It is Siadas, 22nd of the Month of Cinder, in the year 95

Demons

Demons are aberrant manifestations that result from those sensitive to aether being unable to defend themselves from their presence while still young. Demons are attracted to those who have a strong desire and have great aetheric potential to nest themselves into and become a part of that person as a whole.

Once a demon has taken hold of a person, separating the malignant entity from the mortal entity is considered practically impossible to do. Rumours do exist among the circles that know the nature of demons that it is possible, but the exact mechanics are not known.

Demons make up one of the greatest dangers to the world if left unchecked. Often featuring in terrible stories to warn against their tendencies and proclivities.

IMPORTANT
Few will know that Demons have a 'Normal' and 'True' form.
Open a Storyteller ticket if you think your character should or might know.

"We've not had to deal with one with such standing since the Beast of Kazuma."

- Kaza'daukar Ammis, referring to the name given to a Desolation Demon who destroyed the city

Desolation Demons

Harbingers of Strife, Warhounds, Men of Havoc, and Ruinous Fiends, are but a handful of the nicknames given to the beings that seemingly rise up at random to tear everything down. The Kaza'daukar classify them as Desolation Demons, or Desolators. They are malicious creatures that have wrought untold misery over thousands of years. These demons desiring devastation, doom domains with destruction of all kinds. Through vandalism that rots the pillars of society, tearing apart the foundation of kingdoms to an inferno to cleanse the past and in its ashes rebuild society anew.

Almost every recorded instance of one of these creatures surfacing has ended with widespread destruction and death of innocents. When they mature it becomes an Inevitability they give into their dark urges and inflict mayhem upon the world in their attempt to reshape it in their image.

When tales are told together trying to tell of the creatures known as Demons, it is often a Desolator that is the most common or stereotypical understanding through most societies due to how they make their mark.

Biology

Desolation Demons tend to be muscular, regardless of their height or the amount of fat on their bodies. They process greater strength than average when masquerading as a typical person. Their skin is rough rather than smooth without the need for continuous labour or friction. It forms calluses quickly compared to most, and they will take longer to disappear. Their skin is often quite dry and is prone to flaking without proper care. It also tanned quickly.

These demons are predisposed to take up physically arduous tasks, to keep at bay their will to destroy by unleashing it upon objects which they would instead be paid to demolish.

They are known to have a variety of hair colours and eye colours, as well as skin tones as it is determined by their creed.

Their demonic form is often black of skin, or greatly dark. Generally, this form is larger in both height and muscular size. Sometimes they have inscriptions etched into their flesh that burn in colours of red, orange, or yellow. These colours match the possible eye colours that they are noted to have along with black sclera.

Those of their kind that have delved deeper into their desires are known to sprout wings in their true form, along with forming a hardened carapace over their body making them more resilient.

Behaviour & Life

As with all the corrupted, the first victim is the Aether-Attuned child that they assaulted during their earliest years. Unlike the rest of the corrupted types, Desolators can usually be disposed of early based on the consistent wailing, crying and screaming of the child. These cries will come and go, the child will be in a constant state of upset and almost nothing will work to calm them down. While their parents are usually distressed, their child is assailed by a creature only they know is there, over time the demon will merge itself into the soul of the child and they will at last become one.

When the demon successfully becomes part of the child, their crying and screaming will stop. They will quickly go back to being a ‘normal’ child except with an affinity for finding delight in disruption and destruction.

Eventually, usually through their teenage years, their tendencies come into sharper focus as they realise the purpose of their desires. An urge to bring upheaval, to replace what is with something different, newer and bound in their own creation. But, to truly bring about this glorious future, the present must be cleansed through destruction.

Some will fight against this urge, despite what enjoyment, fulfilment and purpose this path gives them. The more they resist this fate, the shorter their temper, the stronger the pull towards their destiny and more stress prone they become. It becomes a cathartic experience to destroy objects, things, animals, people and especially ideas. Desires of rebellion, war, wiping the slate and building a glorious monument to their revolutionary path often plague their thoughts, ever pulling them deeper into their own baleful aspirations.

The Demon is predisposed to eventually lash out, potentially wounding or killing people and animals, often starting with those they like the least. Few survive these attacks as malicious entities brutally assault them, and those that do rarely can survive long afterwards. - As with other demons, the more they dive into their dark urges and permit their strength over them, the more dangerous they become. But the more they lose themselves in the desire to reshape the world.

Those who fail at the mundane life, but aim to keep control of their tendencies, seek service as mercenaries or soldiers in an army, applying their urges in warfare as a part of trade rather than operating solo. They do not seek such a high station that would deny them the ability to destroy as freely as possible.

