close easily (at least wounds inflicted against humans).<ref name = "TEoHJ"/> |
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| − | [[File:DemonInBattle.png|thumb|196px|Demon in battle]]Demons originate from the [[Black Abyss]] or are spawned within the Hells themselves. It is not known how the first demons came into being, but it is revealed that other entities - even humans - can eventually become demons (see the [[Goatman]] article for instance). Demons have been in creation ever since [[Tathamet]] was killed and his body became the foundation for Hell. Demons are enlisted in the [[Demonic Legion]], serving their masters with a bloodthirsty appetite for battle and blood. The demonic armies usually greatly outnumber the opposing force, but are very unorganized because of their bloodthirsty behavior. There are thousands of different kinds of demons, ranging in size from a small imp to a massive [[Siegebreaker Assault Beast]]. |
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| − | == |
+ | ===Worship and Summoning=== |
| + | {{Quote|Ye ain't gettin' me to believe in demons. Stories, that's all them legends are. Just meant to give a man a laugh an' maybe a sense of unease now an' again.|[[Tomas]]|The Black Road}} |
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| − | Most demons can only use weapons to fight, but other demons, like [[Demonic Hell-Bearers]], can scale walls and spew out more forces to combat enemies. Many larger demons are used to decimate forces so smaller troops can get into enemy lines. Demons like [[The Butcher (Diablo I)|the Butcher]] are very skilled in different weapons, such as chains or swords. Some demons, like [[Serpent Magus|Serpent Magi]], are gifted in [[Magic|magic]] and can teleport and cast spells. The [[Great Evils]] are much more powerful than normal demons, and they can bend them to their will. [[Arreat Crater Flyers]] have the ability to soar above the enemy with their wings. |
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| + | [[File:Triune_Vessel_artwork.jpg|thumb|Triune Vessel]] |
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| − | ==Great Evils== |
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| + | Many [[human]]s do not believe in the existence of demons,<ref name = "LeahLore">2013-12-08, [http://www.blizzplanet.com/blog/comments/blizzcon-2013-diablo-iii-lore-qa-panel-transcript/6 BlizzCon 2013 – Diablo III Lore and Story Q&A Panel Transcript]. ''Blizzplanet'', accessed on 2014-04-21</ref> though stories of demons became common in folklore of some human cultures. Some philosophical writings within the East have postulated that demons are nothing more than a representation of Man's nature (i.e. "his demons").<Ref name = "TBR"/> Yet demons do indeed exist, and some mortals worship(ed) demons, and have engaged in summoning practices. Examples include the [[Triune]] (a font for the Prime Evils as benevolent entities during the [[Sin War (Event)|Sin War]], the [[Coven]] (remnants of the Triune, turned to the worship of [[Belial]])<ref name = "BoT">''[[Book of Tyrael]]''</ref> and the worship of [[Kabraxis]] in an attempt to eclipse the [[Zakarum]] faith.<ref name = "TBR">''[[The Black Road]]''</ref> The Zakarum faith itself was corrupted by [[Mephisto]].<ref name = "BoC"/> Mortals have also summoned demons to the mortal realm, a practice which dates as far back as the [[Vizjerei Clan]].<ref name = "BoC"/> While such a practice has since been banned by the clan,<ref name = "BoT"/> groups such as the Coven continue it.<ref name = "D3A1">''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Act I (Diablo III)|Act I]]''</ref> Centuries past, when summoning demons was common, it was common to invoke lesser demons and subdue them in order to gain their power. Many [[sorcerer]]s ended up being enslaved to their [[Demon Imp|intended servants]].<ref>[http://classic.battle.net/diablo2exp/monsters/act5-demonimp.shtml Demon Imp], ''The Arreat Summit''. Accessed on 2014-08-12</ref> Possession by a demon may grant a human increased power, but this comes at the cost of one's sense of self<ref name = "BoA"/> and eventually, a demon can completely overtake the human's form with its own.<ref name = "D1M"/> |
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| − | The [[Great Evils]] are manifestations of the beast [[Tathamet]], and they lead demons into battle against the [[High Heavens]]. The [[Triune]] worships these demons as gods, along with the [[Dark Coven]]. The evils can only be permanently killed if they are trapped in a [[soulstone]] and it is smashed. Otherwise, they will simple respawn in Hell. If they are killed in Hell as well, then the [[Black Abyss]] will merely recreate and return them to Hell. |
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| + | In ages past, it was common in [[Sanctuary]] to decorate buildings with stone statues of demons that were enchanted to serve as guardians and protectors of those within. The misshapen figures of the statues were designed to taunt and anger any demons that attempted to gain entrance.<ref name = "D1M"/> |
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| − | There are officially seven known de facto leaders of demonkind, the three [[Prime Evils]] and the four [[Lesser Evils]] (each of them representing an aspect of infernal proportions), although other demonic overlords are known to exist as well. |
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| − | Commonly known as "The Three" or sometimes "The Brothers", they were the most powerful demons in Hell until the [[Dark Exile]]. Mephisto is the eldest, followed by Baal, and finally Diablo. |
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| − | *[[Diablo]], Lord of Terror - Youngest brother and doubtlessly the most powerful. |
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| − | *[[Mephisto]], Lord of Hatred - Oldest brother and arguably the most intelligent. |
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| − | *[[Baal]], Lord of Destruction - Middle brother and generally the most chaotic. |
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| − | ===The Lesser Evils=== |
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| − | These evils are very powerful, but not as powerful as the Prime Evils. They were the demons who revolted against the Prime Evils and banished them to [[Sanctuary]] during the [[Dark Exile]]. |
