Light's Dawn of Azeroth

Chapter 356, Section 46: Illidan's Proverb: If it has to die, why not do something fancy?
Master Arandion walked through his companions' makeshift camp, carrying his weapons, and some of the new Demon Hunter recruits would rise to pay their respects to him.

Not only because last night, Arandine led her pack in a brilliant raid, killing several despicable Man'ari warlocks who were poisoning the rivers in Felwood, but also because Arandine's experiences in Draenor are well-known to the warriors; she participated in and saved a world threatened by demons.

Even for the Illidari who walk the path of darkness, this is a rare honor.

Not to mention the legendary moonblade weapon in Arandian's hands, a demon hunter's blade forged from the claws of a great demon and celestial gold, which Arandian named "Wolf's Kiss." Due to its excellent materials, unique shape, and exaggerated lethality, this weapon has become a new legend among the Illidari hunters.

Just like its owner.

But Arantien didn't feel particularly honored.

On the contrary, witnessing how the demon slayers under Diakum's command fought only strengthened her resolve to continue honing her skills.

She knew very well that she had to work even harder to be worthy of competing with those fanatical warriors on the battlefield.

Arandian strode toward the area where Illidan Stormrage was resting. The Illidari all knew that their leader preferred to be alone when not fighting. The Starhunter thought he was keeping it a secret, but in reality, everyone knew that he liked to hide away and "admire" the little white flower that was always with him.

The various jokes about "Illidan x Tyrande" are the most discussed topics among the Illidari during their breaks from battle.

Demon hunters are human too. Although they all have their own hardships and grudges, even the most miserable life needs a little humor and joy. Of course, no one dares to bring this up in front of a demon hunter. Do they really think the Warblade of Azzinoth only kills demons?

"Starhunter, a new message has arrived from Silithus and requires your personal review."

Arandine took out an Eredar-style crystal, and on the river cliff in front of her, Illidan magically hid the small white flower he was holding in his fingers.

It was a flower that Tyrande had picked and placed in his long hair when he, Malfurion, and Tyrande were young and touring Mount Hyjal together. It was also the Starhunter's final tribute to that beautiful life that he could never return to.

Sigh, the situation between the three of them is too complicated; it's really a taboo that outsiders shouldn't interfere with.

Illidan, now back to his "cool guy" persona, turned around, took the crystal, and asked:

Is this a message from a vigilant?

"Yes, he led the Shadowchaser Order to Kalimdor and is heading to Feralas to join the Black Raven King's army. Afterwards, he will head to Mount Hyjal to provide support."

Arantien replied:
"In addition, the Watchers also informed that the Draenei starship 'Exodar' would soon arrive in Kalimdor fully loaded with Witchers from the Eastern Continent, including not only Lightforged, but also humans, Quel'dorei, Mag'har orcs, dwarves, and spellcasters from the Nassaras Academy of Magic."

That would be a highly effective mixed force.

"it is good!"

Illidan said with satisfaction:
"As expected of the renowned demon slayers, they never miss a single battle against demons. Having such companions in the face of the Burning Legion is a blessing for us and this world. However, since he has already told you all this information, why did he specifically give me a crystal?"

"It is said that there is some information that only the commander-in-chief can know, which needs to be conveyed to you."

Arantien said:
“That Watcher always has a lot of plans. I saw it when I was in Draenor. It is said that he went into blind obedience and fanaticism of the Light at that time, but he has now regained his senses.”

"Ha, that's a stage every Force Walker must go through. I was, and so are you."

Illidan waved his hand and said:
"Your strength is growing rapidly, Arantien. You may soon feel the favor and generosity of the Fel Force, but it is precisely at times like these that you must remain calm and not take too much, lest the tragedy of Kelia Fel Soul be repeated."

You have great potential, and what's more, your experience in Draenor has made you even more resilient.

Perhaps soon, a new Hunting General will emerge from the Illidari.

"I will follow your instructions, Star Hunter."

Arantien nodded, showing little excitement, and then turned and left.

The "Kelya Fel Soul" that Illidan mentioned was his former battle sister, a veteran like the Sufferer Altruis, a hunting general who was assigned a starship and a hunting party. However, she was tempted by fel energy and made a shameless betrayal, leading her hunting party to join Kil'jaeden the Conqueror.