The world they see in the future is not one they want to share alone. The cult they gather around themselves are often made up of those who have the least to lose in the current order of the world, and through whatever twists of fate are essentially lost souls. These demons will pray upon their low position and on their souls, and encourage them to become weapons and tools used to bring about their new age. Spouting the promises of divine riches and rewards for ushering in the demon's fiery visions of the future.

Desolation Cult

Although they begin with destruction for its own sake, these whimsical desires for small-scale damage are overshadowed by the deeper yearning for greater. Each demon will understand innately that their own revolutionary designs are impossible to do alone, or without sufficient power.

Once they have walked down the path before them, gathering enough strength they are able to claim their cultists and eventually anoint some of them to be their chosen champions. Unlike what some of the other variety of Demons will do, the Desolation demons are much more picky and prone to tutoring their cultists in their ideals, way of war and philosophical outlook. This becomes a key step before they select their champions - bonding them to a very mortal ideal, so that they are as loyal to the 'mission' as they are to the demon themselves.

Those drawn to the orbit of such demons are often entranced by thoughts of revenge and to overturn the state of the world to supplant the current rulers with themselves. Although such a want to tear it all down can be enough to be inducted into the cult, to be elevated to the rank of Champion they will need to exhibit a greater worth of character to be honoured as an exemplar by the demon.

How To Play

Physical Characteristics:

Taller, bulkier, more muscular.

Rough skin, frequent calluses.

Skin is naturally dry and prone to flaking without proper care.

Personality Traits:

Eager to fight with little care for collateral damage, enjoys breaking things to reduce stress, short-tempered, very easily agitated, general destructive tendencies, often gets carried away during violent outbursts, fixation on flames.

Struggle against your dark urge to destroy, to bring devastation and sow violent revolution. Keep your worst traits at bay. But eventually, you will need to seek release.

Destruction is core to your being, and it should form part of the character's personality. The characters will always seek to destroy something to save themselves from the madness of desire.

Why struggle against what you are? This is a boon to use, not shy from. Delve into the darkness that resides within, explore and empower the corruption. Become truly formidable.

You must have two forms, a standard form based on your race and a second, a corrupted form which can be expanded and built upon as you ascend the tiers of demonic power.

Application Form

Demon RR

"Cult of the Bull, what more evidence do you need?"

- Kaza'daukar Darice

Dynast Demons

Known to the Kaza'daukar as Dynasts, and to many others as Overlords, Tyrants, Puppet Masters, Dominators and even Outlaw Princes. These corrupted souls only care for their legacy, for their own power and influence. Those that infringe upon their spheres of control will often meet brutal reprisal, and those under their thumb that decry their rule can be expected to be beaten senseless.

Dynasts act both in secret, and openly. Most of the time they will dwell in the shadows to expand their strength and once they are confident enough, then reveal themselves as a powerful player on the stage. They have a never ceasing desire to accrue more power, prestige, influence and glory. The Dynasts do not just want respect, they demand it. And those that turn their noses up at them often live long enough to regret it.

These demons often feature in tales of evil kings and diabolical queens, or in stories where there is a tyrannical individual. Despite what tales are told in warnings, many flock to the demon's banner willfully, and trust them more than they would a replacement. This makes their removal extremely difficult once they have solidified their control.

Biology

Dynasts come in various shapes and sizes, they are typically undistinguishable from the standard masses without looking at them more closely. These corrupted individuals will have an intense stare, both captivating to see and frightening to hold. This is further deepened by their voices, always distinct and authoritative, a voice that people seem to remember many long years since they have heard it.

The Kaza’daukar also note that they have rapid recovery of hair on the body. Both men and women, regardless of age, will have full heads of hair and keeping their bodies free from it is a battle in itself.

Dynasts are predisposed to try and take positions in places that have a swift ascent to power, or failing that to create their own sphere of influence and then grow it. They do not do well without holding some authority, and can fall into a dangerous state of despair when they do not get what they want. Not dangerous for themselves, but others around them.

Their demonic forms are darker in colour, either blackened skin or the deepest shades of blue and purple. Their skin may have markings etched into them, coloured in blue or white and their eyes glow in shades of white, blue, orange, purple or magenta. The form is often much taller and appears to be less muscular. It notably is also feathered.

Behaviour & Life

Children who succumb to the infliction of a Dynast begin by shying away from social situations, almost fearing human interaction which causes them great distress and malnutrition. The Demon in this phase is degrading them, breaking down whatever will they have in order to seep into their soul and bind themselves to it. Once bound, the child's behaviour reverses and they will then lead a typically ordinary life.