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| − | *[[Azmodan]], Lord of Sin - Regarded to be the greatest military tactician in the [[Burning Hells]], but falls short on that claim as evidenced by his stupidity in his invasion of Sanctuary. He is the last Evil to be defeated and subsequently trapped in the [[Black Soulstone]]. His chief lieutenant is either [[Cydaea]] or [[Ghom]]. |
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| − | *[[Belial]], Lord of Lies - Implied to be the most deceptive of all demons, he prefers manipulating others into doing the dirty work for him. He secretly takes over [[Caldeum]] through the boy emperor but is evidently defeated through simply combat and trapped in the Black Soulstone. His chief lieutenant was either [[Maghda]] or [[Xazax]]. |
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| − | *[[Duriel]], Lord of Pain - Alternatively known as the Maggot King (an indication of his lordship over insects and the like with his physical form resembling that of a giant bug), he is the "twin" brother of Andariel. He is summoned from the Burning Hells and forced to guard the entrance to Baal's prison in the true Tomb of Tal Rasha wherein [[Tyrael]] is imprisoned. Twenty years later, his soul is imprisoned within the Black Soulstone. His chief lieutenant was [[Coldworm the Burrower]], who is said to be the Maggot Queen thus perhaps implying that the two were mates. |
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| − | *[[Andariel]], Maiden of Anguish - Alternatively known as the Demon Queen (a metaphorical allusion to her status as the first female Evil), she is the "twin" sister of Duriel. Her concurrent domain in the mortal realm is the Rogue Monastery which she took over after corrupting [[Blood Raven]] and assaulting the Sisterhood. She later sides with Diablo after finding out that he has revived himself and is the first Evil to be defeated in the series and trapped in the [[Black Soulstone]]. Her chief lieutenant was likely [[Rakanoth]]. |
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| + | If summoning a demon, one is not reccomended to do so during the months of [[Vasan]] and [[Lycanum]], as during this time, demons are erratic and easy to anger. In contrast, the most ideal times to summon demons is the period of time between the last days of [[Jerharan]] and the first days of [[Damhar]]. Furthermore, if summoning a demon, one should never attempt to do so alone. Rather, the summoning should be conducted in a group consisting of three, four, or seven individuals (representing the [[Prime Evils]], [[Lesser Evils]], and [[Great Evils|combination of the two]] respectively).<ref name = "BoA">''[[Book of Adria: A Diablo Bestiary]]''</ref> |
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| − | ===Plots=== |
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| − | There have been many plots to overthrow the [[Evils]], and none were successful with the sole exception of the [[Dark Exile]]. Even then, people say that the latter was actually masterminded by Diablo himself all along. Many of these attempts were orchestrated by Evils themselves (against other Evils), and some demons, like [[Fallen]], were changed beyond recognition as result of such attempts. |
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| − | ====[[Heralds of Pestilence]]==== |
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| − | {{quote|Long ago, the Heralds of Pestilence were once lesser demons who rebelled against [[Azmodan]]. The Lord of Sin vanquished them easily, but instead of slaying them, he granted each one a long arm infested with a poison that could kill anything but Azmodan himself. The heralds have been plague-riddled menaces ever since.|[[Deckard Cain]]|Act III (Diablo III)}} |
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| + | ===Beliefs and Culture=== |
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| − | These demons once tried to overthrow [[Azmodan]], but failed. Instead of killing them, Azmodan gave them each a single long arm that could harm anything but the Lord of Sin himself. |
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| + | {{Quote|I shudder to think what the demon lords might accomplish should they ever stop betraying one another. Such is the self-defeating nature of evil.|[[Tyrael]]|Act III (Diablo III)}} |
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| + | [[File:Prime Evils.jpg|thumb|The Prime Evils]] |
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| + | Demons believe that absolute chaos is the true nature of Creation. Many lesser demons despise humanity, seeing the existence of Man as offensive to their "higher" position in the greater scheme of things. Many demons hoard wealth. Attitudes of demons otherwise depend on their master—the legions of Mephisto were driven by a hatred of all living things, especially those who were pure of heart. The soldiers of Baal sought the undoing of Creation, striving for disorder and destruction. To them, order was an abhorrence. The minions of Diablo used illusion and fear as their greatest weapons, preferring to wait for an opponent to show weakness before they attacked.<ref name = "D1M">''[[Diablo (Game)|Diablo]] Manual''</ref> Demons frequently scheme against one another,<ref name = "BoC"/> but otherwise, a hierarchy of sorts can be observed for demonkind: |
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| + | #The [[Prime Evils]]—[[Diablo]], [[Mephisto]], and [[Baal]]. |
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| − | ====[[Kabraxis]]==== |
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| + | #The [[Lesser Evils]]—[[Azmodan]], [[Belial]], [[Duriel]], and [[Andariel]].<ref name = "BoC"/> |
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| − | Kabraxis was one of the most powerful demons in the [[Burning Hells]]. Because of his intelligence and uncanny patience, [[Diablo]] and [[Prime Evils|his brothers]] saw him as a threat and had him sealed. So far, he is the only known demon that can remain in the mortal realm without a host even if he is killed. |
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| + | #The [[Mallet Lord]]s (roam the outer reaches of Hell, do not answer to the Great Evils)<ref name = "MLL">''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Mallet Lord]] Lore''</ref> |
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| + | #The [[Balrog]]s (often allowed contact with the Prime Evils, oversee lesser demons)<ref name = "Awakening"/> |
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| + | #[[Counselor]]s (often rise to positions of power within Hell, some only answered to Balrogs and the Prime Evils)<ref name = "Awakening"/> |
