![[Bel.png|400]] **Also Known as:** The Lord of the First, The Pretender, Warlord of Avernus, Former Archduke of Avernus **Alignment**: Lawful Evil **Avernus is the 1st Layer** --- ### Overview Bel is a powerful pit fiend and former Archduke of Avernus, the first layer of the Nine Hells of Baator. Renowned as one of the most accomplished military commanders in the infernal hierarchy, he rose from the ranks of ordinary devils through exceptional battlefield leadership, strategic deception, and a succession of victories against the demonic armies of the Abyss. His understanding of warfare earned him considerable influence among the infernal legions and eventually secured his position as ruler of Avernus. Unlike many of the other Lords of the Nine, whose influence depended heavily upon political intrigue and complex alliances, Bel established his reputation primarily through military achievement. Nevertheless, he was also an accomplished schemer, capable of employing betrayal, misdirection, and carefully constructed conspiracies to further his ambitions. His eventual ascension to the throne of Avernus demonstrated that his talent for deception extended beyond the battlefield. Bel's rule came to an end when Asmodeus restored the fallen angel Zariel to the position of Archduchess of Avernus. Stripped of his title and the supernatural authority associated with it, Bel was compelled to serve as Zariel's chief lieutenant and military advisor. This arrangement preserved his considerable influence over the infernal war effort while placing him beneath a ruler he deeply resented. Despite his humiliation, Bel remains an important figure within the Nine Hells. He continues to oversee the production of infernal weapons and armour, directing his considerable resources toward the Blood War while secretly conspiring to reclaim the position he once occupied. --- ### Domain and Influence Bel's influence is concentrated within Avernus, the first layer of the Nine Hells and one of the principal battlefields of the Blood War. This devastated realm serves as the primary defensive barrier between the infernal domains of Baator and the innumerable demonic hordes of the Abyss. During his tenure as Archduke, Bel directed the military forces of Avernus and commanded vast infernal legions. His authority was closely associated with the Bronze Citadel, an immense fortified complex that served as a centre of military command and defence. From this stronghold, he coordinated campaigns against the demons and maintained the discipline required to prevent their advance into the deeper layers of the Nine Hells. His military achievements earned him the respect of the Dark Eight, the powerful pit fiend generals responsible for directing the infernal armies of the Blood War. Although his fellow archdevils frequently regarded him as an inferior ruler because of his origins as a pit fiend, his importance to the defence of Baator made him difficult to disregard. Following Zariel's restoration, Bel's authority became centred upon **Bel's Forge**, an immense infernal foundry contained within a heavily fortified iron stronghold. The forge produces weapons and armour for the infernal legions and remains an important source of military equipment for the continuing Blood War. The foundry is filled with channels of molten lava, enormous anvils, and infernal machinery. Enslaved fire giants labour under Bel's supervision, forging weapons and armour while bound by magical restraints that prevent their escape. Devils guard the fortress and oversee its operations, maintaining the flow of armaments to the armies fighting across Avernus. Bel's Forge is also the site of a secret construction project. Suspended above a vast pool of magma is an enormous infernal machine, still incomplete, which Bel intends to employ in his efforts to overthrow Zariel. Its existence demonstrates that his apparent submission to the Archduchess conceals preparations for another struggle over the throne of Avernus. --- ### Symbols and Icons Bel has been associated with several infernal symbols throughout his long history. One recognised emblem depicts a fanged mouth biting down upon the blade of a sword, representing his martial power and reputation as a ruthless military commander. Older traditions also associate him with a triangle containing a central circle, an emblem recorded during his earlier prominence within the infernal hierarchy. Although Bel is not a deity, these symbols have been employed by those who acknowledge his authority or offer him religious devotion. The sword is particularly appropriate to his identity, reflecting his long association with military command and the Blood War. The greatsword also holds significance among his followers, having traditionally served as the favoured weapon of his clerics. Its association with Bel reflects the importance of martial strength, destruction, and warfare within the limited religious traditions surrounding him. --- ### Worship and Tributes Bel has never established a widespread or formally organised cult comparable to those maintained by many of the other Lords of the Nine. His interests have traditionally remained focused upon the Blood War, leaving him with comparatively little concern for the recruitment and administration of mortal worshippers. Nevertheless, a small number of warriors have offered him devotion, recognising his exceptional military prowess and seeking supernatural assistance in matters of warfare. Such individuals are generally attracted to his reputation as a commander who achieved extraordinary power through personal ability, discipline, and strategic cunning. Bel's influence among mortals is therefore more closely associated with military ambition than with elaborate religious observance. Those seeking his favour may attempt to secure infernal agreements that provide weapons, magical assistance, or advantages in armed conflict. The precise rites and offerings of his followers have not been extensively recorded. Unlike the established cults of other archdevils, the worship of Bel possesses no widely documented system of compulsory sacrifices, ceremonial observances, or religious festivals. Those who deal directly with Bel or his infernal servants must nevertheless contend with the strict obligations of infernal bargains. Any power, equipment, or assistance obtained through such agreements is subject to the conditions imposed by the devil granting it. --- ### Clergy and Cults