Only when it comes to their teenage years does it then become apparent what their future will hold. Endlessly ambitious, intelligent and seem to swell with an unnatural amount of drive. Dynasts will prove at a young age to be far more capable leaders than they should have any right to be.

They can be at their most dangerous when they have little semblance of control over their life and surroundings, and their willingness to be manipulative, violent and even deadly only ramps up the longer they exist in a period of having no control.

Though some control is often never enough, and its requires an ever increasing tolerance from a Dynast to allow another to be stations above them. The mere thought that someone could, if they wished, do whatever they pleased without reprisal or deeper consideration against them is a maddening thought. Eventually they will seek to spread their spheres of influence, find those they can command and create a hierarchy of control. It is common for them to obtain positions of power, to be held as glorious, famed and to proliferate their dynasty. Their only acceptable trajectory is up for them.

Because their station is often never picked, and the circumstances of their upbringing are not within their control. Many Dynasts become enterprising criminals or ambitious merchant lords. Both come to power by whatever means deemed appropriate, but always become tyrannical to maintain their position and influence once they have it.

The ultimate aim of these demons is to become legend, to spread its power across the greatest span of land and myth. Amassing influence, power and wealth greatly contribute to its aims, but to leave a legacy behind it will seek to forge a family and a loyal cohort to carry its name to all corners of their realm.

Dynast Cult

Dynasts will often hunt down individuals it believes have the particular skillset, or moldable character, to suit its expansionist needs. The Demon often plays on the ambitions of others to entice them into the fold. These cults tend to take longer to mature, but the core of its membership make it a wholly dangerous beast once it reaches its zenith.

The cults that form around a Dynasts create a great bond of trust to the demon, so much so that many actions the demon takes are no longer considered amoral to them. Despite what they would think of others doing them. They will aid the demon in many endeavours and tasks to enable it to achieve its goals, and in turn, the demon grants them wealth, fame and riches for their loyalty. A chosen few will be bestowed a sliver of power from the Dynast to improve their use.

These types of cults can eventually envelop a nation as their willingness to act out for the benefit of the demon often leads to attempting to convert others into the fold. Some go as far as worshipping the Dynast, which brings the demon a great amount of satisfaction and is considered a turning point in the threat the creature poses by the Kaza'daukar.

How To Play

Physical Characteristics:

Taller, Intense stare, captivating and frightening,

Distinct and authoritative voice,

Personality Traits:

Ever-ambitious, seek greater status, adorned with symbols of power, tyrannical tendencies,

desires of creating a 'strong' family (such as finding a suitable spouse), surrounds self with competent subjects/servants.

Fight against your inner dark urges that plot and scheme your ascent into power.

Reject the desire to strike down those who dare challenge you, keep yourself tamed and live a normal life.

Or accept your desires and build your power base over time. Bring more people to your side and expand your influence.

Establish yourself as a name to be feared and subjugate those who rise against you. Build a legacy that will last through the ages.

You must have two forms, a standard form based on your race and a second, a corrupted form which can be expanded and built upon as you ascend the tiers of demonic power.

Application Form

Demon RR

"Rumours I've heard... Say we should be concerned about his Queen too. It is getting dangerous."

- Kaza'daukar Gal

Despoiler Demons

The Despoilers, also known as Ravagers, Marauders or Pirate Lords are one of the worst kinds of Demon, but often mistaken for common bandits. They have an affinity for the hoarding of wealth and items, but not because of any desire for the item itself. But to deprive the owner of them.

This fascination with the thought of deprivation can spiral into a more sadistic end when stolen items are no longer sufficient to sate the demon's desires. Instead, they will need to see and experience the anguish they cause in a more personal setting, and revel in the agony they cause.

The Kaza'daukar note that these demons are some of the more harmless of their kind when they maintain control of themselves, while also being one of the most horrid of their kind when they dive to far into their madness.

The Despoiler's willingness to take gets increasingly worse to the point that the quality of the trauma they cause can only be matched by the impact on as many people their actions have.

These demons do not often feature in the grand tales sung or spoken, though usually influences of one can be found in proverbs or smaller tales about the true greed of man. Many of the most famous potential Despoilers end up being a footnote in the history of another, a stepping stone for their legacy.

Biology

Despoiler Demons tend to be taller than the average person. They also tend to have long bony fingers that never seem to be able to store fat. The skin of a despoiler is more difficult to break, and they do not often bruise easily. Further to this they also heal faster than the average person could.