She gained power, reportedly acquiring a pair of powerful cosmic artifacts from Kil'jaeden, while the traitors all donned powerful weapons, becoming a force to be reckoned with under the Conquerors.

They were appointed as high-ranking demon commanders, shamelessly calling themselves "Claws of the Legion," and rampaging through the land causing destruction.

That was the most shameful stain on the Illidari's ten-thousand-year history of witch hunting. The Suffering General had been hunting them down, but several major battles had failed to completely destroy those traitors.

Moreover, as a master hunter, Arandion also knew that the small hunting groups under the Illidari often harbored seducers sent by Kelya Fel Soul, who acted like dreadlords, enticing steadfast warriors to embrace fel energy.

Despite the high-level officials' efforts to suppress the news, the Illidari have lost more than seven small hunting groups over the past thousand years as a result.

This proves the old saying that traitors are a thousand times more hateful than enemies! The destruction they cause is just as despicable.

After Arandion left, Illidan activated the crystal in his hand. He did not have eyes to see, but his keen senses allowed him to perceive Diakum's projection in front of him.

"The situation is urgent, so I'll keep it brief."

Diakum's voice rang out, instructing Illidan:
“You must return to Mount Hyjal immediately and speak with your brother. The Black Raven King has a plan regarding the World Tree, which is a top secret of the Kaldorei. Currently, only he, Malfurion, and Lady Maiev know about it.”

As the leader of the Kaldorei Witchers, you should also be involved at this time.

"Ah."

Illidan didn't seem surprised, or rather, his millennia of demon hunting had left him indifferent.

"Secondly, have the Illidari starships arrived in Azeroth?"

Dick asked a question.

Illidan replied:

"They are currently resting in their orbits. As long as the Burning Legion does not deploy its starships, it is best for our starships not to enter the material world. The fel engines of those things are catastrophic for the destruction of the world's environment."

"But, you asked this because you want to mobilize my fleet?"

"No, I want you to notify the hunter warships to prepare."

Dick said softly:
"Especially after the Defilers' defeat, I got some inside information through my connections. It's said that the Conquerors also sent an observation fleet close to Azeroth. Perhaps not a combat starship, but since they're here, we might as well not let them leave."

“Interesting. You Eredars certainly have many ‘eyes and ears’ in the Burning Legion. I’m also pleased to see that you, the Lightwalker, are not bound by faith but have chosen a more realistic way of fighting.”

Illidan nodded with satisfaction and said:
"Very good, I will complete the arrangements for the Star Sea Hunt. Is there any other important news?"

“Nothing important, but I have a suggestion regarding the fight against the polluters.”

The vigilant said in a gentle tone:
"I know that a special force that is locked in a life-or-death struggle with the Corruptors is approaching Kalimdor."

They are not welcomed by this world, nor are they beings of Azeroth, but if they are willing to carry out the execution of the corrupted in the name of this world, it might be a good thing for the Kaldorei.

After all, the elves' small population is a racial tradition of all long-lived species; even one less death would be a good thing for you.

This request made Illidan frown.

他 说:

Are you sure they can shoulder such a heavy responsibility?

“They just killed ‘Destroyer’ Maronos on the Eastern Continent. I saw it with my own eyes and even offered a little help.”

Diakum said:
Have you ever sparred with the vandals?

"We've fought three times, and it's always a draw. That guy is too tough. Okay, I understand your opinion. I'll give them a chance to try."

Illidan nodded and said:

"As long as we achieve victory, it doesn't matter whose hands the polluter's head falls into."

As soon as he finished speaking, the Starhunter suddenly looked up and saw a beam of fel energy shooting into the sky from the gloomy Felwood forest ahead, followed by a deep roar that echoed through the deeply corrupted woodland.

He stood up and said:

"I'm not talking to you anymore. Agamaggan the Destroyer is here. Cenarius isn't going to wait any longer, so he's sent out his trump card. You'd better hurry. The defenses at the entrance to Mount Hyjal can't hold off that brute monster."

Communication was subsequently cut off. In the palace of the ancient city of Eldre'Thalas, the last image Diakum saw was Illidan soaring into the sky in his most iconic pose, leading the Illidari to charge toward the lines of defense where the Great Demons had landed.

“They are truly valiant. The Illidari possess both destructive power and mobility, as well as a flexible moral compass. They are far more dangerous than the Hand of Argus.”

