Jace Wayland’s journey in Shadowhunters is marked by intense battles, both physical and emotional. The pivotal moment when he returns to his “normal” self, freed from the influence of Lilith and the Owl persona, occurs in Season 3, Episode 17, titled “Heavenly Fire.” This episode sees the successful use of the Heavenly Fire to purge the demonic influence, allowing Jace to reclaim his agency.
The Road to Recovery: Understanding Jace’s Possession
Jace’s possession by Lilith, the Queen of Edom, is a long and arduous arc that significantly alters his character and puts him at odds with his loved ones. Understanding the context of his possession is crucial to appreciating the impact of his eventual return.
The Descent into Darkness: Lilith’s Influence
Lilith, seeking to resurrect Sebastian Verlac (Jonathan Morgenstern), uses Jace as her vessel, transforming him into the Owl. This Owl persona is ruthless, calculating, and utterly devoid of the Jace we know and love. The possession manipulates Jace’s memories, twists his emotions, and forces him to commit acts he would never otherwise consider. It’s a painful experience for both Jace and those around him, constantly fearing what he might do next.
The Threat to Clary: The Stakes are High
The possession places Clary Fairchild, Jace’s parabatai and romantic partner, in immense danger. Lilith manipulates Jace to carry out her plans, often targeting Clary directly or those close to her. This adds a layer of intense personal conflict to the broader battle against demonic forces, making the stakes incredibly high. The fear of Jace harming Clary, or being used to hurt her, is a constant source of tension throughout the season.
“Heavenly Fire”: The Turning Point
Episode 3×17 marks a critical turning point in the season. The Shadowhunters, with the help of Magnus Bane, are finally able to weaponize the Heavenly Fire, a powerful force capable of destroying demonic influence.
The Plan: A Risky Endeavor
The plan to use the Heavenly Fire on Jace is fraught with danger. The fire itself is unpredictable and poses a significant risk of killing Jace. Furthermore, Lilith’s hold on him is strong, making the process extremely challenging. The Shadowhunters must navigate a dangerous path, balancing the need to save Jace with the possibility of losing him forever.
The Execution: A Moment of Truth
The execution of the plan is emotionally charged. Clary, despite her fears, is instrumental in helping Jace resist Lilith’s influence long enough for the Heavenly Fire to work. The scene is tense, visually stunning, and ultimately cathartic as the demonic influence is purged, and Jace returns to himself. The relief and joy are palpable, both for the characters and the audience.
The Aftermath: Healing and Recovery
While the Heavenly Fire frees Jace from Lilith’s control, the trauma of his possession lingers. He struggles to cope with the memories of his actions and the guilt of the harm he caused. The aftermath of “Heavenly Fire” focuses on Jace’s healing process, his reconciliation with Clary and his friends, and his journey to rebuild his confidence and sense of self. This is a crucial period of character development, showcasing Jace’s resilience and his commitment to overcoming his past.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Jace’s possession and his return to normal:
1. What exactly is the Owl persona that Jace embodies?
The Owl persona is a corrupted version of Jace, completely controlled by Lilith. He loses his free will and becomes a puppet, carrying out her orders without hesitation. The Owl exhibits a dark, ruthless demeanor, a stark contrast to Jace’s usual bravery and compassion.
2. How does Lilith control Jace?
Lilith’s control over Jace stems from a demonic bond she establishes with him. She uses his fears, insecurities, and desires to manipulate him. She also implants false memories and visions, further blurring the line between reality and illusion.
3. What were the consequences of Jace’s actions while possessed?
Jace, as the Owl, committed several acts of violence and betrayal, severely damaging his relationships with his friends and allies. He hurt Clary deeply, manipulated the Clave, and contributed to the resurrection of Sebastian. These actions haunt him even after he’s freed from Lilith’s influence.
4. Why was the Heavenly Fire the chosen method to free Jace?
The Heavenly Fire is a powerful force that is inherently good and capable of destroying demonic entities and influences. It was seen as the only viable option to completely sever Lilith’s connection to Jace and purge the demonic presence within him.
5. Was there a chance Jace could have died from the Heavenly Fire?
Yes, there was a significant risk of Jace dying from the Heavenly Fire. The fire is incredibly potent, and its effects are unpredictable. The Shadowhunters knew they were taking a gamble, but they felt it was a necessary risk to save Jace.
6. How did Clary contribute to Jace’s rescue?
Clary’s unwavering love and connection to Jace played a crucial role in his rescue. Her presence helped him resist Lilith’s control long enough for the Heavenly Fire to take effect. Her belief in him, even at his darkest moments, was a source of strength for both of them.
7. What happens to Lilith after Jace is freed?
After Jace is freed, Lilith’s power is significantly weakened. She eventually faces a confrontation with Clary and is ultimately destroyed, effectively ending her reign of terror.
8. Does Jace remember everything he did as the Owl?
Yes, Jace retains the memories of his actions as the Owl. This is a source of immense guilt and trauma for him, and he struggles to come to terms with the things he did while under Lilith’s control.
9. How does Jace cope with the trauma of being possessed?
Jace undergoes therapy and relies heavily on the support of his friends and loved ones to cope with the trauma of his possession. He learns to forgive himself and to accept that he was not responsible for his actions while under Lilith’s influence.
10. Does Jace ever fully recover from the experience?
While the scars of his possession never fully disappear, Jace does make significant progress in his recovery. He learns to live with his past and to use his experiences to become a stronger and more compassionate person. He strengthens his bond with Clary and dedicates himself to fighting evil and protecting those he loves.
11. How does Jace’s possession affect his relationship with Clary in the long run?
Jace’s possession puts immense strain on his relationship with Clary. However, their love for each other ultimately prevails. They work through the challenges together and emerge stronger and more resilient as a couple. The experience deepens their understanding of each other and strengthens their bond.
12. What is the significance of Jace’s return to normal in the larger narrative of Shadowhunters?
Jace’s return to normal represents a victory over darkness and a testament to the power of love, friendship, and resilience. It is a pivotal moment in the series that allows the characters to move forward and confront new challenges. It also reinforces the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the importance of fighting for what is right.