They have the typical range of hair and eye colours expected of the race they are born to, they also do not have unique hues when it comes to their eyes making them harder to distinguish in their typical form.

Despoilers tend to be on the more energetic side, often having more energy than they can expend which leads to excessive body movements to try and use more of it. Such as bouncing their leg when sat down. They also have a weak will to laughter, and will generally find things funnier than most. No matter how nonsensical or cruel it might be.

The skin colour of a Despoiler's demonic form ranges from black to greys to darker greens and browns. If they have etching they also make up the same or similar colourings.

Their limbs tend to be much thinner and bony in appearance and they are often hunched in some manner.

Eventually, as their demonic side gains more power, they will gain horns, a mask of bone, and sometimes a single tail that whips out from the back of their cranium. They also become incredibly fast runners.

Behaviour & Life

Despoilers are unique in that they never have to fight their way into a child's soul. Rather they come knocking and are welcomed in. Those they target are immediately agreeable to the malicious tendencies of the demon itself, and so their merging causes little suffering to the child.

In their youth the these children are most often bullies and seem to take great pleasure in depriving other children of their belongings or otherwise causing them misery. They will even target adults by stealing items from them or get them to frantically panic as their mind will run awry with thoughts they have induced.

Because of the early onset of these malicious tendencies, they tend to mentally mature much faster than other children and gain a greater understanding of social norms and expectations more quickly than most adults would. All in turn to best understand how to exploit what they see around them.

As they grow into their teenage years, they will often either have a sizeable horde of stolen items hidden somewhere safe, or they have shown uncharacteristic resistant to their urges and try to be somewhat normal. Though this is a struggle far greater than any other demon will face against their own desires.

As they get older their urges become stronger. Those who manage to fight against them end up committing petty thievery on the side to sate their desires, but it's never enough. They will be pushed to commit greater acts of deprivation. Eventually the thrill truly comes when the demon can truly see the consequence of their actions displayed upon a person, through suffering, anguish and the delight in their loss.

Despoilers are masters of taking, and there is nothing that would be off-limits. They are driven by the desire to cause agony to others and relish in the knowledge or thought of doing it. In the most extreme circumstances, this means the despoilers will ransack property, torture people and the sweetest of all is to make others in their image. A spiteful cabal that sow suffering in their wake.

Despoiler Cult

Two types of cults often form around a Despoiler, the one that is more contained and the other more let loose. The former ends up diving into criminal endeavours, forming crime syndicates and syphoning off the society they are embedded with. These gangs are known to be violent, and extremely wealthy and the upper echelons are rumoured to engage in torture recreational.

The second type is a lot less concerned about living within society, instead preferring to create their own fully distinct company of bandits, outlaws or ship's crew. Sometimes even try to become maraudering or pirate lords as they sack their way through a great deal of territory before being brought to justice.

In both cases, those who work with the Demon soon come to work for the Demon and eventually base all of their future successes of the success of the Demon that leads them.

How To Play

Physical Characteristics:

Taller, Bony fingers, Skinny, Do not bruise easily, Wounds seem to heal quicker.

Personality Traits:

Seek greater and greater wealth, Enjoy criminal activities, Kleptomaniac, Does not like living under any rule but their own,

Sadistic, Struggle with the concept of failing their endeavours,

Fight against your inner dark urges that plot and scheme your ascent into power.

Reject the desire to take wealth from those who have, and those who don't, and saviour the misery caused.

Or accept your desires, and build your wealth, your gangs and your criminal enterprise. Torture is just the cherry on top!

Establish yourself as a name to be feared and seek freedom from the constraints of the rule of others.

You must have two forms, a standard form based on your race and a second, a corrupted form which can be expanded and built upon as you ascend the tiers of demonic power.

Application Form

Demon RR

"We have more than enough to concern us close to home. Let Dumanon deal with it."

- Kaza'daukar Melkur

Decadence Demons

All have heard the story of the seductress, the cad, the villain who might lure you from a righteous life and bring you into sin. All have been lectured and scolded when looking upon things too indulgent to have. From princes to paupers, decadence is forever a folly. And in these Decadents, in these Clutching Concubines, it is made manifest.

They are given many names. Odalisques and Demimondes, Yearners, the Starved and Gluttons. Though these titles echo throughout tale and trauma, most Decadents go their entire lives undiscovered, for they bring out the worst in people whilst making them feel their very best.

