Darnassus (nation)

Darnassus is a nation of night elves and a member state of the Alliance. Named after their former capital city, Darnassus constructed in the tree crown of Teldrassil, the nation has kept the name after the loss of their home in the War of the Thorns.
The nation of Darnassus is the cultural descendant of the ancient Kaldorei Empire, having been led by High Priestess Tyrande Whisperwind throughout the Long Vigil but have only risen to its current form and name after the Battle of Mount Hyjal and creation of Teldrassil by Archdruid Fandral Staghelm in the aftermath of the Third War. With Tyrande's marriage to Archdruid Malfurion Stormrage, the two have since been co-rulers of the kaldorei nation.
==History==
===The end of the Long Vigil===
During the several thousand years-period called the Long Vigil, Tyrande Whisperwind led the kaldorei Sentinels in defense of their isolated forest homes in Northern Kalimdor until they were involved in the Third War, when refugees from the Eastern Kingdoms arrived on the continent in large numbers. The orcs, seeking resources, had sent the Warsong clan to Ashenvale, unaware of the area's inhabitants. The night elves took great offense to the orcish presence in their lands and attacked. While the orcs had some initial victories, that ended when Cenarius arrived, mistaking the orcs for demons and destroying most of their outposts. In desperation, the Warsong clan once more consumed demon blood, becoming powerful chaos orcs and proceeded to kill Cenarius.Warcraft III campaigns: The Invasion of Kalimdor and Eternity's End
At the height of this conflict, the Burning Legion and its terrifying undead Scourge assaulted the night elves' lands. Tyrande rallied the night elf defenders and awoke Malfurion Stormrage and his druids from the Emerald Dream to combat the resurgent threat. For the vast majority of the third war, the night elves remained hostile to the allied Horde and Alliance Expedition. Only during the final battle, the Battle of Mount Hyjal, did the night elves join with the mortal races, standing to defend the world tree. In the end, even this alliance didn't manage to stop the invading demons, but it managed to delay them long enough for Malfurion to complete a magic ritual. Archimonde, the leader of the demonic invasion, was torn apart by thousands of Wisps, finally being killed by the world tree itself.
Although victorious, the night elves suffered greatly from the battle with Archimonde at Mount Hyjal. Their beloved World Tree Nordrassil, created and blessed by the Dragon Aspects Alexstrasza, Ysera, and Nozdormu to grant the night elves immortality, had been sacrificed to elicit a massive blast of energy to slay Archimonde. With Nordrassil's destruction, so went the night elves' sole source of protection from aging, disease, and frailty.World of Warcraft: Game Manual
====Creation of Teldrassil====
Over time, Nordrassil slowly began to heal its wounds, but a number of druids led by Fandral Staghelm desired to create another World Tree that would restore the night elves' immortality. Malfurion warned against this act of self-interest, but he fell into a coma caused by :morrowgrain,Stormrage his spirit lost within the Dream, Fandral forged ahead with his plans unopposed, becoming the new leader of the druids. Aided by the Circle of the Ancients, Teldrassil was planted off the stormy coast of northern Kalimdor secretly using a branch from Xavius' tree-body, and eventually it towered among the clouds. Within this tree, the night elves founded the great city of Darnassus in honor of their survivalStormrage, pg. 7 - and thus formed this new nation in its name. However, the dragon aspects refused to bless this new tree,The events of the Teldrassil quests and Teldressil would soon fell prey to the corruption of both the Burning Legion and the Emerald Nightmare.
Tyrande, however, embraced their new capital which would quickly become the center of kaldorei political, spiritual, and military power in the world. She devoted herself fully to leading her people from Darnassus, promoting her right hand Shandris Feathermoon to serve as General of the Sentinels in her stead.
===World of Warcraft===
In Darnassus, Tyrande ruled from the Temple of the Moon, surrounded by members of the Sisterhood of Elune. The Warrior's Terrace would become the main base for the city's Sentinel guardians. The night elves made Darnassus their new capital city, and with Malfurion gone, Tyrande became the sole leader of the night elves, priestesses, Sentinels and Darnassus. Tyrande strived to keep the night elves from reliving the mistakes of the past, but Archdruid Fandral Staghelm's radical beliefs and aggressive demeanor would often lead him and Tyrande to openly quarrel.
Four years passed since the mortal races banded together and stood united against the might of the Burning Legion in the Battle of Mount Hyjal. Though Azeroth was saved, the tenuous pact between the night elves, the Horde and Alliance soon evaporated.WoW official trailer Since the end of the Third War, the night elves were steadfast members of the Alliance.Waning Hope Not all night elves joined the Alliance, however, with the druids of the neutral Cenarion Circle settled in the city of Nighthaven. Though individual druids still have roles in the night elf nation, the druids as an organization remain neutral to this day, even accepting and training members of the Horde.
