Throughout Brutal Races, we’ve repeatedly mentioned the concept of powerful outsider worship. Although we refer to them as powerful outsiders, it’s clear that these beings are usually demons, and occasionally devils. A significantly lesser amount of other evil outsiders are also seen.
One of the primary reasons we focus on this topic is undoubtedly the gnolls. Regardless of the edition, gnolls in D&D are consistently portrayed as demon worshippers. They are often taken a step further, being referred to as demon-spawns (Yeenoghu’s children).
For Brutal Races, our mantra has been consistent: to create meaningful and enjoyable content while staying true to the original idea. That’s why, in the context of gnoll creation myths and deities, we’ve again brought the influence of demonic outsiders to the forefront.
The primary and most well-known outsider is Nahc-i. Although we know that Nahc-i’s theme resembles Yeenoghu, there are some fundamental differences. Physically, Nahc-i is much larger than Yeenoghu and is said to feed on great dragons. Moreover, in practice, although both Nahc-i and Yeenoghu are demon princes, Nahc-i is perceived as a more savage and less intelligent destructive force. Additionally, Nahc-i is not just hungry but also pursues other bodily desires, appearing as a more lustful entity.
Baimrhi, on the other hand, is a despised and disgusting undead. Yet, like the others, it is a demon prince. Besides possibly being the most intelligent among the entities worshipped by gnolls, thematically, Baimrhi resembles a bit of Orcus, ancient vampires, and elder powers like Kyuss. Also, one of the gnoll subraces is the Damneds of Baimrhi, a cursed semi-undead named directly after Baimrhi. Due to its story and theme, Baimrhi has the structure to have worshippers and cults among other Brutal Races.
The most commonly seen demon lord is Tmcaor, a fallen angel and a demon prince associated with various diseases. Once known as the Angel of Correction, his obsession with perfection went too far, leading him to devote himself to correcting corrupt gnolls, and guess what, who becomes more corrupted? The gnolls are far beyond your power of corruption, my friend.
There are other powerful outsiders in Brutal Races. One of them is Rlpea, originally the Possessed Monarch, who later transformed into a kind of evil outsider. A legendary minotaur outsider collects the heads of its enemies and attacks them with a bow.
Cna’dienz is another demon prince encountered among the troglodytes. With a frog-like appearance and strange powers, it’s a relatively new outsider but its influence is among the most prevalent outside Brutal Races.
In our next designer diary, we’ll be writing about some fun inside knowledge related to these “powerful outsiders.” Be prepared for these “disgusting” details that, once seen, you cannot unsee!
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