The Kaza'daukar have the understanding that they act in secret, starting small but acting on a burning desire for popularity and encouragement in their own urges. They share the very curse that they give, a weak-willed wanting, only unlike the regular mortals around them, theirs will never be sated. They may be genius, or sensual, or inciting - but most importantly, they haunt the memories of others and always pull people back to them.

Biology

A fool may assume that a Yearner would forever be a luscious, beautiful thing. A chiselled man, a supple woman. But no - there is no such guarantee. They are striking in appearance, memorable, unusual, and this may manifest as undeniable beauty but not always. Their voices are the most unified thing across their kin, naturally melodic and yet demanding, with an unnaturally amplified quality that may be intentionally manipulated by the demon. To consume others' senses with a whisper, even in a crowded room.

Kaza’daukar, who have labelled them Defilers, note that their nails on both hands and feet grow at an unusually fast pace, and tend toward being almond-shaped.

In their basic fiendish form, they are the most human-like of any of their corrupted kin. They retain rich, varied skin tones, though they become exceedingly soft to the touch. Scars are absent and muscle definition declines. Their eyes take on the look of true, molten gold regardless of their original colour - and beneath their skin, their veins take on the same, and so too does their blood if spilt.

Their innate presence leaves an imprint on those who meet them, which gets stronger over time. Whatever the person may, naturally, feel toward these creatures is gradually amplified. Familial bonds, friendship, romance - and even hatred. Though those who are naturally set against a Decadent may still be frustrated or enraged, the more time they spend with them the more this becomes a desire for an infinite rivalry - eventually, once the demon is powerful enough, even a life-long enemy could not bear the thought of taking their life and robbing themselves of such a thrilling opponent.

Behaviour & Life

When first terrorised by the greed-based affliction, babies and children become exceedingly prone to dramatic wails. They will refuse food and drink, beginning to wither and take easily to sickness. They will actively deprive themselves of physical comforts - shoes, blankets, even affection. Yet they will cry and sob as any would when feeling so uncomfortable and starved. This internal battle is the demonic entity ensuring that the child has felt what it is like to be without, a sensation that will remain as trauma throughout their infected lives. Making the child want to eat, drink and sleep so much is how the spirit can bind intense cravings to them.

After a few years of normalcy, where this first behaviour has levelled out, their wanting and greed will begin to exacerbate. They quickly become socially intelligent, charismatic, and influential. Their first acts will be quaint; such as asking others to acquire presents for them or insisting on not doing things alone such as their first sips of wine or indulgence in narcotics. By now, rejection is a rare thing for them, and can send them into a jealous rage.

Over the years an obsession with experiencing new things will grow, and with sharing those experiences with others. Occasionally they will feel wanderlust, but most often they task the many who flock to them with acquiring new tastes and sensations for them. More is never enough, and their lifestyles demand riches to enable them, but generally, they are capable of getting into well-paying positions through charm alone.

They suit well to the role of the concubine, or as friends to the rich, where they can leech off of the lifestyles of others and often reduce their political effectiveness. Where this is not possible, many turn to a life of organised crime. Unlikely to get their own hands dirty in the criminal sense, they manipulate others into breaking the law to their advantage. Many thieves are caught stealing diamonds for the person they love.

Rarely, they may become obsessed with an individual and never feel they have had enough of said person. It could be a tutor, a family member, a best friend, or a lover. When this dangerous bond is forged, they seek whole control of this person’s life, and that can become greatly perilous for others in proximity.

In the extremely unlikely circumstance that they have encountered another Decadent, it is a universal truth that they will clash. A turf war, with the turf being the poor mortals caught in their orbit, is guaranteed to ensue. It is possible for a torrid affair to result in a reveal that both are these kindred, and things will certainly go sour from there.

Decadence Cult

Most Decadents worship themselves, or in a broader sense, the good things that life has to offer. They enjoy having many admirers and this can quickly become a type of cult. They enjoy controlling other people, saying when they can or cannot indulge, and thus ordering people to ‘earn’ it. When the simple pleasures of life grow weary, the Starved are likely to push others into doing truly extreme things to get what they want.

On rare occasions, more likely in some cultures than others, one of these corrupted souls may be extremely devout to a specific deity or pantheon. When putting themselves to this task, if they manage to stick to it and make it rewarding for themselves, they can become ruthlessly dangerous. Palatable to the religious masses, a stage on which to project their voice, this is when they can command armies and indeed affect the lifestyles of hundreds of people.

How To Play

Physical Characteristics:

Striking features, such as unique noses, strong jaws, and other features that are distinct and memorable. Quick growing and often pointed nails. Compelling voices.

