Twilight’s End: The Fusion of Zaahen and Xin Zhao Shakes LoL’s Lore

The 2025 season of League of Legends concludes with Twilight’s End, an official cinematic released on November 7 by Riot Games. Animated by Fortiche, this visual piece showcases the clash between ancestral and political forces at the Twilight Temple, featuring Xin Zhao, Yunara, LeBlanc, Vladimir, Atakhan, and the emergence of Zaahen, an entity sealed within a golden glaive.

Atakhan: demon in service of Mordekaiser

Atakhan is introduced as an ancient demon who once served Mordekaiser during his reign. In the cinematic, it’s revealed that he was sealed inside a massive suit of armor by LeBlanc, who now forces him to obey her commands as part of the Black Rose’s schemes. His motivation and connection to Mordekaiser position him as a looming threat in the lore, though he has not been confirmed as a playable champion.

Zaahen and Xin Zhao’s fate

At the climax of the cinematic, Xin Zhao is pierced by the golden glaive containing Zaahen, releasing the ancient entity. While Riot has not confirmed whether Xin Zhao dies or becomes a host, the act is portrayed as a sacrifice to stop Atakhan.

Zaahen is set to become a playable champion, with a majestic design and ties to the Darkin conflict. His exact nature has yet to be detailed, but speculation suggests he may be a Darkin with a different origin than Aatrox, Varus, Rhaast, and Naafiri.

Yunara, LeBlanc, and the Twilight Temple

Yunara, officially released in patch 25.14 (July 2025), appears as Xin Zhao’s ally in defending the temple. Her strategic role and connection to the Aion Er’na artifact reinforce her presence in both lore and gameplay.

LeBlanc, alongside Vladimir, acts as a silent antagonist. Her manipulation of Atakhan and ties to the Black Rose suggest that the cinematic’s events are part of a larger plan—possibly involving Mordekaiser’s return.

The Twilight Temple serves as a symbolic setting, where sacrifice, Demacian legacy, and the awakening of sealed forces converge.

What to expect in-game

• Zaahen will be the next playable champion, expected to launch at the end of 2025.
• He’s anticipated to be a fighter for top lane or jungle, with mechanics focused on sustained combat and crowd control.
• Xin Zhao may receive a thematic skin or visual update, though Riot has not confirmed gameplay changes.
• Narrative events, themed missions, and exclusive cosmetics will accompany the season’s conclusion.

Twilight ends, but the conflict is just beginning.