Bel maintains no extensive organised priesthood, although individual clerics and mortal worshippers have been associated with his service. His religious following has traditionally consisted of a relatively small number of warriors who admire his military achievements and seek to emulate his methods. Such followers are considerably less numerous than the established cults dedicated to other archdevils. Among his known clerical traditions, the greatsword is the favoured weapon, while the divine powers associated with his worship have included destruction, strength, and war. These associations reflect Bel's martial identity and his longstanding involvement in the conflict between devils and demons. Although Bel does not possess the divine status of a god, powerful archdevils are capable of serving as sources of supernatural power for mortal devotees. His lack of an extensive priesthood should therefore not be mistaken for an inability to grant power to those who secure his favour. Within Avernus, Bel commands a far more substantial hierarchy of infernal servants. Devils, military officers, guards, and enslaved labourers serve his interests, particularly within the fortified complex of Bel's Forge. His infernal authority is consequently maintained through military organisation and control of resources rather than through the administration of mortal temples. --- ### Powers and Abilities Bel possesses extraordinary physical strength, magical power, and resilience, surpassing the capabilities of an ordinary pit fiend. His centuries of warfare have made him an exceptionally dangerous combatant, while his intelligence and tactical experience allow him to exploit weaknesses that less disciplined opponents might overlook. His appearance retains the fearsome characteristics of a pit fiend, including a powerful, scaled body, enormous wings, and formidable natural weapons. He is also associated with a massive greatsword, which he employs with devastating effectiveness in battle. Bel commands potent infernal magic, including destructive supernatural effects, the ability to transport himself through magical means, and the power to imprison enemies through powerful enchantments. His innate resistance to magic and considerable physical endurance make him difficult to defeat through conventional means. His greatest advantage, however, remains his mastery of warfare. Bel is renowned for employing ambushes, feigned retreats, double-crosses, and carefully prepared traps to overcome opponents. He prefers to engage enemies under conditions that favour his forces, often manipulating circumstances long before open battle begins. He has also demonstrated exceptional skill in infernal command, coordinating large military formations and directing complex campaigns against the demons of the Abyss. His knowledge of the Blood War remains sufficiently valuable that Asmodeus preserved his position within the infernal military hierarchy even after removing him from power. During his reign as Archduke, Bel possessed supernatural authority granted by his position as ruler of Avernus. This additional power was taken from him when Zariel replaced him, although his formidable personal abilities remained. His continuing influence is supported by his command of Bel's Forge, his military experience, and the loyalty of infernal servants who favour his return to power. --- ### Treatment of the Faithful Bel values discipline, competence, and results. Those who serve him are judged primarily upon their ability to accomplish assigned objectives, particularly where those objectives concern military operations, the production of armaments, or the advancement of his political interests. He is willing to negotiate with mortals when their assistance may further his plans. Such agreements can involve the exchange of information, the provision of equipment, or other forms of assistance, although Bel carefully considers the advantages he expects to obtain in return. His dealings are rarely motivated by generosity. Individuals who approach him are evaluated according to their usefulness, and he is capable of concealing his true intentions while presenting an agreement as mutually beneficial. Those who serve within his infernal hierarchy operate under strict authority. Failure to perform assigned duties can result in punishment, while valuable servants may receive positions of greater responsibility or opportunities to advance within the infernal military structure. Bel's treatment of his enslaved workers demonstrates the severity of his rule. The fire giants employed within his forge are held by magical restraints and compelled to manufacture weapons for the armies of the Nine Hells. Their continued service is secured through coercion rather than loyalty. Although Bel may honour the immediate terms of an agreement, those who bargain with him cannot assume that he has disclosed every consequence or that their success is his ultimate objective. --- ### Myths and Legends **The Rise of Bel** Bel's earliest rise through the infernal hierarchy was achieved through military service and a willingness to exploit every opportunity for advancement. After attaining the rank of pit fiend, he arranged the assassination of a superior officer and assumed the vacant command. His subsequent service under the Dark Eight established his reputation as an exceptional military strategist. One of his most celebrated campaigns involved an elaborate deception against the demonic armies of the Abyss. Bel appeared to betray the Nine Hells and offered his services to the demons, gradually convincing them that his allegiance had changed. Once he had secured their confidence, he led their forces into a carefully prepared infernal ambush. The resulting destruction of the demonic army earned him considerable prestige and demonstrated his mastery of deception as a weapon of war. His success eventually brought him command over the armies of Avernus and established him as one of the most powerful military figures within the Nine Hells. **The Overthrow of Zariel** Older accounts of Bel's ascension describe how he served as the trusted lieutenant of Zariel during her earlier rule over Avernus. According to these traditions, Bel gradually won the confidence of his superior while secretly cultivating support among her infernal court. His reputation as a loyal and effective military commander allowed him to conceal his ambitions until he was prepared to act. Bel eventually