Tirion Fordring

Highlord Tirion Fordring was the Supreme Commander of the Argent Crusade and the bearer of the Ashbringer. He was one of the first five paladins of the Order of the Silver Hand, selected by Archbishop Alonsus Faol along with Uther the Lightbringer, Turalyon, Saidan Dathrohan, and Gavinrad the Dire. A hero of the Alliance of Lordaeron during the Second War,Tides of Darkness, pg. 83 he became Lord of Mardenholde Keep in Hearthglen and held the position for several peaceful years, until he was stripped of his titles, excommunicated of the order and exiled for defending an old orc, Eitrigg.
For years he lived in seclusion as a pariah, until the aftermath of the Third War, when Darion Mograine met him to free his father's soul trapped in the Corrupted Ashbringer and later convinced him to help the Argent Dawn during the first battle for Light's Hope Chapel against Kel'Thuzad. With the help of adventurers, he convinced his son to leave the ranks of the Scarlet Crusade, however, Taelan was then killed for his betrayal. After avenging him, Tirion committed himself to reform the Order of the Silver Hand in Lordaeron and to put an end to all the evil that plagues Azeroth.
Prior to the war against the Lich King, Tirion and his knights intervened during the Second Battle for Light's Hope Chapel, where they repelled the Scourge and the Death Knights of Acherus. During the battle, Tirion came into possession of the Ashbringer, purified it and repelled the Lich King himself from the holy grounds. Following their victory, Tirion assumed leadership over the Argent DawnUltimate Visual Guide, Updated and Expanded, pg. 190 and founded the Argent Crusade by uniting the Knights of the Silver Hand and the Argent Dawn, and as their Highlord, led them in a holy crusade to annihilate the Scourge in Northrend.
With the cooperation of the Knights of the Ebon Blade, led by Highlord Darion Mograine, he founded the Ashen Verdict for their final assault against Icecrown Citadel. During the final battle, Tirion confronted the Dark Lord of the Scourge and managed to shatter Frostmourne with the Ashbringer, ending its reign of terror. After being warned by the ghost of King Terenas Menethil II, Tirion attempted to take Arthas' place in order to keep the Scourge under control, but was replaced by the sacrifice of Bolvar Fordragon, whom he crowned with the Helm of Domination. After their victory in Northrend, Tirion Fordring returned to Lordaeron where the Argent Crusade repelled the Scarlet Crusade and resumed control of Hearthglen, before beginning their work to revitalize the Plaguelands.
When the Burning Legion began their third invasion of Azeroth, Tirion led the Argent Crusade's forces as the first line of defense against the demons during the disastrous Battle for the Broken Shore. During the assault, he was captured and "killed" by in order to break the morale of the Alliance and the Horde, however, he survived and was tortured until a Champion of the Light came to rescue him. In his final moments, he passed the Ashbringer to his savior and asked them to defeat the Legion, before dying of his injuries.
==Biography==
===The Second War===
Originally a warrior of Lordaeron, though he had not been born a noble, his enthusiasm and honor had won him to be knighted at the age of 18 years old. Tirion served his king with undying loyalty and won a great deal of respect from his superiors.Of Blood and Honor, chapter 1 Years later, renowned for his zeal and resilience, he eventually found faith and got closer to the Church of the Light, studying under the guidance of Archbishop Alonsus Faol.Tides of Darkness, chapter 5
At the beginning of the Second War, he was chosen by the Archbishop as one of the four candidates from Lordaeron to form the Order of the Knights of the Silver Hand, along with Uther, Saidan Dathrohan, Turalyon, and Gavinrad the Dire. While traveling with Anduin Lothar's army, Tirion and the others were trained vigorously day and night by Faol, who taught them how to use the Light to comfort their allies, to smite their enemies and how to lead by example, as they would be more than weapons but beacons of hope to guide the Alliance of Lordaeron. As their training progressed, Faol presented each of the paladins with enchanted librams that were among the church's most ancient relics. Each libram represented a core trait of the Silver Hand that Faol challenged his students to become the living embodiment of, and Tirion was given the Libram of Retribution.
During his ceremony of induction into the order, Tirion received his holy hammer and silver plates from Saidan, who was one of his closest friends, before being blessed and empowered by the holy powers of the clerics of the Brotherhood of Northshire and the knights of the Silver Hand present in Alonsus Chapel.Of Blood and Honor, chapter 2
Thereafter, Tirion fought on many battlefields. During the Siege of Blackrock Spire, he killed an ogre that was about to attack Alexandros Mograine. He amicably mocked his friend, telling him to be more careful in the future as he wouldn't be around forever, before heading back to fight their enemies.Death is Contagious
Following the Second War, he, Uther, Saidan, and Gavinrad were present during the introduction ceremony in the order of Prince Arthas Menethil, at the Cathedral of Light of Stormwind City. It was the first time they had all been together after many years, and even aging, Tirion was still powerful and graceful as the governor of Hearthglen.Arthas: Rise of the Lich King, part 1, chapter 5
When Taelan was still a child, Tirion and Karandra would often visit Caer Darrow on family excursions. On their last visit, an artist by the name of Renfray painted a portrait of them poised along the beachside. It was his fondest memory, for it was at that moment, with his wife and son in his arms, that he felt a bond of love and family that he would never know again.Of Love and Family (1)
===Of Blood and Honor===
thumb|left|Tirion Fordring helps his friend Eitrigg.
Years later, as the governor of the Alliance principality of Hearthglen, Tirion lived a comfortable life, well-respected by his subjects and loved by his wife Karanda and son Taelan. Both a great warrior and a just ruler, Tirion was renowned throughout the Kingdom of Lordaeron. In spite of his acclaimed military prowess, Tirion's experience as a paladin during the orcish invasions had taught him to value peace. After the wars were over, Tirion prayed every night that no conflict would ever bring harm to his subjects again. The gnome Myranda served as his most trusted advisor.Find Myranda
thumb|Tirion Fordring and Eitrigg at the abandoned tower.
One day, Tirion encountered an old orc hermit living in an abandoned tower. The two immediately battled and traded blows until a piece of the ruined tower collapsed on Tirion, knocking him senseless. He awoke in his bed days later and discovered that he had been found badly beaten with his ribs broken and his arm that had been sliced open, tied to his saddle, and had been healed by his ambitious second, Barthilas.
