Quick Overview
Malfurion expelled Illidan after his brother used the Skull of Gul'dan and transformed into a demonic being, even though Illidan had defeated Tichondrius. Illidan had been imprisoned for thousands of years after creating another Well of Eternity at Mount Hyjal. The incident captures the enduring argument between the brothers about whether a worthy end can justify using forbidden power.
Full History
Malfurion expelled Illidan after his brother used the Skull of Gul'dan and transformed into a demonic being, even though Illidan had defeated Tichondrius. The victory against a Legion commander could not erase the means by which it had been won. To Malfurion, Illidan's transformation threatened to repeat the old danger of seeking power without restraint.
Illidan had been imprisoned for thousands of years after creating another Well of Eternity at Mount Hyjal. During the Third War, Tyrande released him because the night elves faced an invasion that demanded every possible ally. Illidan pursued the Skull, absorbed its power, and turned that strength against Tichondrius. The act removed a terrible enemy, but it changed Illidan and confirmed the fears of those who remembered the catastrophe of Azshara's empire.
Malfurion's judgment left Illidan outside night elven society once again. The exile did not end his role in the history of the Third War; he would gather naga followers and seek the Eye of Sargeras during the Frozen Throne campaign. The incident captures the enduring argument between the brothers about whether a worthy end can justify using forbidden power.
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