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| + | Of these Evils, many believe that if there can be said to be one single ruler of demonkind, it is Mephisto.<Ref>2018-09-05, [https://twitter.com/BlizzHeroes?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Mephisto Lore]. ''Heroes of the Storm Twitter'', accessed on 2018-09-06</ref> |
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| − | ==The [[Khazra]]== |
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| − | The Khazra, or "Goatmen" are a lesser form of demon. They were once human, until the powerful [[Vizjerei]] turned them into satyrs during the [[Mage Clan Wars]]. They now serve under the seven lords of Hell, and inhabit many [[File:Khazra.jpg|thumb|left|154px]]areas around [[New Tristram]]. |
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| − | ===Abilities=== |
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| + | Lesser demons will not follow one of their own kind. Only a demon of higher standing can lead them.<ref name = "Demonsbane"/> |
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| − | Some Khazra, like [[Serpent Magus|Serpent Magi]], are gifted in magic and the spiritual arts, sometimes even in magic. The Khazra are agile, quick, and efficient in melee and ranged combat. They wield long, deadly polearms that can be fatal if stricken with. They like to travel in packs, so they can overpower the opponent. Khazra are described as sluggish and filthy [[beasts]]. |
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| − | ===Clans=== |
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| − | The Khazra are divided into many different clans, and they often war with each other over resources or land. The following are the clans of the goatmen: |
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| − | *[[Blood Clan]] |
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| − | *[[Moon Clan]] |
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| − | *[[Night Clan]] |
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| − | *[[Hell Clan]] |
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| − | *[[Death Clan]] |
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| − | {{quote|Though I have searched every corner of the Great Library of [[Caldeum]], I can find no references to the true fate of the Blood Clan khazra. Some crumbling papers hint that they made a pact to serve the mythical [[Lesser Evils]], but surely such a thing cannot be considered proper scholarship... can it?|[[Abd al-Hazir]]|Act III (Diablo III)}} |
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| + | The Primes and Lessers (collectively known as the [[Great Evils]]) each had their own realm of Hell,<ref name = "BoC"/> while the Mallet Lords control the outer reaches of Hell.<ref name = "MLL"/> It was rare for the Primes to work together.<ref name = "D3A3">''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Act III (Diablo III)|Act III]]''</ref> Few demons are allowed the honor of direct contact with one of the Lords of Hell.<ref name = "Awakening"/> Many servants of the Great Evils exist(ed), such as the [[Sin Lieutenant]]s of [[Azmodan]].<ref name = "D3A3"/> |
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| − | {{quote|Some time ago, I revealed that the khazra, or goatmen, were originally humans until the [[Vizjerei]] corrupted them. For many years these creatures were simple and lethargic. These days have ended. Khazra attacks are widely reported, and the number of fatalities is higher than anything in my records...|[[Abd al-Hazir]]|Act I (Diablo III)}} |
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| − | ==[[Hellflyers]]== |
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| − | Hellflyers are a very special kind of demons, bred by [[Azmodan]] himself. After many victories for the [[Heavenly Host]] against [[Army of Sin|Azmodan's forces]], he wanted to design a demon that could soar through the air and reach the angels. The outcome was the Hellflyer, which had long wings, sharp teeth, and rigid claws that were powerful enough to rip angels apart. Some Hellflyers set their wings on fire. Hellflyers first appear in [[Act III (Diablo III)|Act III]] of ''[[Diablo III]]''. |
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| + | Demons maintain a symbol-based writing system. Few, if any humans are capable of reading it.<ref name = "TBR"/> |
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| − | ==The [[Morlu]]== |
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| + | Many demons fear the light of the sun.<ref>''[[Diablo (Game)|Diablo]]'', ''[[Ogden's Sign (Quest)|Ogden's Sign]]''</ref> |
||
| − | {{quote|The Morlu were once men, great warriors of old. But each of them had darkness within his soul, and Mephisto, the Lord of Hatred, used this flaw to trick them into his service. Mephisto's fury slowly burned away their mortal forms, leaving them fiery apparitions who know no pain, fear, or doubt.|[[Deckard Cain]]|Act IV (Diablo III)}} |
||
| + | |||
| + | Many demons hoard all the wealth they can find, even if they have no use for the [[gold]] used by mortals.<ref name = "D1M"/> |
||
| + | |||
| + | Demons have a sense of "justice" (such as it is), but it is a cruel and sadistic form of it.<ref>''[[Heroes of the Storm]]''</ref> Demons can be notoriously clever, and should not be trusted by mortals. However, they hide their lies within the truth.<ref name = "TO"/> |
||
| + | |||
| ⚫ | |||
| + | |||
| + | ===Early History=== |
||
| + | [[File:Angels vs. Demons.jpg|thumb|Angels and demons do battle]] |
||
| + | Demons originated from the corpse of [[Tathamet]], whose body became the [[Burning Hells]]. For ages they fought against angelkind in the [[Eternal Conflict]]. It came to a halt with the disappearance of the [[Worldstone]]. It was eventually revealed that the Worldstone had been used to create the mortal realm, a revelation that gained the interest of the Prime Evils. The result was the [[Sin War (Event)|Sin War]],<ref name = "BoC"/> which ended with a pact between Heaven and Hell to allow Man the freedom to choose his own path.<ref name = "TVP"/> |
||
| + | |||
| + | ===The Dark Exile and Civil War=== |
||
| + | {{Quote|How dare you question! How dare you deny yourselves victory! Long have the Primes lorded over us. Long have they thought themselves our betters. Diablo...Diablo will fall, as will the rest. Do not be swayed or led to fear by him. Do not, for each of you will reign. Each of you will share the power we will earn.|Belial addressing Duriel and Andariel prior to the coup|Theater Macabre: The Dark Exile}} |
