IN> [Asmodeus Month] Investigating The War

[James Walker]

Senior Warriors welcome the presence of Gamesters,
finding them a useful tool when beating selfish
anarchic demons into a disciplined fighting machine. 

In turn, the discipline of the war simplifies The
Game's tasks. The Captain of the Infernal Armies
Distinction grants knowledge of the position of all of
the demon's subordinates, immediately identifying any
Word dissonance they acquire (as they have moved away
from the enemy) or the decision to turn Renegade (as
they disappear off the mental map).

Although the Asmodean's task is easier, the danger is
greater. Hounds are expected to follow Baalite units
into action, ready to deal with deserters, and to
drive unwilling combatants into the thick of things –
into the teeth of Malakite units if need be. A
Gamester is more likely to be fragged than a Baalite
officer, as he will be perceived as an easier target.
And angels despise the Hounds for killing potential
Redemption candidates, so generally regard them as
more evil than the comparatively honorable Warriors.
Besides, if the Asmodean is killed, faltering
Hellsworn etc will likely flee, tipping the battle in
Heaven's favour. Michael's Elohim are famous for this
tactic, their Choir attunement always telling them
whether it will work.
Despite these dangers, the Gamester will need to leave
the cover of the demonic unit whenever pursuing a
deserter, making them an easy target – and a hopeful
Redemption candidate may deliberately lead the Hound
into an angelic ambush!

Gamesters may find themselves in the strange position
of acting as diplomats between The War and other Words
– Factions, Fate and Nightmares can all contribute to
victory, so long as the blunt Warriors don't start a
fight with their own side. Fate is the major supplier
of Hellsworn, Nightmares can supply cannon fodder
Ethereals, and Factions can shatter enemy alliances.
Additionally, Hounds should round up other demons,
either as cannon fodder or to help drive mortals into
battle; and force noncombatant demons to recruit
mortals to fight in their place. Lusties are
particularly good at persuading mortals that they
'look great in uniform!'

Fortunately, Baal values effective Gamesters, so some
nice rewards can be earned while investigating The
War. An Asmodean who loses a Vessel while effectively
enforcing discipline can expect to have it replaced by
a far tougher Vessel, while the Weak Link attunement
is always incredibly useful for Gamesters. Brilliant
work may even earn a Distinction. Besides, a Hound who
has a reputation for enforcing discipline in the
infernal armies can expect a fit of politeness from
normally argumentative demons – clearly, the Asmodean
is not one to be crossed.

Hope people have enjoyed the series!  My thanks to the
everybody  who contributed to and/or commented on
Asmodeus Month.


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