![[Bel.png|500]] **Also Known as:** The Lord of the First, Former Archduke of Avernus **Alignment**: Lawful Evil **Avernus is the 1st layer** --- ### Overview Bel is an archdevil of the Nine Hells and the former Archduke of Avernus, the first layer of Baator. He rose from the ranks of pit fiends through repeated success in the Blood War, gaining favour through careful tactics, misdirection, and proven military competence rather than political manipulation. His tenure as ruler of Avernus was long and defined by a focus on the defence of the Hells against the Abyss. Bel was later supplanted as ruler of Avernus by Zariel. He was not destroyed or exiled and continues to reside in Avernus as a powerful and influential infernal figure. --- ### Domain and Influence Bel’s influence is centred on Avernus and the Blood War. He operates **Bel’s Forge**, a massive forge complex in Avernus worked by enslaved smiths and devils. From this location, weapons and infernal war machines are produced for use in the Blood War. Bel’s continued presence in Avernus is tied directly to the importance of this forge and its production. --- ### Symbols and Icons Bel has no recognised holy symbol. Imagery associated with him centres on infernal industry, forged weapons, chains, anvils, and the visual language of war production rather than religious iconography. --- ### Worship and Tributes Bel is not worshipped as a deity and grants no divine magic. Any interaction mortals have with Bel comes through infernal bargains connected to warfare, weapons, or usefulness to his interests. --- ### Clergy and Cults Bel maintains no clergy. His hierarchy is composed of devils, overseers, and enslaved labourers organised around the operation of Bel’s Forge and the production of infernal armaments. --- ### Powers and Abilities Bel possesses the power of a pit fiend elevated to archdevil status. He is known for careful tactics, misdirection, and command rather than reckless aggression. His strength is expressed through planning, preparation, and control of resources rather than open displays of force. --- ### Treatment of the Faithful Bel offers no blessings. Those who deal with him receive what they bargain for—typically weapons, equipment, or advantage—in exchange for service or souls. --- ### Myths and Legends Among devils, Bel is remembered for his competence as ruler of Avernus and his skill in prosecuting the Blood War. His continued presence in the layer, despite no longer ruling it, is a matter of constant infernal tension. --- ### Encounters with Bel Bel is encountered most often at **Bel’s Forge**, where he oversees the production of infernal weapons and the construction of a massive, unfinished war machine intended for use against Zariel. This ongoing effort has been described as a cold war between the two archdevils, with Bel using industry and preparation rather than open rebellion. Those who meet Bel find a calculating and patient figure who evaluates others as potential tools, threats, or assets within his long-term designs. --- ### Conclusion Bel embodies infernal discipline, preparation, and strategic patience. Though no longer Archduke of Avernus, he remains one of the most significant powers in the first layer of the Nine Hells through his control of Bel’s Forge and his quiet opposition to Zariel’s rule.