Emperor's Demons

The Emperor's Demons (帝ノ鬼) in Seraph of the End were the predecessors of the Order of the Imperial Demons. They are mentioned, and appear visually through historical recollections.

History
Sometime in the past in Kyoto, Japan, this human organization was founded by Shikama Doji. They were ostensibly a religious sect, but conducted experiments on turning vampires into demons. This organization would also be in the same time period as the Hyakuya Sect which was founded in opposition to them.

Duty
Although not confirmed, it seemed figures were attached to poles held up by ropes. These were surrounded by large circles. Based on what they were said to be doing, through their own means or not, they may have had the capability of restraining vampires which are physically superior to humans and much faster. In the process of turning them into demons, blood loss and apparent death were involved. A degree of patience seemed a duty. A sword may have been part of the process, as well as analysing results.

Uniform
Whether it was their usual attire, or a uniform they took up when undertaking their activities, all members wore a virtually identical style of clothing. Members seen were wearing the same light colored, plain robe that reached towards their shins. It was a long-sleeved garment, which could allow their hands to be covered if desired. They all had same colored belts around their waists, yet some shoes may have been darker than others. While not all members wore one, members had tall dark hats, with light patterns in areas such as one the front and at the top.

Events of 2020
The Emperor's Demons are referred to in a conversation between Shinoa and Guren. Where seven coffins had been prepared, it is gathered that the Emperor's Demons Cult planned to carry out a resurrection spell, one which successfully restored Guren's friends, but also brought about the divine punishment that ruined the world and resulted in a colossal loss of life. It is mentioned that the Emperor's Demons Cult were the predecessors to the Japanese Imperial Demon Army, which itself developed from the Order of the Imperial Demons before them.

The organization that Shikama Doji created is mentioned by Saito, who has just used spell tags to nullify the inimical effects from the First's telepathy. The Emperor's Demons spellcraft is detailed, with light spells, demon curses, then blood magic, and control of the divine punishment in order to weaponize the seraph of the end listed.