Realizing that the orc had saved him from the ruins, Tirion set out and retraced his steps back to the tower. The orc Eitrigg told Tirion that, before the coming to Azeroth, the orcs had been a noble society rooted in shamanism. After the war, he left the corrupt Horde. Tirion, seeing great honor in Eitrigg, promised to keep his existence a secret, returning to his people and informing them that the orc had been dealt with and was not a threat.
However, Barthilas was not so confident, and called Lord Commander Saidan Dathrohan to come and settle the matter himself. Dathrohan picked up the trail and led a group of soldiers and hunters into the woods, where they found Eitrigg. During the orc's capture, Tirion fought against Dathrohan's men, prompting Barthilas to gleefully note that his actions were treasonous.
Consequently, Tirion was brought to Stratholme to stand trial, and despite the pleas of both Karandra and his close friend Captain Arden to forget his honor and tell the jury what they wanted to hear, Tirion, hoping to be an example to his son, told the court exactly what had happened. Ultimately, the jury of Admiral Daelin Proudmoore, Arch-Mage Antonidas, Archbishop Alonsus Faol, and Prince Arthas Menethil decided that since Tirion had assaulted Alliance soldiers, he could no longer be a member of the Knights of the Silver Hand and was doomed to exile. Therefore, Uther the Lightbringer performed a ceremony to strip Tirion of his powers and sent him home to gather some supplies. However, as the last token of respect to his friend, Uther did not exile Tirion's family.Of Blood and Honor, chapter 5
After returning home, he bid farewell to his son and wife.Of Blood and Honor, chapter 6 Desperate to prevent Eitrigg from being executed for war crimes, Tirion rode back to Stratholme, where he attacked Eitrigg's guards. Surprised, they still managed to subdue him, until a group of orcs stormed into the city. Tirion used the distraction to free Eitrigg and flee the city. When they were in the wilds, Tirion saw that Eitrigg was near death, and did the only thing he could do; call upon the powers of the Light to heal the orc who had saved him even if his holy blessings have been stripped from his body. To his surprise, he still had his connection with the Light and through it the blessed powers to save Eitrigg.
They abruptly found themselves surrounded by orcs and a new Warchief, Thrall, who approached Eitrigg and invited him back into the Horde — which had since reverted back to its shamanistic roots once more. Eitrigg was thrilled to accept. Before he left with his people, Eitrigg proclaimed that Tirion and he were brothers, bound by blood and honor. Through his actions, Tirion also gained the undying respect of Thrall, one of the few humans he holds in such high regard, and which continues to this day.Of Blood and Honor, chapter 7
For years Tirion remained in Lordaeron but lived as a hermit and an outcast of society. While his wife told their son that he had died, and even took him to a false grave at the Undercroft where Taelan buried the toy warhammer his father had given him in his memory,Of Forgotten Memories Tirion nevertheless left letters of farewell and love to his son. At some point, he was secretly present at the introduction ceremony of his son Taelan into the Silver Hand, who later became the lord of Mardenholde Keep. When the ceremony was over, he was noticed by his friend Arden, who did not take any action as he was pleased to see him.Of Blood and Honor, chapter 8
===The Ashbringer===
Following the Third War, at the behest of Fairbanks' ghost, Darion Mograine met Tirion who threatened him with his hammer, in order to know the reason for coming of the young man. At first reluctant, he finally agreed to listen to the youngest son of Alexandros Mograine in exchange for fresh rations, and because he was a brother-in-arms of the once legendary paladin.
After listening to Darion's story, he expressed his doubts about the veracity of the story, considering that Alexandros was a model of purity and that it was difficult to imagine his soul damned. He nevertheless agreed to take the Corrupted Ashbringer in hand, asking the Light to reveal the truth. Horrified by what he saw, he announced that the sword was corrupted and that there was almost nothing left of Alexandros' soul, before advising Darion to give up as he had done all he could. Faced with Darion's attempts to convince him to help him fight the Scourge, Tirion mocked him before becoming upset when he heard the mention of his son and rumors of his "betrayal". He finally agreed to tell his story, specifically about his meeting with Eitrigg and his excommunication of the Silver Hand. He also expressed his disgust for what is the Scarlet Crusade and the place of his son among their ranks, blind to the horrors that the crusade creates in its path.
Before Darion left, he announced after consideration that the only way to free Alexandros' soul would be through an act of love stronger than the act of treachery that murdered his father and defiled the weapon, but warned him that such an act would be the ultimate test of faith. When Darion tried to convince him to join the Argent Dawn, in order to inspire them just as he inspired many paladins in the past, Tirion refused and explained that his time was behind. Nevertheless, he meditated on the words of the young man who told him that he could still become the hero he once was.
A few days later, encouraged by Darion's words, Tirion participated in the first battle for Light's Hope Chapel against Kel'Thuzad and his undead armies, bringing new hope to the Argent Dawn troops. Towards the end of the battle, he watched in horror as Darion impaled himself with the Asbringer, freeing Alexandros' soul at the cost of his life, and bringing victory to the living.Dust to Dust
===World of Warcraft===
Years later, Tirion was still present at his cottage on the shores of the Thondroril River, near the southwestern end of Terrorweb Tunnel in the Eastern Plaguelands. Accompanied by his trusty horse Mirador, he met adventurers, and asked for their help (without revealing his identity) to eliminate some of the fauna infected by the Plague of Undeath,Blood Tinged Skies but also to bring him non-infected rations to survive the winter,Carrion Grubbage and to destroy the undead nuisances in the region.Demon Dogs He readily accepted help from both the Alliance and Horde adventurers, following his assertions that race does not dictate honor, and from what he learned from his encounter with Eitrigg.
