Introducing Gregory - A Free-Willed Death Knight in Season of Discovery

Paladins Encounter a Reformed Death Knight in Phase 3 Rune Questline

Aeonas the Open-Minded: An Unconventional Paladin

The story of the Death Knight Gregory begins with Aeonas the Vindicated, a former Paladin of the Silver Hand who had developed radical opinions about the Light. While most followers believed the Light to be a force of pure goodness and righteousness, Aeonas believed it to be a neutral force of nature. This perspective was considered heretical at the time, but recent events have proven him correct. Organizations like the Scarlet Crusade have shown that the Light can be used for evil acts.

During the Phase 2 questline, Aeonas was captured by the Scarlet Crusade and later rescued. He returned to Stormwind City as Aeonas the Vindicated. In the Phase 3 questline to obtain a Paladin Rune, Aeonas introduces us to his old friend Gregory, surprising us with his open-mindedness.

• The Friend We've Spoken Of

Aeonas explains that Gregory was once a trusted member of the Silver Hand and fought bravely against the Scourge invasion. He died at Andorhal alongside The Lightbringer. While Death Knights were traditionally seen as mindless servants of the Lich King, Aeonas argues that Gregory, despite remaining loyal to Arthas, is still the same man he used to be. He believes that Gregory can be an ally against the Burning Legion, as they both share a common enemy.

At first skeptical, we agree to hear Gregory's story and discover something truly surprising.

Gregory's Journey: From Paladins to Death Knights

Gregory tells us that he died at Andorhal and was raised as a mindless Scourge by Arthas. However, over time, he regained his free will and chose to serve Arthas willingly. Gregory explains that he came to believe mortals have no hope against the cosmic threats looming over the world. He believes that in order to stand a chance, they must embrace undeath.

Gregory acknowledges the dark deeds he has committed, but he focuses on the greater threat that exists beyond Azeroth. He reveals that Titans, Demons, and the Void are all devouring worlds for their own ends. In Gregory's perspective, mortals must become stronger and undying to combat these forces.

• The Cold, Hard Truth

While Gregory's beliefs may be unsettling, he claims that his time as a mindless thrall to the Lich King allowed him to gain knowledge about these threats. He acknowledges that there is a part of him that will never forgive Arthas, but he believes that mortals need to face the truth of their insignificance in the cosmic game.

• Possible Playable Death Knights?

Aeonas expresses hope that he can convince Gregory to leave the service of the Lich King. He believes that with the right influence, Gregory can return to the light. This raises the possibility that other Death Knights could regain their free will as well.

Could this open the door for playable Death Knights in a future Season of Discovery? Only time will tell, but the groundwork has been laid.

Conclusion

The encounter with Gregory, a reformed Death Knight, challenges preconceived notions about the nature of undeath and the potential for redemption. Paladins and players alike are left reconsidering their beliefs about the Light and cosmic threats. Will Gregory be swayed back to the light? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the path to redemption is not always a straightforward one.

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