Is Illidan Dead in Legion? The Demon Within Returns
The answer is complex. While Illidan Stormrage appears to die at the end of the Burning Crusade expansion, he is very much alive and instrumental in the events of Legion. His story is a rollercoaster of death, rebirth, and ultimately, apotheosis. Instead of a traditional death, Illidan transcends his mortal form and assumes a role of cosmic importance. He isn’t dead in the traditional sense. He is transformed!
The Resurrection of the Betrayer
Illidan’s “death” at the Black Temple was a pivotal moment in World of Warcraft lore, but as any seasoned player knows, death is rarely permanent. Demons, in particular, have a unique relationship with mortality. The text states, “Illidan is dead, but he has an immortal demon soul. He cannot truly die, but instead his soul makes its way to the Twisting Nether and waits for a suitable host to inhabit.” This is crucial understanding Illidan’s story. The burning question is: how did he return?
The answer lies with the Naaru, beings of pure Light. They recognized Illidan’s true potential. They see him as a champion against the Burning Legion. The Naaru sought to resurrect him as the chosen champion. A questline reveals this. Players experience events from Illidan’s past, including his fateful demise at the Black Temple.
Legion’s Story: Illidan’s Ascendance
The Legion expansion centers on the return of the Burning Legion. This happens after the alternate universe Gul’dan discovers Illidan’s physical body. He is encased in a crystalline prison within the Vault of the Wardens. Gul’dan releases Illidan’s soul. In the lore, we find that Maiev Shadowsong was unable to permanently eliminate his spirit. Now he could threaten Azeroth again.
Illidan’s role isn’t simply as a resurrected hero. He’s been through tremendous pain and suffering. Now he sees the bigger picture. He is not fighting for Tyrande, nor just Azeroth. He is fighting for the survival of all life against the Void. As the expansion progresses, Illidan undergoes a significant transformation. The player aids in his ascension. He accepts his destiny.
The Seat of the Pantheon and Illidan’s Ultimate Fate
The climax of Legion sees the heroes of Azeroth confront Sargeras, the fallen Titan and leader of the Burning Legion. Sargeras is on the verge of destroying Azeroth. In a pivotal moment, Illidan sacrifices himself to imprison Sargeras within the Seat of the Pantheon. This is a prison for Titans. Illidan becomes Sargeras’ eternal jailer. This act solidifies his role as a cosmic guardian.
Illidan isn’t simply dead or alive. He is something more. He is a being of immense power and responsibility. He is forever bound to the cosmic struggle. His spirit remains intact. He watches over Azeroth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Illidan and Legion
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further illuminate the complexities of Illidan’s story in the Legion expansion:
1. How was Illidan imprisoned for 10,000 years?
Illidan was imprisoned after creating a new Well of Eternity and attacking his kin. This happened after the War of the Ancients. Maiev Shadowsong led the Night Elf Wardens in imprisoning him.
2. Whose skull is Illidan holding?
Illidan holds the skull of Gul’dan. Illidan consumed this skull to gain power. He also gained knowledge, particularly regarding the location of the Tomb of Sargeras.
3. Was Illidan good or bad?
Illidan’s morality is complex and highly debated. He makes questionable decisions in his fight against the Burning Legion. His actions and motivations often blur the line between good and evil. He believes the ends justify the means. The narrative shows his character as a tragic hero, fighting for Azeroth’s survival at any cost.
4. Who killed Illidan in The Burning Crusade?
Maiev Shadowsong, along with Akama and a group of adventurers, defeated Illidan in the Black Temple. This was the end of The Burning Crusade expansion.
5. Is Illidan dead or alive after The Burning Crusade?
Although his body died, Illidan’s demon soul couldn’t be permanently destroyed. His soul would normally return to the Twisting Nether, but Maiev trapped it. This leads to his eventual resurrection.
6. Was Illidan killed in Black Temple?
Yes, Illidan was defeated and seemingly killed in the Black Temple raid at the end of The Burning Crusade. This was a major event in World of Warcraft lore.
7. Who is stronger than Illidan?
Before Arthas became one with Ner’zhul, their power was relatively equal. After merging, and throughout the expansions, Arthas greatly surpasses Illidan in terms of overall power. Other powerful figures such as Sargeras remain well beyond Illidan’s capability to beat.
8. How did Illidan lose his eyes?
Illidan lost his eyes when Sargeras burned them out. This granted him spectral sight. Illidan could then perceive demons more easily.
9. Is Illidan The Chosen One?
The Naaru wanted Illidan to become their Chosen One, a champion of the Light. Illidan rejected this path. He asserted that his scars and experiences defined him.
10. Did Malfurion forgive Illidan?
Malfurion struggles to forgive Illidan. Their relationship is complicated by Illidan’s actions. He created a new Well of Eternity. He also attempted to usurp Malfurion’s relationship with Tyrande.
11. How did Illidan survive Frostmourne?
Illidan survived because, as a demon, his soul would normally return to the Twisting Nether upon death. Whether or not Frostmourne could steal the soul of a demon is still unclear.
12. Why did Furion banish Illidan?
Furion banished Illidan after Illidan consumed the skull of Gul’dan. He also became a demon. He did this so that he could kill the demon lord Tichondrius. This led to Illidan’s exile and further descent into darkness.
13. Why did Illidan go bad?
Driven by ambition and the desire for Tyrande’s affection, Illidan made a pact with the Legion. This led to him becoming known as the “Betrayer”.
14. When did Illidan lose his eyes?
Illidan lost his eyes after making a pact with Sargeras. This was before consuming the skull of Gul’dan. It was then that he gained his demonic form.
15. Does Illidan have a tail?
Yes, Illidan has a tail. His physical appearance includes horns and a tail. He also sports many muscular features and green tattoos on his chest.
The Legacy of Illidan Stormrage
Illidan’s story is a compelling narrative of sacrifice, redemption, and the constant struggle against overwhelming darkness. While he may have been viewed as a villain at times, his actions ultimately served a greater purpose: the protection of Azeroth and the imprisonment of Sargeras. His transformation into a cosmic jailer solidifies his legacy as one of the most significant figures in World of Warcraft lore. The complex character arc that Illidan has makes him an interesting case study for understanding narrative and player choices in video games. For more information on the educational applications of gaming, consider exploring resources from the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. GamesLearningSociety.org is an example of how to utilize video games for better educational outcomes.