Once certain that he could trust them, whom he judged to be people of integrity and honor, he revealed his identity as well as his past, especially before and after his exile, but also that he was dismayed to find later that his son, Taelan, took his place as lord of Mardenholde but joined the Scarlet Crusade, and even became their highlord. Knowing his son better than anyone, he announced that he wanted to get Taelan out of this situation, and help him to remember what is really noble and honorable.Redemption (Classic) In order to help Taelan regain what he has lost, and to convince him to leave the Scarlet Crusade, Tirion sent the adventurers to the Undercroft to retrieve :Taelan's Hammer, then to Northdale to retrieve his Symbol of Lost Honor,Of Lost Honor and finally to the island of Caer Darrow to find their family painting.Of Love and Family (2)
After collecting all the mementos of his son's past, Tirion asked the adventurers to meet Myranda the Hag at Uther's Tomb, once a master illusionist of Lordaeron and Tirion Fordring's most trusted advisor when he held the rank of lord of Mardenholde, so they could be disguised and infiltrate Hearthglen to deliver :Tirion's Gift without being attacked by the Scarlet crusaders. Upon receiving the box and its contents, Taelan agreed to leave the Scarlet Crusade and reunite with his father outside of town,Scarlet Subterfuge however, this betrayal triggered the Grand Crusader Dathrohan (possessed by Balnazzar), who sent Grand Inquisitor Isillien to kill the Fordrings. Consequently, Isillien sent assassins to kill Tirion, but they were unsuccessful. He then rushed to Hearthglen, where he witnessed Isillien killing Taelan. Spurred by his son's death, Tirion avenged him and vowed over his son's body to reform the original Order of the Silver Hand as its Highlord, once more as a force of good dedicated to extinguishing the evil, regardless of its politics or pleasantries, that plagued the world.In Dreams
At some point, Tirion succeeded in gathering knights of the Silver Hand under his command and joined Light's Hope Chapel, as Eligor Dawnbringer of the Brotherhood of the Light mentioned him in a conversation with Scarlet Commander Marjhan, threatening the latter to inform Tirion that they are no longer here on amicable terms, and that the Highlord would take great pleasure in seeing to their "atonement".Eligor Dawnbringer#Light's Hope Chapel
===The Burning Crusade===
The following section was retconned by the comic and no longer refers to the current lore.
In the Old Hillsbrad Foothills via the Caverns of Time, Tirion can be seen in the Southshore inn discussing the Scourge and the Ashbringer with several of his fellow members of the Silver Hand. He participated in the purification of the corrupted crystal brought by Alexandros Mograine, and was the first to refer to the future weapon by its legendary name.
===Wrath of the Lich King===
Prior to the war against the Lich King, Arthas hoped to end Tirion before he had a chance to take a prominent role in defending Azeroth from the Scourge's new war, as the Highlord embodied the figure of a seasoned paladin and a natural leader.
====Light's Hope Chapel====
After wiping out the Scarlet Crusade at the Ruins of the Scarlet Enclave, the Lich King ordered the destruction of the Argent Dawn, and sent Highlord Darion Mograine, a force of 10,000 undead, and all of the Death Knights of Acherus at Light's Hope Chapel. He cared little for the death knights, as he was prepared to sacrifice all of them to draw out Tirion Fordring. At some point during the battle, Tirion emerged to defend Light's Hope Chapel, and along with the paladins of the Silver Hand and the Argent Dawn, he unleashed his holy fury against the invading armies of the undead. The Light overwhelmed the might of the Scourge, while Fordring's holy-given powers defeated all the Scourge forces in the area, causing Orbaz Bloodbane to flee. For the first time, the death knights knew defeat.
On the orders of Tirion, the death knights were brought before the chapel where he confronted Darion Mograine about what he had become, what he and his father had always fought against, and also told him that the Lich King had sent them to be all killed by the Light, as he knew what lies beneath the chapel. He then attended the reunion between Darion and the soul of his father Alexandros Mograine. However, they were interrupted by the arrival of the Lich King, who incapacitated Darion and the other death knights. Also surprised at the turn of events, Tirion tried to attack, but was incapacitated by the dark powers of the Lich King, while Frostmourne began to drain his soul.
File:Tirion Fordring-DK.jpg|Highlord Tirion Fordring in Death Knight.
File:Tirion Light's Hope Chapel.jpg|Tirion joins the Argent Dawn during the battle.
File:Tirion and Darion.jpg|Tirion and Darion Mograine.
File:Tirion Fordring-DK 2.jpg|Tirion purifies the Ashbringer of its corruption.
File:Fordring Ashbringer.jpg|Tirion stands with the purified Ashbringer.
File:Fordring and Lich King.jpg|Tirion confronts Arthas at Light's Hope Chapel.
While the Lich King taunted his nigh-inevitable victory, Darion resisted his master's control just enough to give Tirion Fordring the corrupted Ashbringer. The paladin drew upon the power of the Light and cleansed the blade in a blinding flash of energy. With the restored Ashbringer at his command, Tirion charged toward the Lich King to fight him. Aware that even he stands little chance against the Ashbringer near the Chapel, the Lich King retreated, promising that the next time he meets Fordring, it will not be on holy ground. As the battle concluded on their victory, Fordring walked over to where Darion was lying and brought him back to consciousness. The paladins of the Argent Dawn and the Order of the Silver Hand had a new champion to rally behind, and while he lamented the loss of souls on both sides of the conflict, Tirion called for a merger of the Argent Dawn and the Order of the Silver Hand into a single faction named the Argent Crusade. The Highlord then vowed to use their combined force to destroy the Lich King and to tear down the walls of Icecrown.The Light of Dawn (quest)
====Northrend invasion====
When the war against the Lich King began, Tirion wrote letters addressed to King Varian Wrynn and Warchief Thrall, telling them that the bearers of the letters and the rest of the Death Knights of Acherus were now free from the control of the Lich King, and that as the Knights of the Ebon Blade under the command of Alexandros Mograine's son, they were now ready to lend their aid in destroying their former master. He asked the faction leaders to be tolerant, to accept their help in defeating the Scourge, and if possible, that Eitrigg could join him in Northrend to aid him in his campaign.Where Kings WalkDeath Knight
Following their acceptance, Tirion ordered the Argent Crusade to launch the invasion of Northrend alongside the Alliance and the Horde. In order to reach Northrend without being intercepted by the Lich King's agents, Tirion impersonated anonymously a Cleric of the Crusade and managed to set foot at the port of Valgarde in the Howling Fjord, where he revealed his identity and reclaimed Ashbringer from Lord Irulon Trueblade. While Irulon asked him to not reveal his true identity, Tirion said that the death of Ares the Oathbound and those who sacrificed themselves to bring the Asbringer to Northrend weighed on his soul, he then announced loudly that he and his men were on their way to bring down Arthas, making sure he knew he was now on the frozen continent.Guided by Honor
File:Cleric of the Silver Hand.jpg|Impersonating a Cleric of the Crusade in Valgarde.