||
| + | {{main|Dark Exile}} |
||
| + | |||
| + | The aftermath of the Sin War led to a falling out between the Prime and Lesser Evils. Not only had the Lesser Evils been kept in the dark about the existence of Sanctuary, but they were furious that the Primes were intent on weaponizing humanity's nephalem potential rather than continuing the Eternal Conflict against Heaven.<ref name = "BoC"/> As the centuries plodded along, many in Hell began to wonder just what it was they were fighting over. The Lesser Evils of Hell were growing tired of the endless ebb and flow in the tides of mortal favor, as well as those in the elaborate schemes of the Primes. The Lesser Evils longed to return to the epic days of the Great Conflict, and lay siege again to the gates of the High Heavens.<ref name = "Duriel">[http://classic.battle.net/diablo2exp/monsters/act2-duriel.shtml Duriel], ''The Arreat Summit''. Accessed on 2014-08-16</ref> In their ignorance, the Lesser Evils began to believe that the Three were afraid to continue the war with Heaven.<ref name = "D1M"/> Believing themselves superior to mortalkind,<ref name = "BoC"/> and frustrated by the cessation of the war, Azmodan and Belial saw the situation as their chance to overthrow the Prime Evils and take control of Hell for themselves. The two demon lords made a pact with their minor brethren, assuring them that the wretched plague of humanity would not deter the ultimate victory of the sons of Hell. Azmodan and Belial devised a plan to end the stalemate, achieve victory in the Sin War and ultimately ride the bloody crest of the Great Conflict straight into the very arms of Armageddon. Thus, a great revolution was set into motion as all of Hell went to war against the Three Brothers.<ref name = "D1M"/> The Primes, despite their efforts, were defeated and banished into the mortal realm, bodiless, where Azmodan hoped they would remain trapped forever. Furthermore, with the presence of the Primes in the mortal realm, Azmodan believed that Heaven would be forced to divert its attention towards humanity, thus potentially leaving Heaven vulnerable.<ref name = "BoC"/> |
||
| + | |||
| + | The few demons who still pledged allegiance to the Primes entered Sanctuary to serve their masters.<ref name = "D1M"/> Yet relations between Azmodan and Belial quickly soured as they began arguing over who should ascend to the highest rank in Hell. When the bickering turned to violence, their alliance ended, and the remaining denizens of Hell found themselves in a second civil war.<ref name = "BoC"/> This state of affairs continued until at least the [[Darkening of Tristram]], by which point Azmodan had gained the upperhand for quite awhile.<ref name = "LoB">''[[Legacy of Blood]]''</ref> However, the two demons nonetheless came to share the same goal of subjugating humanity into their fold.<ref name = "D3CED">''[[Diablo III]] Behind the Scenes DVD''</ref> |
||
| + | |||
| + | ===The Reawakening of the Three=== |
||
| + | {{Quote|And the Evil that was once vanquished shall rise anew. Wrapped in the guise of man, shall he walk amongst the innocent, and Terror shall consume they that dwell upon the Earth. The skies shall rain fire, and the seas will become as blood. The righteous shall fall before the wicked, and all of Creation shall tremble before the burning standards of Hell!|Mephisto|The Harrowing}} |
||
| + | The awakening of Diablo in Tristram sparked a chain of events that upset the status quo for demonkind. Andariel and Duriel concluded that the Primes would inevitably use the powers of Man to reclaim Hell, and thus endevoured to gain favor by allying themselves with the Lord of Terror as he traveled across Sanctuary with a [[Aidan|mortal host]].<ref name = "BoC"/> It was believed that with Andariel's presence on Sanctuary, the forces of Hell were once again aligned with the Primes.<ref>[http://classic.battle.net/diablo2exp/monsters/act1-andariel.shtml Andariel], ''The Arreat Summit''. Accessed on 2014-08-16</ref> Diablo, Baal, and Mephisto gathered in [[Travincal]], where they enacted their final stratagem to retake Hell and gain vengeance against those who overthrew them. Opening the [[Infernal Gate]], Diablo entered Hell to rally demons still loyal to the Primes. Baal journeyed north to corrupt the [[Worldstone]], which would corrupt humanity in turn and enslave Man to the will of Hell. Mephisto stayed behind, intent on destroying any who would attempt to thwart their plan. In truth, the Three had masterminded the Dark Exile and their banishment with the aid of the fallen [[angel]] Izual, who had told them of the [[soulstone]]s and how they might use them to further their own ends.<ref name = "D2A4">''[[Diablo II]]'', ''[[The Harrowing]]''</ref> |
||
| + | |||
| + | Yet the Primes' plans were thwarted by a [[Classes#Diablo II|group of heroes]]. The group that had slain Andariel and Duriel, Mephisto, and Diablo in Hell itself. Baal himself was slain on [[Mount Arreat]], though not before the Worldstone was corrupted. To save humanity, the [[archangel]] [[Tyrael]] destroyed the stone. While this saved humanity from corruption,<ref name = "BoC"/> it left Sanctuary open to demonic invasion.<ref name = "MotS">''[[Moon of the Spider (novel)|Moon of the Spider]]''</ref><ref name = "TO">''[[The Order]]''</ref> With the destruction of the [[Worldstone]], demons were able to travel east further than they'd done so in the past, coming into conflict with the [[Priests of Rathma]].<ref name = "SoL"/> [[Timeline#1270|Five years]] after the destruction of the Worldstone, [[Skarn]] rallied a demonic army in order to obtain its fragments, intending to ressurect Diablo and reignite the Eternal Conflict.<ref name = "ImmortalWebsite">[https://diabloimmortal.com/en-us/ Diablo Immortal], ''Blizzard Entertainment''. Accessed on 2018-11-05</ref> |
||
| + | |||
| ⚫ | |||
| + | {{Quote|We are lost. Diablo is too powerful. Always before, the Lords of Hell bickered and worked against each other. They undid themselves. Within Diablo, within the Prime, there is no such division, and now the halls of the High Heavens quake beneath his steps.|Tyrael|Act IV (Diablo III)}} |
||
| + | [[File:Demons.png|thumb|Demons emerge in Sanctuary]] |
||
