Is Archaon the Son of Be’lakor?
The short, definitive answer is no, Archaon is not the son of Be’lakor. While both are pivotal figures in the Warhammer universe, deeply connected to the forces of Chaos, their relationship is one of power dynamics, manipulation, and shared allegiance to the Ruinous Powers, not one of parent and child. Be’lakor, as the first mortal to become a Daemon Prince, holds a position of ancient authority and subtle influence. Archaon, the Everchosen, is the mortal champion destined to usher in the end times. Their roles are intertwined, but not through blood.
The Origins of Archaon
Mortal Beginnings
Archaon’s origins are shrouded in myth and rumor, as is typical of many figures touched by Chaos. He was born as Diederick Kastner in 2391 IC. His birth was a tragedy, costing his mother, Viktoria, her life. His father, Roald, could not bear to look at him. Abandoned, the infant Diederick was eventually left at a Church of Sigmar. This background is starkly different from that of a daemon prince’s offspring and firmly establishes his mortal roots.
Rise to Power
From these humble beginnings, Diederick Kastner embarked on a path of martial prowess and religious devotion. However, this devotion was twisted by the insidious whispers of Chaos. He came to view the gods he served as false and began a quest to gather powerful artifacts. His accumulation of these items and the power they granted, coupled with his ruthlessness, led to him being recognized as the Everchosen of Chaos. This transformation from mortal man to the embodiment of the end times highlights his chosen destiny, not a genetic one.
The Nature of Be’lakor
The First Daemon Prince
Be’lakor, often referred to as the “Dark Master” or “Father-in-Shadows,” is an entirely different kind of being. He was the first mortal to ascend to Daemon Princehood, elevated by the collective power of all four Chaos Gods. This makes him a being of immense power and age, far older than any mortal, and certainly much older than Archaon, who was born millennia later. Be’lakor is a creature of pure Chaos, a manifestation of its will, while Archaon is a mortal made powerful by it.
Be’lakor’s Role in Archaon’s Ascension
While not his father, Be’lakor plays a key role in the ascension of Archaon. In the events leading up to the End Times, Be’lakor holds the Crown of Domination. It was Be’lakor, under duress, who bestowed this crown on Archaon, officially recognizing him as the Everchosen. This act was not one of familial affection but an act of forced submission and a fulfillment of a prophecy, highlighting the manipulative and indirect way Be’lakor interacts with mortal champions. He views Archaon as an agent of chaos, a pawn in a grand scheme.
The Relationship Between Archaon and Be’lakor
Power Dynamics
The dynamic between Archaon and Be’lakor is one of power and manipulation. Be’lakor, the ancient daemon prince, possesses knowledge and influence that extend far beyond any mortal’s understanding. He sees Archaon as a tool to further the aims of Chaos. Conversely, Archaon, as the Everchosen, has a unique authority over the forces of Chaos, a position even Be’lakor must acknowledge. Their relationship is not built upon kinship, but on the complex power structure of the Chaos pantheon.
Shared Allegiance, Different Roles
Both are agents of Chaos, dedicated to bringing about the end of the world. Be’lakor’s goals, driven by his ancient ambition to rule, often align with Archaon’s purpose, but their motivations are different. Be’lakor is seeking ultimate dominion for himself, while Archaon is fulfilling a grim destiny as the harbinger of destruction. They are united in their goal but are not connected through a familial bond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions regarding Archaon and Be’lakor, designed to further clarify their relationship and individual natures:
1. What kind of villain is Be’lakor?
Be’lakor is a major demonic villain in the Warhammer franchise, known as the “Father-in-Shadows” and the first mortal to become a Daemon Prince. He’s a master manipulator and seeks to dominate all, serving his own agenda under the guise of Chaos.
2. Is Be’lakor stronger than Archaon?
In terms of raw power, Be’lakor likely holds an advantage. He can fly, enhance demon units, utilize unholy manifestations, and engage in rift travel. However, Archaon wields immense martial skill, command, and magical ability, making their confrontations complex.
3. What is Archaon’s real name?
Archaon was born as Diederick Kastner.
4. Is Archaon a Daemon?
No, Archaon is not a daemon nor a Daemon Prince. He is a mortal who has dedicated himself to Chaos, positioning himself between the Chaos Gods.
5. Why is Archaon the Everchosen?
Archaon earned the title “Everchosen” by collecting powerful artifacts in the name of Chaos, proving his worth as their champion destined to bring about the End Times.
6. How powerful is Archaon?
Archaon is exceptionally powerful, a master warrior and dark magic user. He has slain gods, defeated undead hordes, and ultimately unmade the world.
7. What happens to Archaon in the End Times?
Archaon succeeds in bringing about the end of the world. He is later revived by the Chaos Gods to be their champion in the new world created by Sigmar.
8. How tall is Archaon?
Archaon’s model is notably large, standing over 30cm tall.
9. Does Archaon have three eyes?
Yes, Archaon is known as the “Three-Eyed King,” due to his possession of the Eye of Sheerian until it was removed by Grimgor.
10. What spells does Archaon know?
Archaon knows Arcane Bolt and Mystic Shield, as well as any spells learned by Dorghar’s Tzeentchian head.
11. Was Be’lakor an elf?
No, Be’lakor was a mortal man who was turned into a Daemon Prince, predating the rise of the Elves.
12. Who is the strongest lord in Warhammer?
While opinions vary, Be’lakor, Imrik, Skarbrand, and Archaon are often considered amongst the strongest.
13. Did Be’lakor crown Archaon?
Yes, Be’lakor, under duress, crowned Archaon with the Crown of Domination, officially recognizing him as the Everchosen.
14. What is the name of Archaon’s horse?
Archaon’s steed is named Dorghar, a powerful daemon that can shapeshift.
15. Is Sigmar a Chaos God?
Sigmar, and other gods within the Warhammer universe, can be seen as entities of the Warp, but are distinct from the primary four Chaos Gods. The nature of gods in Warhammer is complex and not as easily defined as in other settings.
In conclusion, while both Archaon and Be’lakor are central figures within the Warhammer lore, their relationship is not that of father and son. It is one forged in the fires of Chaos, a complex dynamic of power, manipulation, and shared goals. Archaon’s origins lie in his mortal life and destiny, whereas Be’lakor is a being of pure Chaos, the first of his kind. Understanding their individual histories clarifies their relationship and their distinct roles within the grand tapestry of the Warhammer universe.