Author Q&A: A Conversation With The Devil You Know

Two weeks ago, we were lucky to have the opportunity to speak with Zevlor, Tiefling leader and author of “The Devil You Know: An Autobiography” to discuss his book in more detail. Below is a transcript of the interview conducted by Eleanor Hayes, a journalist from Baldur’s Mouth.

Eleanor Hayes: Good day, Zevlor. It is an honor to have the opportunity to speak with you about your autobiography, “The Devil You Know.” Could you start by telling us what inspired you to share your experiences in such a detailed manner?

Zevlor: Greetings Eleanor, thank you for having me. Writing “The Devil You Know” was a decision born of a desire to shed light on the horrors of the Blood War and the aftermath of Elturel’s fall. The world must know what transpired and how we persevered against unimaginable odds, it was not my people’s desire to fight in the war, we did what we must to survive. It is my hope that this account will serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of the people of Elturel, and hopefully ease the tensions between my people and the rest of the world.

Eleanor Hayes: The Blood War is a conflict shrouded in mystery and dread. Can you share a particularly harrowing moment from your time on the front lines?

Zevlor: There were many, but one that stands out is the Battle of the Stygian Plains. Demonic hordes pressed in from all sides, and the fridged air icing our armor and biting at our flesh. We fought relentlessly, our faith and determination constantly being put to the test. It was a crucible that tested not only our mettle but also our very souls. That day, I saw thousands of comrades and civilians fall, their deaths fueling our resolve to push back the infernal tide.

Eleanor Hayes: Your account speaks of great sacrifice and camaraderie. Can you share a moment of triumph or unity amidst the darkness?

Zevlor: Indeed, there was a pivotal moment. It was the day Elturel was returned to its rightful place in the heartlands of Faerûn. On that day, when the fighting was done and our home returned, we all wept with equal parts relief and sorrow for what we had lost and what was now returned. Though we did not get to revel in our triumph for long, as my people and I were all exiled shortly after Elturel was returned. But in our exile, we became closer as a people, the horrors we faced brought us together in a way we had never expected.

Eleanor Hayes: Your experience fighting in Avernus is one of great transformation. How did this experience shape you as a leader and as a person?

Zevlor: The battles were indeed arduous, both physically and spiritually. I lost faith in my oath, the war was never ending, and the horrors I witnessed as a Hellrider are ones that haunt me every time I close my eyes. Yet I persevered, even with my oath broken, I continued to fight. For it was not my oath that protected my people, it was my desire to see them live that gave me the strength I needed to defend them. By breaking my Hellrider oath, in that moment, I was able to find a strength within myself outside of my oath that made me realize what I was fighting for.

Eleanor Hayes: “The Devil You Know” paints a vivid picture of the challenges you faced. What message do you hope readers will take away from your story?

Zevlor: I hope that readers will find inspiration in the resilience of the Tiefling spirit, even in the face of unspeakable darkness. We are a people that will do what we must to survive. It is a reminder that, no matter how dire the circumstances, we have the capacity to overcome and emerge stronger than before. And above all, that even in the darkest hour, hope is a flame that can never be extinguished.

Eleanor Hayes: Thank you, Zevlor, for sharing these profound insights. “The Devil You Know” is sure to leave a lasting impact on its readers, shedding light on the horrors of the blood wars and the resolve of the Tiefling people.

Zevlor: Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. May it serve as a beacon of hope for all who face adversity, to know that even in the darkest of times, it is the bonds we forge that give us our strength to persevere.

“The Devil you know: An Autobiography” is available now at Baldur’s Gate Books, come in and get your copy today!