| + | Belial and Azmodan came to share the same goal of subjugating humanity into their fold.<ref name = "D3CED">''[[Diablo III]] Behind the Scenes DVD''</ref> Belial sank his claws into [[Caldeum]], ruling [[Kehjistan]] through his [[Hakan II|mortal host]], yet his plans were thwarted by [[the Nephalem]] and his [[soul]] imprisoned inside the [[Black Soulstone]]. <ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Act II (Diablo III)|Act II]]''</ref> In a bid to retrieve the stone, Azmodan unleashed his [[Army of Sin|army]] upon Sanctuary and laid [[Siege of Bastion's Keep|siege]] to [[Bastion's Keep]], yet was also defeated and imprisoned. Yet it was here that Diablo's plan was revealed as the artifact was turned on the mortal [[Leah]], bred as a vessel for the Lord of Terror by her own mother, [[Adria]], for his rebirth as a singular Prime Evil.<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Act III (Diablo III)|Act III]]''</ref> Now, as a singular Prime Evil, Diablo led the legions of Hell in an assault on Heaven. For the first time in the history of the Eternal Conflict, the [[Diamond Gates]] were breached, and demons ran rampant throughout the [[Silver City]]. Yet once again, Diablo was defeated, and the demon invasion thwarted.<ref>''[[Diablo III]]'', ''[[Act IV (Diablo III)|Act IV]]''</ref> |
||
| + | |||
| + | ===Aftermath=== |
||
| + | In the aftermath of Diablo's defeat in Heaven, and that of Belial and Azmodan on Sanctuary, lesser demons still wandered Sanctuary, thirsting for the blood of the innocent. However, the loss of their leaders meant that they acted without larger organization, and did not make much of an impact (at least in the eyes of Heaven).<ref name = "SoL">''[[Storm of Light]]''</ref> That said, decades after Diablo's defeat, demons still roamed Sanctuary, continuing to roam the land unchecked. Demonic invasion reduced [[Kehjistan]] to ruins.<ref name = "D4Announced">2019-11-01, [http://diablo.blizzplanet.com/blog/comments/blizzcon-2019-diablo-iv-announced BlizzCon 2019: Diablo IV Announced]. ''Blizzplanet'', accessed on 2019-11-03</ref> |
||
| − | The Morlu were once great warriors of men. However, [[Mephisto]], Lord of Hatred, saw the darkness in their hearts. Mephisto then corrupted them and recruited the warriors into his ranks. His fury blew away their mortal forms, turning them into vicious demons. The Morlu then became great warriors of Hell, and some were gifted with sorcery. The Morlu now serve in [[Diablo]]'s portion of the [[Demonic Legion|Legion]]. Morlu appear in [[Act IV (Diablo III)|Act IV]] of ''[[Diablo III]]'', and serve Diablo in the [[Act IV (Diablo III)|Fall of the High Heavens]]. |
||
| − | ==The [[Enslaved Nightmare]]s== |
||
| − | Enslaved Nightmares are another example of humans turned to demons by the corruption influence, this time by the demonic [[magic]]. It is believed that these creatures are [[sorcerer]]s who tapped into forbidden powers. They appear in {{3|Act IV}} of ''Diablo III''. |
||
| − | ==Other Demons== |
||
| − | There are no ranks in Hell, except for the Great Evils. However, there are many important demons worth mentioning: they are either incredibly powerful, or unusually loyal to their masters and, consequently, trusted by them. |
||
| − | *[[Assur]] - Leader of demons in [[Demonsbane]], Diablo's favorite |
||
| − | *[[Astrogha]] - Fought in the [[Sin War (Event)|Sin War]] |
||
| − | *[[Gulag]] - Servant of [[Baal]]; killed by [[Uldyssian]] |
||
| − | *[[Lilith]] - Daughter of the Prime Evil [[Mephisto]] and sister of the demon Lucion. Led demon rebels into the void and created [[Sanctuary]] with the [[Worldstone]]. Mother of the [[Nephalem]] and [[Succubus]] Queen. |
||
| − | *[[Lucion]] - Son of Mephisto and brother of Lilith. Led the Triune into the world and was killed by Uldyssian |
||
| − | *[[Xazax]] - Transforms an army of mortals into demons. Diablo kills him because of his power. |
||
| − | *[[Thonos]] - Summoned by Lilith to kill [[Achilios]] and Uldyssian, killed by Achilios |
||
| − | *[[Hephasto]] - Works at the Hellforge |
||
| − | *[[Kabraxis]] - Extremely powerful demon; rivaled the Three |
||
| − | *[[Shenk the Overseer|Shenk]] - Commander of Baal's siege of [[Sescheron]] |
||
| − | *[[Cydaea|Cydaea, Maiden of Lust]] - [[Azmodan]]'s consort, Sin Lieutenant, killed by a group of nephalem |
||
| − | *[[Ghom|Ghom, Lord of Gluttony]] - Sin Lieutenant, kills anything in its path, killed by a group of nephalem |
||
| − | *[[The Butcher (Diablo III)|The Butcher]] - Type of powerful demon, one was killed by a group of nephalem in [[Leoric's Manor]] |
||
| − | *[[Mallet Lord]] - A very powerful type of demon, just below the Prime and lesser evils in their power. |
||
| − | *[[Iskatu]] - Diablo's most trusted and powerful [[Terror Demon]]. |
||
| − | *[[Rakanoth]] - Lord of Despair, who changed his affiliation over time. |
||
==In-game== |
==In-game== |
||
| + | |||
| − | In all three games, |
+ | In all three [[Diablo Series|''Diablo'']] games, demons are one of the three (the others being [[undead]] and [[animals]]) major types of enemies the heroes will encounter, and perhaps the most numerous category. Within the user interface, a demon is usually associated with the [[Life]] indicator. |
| − | ===Diablo I=== |
||
| + | |||
| ⚫ | |||
| ⚫ | |||
| ⚫ | |||
| + | |||
===Diablo II=== |
===Diablo II=== |
||
| − | The concept was further expanded in Diablo II. Many items offer bonus damage or [[attack |
+ | The concept of demons as enemies was further expanded in ''[[Diablo II]]''. Many items offer bonus damage or [[attack rating]] against demons. Most demons are immune to [[Fire]] on [[Hell difficulty]]. |
| − | ===Diablo III=== |
||
| ⚫ | |||
| − | == |
+ | ===Diablo III=== |
| ⚫ | |||
| − | {{trivia}} |
||
| − | *Many [[human]]s do not believe in the existence of demons.<ref name = "LeahLore">2013-12-08, [http://www.blizzplanet.com/blog/comments/blizzcon-2013-diablo-iii-lore-qa-panel-transcript/6 BlizzCon 2013 – Diablo III Lore and Story Q&A Panel Transcript]. ''Blizzplanet'', accessed on 2014-04-21</ref> |
||
==References== |
==References== |
||
Revision as of 20:28, 20 February 2020
Demons
Demons, otherwise known as Hellspawn[1] and the Minions of Darkness[2] are evil entities native to the Burning Hells, and are the primary enemies of the Diablo series. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can wield a wide range of magical powers depending on their type. They propagate and serve to spread pure chaos, making them diametrically opposed to the angels of the High Heavens (who stand for Order and fight for the Light). The never-ending war between angels and demons is known as the Eternal Conflict. The armies of Hell are commonly referred to as the Demonic Legion.
