Old Satan Faction Schism
The civil war that reshaped the Underworld's leadership.
The Old Satan Faction Schism refers to the historical fragmentation of Devil leadership following the defeat of Lucifer during the Great War. This pivotal period saw the unified authority of the original Satans divide into two opposing camps: the conservative Old Satan Faction and the reformist faction, which eventually led to the rise of the current ruling Satans. The four great noble families—Bael, Gremory, Sitri, and Agares (or Glasya-Labolas)—already existed before this schism and were not established by it.
- Key Figures
- Old Satan Faction vs. Reformist Faction
- Outcome
- Reformist victory and rise of the current Four Great Satans
Lore & Background
This schism was a civil war between the Old Satan Faction, who sought to preserve the original tyrannical rule of the Satans, and the reformist faction, which aimed to modernize Devil society. The four great noble families—Bael, Gremory, Sitri, and Agares (or Glasya-Labolas)—had already existed for generations before the conflict. The reformist victory did not create the Four Families System; instead, it led to the establishment of the current Four Great Satans as the ruling authority. The balance of power that emerged helped shape modern Devil society, though it did not directly lead to the creation of Rating Games, which were established later by Sirzechs Lucifer and Ajuka Beelzebub.
In Their Own Story
The obsidian hall was silent save for the crackle of crimson flames. Four figures stood around the table, their shadows stretching long against the ancient stone walls. They had inherited a war they could not win and a peace they did not want. 'We cannot follow him anymore,' one voice rasped, echoing off the vaulted ceiling. The others nodded slowly, sealing a pact that would birth a new age of Devils, bound by rules rather than conquest.
Reader's Guide
This historical event is crucial for understanding modern Devil politics in the series. It explains why there are four main families controlling the Underworld instead of one ruler. The schism was driven by the need to prevent another Great War while maintaining power over humans and other supernatural races. This led to the creation of the Rating Game system as a substitute for direct conflict between nobles. Students of DxD lore should note that this division created the tension seen in later storylines, where some characters seek to revert to older, more aggressive methods of rule.
Did You Know?
- The current Four Great Satans are not the same as the original Satans; they are reformist leaders who emerged victorious from the schism.
- The four great noble families (Bael, Gremory, Sitri, and Agares/Glasya-Labolas) existed long before the Old Satan Faction Schism.
- The schism was a conflict between the Old Satan Faction and the reformist faction, not between the four great families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Old Satan Faction Schism?
This term describes the historical fragmentation of Devil leadership following Lucifer's defeat in the Great War. It marks the transition from unified rule to a system governed by multiple noble houses.
When did this event occur in Underworld history?
The schism took place immediately after the conclusion of the Great War, approximately one hundred years before the main storyline. This period solidified the political boundaries that define modern Devil society.
Which families emerged from this division of power?
Authority was distributed among four major lineages known as the Four Great Satan Families. These clans include the Gremory, Sitri, Phenex, and Bael houses that currently lead the Underworld.
What impact did this have on Lucifer's original authority?
The unified power held by Lucifer was permanently dissolved after his fall during the war. Consequently, no single Devil can claim absolute rule over the entire faction without consensus from these families.
Why do fans study this specific historical period?
It provides essential context for understanding current power struggles and family rivalries within the series. Knowing this history clarifies why certain characters hold significant influence over the Devil race today.
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