The Scarlet Crusade began as noble defenders against the Scourge. Zealotry transformed them into the very evil they fought. This history traces their tragic descent into fanaticism.
Noble Origins
The Crusade formed from Lordaeron survivors after Third War. Their mission was reclaiming kingdom from undead Scourge. Initial goals were genuinely heroic and necessary.
Early Crusaders included paladins, priests, and soldiers. The organization attracted those who lost everything to Scourge. Grief and vengeance fueled their righteous fire.
Descent Into Madness
- Formation: Lordaeron survivors unite
- Early Success: Reclaim territory from Scourge
- Paranoia: Fear of infiltration grows
- Purges: Innocents executed as suspected undead
- Isolation: Attacking both Horde and Alliance
- Corruption: Actually infiltrated by dreadlords
Stronghold Locations
| Location | Zone | Leader | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scarlet Monastery | Tirisfal | High Inquisitor | Destroyed |
| Scarlet Enclave | Eastern Plaguelands | Various | Scourge taken |
| Hearthglen | Western Plaguelands | Taelan Fordring | Abandoned |
| Stratholme | Eastern Plaguelands | Balnazzar | Dreadlord controlled |
| Scarlet Hold | Tanaris | Expedition Force | Wiped out |
Legacy
The Scarlet Crusade serves as cautionary tale about zealotry. Their good intentions created monsters indistinguishable from Scourge. Players encounter them as villains despite original nobility.
Some Crusaders eventually saw truth and reformed. The Argent Crusade absorbed reformed members. Redemption remained possible for those who recognized their madness.