Personality Traits:

Hungry for new experiences, food, and various indulgences. May become obsessive over a specific type of person that suits their fancy. Inclinations toward powerful social roles where they can be adored and secure luxury for themselves. Extremely avoidant of 'simple' or 'plain' things.

Fight against your urges that would see any sensible ambition forgone in order to experience the best and worst the world has to offer.

Attempt to live piously, knowing that the next bite or kiss may lead you down a dark path.

Embrace the want, and try to heal those starving days as a child by filling each endlessly empty pit within yourself. Make others help you.

Make your mark on society, be the name on everyone’s lips, make it so that even those who loathe you think of you when their lives are quiet.

Scorn those who resist your presence. Make them love you.

You must have two forms, a standard form based on your race and a second, a corrupted form which can be expanded and built upon as you ascend the tiers of demonic power.

Application Form

Demon RR

"Trading one problem for another?"

- Kaza'daukar Darice

Duplicity Demons

The Duplicitous are known by a few names, often as Charlatan, Deceivers, Betrayers, or Schemers and the less offensive term Master of Whispers. They are naturally inclined to blend into a society, at any structural level and begin their grand orchestral play.

The Deceivers are noted by the Kaza'daukar for being difficult to find, track down and ultimately thwart once they have been able to infiltrate a group. Almost as though they could appear and disappear into thin air. The effects of their presence are easier to spot, but only after they have become too embedded.

Few tales actually feature a demon such as this, given that very few people understand their nature or what they even are. The Kaza'daukar are one of the very few groups that even know this type exists, let alone its masquerading nature.

Biology

In their normal form, these demons tend to be taller than average. They possess a natural grace in movement that has not been taught nor conditioned into them. Effortlessly these demons seem to be able to move throughout the world physically, not to mention their ability to do so socially. Beyond the natural ease of their own movements, their skin is quite elastic and easy to bruise, more so than would be considered typical.

They often come in various shapes and sizes, having no defined eye colour, hair tone or skin shade. Their true form skin colour ranges from black, brown, dark blues and greens to even greys. Their distinction comes from the swirling patterns that seem extended into their skin. These engravings are just as varied as their skin in terms of colouring.

As their power grows, so too does their true form begin to reshape. The form either becomes an amalgamation of creature parts, never truly committing to something over the other or something new entirely as they compound elements of everything to create a form of themselves unlike any other. Though these are often limited by mortal restrictions.

Behaviour & Life

In the early years, children who are preyed upon by one such demon are often thought to be distant, they seem to care little for affection and don't seem to comprehend the world around them accurately. They are prone to random outbursts of laughter and may even refer to things that are not there. Generally, they would be considered mentally impaired, and in some societies discarded be sure of it.

As they age these largely tendencies subside. Naturally, they will move effortlessly and with a strange grace to anyone who'd care to pay too much attention to them. They will develop an whimsical interest in misdirection, and obfuscation of the truth. Both being habitual and entertaining for them, even if there is not greater motive to do it.

Their interests in such deviancy will only grow stronger once they realise the myriad of outcomes for the actions and the more taboo or monumental it is, the more they are inclined to pursue it. In their tireless effort to shape and reshape the societies around them, they will orchestrate romances, scandals, conflicts and even murders.

As they get older some will attempt to stay away from their urges, to lie, deceive and cause disruption. This is increasingly difficult as to be as far from the truth as possible is their natural calling. Eventually, those who cave to their desires can expertly craft entire stories and narratives seemingly from nowhere, and convincingly too. All the while these tales will do harm to others or find their way to enrich the demon, materially or for their own entertainment.

When they finally accept what they are, they care less for the material elements of the world, and even relationships are only as good as they can twist, turn and manipulate them. Often they will concoct grand schemes which could take days, weeks even months to see come to fruition in glorious fallout. But the effort is always well worth the wait.

Some of the most dangerous members of their kind can wait years for their scheme to develop. It is a true test of their composure to not burst into a fit of joy as they see the fruit of their work unfolding before them. Those who manage can almost single handed destroy kingdoms and empires, bringing it all down just to entertain themselves.

Duplicity Cult

Although rare to find, and even among the scholars they can be dismissed as merely fantasy as the demon itself is known for its discordant way. Cults of Duplicity come to life mostly from the grand ambitions of the demon, where their own limitations prevent them from being in more places than one and they then start to want their own network around them.

These cults can be particularly difficult to root out while the demon is still active, most dissipating when the demon is no longer part of the equation. Those caught in the orbit of the demon are drawn in by the manipulations of the creature to serve their own ends. The vast networks of informants and useful pawns are an important tool in their arsenal.