File:Tirion Valgarde.jpg|Tirion in Valgarde after he reveals himself.
File:Tirion and the Ebon Watcher.jpg|Tirion and the The Ebon Watcher in Icecrown.
Later during the campaign, Tirion mustered a large army and advanced into the region from the nearby Crystalsong Forest, establishing the Argent Vanguard on Icecrown's outskirts. Located in the Valley of Echoes, it gave them a path into Scourgeholme, which Tirion hoped to conquer and remake into an Argent Crusade fortress.Exploring Azeroth: Northrend, pg. 139 He could be later found there, talking with The Ebon Watcher, actually Darion Mograine under disguise. The two discussed the Lich King's reaction following the Battle of Angrathar the Wrathgate, and the Argent Crusade's difficulties in advancing beyond the Valley of Echoes after the arrival of nerubian from Scourgeholme to close the breaches. The tone began to rise when Darion said that Tirion could not win, because of the virtues of the Light which chains him, while the Lich King is free from all morality and will not hesitate to use all means to destroy the living to the very last. In response, Tirion threatened him to carefully choose his words in the future and that he will not lower himself to the Scourge's level; as they will do this with honor lest they become the monster they are trying to kill.The Ebon Watcher#Quotes
After he received a few adventurers sent by his faithful knights,Judgment Day Comes! he asked them to support Crusade Commander Entari in an attempt to save the situation in the Valley of Echoes and at the Breach.Honor Above All ElseInto The Wild Green YonderA Cold Front Approaches Once the areas were secured, he ordered his troops to advance the front and sent the adventurers with Darion to take care of Scourgeholme.Once More Unto The Breach, Hero After the fall of the undead fortress,Into The Frozen Heart Of Northrend Tirion sent the adventurers with his :Blessed Banner of the Crusade to aid Father Gustav in the conquest of the Crusaders' Pinnacle,The Battle For Crusaders' Pinnacle and arrived later with his troops to thank them for all their efforts.The Crusaders' Pinnacle
During the most intense phase of the battle in Icecrown, Tirion discovered that Arthas's frozen heart had been retrieved from the depths beneath Icecrown Citadel and taken to the Cathedral of Darkness. With it, he decided there could be a chance to make Arthas human again, redeeming him and ending the threat of the Lich King simultaneously. He planned to seize the frozen organ in an ambush, as it was being transported by agents of the Cult of the Damned from Icecrown Citadel, to the Cathedral of Darkness for destruction.Tirion's Help
As Tirion and his selected champions entered the Cathedral, disguised as cultists, the heart arrived. Before the trap could be sprung, however, the Lich King himself appeared, immediately seeing through the paladins' trick and claiming that, unlike last time, they would not be fighting on holy ground and Tirion would lose. After he threatened to destroy the heart, the Lich King calling this bluff as the paladin would never forsake the slight hope for Arthas's redemption, Tirion claimed that he had since seen that there could be no redemption for Arthas, as there was no Arthas left to redeem. He then proceeded to strike the organ with the Ashbringer, critically injuring the Lich King and triggering an explosion that knocked Tirion unconscious. As the Argent champions moved to defend Tirion from the surrounding cultists, Darion Mograine and a force of Ebon Knights arrived, holding back the tide of Scourge forces. As the Lich King began to channel a spell to slay all present, Darion created a portal back to Crusaders' Pinnacle, allowing those gathered to escape.
Despite their failure, Tirion still felt the foray was a success, stating that now he knew for certain that there remained no trace of Arthas Menethil any longer—only the Lich King.Tirion's Gambit
At some point, Tirion called an adventurer whom he sent to search for the hero Crusader Bridenbrad, who had gone missing after he dragged more than a dozen men to safety, having been attacked by the Scourge at the Broken Front.A Tale of Valor When he learned that the crusader had been infected by the plague of undeath, Tirion refused to leave him to his fate,A Hero Remains and sent the adventurer to find Keeper Remulos at Moonglade, in an attempt to save him with his nature magic.The Keeper's Favor However that was not enough to cure the sickness,Time Yet Remains he then ordered the adventurer to contact Alexstrasza the Life-Binder at Wyrmrest Temple, and to use her flames of life to save him.The Touch of an Aspect Although the crusader's condition improved again, it was not enough, and despairing at this new failure,Hope Yet Remains Tirion made one last attempt by asking for the help and wisdom of the naaru A'dal at Shattrath City.The Will of the Naaru In the end, Bridenbrad could not escape his death,The Boon of A'dal Tirion found comfort in the fact that the naaru made sure he was taken to the Light and that he would never become a slave of the Lich King.Light Within the Darkness
====Call of the Crusade====
As the campaign in Northrend was proceeding well, all that was left was the final assault on Icecrown Citadel, however, Tirion sent word to Garrosh Hellscream and Varian Wrynn to hold back, as he believed that a full overwhelming assault was exactly what the Lich King wanted.
In fact, Tirion believed there was only one way to conquer Icecrown: a small, surgical strike force could punch a hole in the citadel's defenses and fight its way to the Lich King. To that end, Tirion called upon Azeroth's champions to prove themselves worthy of this crucial mission. Thus the Argent Tournament was born. Despite the tension between the factions, both trusted Tirion Fordring, as he had shown exemplary bravery in his fight to protect Light's Hope Chapel, and the Horde remembered his commitment to justice in defense of the orc Eitrigg many years earlier. None doubted his sincerity and single-minded desire to see the Lich King destroyed, and there was no shortage of heroes willing to march at his side, no matter their faction.
To mark the beginning of the Argent Tournament, the Highlord gave a motivational speech every now and then to prepare to end the Lich King's reign. He invited every Alliance and Horde fighter to come and prove their worth, their abilities, and their prowess to be worthy to march alongside the Argent Crusade to the gates of Icecrow Citadel.
Upon the Alliance's arrival, he greeted King Varian Wrynn and Jaina Proudmoore and mentioned that their places in the coliseum were waiting for them. As Varian told Tirion that he asked much of him to be away from the battlefield, and to just sit and watch the games while trusting the Horde to keep themselves in check, Tirion assured Varian that his people were here to ensure they honor the rules of engagement, and that his subjects would be delighted to see him in the stands. This answer was enough for Varian who confirmed his support for Tirion, and the Highlord escorts them into the coliseum.
