@Demon are a broad classification used by mortal scholars to describe any sentient or non-sentient entity whose origin lies within the realm of an Evil Deity. The term refers to a creature's plane of origin, not its appearance, intelligence, personality, or exact role. As a result, demons are extraordinarily diverse and cannot be identified by a single physical or behavioral trait.
Demons may appear fully humanoid, partially bestial, draconic, insectoid, monstrous, or entirely abstract. Some possess recognizable anatomy while others resemble living fire, shifting shadows, animated bone, storms, swarms, or other supernatural manifestations. Their forms are determined by the nature of the deity and realm from which they originate rather than by any universal demonic body plan.
Intelligence among demons varies greatly. Some possess brilliant strategic minds, capable of ruling kingdoms, negotiating pacts, or mastering magic. Others are little more than instinct-driven predators or living weapons that exist only to hunt, consume, or destroy. Likewise, demons differ greatly in temperament. Some are capable of loyalty, affection, honor, curiosity, or restraint, while others are utterly indifferent to suffering and slaughter indiscriminately.
A demon's goals are not necessarily identical to those of its creator. Many demons serve their patron deity with absolute devotion, acting as generals, priests, emissaries, or executioners. Others pursue their own ambitions, forming alliances, rivalries, or personal agendas that may conflict with their creator's desires. While they originate from an Evil Deity's realm, demons remain individuals unless explicitly created to function as mindless extensions of divine will.
For scholars and adventurers, the word demon should therefore be understood as a cosmological classification rather than a description of appearance, morality, or behavior. It identifies where a being comes from, not necessarily how it thinks or acts.