Technically Ishgard still fights dragons in FATEs or such despite the war ceasing, but yes seeing Estinien alive and well would be jarring if something happened to him. But again, following this trend, I've noticed no one tied to a quest ever dies. Not that SE is killing people off back and forth but beyond Haurchefant every death has either been a joke or rushed to move a plot point. I think death is a very strong tool to use in a story but it's usually executed very poorly with very little lasting impact or done as a joke that started to grind my gears.

I'm not hungry for blood, don't get me wrong (tho a good emotional death would be good for a change) but it's like - Hey, hey guys look! This character may die, what will happen next!?
No, no they won't. They will survive like everyone else did.