Lore
Characteristics
- Abd al-Hazir(src)
A winged demon
Demon physiology differs greatly. Thick hides and claws may be possessed by demons, but that aside, demons of the same dimensions may still have dramatically different weaknesses, depending on their master.[2] Megademons are considered to be archetypal demons.[3] Some demons possess wings.[4]
Demons, unlike angels, are physical beings, and their bodies remain after death.[5] The souls of deceased demons are always reborn in Hell.[6] Demons are apparently spawned from the Black Abyss,[7] though examples exist of breeds of demon being created through artificial means.[2][8] Demons do not age, or at least not in a manner recognisable to mortals.[9]
A Serpent Magus, a type of demon
Demons are wont to breed with each other.[8] They have demonstrated the ability to crossbreed with angels (the results being nephalem),[9] and with humans, usually to the horror of the latter. Few children of such couplings survive childbirth, and fewer still survive into adulthood, as they are generally killed by those who know them for what they are.[10] Deckard Cain also suspected that Barbed Lurkers (a type of Ancient Beast) are partially demonic as well.[11] Encounters with demons by humans can result in psychological scarring that lasts potentially indefinitely, though measures can be taken to minimize harm.[12]
At least some demons can possess humans and masquerade as angels.[13] To best knowledge, demonic possession of a human cannot be ended without killing the host in the process.[14]
Demons can wield powerful magic.[2] The skulls of some demonic creatures are said to work much like gems.[13] As with mortals and angels, demons carry Essence within their bodies.[15]
Demons need to consume meat to sustain themselves.[14] Demons have been known to devour their young if no other nourishment is available.[16] Humans may be consumed by demons for nourishment.[8]
Angels can be turned into demons (e.g. Overlords[2] and Corrupted Angels[17]), as can humans.[18]
Demons do not need to sleep.[8]
At least some demons possess blood.[19] Dry demon's blood left on armor can react adversely to water, causing the armor to be destroyed in a flash of green light, after generating sulphur/blood-scented smoke.[20] At least some radiate arcane energy.[21] Most greater demons possess lots of horns.[14]
Demons are cowardly, and will attack using strength of numbers to their advantage whenever possible.[2] They are prone to "unnatural" levels of distrust, even towards their own kind.[22] Many demons are vain to the point of self-denial.[10]
Wounds suffered from demons' blades don't close easily (at least wounds inflicted against humans).[20]
Worship and Summoning
Triune Vessel
Many humans do not believe in the existence of demons,[23] though stories of demons became common in folklore of some human cultures. Some philosophical writings within the East have postulated that demons are nothing more than a representation of Man's nature (i.e. "his demons").[24] Yet demons do indeed exist, and some mortals worship(ed) demons, and have engaged in summoning practices. Examples include the Triune (a font for the Prime Evils as benevolent entities during the Sin War, the Coven (remnants of the Triune, turned to the worship of Belial)[25] and the worship of Kabraxis in an attempt to eclipse the Zakarum faith.[24] The Zakarum faith itself was corrupted by Mephisto.[9] Mortals have also summoned demons to the mortal realm, a practice which dates as far back as the Vizjerei Clan.[9] While such a practice has since been banned by the clan,[25] groups such as the Coven continue it.[26] Centuries past, when summoning demons was common, it was common to invoke lesser demons and subdue them in order to gain their power. Many sorcerers ended up being enslaved to their intended servants.[27] Possession by a demon may grant a human increased power, but this comes at the cost of one's sense of self[28] and eventually, a demon can completely overtake the human's form with its own.[2]
In ages past, it was common in Sanctuary to decorate buildings with stone statues of demons that were enchanted to serve as guardians and protectors of those within. The misshapen figures of the statues were designed to taunt and anger any demons that attempted to gain entrance.[2]
If summoning a demon, one is not reccomended to do so during the months of Vasan and Lycanum, as during this time, demons are erratic and easy to anger. In contrast, the most ideal times to summon demons is the period of time between the last days of Jerharan and the first days of Damhar. Furthermore, if summoning a demon, one should never attempt to do so alone. Rather, the summoning should be conducted in a group consisting of three, four, or seven individuals (representing the Prime Evils, Lesser Evils, and combination of the two respectively).[28]
Beliefs and Culture
The Prime Evils
Demons believe that absolute chaos is the true nature of Creation. Many lesser demons despise humanity, seeing the existence of Man as offensive to their "higher" position in the greater scheme of things. Many demons hoard wealth. Attitudes of demons otherwise depend on their master—the legions of Mephisto were driven by a hatred of all living things, especially those who were pure of heart. The soldiers of Baal sought the undoing of Creation, striving for disorder and destruction. To them, order was an abhorrence. The minions of Diablo used illusion and fear as their greatest weapons, preferring to wait for an opponent to show weakness before they attacked.[2] Demons frequently scheme against one another,[9] but otherwise, a hierarchy of sorts can be observed for demonkind:
- The Prime Evils—Diablo, Mephisto, and Baal.