Upon the Horde's arrival, he welcomed Warchief Thrall and Garrosh Hellscream. While Thrall thanked the Highlord for the invitation, Garrosh gave his own opinions on these events, seeing them as a waste of time. In response, Tirion said that he hoped for the merit of these events in time, as they couldn't win against the Scourge if the Alliance and the Horde continued war against one another. While Thrall called it wise, Garrosh called it a fool's hope. The Highlord then hoped that they would behave well in the coliseum.
In the Trial of the Champion, Tirion tested a small party of champions to undergo their opposing faction, to face among the elite of the Argent Crusade, and an unexpected agent of the Cult of the Damned.
Later, the Trial of the Crusader gave a larger group a chance to prove their worth against all odds. First among them were beasts far in the northlands. Then a gnome warlock named Wilfred Fizzlebang, who summoned forth a demon beyond his reach to be bounded to its master, to what Tirion said to the crowd that it should be a lesson to those that dare dabble in dark magic. At some point, Garrosh accused the Alliance of treachery and, in turn, Varian called him a pig, but the Highlord calmed the situation and called on everyone to compose themselves for the tournament must go on. However, champions from the opposing faction were the next combatants that proved to be a shallow and tragic result. Following that, the final challenge consisted of the Scourge's most powerful lieutenants: fearsome Val'kyr.
Upon success, Tirion gave approval that the champions have proved themselves of the Argent Crusade, and together they will march upon the Lich King's stronghold. However, the Lich King appeared in the coliseum, issuing a challenge to the heroes, Tirion told him that he was hopelessly outnumbered and to lay down his weapon, but Arthas disappeared and sent the heroes underground to fight Anub'arak. After another triumphant victory against Arthas' plans, Tirion knew that the champions' skill and cunning will prove to be a powerful weapon against the Scourge. While countless heroes participated in the tournament's trials, Tirion had winnowed the ranks to find his chosen few. He and the Argent Crusade now had their champions. They were joined by Darion Mograine and many of his death knights under the banner of a new order called the Ashen Verdict. Together, they would bring final judgment upon the Lich King.
====Fall of the Lich King====
When the assault on Icecrown Citadel began, Tirion led his troops and ordered his rams to destroy the gates to the Lich King's lair, signaling that the hour of justice had finally come.Fall of the Lich King trailer Inside the Citadel, he ordered the creation of Light's Hammer in the entrance hall of the citadel, and made a speech to prepare them his champions for the biggest fight of their whole life, the one who would determine the future of all living on Azeroth.Light's Hammer#Quotes
When the time had come, Tirion led the Ashen Verdict and his champions in their ascent to the Frozen Throne, defeating the Scourge's mightiest servants which tested their strength and willpower. Upon reaching the location, Tirion ordered the attack on Arthas following a declaration that he would pay for the many thousands he had slain. The Lich King unleashed his full fury, and Tirion with his champions fought back in a valiant battle that shook Icecrown Citadel to its foundations. But despite their valor and heroism, the champions could not prevail as Arthas' power overwhelmed them, and Tirion was subdued in a block of ice, where he could only watch helplessly his champions being slaughtered by the runeblade.
After he killed all the champions, the Lich King revealed to Tirion that he had been waiting for their assault all along, knowing that he would bring with him Azeroth's greatest heroes, who could then be killed and resurrected as powerful masters of the Scourge. While Arthas began to raise them as his champions of the Scourge, Tirion refused to give up, and managed to break free of the ice after a final blessing from the Light. In a final exchange, he shattered Frostmourne with the Ashbringer. The spirits who had been trapped within the runeblade attacked their former jailer and suspended him in the air. The spirit of King Terenas Menethil II resurrected Fordring's champions, who were then able to finish off the immobilized Lich King.
File:Tirion upon Icecrown.jpg|Tirion launches the assault on Icecrown Citadel.
File:Tirion Fordring at Light's Hammer.jpg|Tirion in Icecrown Citadel.
File:Tirion vs Arthas.jpg|Tirion challenges Arthas at the Frozen Throne.
File:The Lich King in Battle.jpg|Tirion frozen by the Lich King in a block of ice.
File:Tirion Mercenaries 3.jpg|Tirion destroys Frostmourne with the Asbringer.
File:Ashbringer vs Frostmourne.jpg|Tirion and Arthas moments after Frostmourne's destruction.
File:Lich King Souls.jpg|Tirion watches as Arthas is attacked by all the souls he's taken.
File:Arthas Death.jpg|Tirion watches as Arthas dies in his father's arms.
File:Tirion and the Helm of Domination.jpg|Tirion with the Helm of Domination in his hand.
After watching Arthas's final moments with his father, Tirion was informed by Terenas that there must always be a Lich King to keep the Scourge in check. The old paladin agreed, but it was not a burden he could ask anyone else to bear. He took up the Helm of Domination and steeled himself to become the jailor of the damned. But before he could don the cursed armor and seal his fate, Bolvar Fordragon intervened. The broken man sat upon the Frozen Throne and told Tirion and the heroes that they had their own destinies to fulfill, and that he would take up the burden of becoming the new Lich King. After saying his last goodbye, Tirion reluctantly placed the crown atop Bolvar's head, sealing the fate of Bolvar, the Scourge, and Azeroth itself.Lich King (tactics)
True to his word, Tirion kept hidden the truth of what had occurred atop Icecrown Citadel to all, save for Darion Mograine,Darion Mograine#Quotes and the leaders of the AllianceThe Price of Peace and the Horde. Later, the victorious champions returned to Dalaran, where a golden statue was built in honor of the heroes who died. At the very top of this monument stands a statue of Tirion, Ashbringer raised, standing over a shattered Frostmourne.
===Cataclysm===
After his victory over the Lich King, Tirion returned to Lordaeron to reclaim Hearthglen from the Scarlet Crusade and resumed his place as lord within Mardenholde Keep.