turned Zariel's own servants against her, removing her from power through a carefully organised coup. Some accounts maintain that Zariel was imprisoned within the Bronze Citadel and that Bel drew upon her power to strengthen his own authority. These traditions also record that Asmodeus accepted Bel's victory and permitted him to assume rulership of Avernus. The precise circumstances of Zariel's imprisonment and restoration remain uncertain in the surviving accounts. What is firmly established is that Bel once held the position of Archduke of Avernus and that Zariel subsequently regained the throne. **The Pretender of Avernus** Although Bel successfully obtained the title of Lord of the First, his elevation was not universally welcomed among the other archdevils. Many regarded him as an inferior ruler because he had risen from the ordinary ranks of devilkind rather than possessing the ancient authority and prestige associated with the established Lords of the Nine. His enemies consequently referred to him as _the Pretender_, questioning his legitimacy despite his military achievements. Bel nevertheless retained his position through the importance of his command over the Blood War. His continued successes against the demons made him a valuable servant of Asmodeus, even when his fellow archdevils refused to acknowledge him as their equal. **The Return of Zariel** Bel's rule ended when Asmodeus granted authority over Avernus to Zariel, the fallen angel whose hatred of demons made her an exceptionally effective commander in the Blood War. Asmodeus stripped Bel of his title and the supernatural powers associated with his position, replacing him with Zariel as Archduchess of Avernus. Rather than destroying or banishing Bel, Asmodeus appointed him as Zariel's chief lieutenant and advisor. The arrangement preserved Bel's military expertise while forcing him to serve beneath the ruler who had taken his throne. Neither Bel nor Zariel welcomed this relationship. Their mutual hostility became a defining feature of the infernal politics of Avernus, with each seeking to avoid the other's presence whenever possible. Despite his official duties, Bel continued to seek opportunities to undermine Zariel and restore himself to power. **The Forge of Bel** Following his removal from the throne, Bel continued to exercise substantial influence through the operation of his immense infernal forge. The fortress became a centre for the manufacture of weapons and armour used by the infernal legions. Its production remained essential to the continued prosecution of the Blood War, ensuring that Bel retained an important position within the military structure of Avernus. Bel's Forge was also responsible for the construction of the Solar Insidiator, the infernal device later known to the inhabitants of Elturel as the Companion. The device imprisoned a planetar and was secured through a mechanism requiring nine specially fashioned adamantine rods. Bel's knowledge of the device and its construction provided him with opportunities to interfere with Zariel's plans involving Elturel. Within the deepest chambers of his fortress, Bel also began constructing an enormous infernal machine intended to advance his efforts to overthrow Zariel. Suspended above a pool of molten rock, the unfinished machine remained concealed within the foundry while Bel continued his outward service to the Archduchess. --- ### Encounters with Bel Those seeking an audience with Bel are most likely to find him within Bel's Forge, an enormous infernal stronghold where weapons and armour are manufactured for the Blood War. Visitors entering the forge encounter chambers filled with molten lava, towering anvils, and the relentless labour of enslaved fire giants. Bel oversees these operations from a magically animated throne capable of flight, maintaining direct control over the production of infernal armaments. Bel is a patient and calculating negotiator who prefers to understand the objectives of those who approach him before revealing his own intentions. He may offer information or assistance when doing so provides an opportunity to advance his schemes against Zariel. His ability to communicate telepathically allows him to negotiate privately, even while maintaining the appearance of loyalty to his superior. Such methods permit him to cultivate potential allies without openly challenging the authority of the Archduchess. Bel has been known to use adventurers and other outsiders as instruments of his political ambitions. By directing them toward objectives that appear to serve their own interests, he can arrange circumstances that weaken Zariel without exposing himself to accusations of direct rebellion. His knowledge of the Blood War, infernal armaments, and the political affairs of Avernus makes him a valuable source of information. However, his willingness to provide such knowledge depends upon whether the exchange benefits his own designs. Although Bel is capable of overwhelming violence, he generally prefers manipulation and preparation to unnecessary confrontation. Those who threaten him may find themselves opposed by the powerful devils guarding his fortress, the enslaved giants working within his forge, and Bel's own considerable magical abilities. Any agreement with Bel therefore requires careful consideration, for his apparent cooperation may conceal objectives that extend far beyond the immediate bargain. --- ### Conclusion Bel remains one of the most accomplished military commanders in the Nine Hells, having risen from the ranks of devilkind to become Archduke of Avernus before being displaced by Zariel. His exceptional command of the Blood War, mastery of military deception, and ability to manipulate infernal politics have allowed him to retain considerable influence despite the loss of his former title. Through his control of Bel's Forge, Bel continues to supply the infernal armies with weapons and armour while secretly preparing to challenge Zariel's authority. His position as her reluctant lieutenant ensures that their rivalry remains an enduring source of tension within Avernus. Although he no longer rules the first layer of Baator, Bel possesses the knowledge, resources, and ambition necessary to remain a formidable figure in the Nine Hells. His ultimate objective remains the restoration of his former authority, and his continued service to Zariel has done little to diminish his determination to reclaim the throne of Avernus.