- The Lesser Evils—Azmodan, Belial, Duriel, and Andariel.[9]
- The Mallet Lords (roam the outer reaches of Hell, do not answer to the Great Evils)[29]
- The Balrogs (often allowed contact with the Prime Evils, oversee lesser demons)[8]
- Counselors (often rise to positions of power within Hell, some only answered to Balrogs and the Prime Evils)[8]
Of these Evils, many believe that if there can be said to be one single ruler of demonkind, it is Mephisto.[30]
Lesser demons will not follow one of their own kind. Only a demon of higher standing can lead them.[14]
The Primes and Lessers (collectively known as the Great Evils) each had their own realm of Hell,[9] while the Mallet Lords control the outer reaches of Hell.[29] It was rare for the Primes to work together.[31] Few demons are allowed the honor of direct contact with one of the Lords of Hell.[8] Many servants of the Great Evils exist(ed), such as the Sin Lieutenants of Azmodan.[31]
Demons maintain a symbol-based writing system. Few, if any humans are capable of reading it.[24]
Many demons fear the light of the sun.[32]
Many demons hoard all the wealth they can find, even if they have no use for the gold used by mortals.[2]
Demons have a sense of "justice" (such as it is), but it is a cruel and sadistic form of it.[33] Demons can be notoriously clever, and should not be trusted by mortals. However, they hide their lies within the truth.[12]
History
Early History
Angels and demons do battle
Demons originated from the corpse of Tathamet, whose body became the Burning Hells. For ages they fought against angelkind in the Eternal Conflict. It came to a halt with the disappearance of the Worldstone. It was eventually revealed that the Worldstone had been used to create the mortal realm, a revelation that gained the interest of the Prime Evils. The result was the Sin War,[9] which ended with a pact between Heaven and Hell to allow Man the freedom to choose his own path.[5]
The Dark Exile and Civil War
- Belial addressing Duriel and Andariel prior to the coup(src)
The aftermath of the Sin War led to a falling out between the Prime and Lesser Evils. Not only had the Lesser Evils been kept in the dark about the existence of Sanctuary, but they were furious that the Primes were intent on weaponizing humanity's nephalem potential rather than continuing the Eternal Conflict against Heaven.[9] As the centuries plodded along, many in Hell began to wonder just what it was they were fighting over. The Lesser Evils of Hell were growing tired of the endless ebb and flow in the tides of mortal favor, as well as those in the elaborate schemes of the Primes. The Lesser Evils longed to return to the epic days of the Great Conflict, and lay siege again to the gates of the High Heavens.[34] In their ignorance, the Lesser Evils began to believe that the Three were afraid to continue the war with Heaven.[2] Believing themselves superior to mortalkind,[9] and frustrated by the cessation of the war, Azmodan and Belial saw the situation as their chance to overthrow the Prime Evils and take control of Hell for themselves. The two demon lords made a pact with their minor brethren, assuring them that the wretched plague of humanity would not deter the ultimate victory of the sons of Hell. Azmodan and Belial devised a plan to end the stalemate, achieve victory in the Sin War and ultimately ride the bloody crest of the Great Conflict straight into the very arms of Armageddon. Thus, a great revolution was set into motion as all of Hell went to war against the Three Brothers.[2] The Primes, despite their efforts, were defeated and banished into the mortal realm, bodiless, where Azmodan hoped they would remain trapped forever. Furthermore, with the presence of the Primes in the mortal realm, Azmodan believed that Heaven would be forced to divert its attention towards humanity, thus potentially leaving Heaven vulnerable.[9]
The few demons who still pledged allegiance to the Primes entered Sanctuary to serve their masters.[2] Yet relations between Azmodan and Belial quickly soured as they began arguing over who should ascend to the highest rank in Hell. When the bickering turned to violence, their alliance ended, and the remaining denizens of Hell found themselves in a second civil war.[9] This state of affairs continued until at least the Darkening of Tristram, by which point Azmodan had gained the upperhand for quite awhile.[35] However, the two demons nonetheless came to share the same goal of subjugating humanity into their fold.[36]
The Reawakening of the Three
- Mephisto(src)
The awakening of Diablo in Tristram sparked a chain of events that upset the status quo for demonkind. Andariel and Duriel concluded that the Primes would inevitably use the powers of Man to reclaim Hell, and thus endevoured to gain favor by allying themselves with the Lord of Terror as he traveled across Sanctuary with a mortal host.[9] It was believed that with Andariel's presence on Sanctuary, the forces of Hell were once again aligned with the Primes.[37] Diablo, Baal, and Mephisto gathered in Travincal, where they enacted their final stratagem to retake Hell and gain vengeance against those who overthrew them. Opening the Infernal Gate, Diablo entered Hell to rally demons still loyal to the Primes. Baal journeyed north to corrupt the Worldstone, which would corrupt humanity in turn and enslave Man to the will of Hell. Mephisto stayed behind, intent on destroying any who would attempt to thwart their plan. In truth, the Three had masterminded the Dark Exile and their banishment with the aid of the fallen angel Izual, who had told them of the soulstones and how they might use them to further their own ends.[7]