Following the Cataclysm, and the advance of the crusaders in the restoration of the Plaguelands, he personally welcomed the new recruits among the ranks of the crusade, and invited them to stay at Hearthglen as long as they wish to continue training, and maybe, to help their cause one day.An Audience with the Highlord He later thanked an adventurer for helping the Argent Crusade, firstly with humor and then very seriously, after they tracked down and killed a traitor they had been looking for weeks.Turning Yourself In
===Legion===
Years later, when successfully opened the way for the Burning Legion's third invasion at the Tomb of Sargeras, Tirion and the Argent Crusade were the first to respond and took the fight to the demons at the Broken Shore. However, the battle was a disaster, with armies of demons pouring from the tomb. The Argent Crusade was annihilated and many prisoners were taken, including Tirion. After the Horde and Alliance fleets arrived and pushed toward the tomb, Gul'dan held Tirion above a pool of lava as a trap to lure in Varian Wrynn and Vol'jin's forces. As Tirion prayed for the Light's protection, Gul'dan scoffed and claimed that his light was no match for the power of a real god. The warlock then summoned the giant Krosus, who spewed a storm of fel at Tirion, destroying his :Divine Shield and gravely wounding him, before Gul'dan dropped him into the lava as a final way to erode the Alliance and Horde's morale.The Battle for Broken Shore (quest)
 
Following the battle, Maxwell Tyrosus believed that contacting Uther the Lightbringer's spirit would allow them to discover the current whereabouts of the lost legendary weapon.Seeking Guidance Thus, Maxwell and a Champion of the Light journeyed to Uther's Tomb and contacted the legendary paladin, who revealed that they had to hurry if they wished to recover the Ashbringer, and that Tirion still clung to life.The Light Reveals (quest)
A prisoner on the Broken Shore, Tirion had indeed survived his fall into the lava and was held captive by Jailer Zerus who tried to break him. He was later freed by the Argent Crusade, but the torture he received was too much for him. After choosing a new Ashbringer, he asked them to defeat the Legion before dying to his wounds. His body was then taken by Maxwell Tyrosus and buried beneath Light's Hope Chapel.We Meet at Light's Hope A memorial service was held in his honor, during which Tyrosus named the new wielder of the Ashbringer as the new Highlord of the Silver Hand.A United Force
 
Later during the invasion, the Lich King Bolvar Fordragon ordered the Deathlord to rebuild the Four Horsemen and choose the recently fallen Tirion Fordring to be their leader. Initially Darion Mograine opposed this order, considering that Tirion deserved more than a life of anguish and undeath, as he was one of the greatest champions Azeroth has known. Ultimately, the Knights of the Ebon Blade had no choice but to obey and launched the Assault on Light's Hope Chapel. However, they failed to obtain his body from the Knights of the Silver Hand, as the Light itself protected the tomb of Tirion. It was therefore Darion who took his place as leader of the Four Horsemen.
Upon killing enemies, the Ashbringer may whisper to its new wielder, the voice and quotes being those of Tirion Fordring when he was alive.
==Locations==
==Abilities==
;Classic
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
;Old Hillsbrad
*Heal
*Holy Shock
*Judgment
;Light's Hope Chapel
*
;Icecrown and Hearthglen
*
==Quests==
===Wrath of the Lich King===
*Judgment Day Comes! 
*Honor Above All Else 
*Into The Wild Green Yonder 
*A Cold Front Approaches 
*Once More Unto The Breach, Hero 
*Into The Frozen Heart Of Northrend 
*The Battle For Crusaders' Pinnacle 
*The Crusaders' Pinnacle 
*A Tale of Valor 
*A Hero Remains 
*The Keeper's Favor 
*Time Yet Remains 
*The Touch of an Aspect 
*Hope Yet Remains 
*The Will of the Naaru 
*Light Within the Darkness 
*Tirion's Help/Argent Aid 
*Tirion's Gambit 
===Cataclysm===
*An Audience with the Highlord 
*Turning Yourself In 
===World of Warcraft===
*Blood Tinged Skies 
*Carrion Grubbage 
*Demon Dogs 
When all three above were complete, the following became available:
*Redemption (Classic) 
**Of Forgotten Memories 
***Of Lost Honor 
****Of Love and Family (1) 
****Of Love and Family (2) 
*****Find Myranda 
==Quotes==
===Of Blood and Honor===
*You are assuming that there are more orcs out there, Barthilas. I was there, and I saw none. I will not sound the call to arms before we've confirmed the facts. This is not the time to start jumping at shadows. We must remain calm and vigilant.
*You’ll watch your tone with me, boy. I am still governor of this province, and your direct superior as a Paladin. For so long as I am, we will do things the wayI see fit. You are to stand down and remain within the keep’s grounds until I order you to do otherwise. Is that clear?
*Taelan: Are you going to fight the green men, Poppa?
:Tirion: I don't know yet, son. I just don't know.
*Yet I am their lord, Eitrigg. They shall do as I say. I give you my solemn oath as a Light-sworn Paladin that your secret will be safe. None shall hunt you while I have power to prevent it.
*I will remain committed to the Alliance until my dying day. Of that, have no doubt. But I cannot disavow the oath I took. To do so would be to betray everything I am and everything we, as honorable men, hold dear.
*Thanks for your help, Arden. This has been. . . very difficult. I just wanted you to know that you’ve been a good friend to me. I’m sorry all this has happened.
*No! You will not die, Eitrigg! Do you hear me? You will not die on me! By the grace of the Light, may your brethren be healed. In its grace he will be made anew.
===The Ashbringer===
*Then the Light has misled you. I'm an exile, a pariah. My advice is that you turn away... and seek counsel elsewhere.
*By the grace of the Light, let me see what others cannot.
*An act of love. I've been giving it careful consideration... I believe that only an act of love greater than the act of evil that corrupted the sword will be powerful enough to free your father's soul. But be warned: such an act is often the ultimate test of faith.
*I've seen everything that was good in my life. Wither on the vine and all for what? No, i do not care to be involved.
===World of Warcraft===
====Original====
:Race does not dictate honor, <race>. While you remain on my farmstead, I ask that you remember and respect this credo.
:I have known orcs who have been as honorable the most noble of knights and humans who have been as vile as the most ruthless of Scourge.
:But I shall not bore you with tales of my youth! There is much work to be done - if that is what you desire.
====Tirion's story in his own words====
After completing his first three quests, this conversation opens with Tirion, as part of the next quest in his chain:
:I must apologize for not being entirely truthful with you in regards to my identity. I had to be certain you could be trusted — few people would have selflessly lent assistance to an old and forgotten hermit.