There is another step above this, vastly more rare and particularly more dangerous to boot. Those that are attracted to the Demons way of operating because they too indulge in the fantasy of chaos and are entertained by turning everything and anything upside down. Those few who are like the demon, will often be molded by the Demon to become one of its Chosen.

How To Play

Physical Characteristics:

Taller, Naturally Graceful in Movement, Elastic Skin, Lack Distinctive Features, Easily Bruised.

Personality Traits:

Schemer, Delights in Mayhem They Cause, Annoyed by Their Schemes Being Foiled,

Compulsive Liars or Obscures Truth, Manipulative.

Resist the pull to lie, manipulate and deceive. Avoid showing the enjoyment you gain from the problems you can cause others.

Alternatively, give in to your urges and become a creature of a whole new kind. Who will truly know you or what you are?

Discord is delightful when it results from your actions, planned or otherwise. The bigger the scheme, the better.

You must have two forms, a standard form based on your race and a second, a corrupted form which can be expanded and built upon as you ascend the tiers of demonic power.

Application Form

Demon RR

"The Emperor passed our tests, he is at least not one of these creatures."

- Kaza'daukar Melkur

Dreadful Demons

A plague on the mind given form. A haunting, droning wail. The family member that always struck you as ghost-like, lingering in the corners of portraits and rooms, making the world around them so much greyer than it really was. These accursed creatures are often known as Dreadfuls, Tormentors, Night Terrors, or Horrors - but amongst demons, they are perhaps the rarest to be known.

It is an unfortunate truth that these demons bring despair, insomnia and paranoia wherever they wander. They appear to dwell on their own misfortunes, and use this in ensnaring others in endless grief and woe. They have a desire to spread dread, terror and nightmares - to an end goal of tormentous visions and insight into greater things.

In Kaza’daukar observations, they are noted to act discreetly, and whilst the nobler of them may pine for isolation, they have a natural urge to be amongst people. In a perfectly happy environment, their influence is limited, but they can cause even the most minor of upset to fester into a deep emotional wound. It seems, more than any other fiend, that they experience emotions the most severely as well, only feeling relief when others are struggling too.

Biology

Typically, a Night Terror is of a weaker disposition than average. They may be taller than expected of their heritage as well - but rarely broad to go with it, tending toward a lean or fragile figure. There is a trend toward darker eyes amongst them, but no stern rule, though their gaze is likely to haunt those who find themselves on the other end of it. Their stares can become quite intense, shimmering with unshed tears, spreading a primordial longing.

A physical consistency is that these Horrors have exceptionally clicky bones, with joints prone to popping when flexed. This doesn’t bring them pain but can cause the occasionally disquieting sound.

Their demonic form is, for the most simple among them, comparable to a ghost in most cases. If not emaciated, they still take on a strangely elongated look, with thin and extended fingers, long necks, and a gangliness. This may be deceptive however, as their sinewy body becomes more muscle than anything else - and as they are empowered, these creatures can become true manifestations of terror. Their fiendish eyes are rounded and pool-like, haunting with terrifying abyss or personal sorrow, depending perhaps more on the interpretation of the witness than the demon themselves. Colour-wise, they are usually pale shades of white, grey, and blue - or very rarely lilac and pink, like cold-bitten flesh.

Behaviour & Life

When an aether sensitive child is targeted by the essence of a Dreadful, they are put through an intense period of internal strife. They will go without sleep for a remarkable amount of time, oftentimes alarming doctors and parents, yet always survive. When they do rest, out of physical exhaustion, their minds receive no relief. Cosmic nightmares of terrors beyond worlds torment these children - each one incomprehensible, and bringing a period of true insanity upon them, where many become non-verbal aside from their cries. But, once this period is over and the demonic presence has merged itself with them, they become calmer and never mention having such dreams again.

After some relatively normal years and as puberty begins, these possessed teenagers begin to properly exhibit the traits to come. They may act melancholic or moody, but that doesn’t compare to what those around them will feel. Over time, the closest to them will begin to experience nightmares. Frequent, eventually nightly, to begin with out of the teenager’s control. They will soon realise however, that they can witness these dreams, and learn from them.