Yet the Primes' plans were thwarted by a group of heroes. The group that had slain Andariel and Duriel, Mephisto, and Diablo in Hell itself. Baal himself was slain on Mount Arreat, though not before the Worldstone was corrupted. To save humanity, the archangel Tyrael destroyed the stone. While this saved humanity from corruption,[9] it left Sanctuary open to demonic invasion.[10][12] With the destruction of the Worldstone, demons were able to travel east further than they'd done so in the past, coming into conflict with the Priests of Rathma.[38] Five years after the destruction of the Worldstone, Skarn rallied a demonic army in order to obtain its fragments, intending to ressurect Diablo and reignite the Eternal Conflict.[39]
The End of Days
- Tyrael(src)
Demons emerge in Sanctuary
Belial and Azmodan came to share the same goal of subjugating humanity into their fold.[36] Belial sank his claws into Caldeum, ruling Kehjistan through his mortal host, yet his plans were thwarted by the Nephalem and his soul imprisoned inside the Black Soulstone. [40] In a bid to retrieve the stone, Azmodan unleashed his army upon Sanctuary and laid siege to Bastion's Keep, yet was also defeated and imprisoned. Yet it was here that Diablo's plan was revealed as the artifact was turned on the mortal Leah, bred as a vessel for the Lord of Terror by her own mother, Adria, for his rebirth as a singular Prime Evil.[41] Now, as a singular Prime Evil, Diablo led the legions of Hell in an assault on Heaven. For the first time in the history of the Eternal Conflict, the Diamond Gates were breached, and demons ran rampant throughout the Silver City. Yet once again, Diablo was defeated, and the demon invasion thwarted.[42]
Aftermath
In the aftermath of Diablo's defeat in Heaven, and that of Belial and Azmodan on Sanctuary, lesser demons still wandered Sanctuary, thirsting for the blood of the innocent. However, the loss of their leaders meant that they acted without larger organization, and did not make much of an impact (at least in the eyes of Heaven).[38] That said, decades after Diablo's defeat, demons still roamed Sanctuary, continuing to roam the land unchecked. Demonic invasion reduced Kehjistan to ruins.[43]
In-game
In all three Diablo games, demons are one of the three (the others being undead and animals) major types of enemies the heroes will encounter, and perhaps the most numerous category. Within the user interface, a demon is usually associated with the Life indicator.
Diablo
In Diablo, demons are "normal" enemies, and receive full damage from all weapons. In return, Holy Bolts have no effect on them. Demons are vulnerable to some specific weaponry, however.
Diablo II
The concept of demons as enemies was further expanded in Diablo II. Many items offer bonus damage or attack rating against demons. Most demons are immune to Fire on Hell difficulty.
Diablo III
Demons are more or less encountered in nearly every location of Diablo III. Bonus effects against Demons are less common than in the second game, but still exist: for example, Tyrael's Might. The only act that has less demons than other enemies is Act V.
References
- ↑ 2014-03-25, Heroes of the Storm: Tyrael Trailer. YouTube, accessed on 2014-08-12
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 Diablo Manual
- ↑ Megademon, The Arreat Summit. Accessed on 2014-08-12
- ↑ Diablerie
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 The Veiled Prophet
- ↑ Diablo III, Enraged Phantasm Lore
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 Diablo II, The Harrowing
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6 The Awakening
- ↑ 9.00 9.01 9.02 9.03 9.04 9.05 9.06 9.07 9.08 9.09 9.10 9.11 9.12 9.13 Book of Cain
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 Moon of the Spider
- ↑ Diablo III, Ancient Beast Lore
- ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 The Order
- ↑ 13.0 13.1 Diablo II Manual
- ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 Demonsbane
- ↑ Rise of the Necromancer, Blizzard Entertainment. Accessed on 2017-06-30
- ↑ Diablo III, Imp Lore
- ↑ Diablo III, Act IV
- ↑ Diablo III, Act V
- ↑ Diablo III, Flesh Gorger Lore
- ↑ 20.0 20.1 The End of Her Journey
- ↑ Bat Demon, Arreat Summit. Accessed on 2015-09-15
- ↑ Birthright
- ↑ 2013-12-08, BlizzCon 2013 – Diablo III Lore and Story Q&A Panel Transcript. Blizzplanet, accessed on 2014-04-21
- ↑ 24.0 24.1 24.2 The Black Road
- ↑ 25.0 25.1 Book of Tyrael
- ↑ Diablo III, Act I
- ↑ Demon Imp, The Arreat Summit. Accessed on 2014-08-12
- ↑ 28.0 28.1 Book of Adria: A Diablo Bestiary
- ↑ 29.0 29.1 Diablo III, Mallet Lord Lore
- ↑ 2018-09-05, Mephisto Lore. Heroes of the Storm Twitter, accessed on 2018-09-06
- ↑ 31.0 31.1 Diablo III, Act III
- ↑ Diablo, Ogden's Sign
- ↑ Heroes of the Storm
- ↑ Duriel, The Arreat Summit. Accessed on 2014-08-16
- ↑ Legacy of Blood
- ↑ 36.0 36.1 Diablo III Behind the Scenes DVD
- ↑ Andariel, The Arreat Summit. Accessed on 2014-08-16
- ↑ 38.0 38.1 Storm of Light
- ↑ Diablo Immortal, Blizzard Entertainment. Accessed on 2018-11-05
- ↑ Diablo III, Act II
- ↑ Diablo III, Act III
- ↑ Diablo III, Act IV
- ↑ 2019-11-01, BlizzCon 2019: Diablo IV Announced. Blizzplanet, accessed on 2019-11-03