:You have proven yourself as one of those people: A person of integrity and honor.
:My son, Taelan, was only a child when I was found guilty of treason and banished by the Alliance to live a life in exile. I chose to remain here so that I could watch over him; to somehow insure that he would grow up an honorable man.
:As I had hoped, he took my place as lord of Mardenholde; but in a cruel twist of fate, joined the ranks of the Scarlet Crusade. He is now their Highlord, <race>.
:Indeed. The Scarlet Crusade are an aberration of the Order of the Silver Hand.
:You must believe me, <race>; Taelan is a good man. He needs to remember...remember what it is to be noble and honorable. I know that in his heart, he knows what he does is wrong. Will you help him? Will you help him remember?
;Dialogue
===The Burning Crusade===
===Wrath of the Lich King===
;Greetings
*Put your faith in the Light, and all is possible.
*Only by working together can we succeed!
*The time of the Argent Crusade...is now!
*We shall triumph!
;Irritated
*There is much work to be done.
*Shouldn't you be off, then?
*Your skills are impressive...
*...but your manners need work.
*Don't test me, child!
;Farewell
*Find the strength within you.
*Do not lose faith!
*The end of the Scourge draws near.
*Each of us has a role to play.
*Courage is our greatest weapon.
====Call of the Crusade====
====Icecrown Citadel====
===Legion===
;The Search for the Highlord
;Greeting
*Help... me...
*There... isn't much time...
*So... weak...
*(Cough)
;Dialogue
==Personality==
Rising from the ranks of a knight and later a paladin, Tirion Fordring was a man of honor — and his commitment to upholding his honor no matter the cost often brought him into conflict with his family and friends. His wife Karandra Fordring often lamented the sacrifices she had to make in order to adapt to her husband's tendency to place his personal honor above everything else - his family included. So, for instance, when Fordring attempted to explain to his wife and to his long-time friend Arden that his commitment to saving the life of Eitrigg was a matter of honor, he encountered, for the most part, a total lack of understanding, with both Arden and Karandra arguing that he also has a responsibility to his family and his subjects — a responsibility he should not neglect in the name of honor.
In the end, Tirion's honor was the ultimate cause of his downfall — during his trial, he was offered an opportunity to be restored to good standing within the Alliance if only he would renounce the vow he gave to Eitrigg. Tirion refused, saying that his honor precluded him from doing so. Consequently, he paid heavily for the honor he held in such high esteem. Not only was he stripped of his office and estates, but his family — Karandra Fordring and Taelan — refused to accompany him into exile, his wife stating that she would not let him ruin their lives as he had ruined his own. Thus, after his rescue of Eitrigg from the gallows in Stratholme, honor was very much the only thing Tirion still had.
After his exile and the fall of Lordaeron to the Scourge, Tirion fell into inactivity, feeling there was no reason for him to fight. That all changed, however, with the death of Taelan. Filled with righteous anger at the loss of his beloved son, Tirion vowed to reestablish the Knights of the Silver Hand, to oppose the spread of evil in the world. As the new wielder of the legendary Ashbringer, he later led the Argent Crusade in a holy crusade against the Lich King, and defeated the Dark Lord of the Scourge at the Frozen Throne. A selfless man, he attempted to sacrifice himself by wearing the Helm of Domination, in order to become the Jailer of the Damned and protect Azeroth from the uncontrolled Scourge, before being replaced by Bolvar Fordragon.
In the years that followed, he continued to dedicate his life to protecting the world, and when the Burning Legion returned, he was the first with his men to be at the front to fight the demons, which cost him his life. His death was a shock to the whole world, as he was recognized as a model of virtue and honor by all.
==In the RPG==
thumb|Tirion slaying undead in the Plaguelands.
While journeying through the Plaguelands, Brann Bronzebeard encountered Tirion Fordring, dressed in little more than rags but carrying a large platinum warhammer. At first, he thought he was a survivor with a salvaged weapon. When he approached, a ghoul leapt from behind a nearby ruined wall, but the human turned fluidly and crushed the beast, and Brann knew he was a seasoned warrior. After the fight, Tirion Fordring introduced himself as a paladin, and they shared a camp that night, where he told his tale about Eitrigg, his banishment, and also about his son Taelan Fordring among the ranks of the Scarlet Crusade, manipulated by Grand Inquisitor Isillien.
After this meeting, Brann described Tirion to be a strong and honorable warrior, and that he would prove a valuable ally against the Scourge, for he has a great deal of experience both combating undead and leading soldiers.
When Taelan Fordring led an expedition to retake the small community of Cinderhome, in an attempt to expand the Scarlet Crusade’s influence, they were attacked by a Scourge host. As Tirion Fordring observed this whole endeavor, he worried for his son and desperately called for heroes to help him break through the undead line, in order to save the Crusaders within. He also hoped to use this situation as an opportunity to extirpate Taelan from the Crusade’s grasp or, failing that, as a way to prove that not all those who wander the Plaguelands are evil.Lands of Conflict, pg. 110 - 111
==In Hearthstone==
*Tirion appears as a legendary card for the paladin class in Hearthstone. Upon death, he equips the player with an Ashbringer weapon. His flavor text reads: If you haven't heard the Tirion Fordring theme song, it's because it doesn't exist.
*Tirion appears as an epic Fighter mercenary in the game mode.
*In the that was available during the 20th anniversary of Blizzard's Diablo franchise, the TCG artwork for In Dreams depicting Tirion was used to represent the warlock hero Dark Wanderer, a character from Diablo.
==Notes and trivia==
*Tirion had green eyes.
*Tirion enjoyed Ezra Grimm's tobacco.The Great Ezra Grimm
*Artist Renfray, who made the :Of Love and Family painting depicting the Fordring family, considered Tirion an "old friend".Artist Renfray#Quotes
*Tirion is considered to be a hero of legend and song.Shadows Rising, chapter 6
*Tirion is remembered by the Silver Hand and his statue is located in the Sanctum of Light. His plaque says: "Friend, brother, mentor. Highlord Fordring was a paragon of the Light - an exemplar of what all paladins strive to be. May his spirit guide us in the dark days to come."