An obsession with emotions develops over time - Dreadfuls learn quickly that the easiest way for them to gain satisfaction, and perhaps even joy, is by experiencing it through the dreams of others. To begin with it is not malicious, but it can certainly become so - particularly when realising that driving people to an unnatural edge can bring them closer to things Beyond. Taking the sanity and happiness of others, sapping away at it through nightmares, ill-counsel and even drug use begins to fuel the demon. It is also at this point where they might turn to the skies, looking for greater meaning and truth about the world - stemming from the visions of their childhood. They begin to desire a similar form to things they glimpsed as a child - the fear of others helps them feel more like those horrifying visions.

On the more advantageous side, however, Terror’s minds are very adaptive and receptive to information and high concepts. Even in teenagehood, they show incredible aptitude for literature, science, and alchemy. There is a rumour that one of Gallia’s greatest artists and poets, whose paintings have brought many to tears, sold his soul to a creature like this for inspiration and control over manifesting his vision.

It is difficult to say what kinds of lives they ‘suit’, as they turn most things dour, but strangely many have succeeded as fear-mongering preachers or politicians. Being a morose, dependent relative can be quite lucrative for them as well. Otherwise, alchemists, astronomers, writers and poets are the crowd they are likely to feel the most comforted in. One intent on resisting their malevolent urges may very well bury themselves in academia, or in channelling their own dismay through art.

Should a Tormentor encounter another of its kind, there is an immediate dislike. The aura around them of gloom is so uncomfortable and thick that they hate to be the ones on the end of it. It may not be immediately obvious, but they are definitely set against each other from the start. However, should they get past this discomfort and agree on the common goal of investigating the universe, they would have much to share with one another and bond over. In this sense, they are less competitive than other demons.

Inevitably, it will become clear to them that by putting people into a state of fear, paranoia, weariness and woe - people become controllable. So long as they can maintain a trustworthy place in other’s lives, they can mould those that they have reduced into usable agents. Much like the other demons that inhabit the world, it is through power that they grow stronger, and for Wraith’s this can also bring higher understanding and clarity.

Dread Cult

An ambitious Dreadful may be willing to create a cult around themselves, abusing the fact that the sensitive people around them can become servants, especially when promised more than sadness and nightmares. Insight, primaeval inspiration and knowledge, and even blissful apathy can be given out by these demons once they have a hold on their own purpose. So too can they hand out madness, which can be a wonderful way to keep people devoted. These cults are often secretive and involve the shroud of another faith. Pelagia, of the human Court of Gods, is of particular appeal. Sometimes this faith is sincere, but a demon will always struggle with who to prioritise between themselves and a deity.

Like any other Demon, their reason to create a cult generally ranges into sating their own urges. Spreading gloom, controlling dreams, mental torture - and in enabling them to reach out into the aether to learn a little more about the glimpses they caught as children. Exposing others to the insanity of the universe allows them to learn things without risking their own minds.

The cultists gain an unusual benefit from this arrangement with the Demon, their ability to feel pain and emotion is dulled unless it is being used by the Demon and through dreams. Which the Demon can then devour. Those overcome by such grief, either unknowingly caused by the Demon or not, can find respite through the cult.

How To Play

Physical Characteristics:

Lanky, pale for the average complexion of their mortal race.
Clicky bones, not naturally flexible. Dark eye colours.

Personality Traits:

Inquisitive and adaptive, willing to push other people into discomfort in pursuit of significant knowledge. Obsessed with dreams and their potential meanings. Likely to seek vulnerable companions with open minds.

Fight against your urges to drive into the dreams of others, for better or worse.

Resist your desire to know more about the universe.

Attempt to feel natural joys and to allow others the same.

Accept what you are, and what power lies in the mind. Dig into the dreams of others, warp them, and expand your own.

Crush the wills and happiness of those around you, soften them and make them malleable to a greater purpose; you.

You must have two forms, a standard form based on your race and a second, a corrupted form which can be expanded and built upon as you ascend the tiers of demonic power.

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Demon RR

Author: Hokan & Oakbug

Page Created by: Hokan

It is Siadas, 22nd of the Month of Cinder, in the year 95

Demons

IMPORTANT Few will know that Demons have a 'Normal' and 'True' form. Open a Storyteller ticket if you think your character should or might know.

- Kaza'daukar Ammis, referring to the name given to a Desolation Demon who destroyed the city

Desolation Demons

- Kaza'daukar Darice

Dynast Demons

- Kaza'daukar Gal

Despoiler Demons

- Kaza'daukar Melkur

Decadence Demons

- Kaza'daukar Darice

Duplicity Demons

- Kaza'daukar Melkur

Dreadful Demons

IMPORTANT
Few will know that Demons have a 'Normal' and 'True' form.
Open a Storyteller ticket if you think your character should or might know.