No one knows for sure how this dreadful device was created or by whom. Some sages believe that it was crafted by one of the more powerful demon prices, most likely Dheragos. Other wise folk argue that the ring was most likely crafted by mortal hands to be used as a fiercesome weapon in battle against the powers of good. Whatever the origin, the ring is powerful in any case and most certainly evil.

Despite its nature, the ring is beautifully made, crafted of an unusual gold alloy and engraved with ancient runes and markings of lost or forgotten origin. The ring is embedded with a rose-cut bloodstone of the finest clarity. The ring will radiate strong evil as well as abjuration magic, of all things.

It is believed that the artifact will grant its wearer certain infernal powers similar to demonic abilities. Slipping the Demon Ring onto one's finger will grant the following abilities:

• cold, fire and electricity resistance 20
• immunity to all poisons
• immunity to electricity
• darkvision 60 ft.
• Demonic Knowledge: A wearer of this artifact gains hidden insights into the planar underworld. Wearer gains a +20 competence bonus on all Knowledge (the planes) checks.
• Spell-like Abilities (Su): dismissal once/day and summon monster III once/day (CE monsters only). The DC for the dismissal effect is equal to 25 - Character's HD and the save DC is Wisdom based. Creatures summoned by the summon monster spell will remain for 20 rounds or until dispelled and obey only the wearer of the artifact

As with most powerful artifacts of the ancient world, the Demon Ring also possesses a side effect. Once willingly placed upon the finger, the ring may only be removed if a Cleric of at least 16th level casts both a bless and a remove curse spell. If the ring is not immediately removed, the wearer will begin a slow transformation into a demonic-like creature. Within one month's time, the wearer will have grown horns and a tail. After 60 days, the wearer's alignment is changed to Chaotic evil. If the ring is successfully removed at this point, the wearer must undergo an atonement spell also cast by a cleric of at least 16th level. The physical transformation may only be undone through the affects of a wish or miracle.

After wearing the ring for 90 days, the wearer's type changes to "Outsider" with all the benefits and drawbacks of such a transformation. This change is permanent unless the wearer receives the intervention of a god-like being of at least Divine Rank 1 or greater.

Suggested Means of Destruction: Toss the ring into the fiery pits on the lowest layer of Infernia. Annoit the ring with holy oil and bury it with the remains of a righteous mortal.