The Watcher sighed, then turned to the Black Crow King beside him and said, “Your Majesty, it’s time for us to set off. According to your plan, by the time we reach the Holy Mountain, the reinforcements from the Eastern Kingdom will also arrive on the battlefield. At that time, the troops you can command will exceed those of the ancient war ten thousand years ago.”

"I don't have the ability to command so many warriors."

His Majesty Curtalos Ravenczes waved his hand humbly and said:
"I can only command my Black Raven Legion and Moon Guardians. Let the professionals handle the command of large-scale battles. General Garrod Shadowsong is already waiting on the battlefield, and the ancient anti-magic alliance warriors have also been assembled."

I'm sure he's already come up with a workable solution.

As the two were talking, the door to the reception room was suddenly pushed open.

As Diakum watched, a Watcher clad in owl armor strode forward, her green bladed cloak covering her body, transforming her into a walking blade.

"Your Majesty, the Illidari, fighting alone in Felwood, need help, don't they?"

The Watcher Commander said in a hoarse voice:
“My sisters and I can set off immediately to provide support.”

"Enough! Elisana, control your personal feelings. The Watchers are the shadowy blade of the Kaldorei civilization and must be used on the battlefield where they are most needed."

The Black Crow King scolded:

"You are to proceed to Mount Hyjal as ordered. The defenses there need your assistance, especially Nightsworn Keep. You must fulfill the duties entrusted to you by Lady Elune. That place cannot be lost!"

I would rather lose the entire Mount Hyjal than see Nightsworn Fortress disturbed.

The Watcher Commander was silent for a moment, then nodded.

Diakum observed the powerful Warden lady with great interest. He knew she was the only daughter of the Black Raven King, theoretically a "princess" of the Kaldorei Kingdom, but even after deviating from her destiny, she still harbored some unrealistic fantasies about Illidan Stormrage.

Judging from the Black Crow King's expression, it was clear that his daughter's obsessions were giving him a major headache.

"Night Oath Keep, is that the place where the Night Oathers are sealed?"

The vigilant asked:
"May I have a look around? I can go with Warden Elizabeth, and my two disciples will lead the Shadow Chaser Order to accompany you."

"Of course, not just because you are a distinguished guest."

Black Raven King stood up, picked up the dragon-forged war helmet from the table, and said to Dick:
"I also hope that you can use the seal of holy light to create another protective barrier around Nightsworn Castle for us. You know, for the 'master' there, no matter how complicated the seal is, it is worth it."

However, Elisana and her Watchers must traverse the Emerald Dream, where the Corruptors are increasingly polluting the dream, making it a perilous journey.

“I can protect your daughter and the brave watchmen.”

Dick stood up and said:
"Moreover, I am eager to go there to behold the glory of the Nightsworn's Black Moon. Forgive my bluntness, but the chance of seeing a living lesser god in the material world is rare in the entire star system."

------

Illidan returned to Mount Hyjal.

With his flying speed, the mountains were no obstacle at all. However, he kept a low profile and waited until his brother finished dealing with the complicated matters before sneaking into the Druid Temple under the World Tree like a ghost.

"Mafiario, I'm back."

Illidan spoke from the shadows, causing the weary Malfurion to lift his head and step forward with a joyful expression to greet his brother.

In this timeline, the two did not part ways for those strange reasons. Although Illidan's embrace of fel energy was indeed seen as "betrayal" by some civilians, Malfurion knew the heavy sacrifice his brother had made, and he never blamed Illidan for his recklessness.

The Starhunter's body, corrupted by fel energy, was enormous, but Malfurion's body was also "blessed" by the Force of Life.

He has antlers on his head, broad wings on his arms, and exaggerated long hair and beard with flowers and plants growing on them. His hands can transform into tiger claws. Even though he still maintains the appearance of an elf, it is the result of Malfurion's efforts to control it. At this moment, his size is not much smaller than his brother's.

This scene would never be mistaken by an outsider for two elves conversing; it would look more like two "monsters" talking.

Illidan had complained about this before.

The "savior trio" from back then have all become monsters now. It's really frustrating.

Have you visited Tyrande?

Malfurion poured his brother a glass of juice brimming with life force. Illidan didn't refuse the drink; he leaned against the temple wall and nodded, saying:
"She is still asleep, as peaceful as ever."

