In Diablo 4, players are introduced to a familiar yet expanded character from the franchise’s past—Lorath Nahr, a seasoned member of the Horadrim.
Originally appearing in Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls, Lorath has grown from a supporting figure to a central guide, stepping into the shoes of the beloved Deckard Cain.
Voiced by Ralph Ineson, Lorath plays a vital role in helping players navigate the dark and treacherous world of Sanctuary once again.
Lorath’s Backstory: Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls
Lorath was not introduced in Diablo 3 until the expansion pack of Reaper of Souls. He was a member of the Horadrim order, which was ordered by Tyrael to find the powerful artifact known as the Black Soulstone.
But when Malthael the Angel of Death attacked, Lorath was told to run away and thus escape the slaughtering of his fellow brethren. Later on, Lorath followed the Nephalem (the hero of Diablo 3) to give them a heads up about Malthael’s new unclean abilities: to drain the essence of everyone and everything, including angels and demons.
It was Lorath who played an important role in calling people to defensive\defending Westmarch from Malthael’s Reaper’s attack. Though so many people died, the city was protected, at least for the time being. Lorath also participates in chasing after Adria, a former minion of Diablo, who knew the location of Malthael.
Employing the information provided by Adria, Lorath was able to identify Malthael’s hideout on one of the construction sites of Pandemonium Fortress – a realm belonging to creation. But instead of going to Duskwood with Tyrael and the Nephalem to meet Malthael, he decided to remain in Westmarch.
Lorath’s Role in Diablo 4
Now, thirty years after the fall of Westmarch, we encounter Lorath Nahr again in Diablo 4. He has aged and become somewhat of a recluse, living in a secluded cabin in the Fractured Peaks. Players first meet him while searching his house for clues after experiencing a disturbing encounter in the village of Nevesk. Instead of reacting with hostility, Lorath is intrigued and invites players to share their story.
“If you’re going to trespass into my home, rifle through my things… then at least have the decency to join me for supper. I’m bloody hungry.”
Upon hearing about the player’s forced consumption of Lilith’s Petals, Lorath theorizes that these visions may link the player directly to Lilith’s memories, giving them an advantage in understanding her sinister plans. He guides the player to the city of Kyovashad to seek answers, despite his disregard for its traditional rituals.
In Kyovashad, Lorath directs the player to the Cathedral of Light, where they meet the archangel Inarius. However, Inarius, preoccupied with his own agenda, offers little help. Recognizing the player’s importance to the unfolding events, Lorath leaves to investigate a mysterious figure known as Elias, one of Lilith’s key followers, in the Dry Steppes. He also instructs the player to connect with Donan, another Horadrim ally, in Scosglen.
The Mentor Figure We Needed
In Diablo 4, Lorath Nahr fills the role of the wise mentor, a position left vacant after the death of Deckard Cain. Unlike the Nephalem from Diablo 3, the player character in Diablo 4 is not a superhuman warrior but still possesses unique abilities. Lorath recognizes the player’s significance in the struggle against Lilith’s growing influence over Sanctuary.
With no commanding archangels to guide players (since Inarius is more absorbed in his own broodings), Lorath steps in as a much-needed mentor figure. His story, which was left somewhat unexplored in Reaper of Souls, is expanded upon here, offering a deeper look into his life before and after joining the Horadrim.
“The Wanderer lost in the storm. Fed the blood of Lilith. Saved by a lone monk. Different lives and incidents drawn together… by what? Destiny?”
Lorath Nahr’s transformation from a side character to a major narrative force highlights Diablo 4’s commitment to evolving its lore while staying true to its roots. He is now one of the most trusted allies players have, guiding them through the darkness that threatens to consume Sanctuary.