*Khadgar blamed Krosus for Tirion's death, though he admitted after the creature was slain that this isn't entirely accurate.Krosus#Quotes
*Years after Tirion's death, Darion Mograine reunited with his father Alexandros in the Shadowlands and told him of how Tirion had taken up the Ashbringer. Alexandros commented that he could think of few people who were more worthy, and he disapproved of the Ebon Blade's failed attempt to raise the man into undeath.Covenants Renewed
*Tirion recommends the :Hearthglen Ambrosia.World of Warcraft: The Official Cookbook
*Tirion Fordring's Gold Coin can be fished from the Dalaran Fountain.
*In the novel Arthas: Rise of the Lich King, Tirion is present in Stormwind when Arthas became a paladin (Year 15). When Tirion has a court (around the Year 18), Arthas, already a paladin, is present but according to Of Blood and Honor Tirion had never met the young prince before.
**This is probably an oversight, as Of Blood and Honor (Chris Metzen, 2001) was written far earlier than Arthas: Rise of the Lich King (Christie Golden, 2009).
*Tirion is voiced by Floyd Van Buskirk.
==Gallery==
File:Fordring.gif|Of Love and Family in World of Warcraft.
File:TirionHillsbrad.jpg|Tirion in Old Hillsbrad in The Burning Crusade.
File:Tirion in Tier 10.jpg|Tirion at Light's Hammer (patch 3.3 PTR different armor color).
File:Tirion Fordring in Cataclysm.jpg|Tirion in Hearthglen in Cataclysm, prior to the player character revamp.
File:Tirion Fordring WoD.jpg|Tirion in Hearthglen's Mardenholde Keep, after the player character revamp.
File:Tirion Fordring statue.jpg|A statue of Tirion in Hearthglen in Cataclysm.
File:Tirion Fordring Sanctum of Light statue.jpg|Tirion's statue in the Sanctum of Light.
File:Tomb of Highlord Tirion Fordring.png|Tomb of Highlord Tirion Fordring in the Hall of Champions.
File:Step Into the Light - Kneeling.jpg|Tirion (right) during Uther's ceremony, in Alonsus Chapel.
File:Chronicle 3 - Lich King original art.jpg|Alternate art of the Fall of the Lich King.
File:TirionAshbringerComic2.jpg|Tirion confronting Eitrigg in the Ashbringer comic.
File:TirionAshbringerComic3.jpg|Tirion saves Eitrigg from his executioner.
File:Tirion Fordring Raneman.jpg|Tirion by Glenn Rane.
File:Tirion Fordring younger Book of Heroes.jpg|A in in Hearthstone.
File:Wrath of the Lich King - A Pandemic System Board Game Key art.jpg|Wrath of the Lich King - A Pandemic System Board Game key art.
File:Statue Tirion Pose.png|In Warcraft Arclight Rumble.
===Trading Card Game===
File:In dreams tcg.jpg|In Dreams, card with Tirion Fordring, in the Heroes of Azeroth set.
File:Highlord Tirion Fordring TCG.jpg|Highlord Tirion Fordring, in the Wrathgate set.
File:Scourgewar Icecrown.jpg|Icecrown set key art, Tirion vs. the Lich King.
File:Tirion's Gambit TCG.jpg|Tirion's Gambit (Icecrown).
File:Tirion TCG.jpg|Highlord Tirion Fordring (Assault on Icecrown Citadel, front).
File:Tirion TCG2.jpg|Highlord Tirion Fordring (Assault on Icecrown Citadel, back).
File:Tirion the Ashbringer.jpg|Tirion, the Ashbringer (Assault on Icecrown Citadel).
File:Blessed Defense (Assault on Icecrown Citadel) TCG.jpg|Blessed Defense (Assault on Icecrown Citadel).
File:Tirion Fordring TCG.jpg|Blessing of Defense (Assault on Icecrown Citadel).
File:Blessing of Trials (Assault on Icecrown Citadel) TCG.jpg|Blessing of Trials (Assault on Icecrown Citadel).
File:Hammer of Justice (Assault on Icecrown Citadel) TCG.jpg|Hammer of Justice (Assault on Icecrown Citadel).
File:Holy Light (Assault on Icecrown Citadel) TCG.jpg|Holy Light (Assault on Icecrown Citadel).
File:Redemption TCG 2.jpg|Redemption (Assault on Icecrown Citadel).
File:Vindictive Strike TCG 2.jpg|Vindictive Strike (Assault on Icecrown Citadel).
===Fanart===
File:Tirion vs Deathwing.jpg|Fanart of Tirion rallying against Deathwing.
File:Knights of the Silver Hand by Jiang Feng.jpg|Knights of the Silver Hand by Jiang Feng.
File:FormationoftheSilverHand.jpg|The formation of the Silver Hand, as featured in World of Warcraft Chronicle Tribute: Hourglass of Time.
==Videos==
<vplayer/>
==Patch changes==
*
*
*
*
==See also==
*Tirion's Devotion
*Threads of Tirion
*Tirion's Headwrap
;TCG cards
*Highlord Tirion Fordring (Wrathgate), (Wrathgate)
*Tirion, the Ashbringer, (Assault on Icecrown Citadel Treasure)
*Highlord Tirion Fordring (Assault on Icecrown Citadel), (Assault on Icecrown Citadel)
==References==
==External links==
NPC	Object
 	
Category:Human characters
Category:Statues
Category:Paladin characters
Category:Knights
Category:Warrior characters
Category:Knights of the Silver Hand
Category:Argent Crusade characters
Category:Ashen Verdict
Category:Deceased characters
Category:Quest givers
Category:Removed Eastern Plaguelands NPCs
Category:Old Hillsbrad Foothills NPCs
Category:Scarlet Enclave NPCs
Category:Icecrown NPCs
Category:Argent Tournament NPCs
Category:Trial of the Crusader NPCs
Category:Icecrown Citadel NPCs
Category:Western Plaguelands NPCs
Category:Battle for Broken Shore
Category:Broken Shore NPCs
Category:Stratholme NPCs
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Category:Tides of Darkness characters
Category:World of Warcraft: Ashbringer characters
Category:Arthas: Rise of the Lich King characters
Category:World of Warcraft: Death Knight characters
Category:Readable objects
Category:Sanctum of Light objects
Category:Lands of Conflict
Category:Alliance Player's Guide
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Category:Hearthstone legendary cards
Category:Shadows Rising characters
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