Even the Starhunter, who kills demons without blinking an eye, spoke with a terrifyingly gentle tone when mentioning his beloved. Malfurion didn't care about his brother's tone. Although he also loved Tyrande, things were already like this. During the ten thousand years that the Nightsworn had been asleep, the two brothers would have to support each other.

Over time, their relationship has evolved into something that transcends material desires and is more like a bond.

"I heard you and the Black Crow King have a plan regarding the World Tree?"

Illidan explained his purpose.

Malfurion nodded, trusting his brother, and revealed the top-secret plan.

When Illidan heard that the three leaders of the night elves had reached a consensus to take advantage of the invasion of the Defilers and use the World Tree Nordrassil as a weapon to destroy their powerful enemy, even the resolute Illidan was deeply shocked.

This tree is a treasure of the night elves!

The race's immortality and immunity to all diseases depend on it, but the blessings of the two Dragon Aspects could not achieve this effect. As the "instigator" of that time, Illidan knew better than anyone what the roots of this World Tree were embedded in.

That was his "masterpiece," and it was because of this that the Illidari were banished to the stars.

"The blood of the Star Soul Lord nourishes the World Tree, and our immortality also comes from it. No wonder the World Mother is so disappointed in the elves."

Illidan cleared his mind and did not oppose the plan.

The main reason is that even if the Kaldorei are unwilling to sacrifice their World Tree, can they really withstand the onslaught of Cenarius the Defiler?
Despite the fact that the Illidari and Night Elves have slain many Greater Demons these days, and even the Destroyer Manonos was killed by mortals from another continent, Greater Demons and Greater Demon Lords are two completely different concepts.

The two brothers, who had participated in the ancient war, understood this better than anyone else.

Kil'jaeden aside, he was in the central command during the War of the Ancients and did not set foot on the land of Azeroth. However, the activities of the Shaper of Scythe during that period really caused a lot of trouble for this world. If it weren't for the Nightsworn's self-sacrifice that drove Scythe back to the Twisting Nether, the Alliance against the Demons would not have been able to break into Azshara's palace in the final stage of the War of the Ancients.

Demons always boast that the Burning Legion is a force that mortals cannot contend with, but there are countless examples of the Legion's defeats throughout the cosmos, yet the Great Demon Lord truly deserves such an honor.

Invasions involving them almost always end in destruction; even the most arrogant demigods are merely "expendable resources" in their presence.

Therefore, rather than waiting for the Corruptor to personally seize the world power hidden in Nordrassil, the elves might as well prepare in advance and give that guy a "tough stunt".

“I have an idea”

Illidan put down his water glass, his sharp claws tapping back and forth, and said to Malfurion:
"The life force contained within the World Tree is too abundant. Although detonating it would definitely kill the Corruptor, it would be a pity to waste the life force accumulated over ten thousand years. Aren't there still so many demigods sleeping in the Emerald Dream who haven't been resurrected?"

Why not take this opportunity to give them some of our vitality and help them revive more quickly?

Brother, you must understand that without Nordrassil's protection, our people will lose their immortality, and lifespan and disease will weaken us. In this situation, for the sake of the future, it is necessary to resurrect all the demigods.

At the very least, their families will prosper as a result, and the Wilderness Families will become staunch allies of the Kaldorei.

We are too few in number; every single one of us is important.

"hiss"

Malfurion was intrigued by the idea.

He stood up and paced back and forth, pondering as he said:
"Preparing to resurrect a demigod will consume a huge amount of life force, which will weaken Nordrassil. If too much is extracted, it may be difficult to weaken the Corruptor to the point where it can be killed. In extreme cases, it means that we will have to make a difficult sacrifice to have any chance."

"Ha, someone has prepared a 'revenge army' for us."

Illidan said:

"It is said that the other side and the polluters are locked in a life-or-death struggle, and they have plenty of power and means. Besides, this is war, Malfurion, and there is no such thing as victory without sacrifice."

I think instead of worrying about how this war will end, you, as the leader, should consider how your people can find a new way to survive in the post-World Tree era. Immortality has made us accustomed to wasting time, but three thousand years is not a long time for elves.

Perhaps it's time to learn from the lifestyles of other races.

(End of this chapter)