What Demons Serve Demogorgon? Unveiling the Prince of Demons’ Servitors
The question of which demons serve Demogorgon, the self-proclaimed Prince of Demons, reveals a complex hierarchy within the abyssal realms of Dungeons & Dragons lore. Unlike many other demon lords who command specific legions of their own infernal kin, Demogorgon’s power and influence attract a more diverse following. Directly, Demogorgon does not command a traditional legion of demons. Instead, his service is a mix of specific, often non-demonic, creatures and cults, alongside individuals drawn by his overwhelming might and chaotic nature. His influence is felt not just through direct demonic servants but also through a broader sphere of worshipers who, in turn, may summon and command lesser demons.
The Diverse Servants of the Prince of Demons
While not a legion of named demons bound directly to his will in the same way as other demon lords, Demogorgon’s influence attracts a variety of creatures and beings who serve his chaotic nature. These include:
- Ixitxachitl: Perhaps the most numerous and dedicated followers of Demogorgon, these intelligent, aquatic ray-like beings dwell in the abyssal depths. Their society revolves around the worship of the Prince of Demons. They serve as both warriors and priests, expanding his influence to the underwater realms. Their dedication highlights the vast scope of Demogorgon’s influence.
- Troglodytes: These subterranean humanoids are among the more common terrestrial worshipers of Demogorgon. They are drawn to his raw power and the chaos he represents, often forming savage cults within the depths of caves and underdark regions. These creatures’ primitive nature makes them particularly susceptible to the Prince of Demons’ corrupting influence.
- Kuo-toa: Another aquatic race, these fish-like humanoids are also known to venerate Demogorgon. While their faith is often more chaotic and prone to shifting loyalties, their reverence is a testament to Demogorgon’s insidious influence on aquatic societies. Unlike the more direct worship of the Ixitxachitl, the Kuo-toa approach is often driven by fear and superstition.
- Evil Human Cultists: Demogorgon’s appeal extends to humanoids, especially those with a predisposition for evil. These cults often operate in secrecy, carrying out dark rituals and acts of destruction in the Prince of Demon’s name. These human cultists are often the primary means through which Demogorgon’s will is made manifest in the world. They are fanatical in their belief and often willing to commit any act in his name.
- Chaotic Individuals: Beyond organized cults, Demogorgon attracts those driven by chaos and destruction. Many creatures and individuals may serve him indirectly through their own chaotic impulses. Their actions contribute to the spread of Demogorgon’s influence. They may range from lone berserkers to groups of bandits and marauders.
Not Direct Demon Servants
It is crucial to note that while many beings serve Demogorgon, his control and influence differs from other demon lords. Demogorgon isn’t often depicted leading vast armies of specifically named demonic entities the way other lords would. Instead, his influence works through worship, fear, and the innate chaos he embodies. The entities that serve him are often chosen based on their ability to spread his chaos and influence, or their worship.
The Abandoned Krakens
Notably, the Krakens were once followers of Demogorgon but were eventually abandoned due to their own schemes. Their Machiavellian nature, more focused on personal power than the sheer chaotic destruction Demogorgon embodies, led to their dismissal. This highlights the specific type of chaotic devotion Demogorgon seeks. His followers are meant to embody chaotic destruction, rather than personal gain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Demogorgon’s Servitors
To further explore the nuances of Demogorgon’s followers, here are some commonly asked questions:
1. Is Demogorgon a Demon or a God?
Demogorgon is a demon prince, not a god. He is referred to as the Prince of Demons, a title acknowledged due to his immense power and influence. However, he is not a deity in the traditional sense, although some cultures might worship him as such.
2. Who was the Prince of Demons before Demogorgon?
Before Demogorgon, the title of Prince of Demons was held by Obox-ob, an obyrith demon lord of poisons and verminous creatures. Obox-ob was a being from a forgotten era predating the tanar’ri demons.
3. How did Demogorgon become a Demon Lord?
Demogorgon is one of the two first demon lords to appear in the earliest editions of D&D alongside Orcus. Their debut in Eldritch Wizardry established them as formidable foes and cemented their status. The lore evolved over time to solidify him as one of the most powerful demonic figures.
4. Are Mind Flayers related to Demogorgon?
Mind Flayers are not directly related to Demogorgon in D&D lore. The Mind Flayer featured in Stranger Things, often referred to as a Shadow Monster, is separate from the Demogorgon presented in the same show.
5. What does Demogorgon’s cult look like?
Temples dedicated to Demogorgon are often split in half, with one side representing Aameul and the other Hethradiah, his two heads. His cults are typically chaotic, destructive, and thrive in times of disorder.
6. Is Demogorgon the strongest demon?
In original 1st edition D&D, Demogorgon was considered the most powerful demon lord. Though other powerful demonic entities exist, he remains a contender for the top spot due to his raw power and influence. In some portrayals, Asmodeus who is the most powerful Archdevil, has surpassed him.
7. What are Demogorgon’s weaknesses?
Demogorgon is particularly susceptible to fire. This is a common weakness in the D&D version of the monster, while, notably, the creature in Stranger Things seems resistant to fire and bullets, and can even heal itself.
8. What is Demogorgon’s holy symbol?
The holy symbol of Demogorgon is a forked tail or tentacles, often depicted wrapped around a skull or sword. This symbol embodies his dual nature and chaotic influence.
9. Does Demogorgon have children or offspring?
Demogorgons can lay eggs and reproduce, suggesting a population greater than initially presented. This highlights the potential threat of a widespread Demogorgon presence.
10. How can a Demogorgon be killed?
In D&D lore, a Demogorgon is an extremely challenging opponent. In the Stranger Things show, the creature can be defeated through powerful psychic abilities. Specifically, Eleven was able to disintegrate a Demogorgon with her powers.
11. How did the Demogorgon get its name?
The name “Demogorgon” originated from a medieval scribal error based on the Greek word “demiurge”. This linguistic quirk made its way into literature and ultimately to the creation of the D&D monster.
12. Does the Demogorgon have telekinetic powers?
The Demogorgon in the Stranger Things show has displayed some form of telekinetic power, while not necessarily a characteristic of Demogorgon in D&D.
13. What do Demogorgons eat?
Demogorgons are omnivores but show a clear preference for fresh meat. They will eat local plant life but are especially attracted to living humanoid beings.
14. What is the connection between Demogorgon and The Upside Down in Stranger Things?
In Stranger Things, the Demogorgon is a creature native to the Upside Down. The Upside Down was likely locked in time the moment that the Demogorgon emerged. The connection is that the dimension bled together that day and created the Upside Down.
15. Can a Predator defeat a Demogorgon?
It’s debatable. A predator is a skilled hunter, but the Demogorgon’s raw power and fire weakness make it a complicated fight. While the Predator has superior weapons and hunting skills, the Demogorgon has size, speed, and durability on its side. The outcome is not guaranteed.
In conclusion, Demogorgon’s service is less about legions of bound demons and more about a broader cult of chaotic individuals and monstrous creatures drawn to his immense power and destructive influence. This approach makes Demogorgon a truly terrifying force, whose influence is felt across diverse realms and reflected in a diverse array of followers.