====Corruption at home====
Over time, the calm of Teldrassil's enchanted forests would slowly fall into the shadow of a sinister presence. Crazed furbolgs and fouler beasts began to appear on Teldrassil, occupying all the attention of the ever-vigilant Sentinels and the wise druids.The World of Warcraft Townhall/World Map Tyrande became aware of the corruption eating away at the Emerald Dream. When Eranikus assaulted Moonglade, the High Priestess led a half dozen of her fellow priestesses to aid the defenders. Tyrande herself took on Eranikus alongside Remulos. Despite the strength of the Nightmare eating away at Eranikus, the light of Elune as channeled through Tyrande was enough to free the "Tyrant of the Dream".Eranikus, Tyrant of the Dream
The Sentinel Army were active dealing with the spirits of the Highborne in Shadowsong Shrine of Azshara.Spiritual Unrest
====War against the Horde====
Tensions with the Horde would further demand the presence of the Sentinel Army. The night elves began a massive push to retake the forests of Ashenvale. focusing their efforts on ridding the land of the Warsong Outriders in the Warsong Gulch once and for all. The Silverwing Sentinels in particular would answer the call, swearing not to rest until every last orc was defeated and cast out of Warsong Gulch. To this day, the battle over the area remains fierce. The Sentinels also remained wary of more local threats, such as recent furbolg attacks into Ashenvale.The World of Warcraft Bestiary
As members of the Grand Alliance, the night elves also began deploying Sentinels to distant lands at this time taking part in multiple international conflicts. Several units were thus present in Alterac Valley assisting the dwarven Stormpike Guard, and Darnassus would once again be fighting in the Ahn'Qiraj War.The events of the Silithus quests Alliance Outrunners were present in the Barrens.
===The Burning Crusade===
A group of Sentinels was likewise sent to pressure the Horde in Quel'Thalas, where they established themselves on Shalandis Isle with the aim of spying on the blood elves.
The Sentinels stood alongside their Alliance brethren during the invasion of Outland, and were among the first Azerothians to push through the reopened Dark Portal. They would take part in the Battle for the Dark Portal, mostly as archers in support of the front line troops, and continued to hold the line as a foothold was established. Later in the campaign, Sentinel units were active in the region of Blade's Edge Mountain, where they established the outpost of Sylvanaar.
===World of Warcraft: The Comic===
When Broll Bearmantle and Lo'Gosh visited Darnassus to give the Idol of Remulos to Fandral Staghelm, they also met Tyrande at the Temple of the Moon and later on at dinner when Lo'Gosh told his story to the priestess. She sensed the dark magic in his amnesia and sent the two friends to seek Jaina Proudmoore's council in Theramore.World of Warcraft: The Comic, Issue 6: Blood
When the Lich King awoke, he sent his Scourge into all corners of Azeroth. To defeat the Plague of Undeath and necropolises, members of the Church of the Holy Light traveled to Shattrath City and created an artifact of the naaru's Light. Adventurers of the Alliance delivered it to Tyrande to defend the World Tree. Tyrande also added that the elves sensed another World Tree in the domain of the Lich King.Darnassus (quest)
===Wrath of the Lich King===
During the war against the Lich King in Northrend, Sentinels were among the multitude of Alliance forces that composed the Valiance Expedition. Similarly, many night elf soldiers were by this time members of the 7th Legion, which spearheaded the Alliance's advance against the Scourge. A predominantly Sentinel outpost in the form of Stars' Rest was established in the Dragonblight and served as a base for operations against the blue dragonflight in the area.
Jaelyne Evensong led a delegation of Darnassus representatives in the Argent Tournament.
Tyrande was present at the Elemental Unrest meeting in Stormwind City where she expressed her belief that the earthquakes may have been what brought the Highborne from Shen'dralar.
===Stormrage===
In the War Against the Nightmare, the corruption of Teldrassil worsened and druids in the nation of Darnassus started slipping into comas like Malfurion Stormrage had years ago, their spirits drawn by the Emerald Nightmare. Shandris Feathermoon commanded the Sentinels and the Sisters of Elune to help the citizens of Darnassus, while druids aided by the green dragonflight, Lord Xavius, and the Nightmare that he had orchestrated was defeated and most of its' corruption cleansed. In the aftermath, Ysera and Alexstrasza blessed Teldrassil, restoring nature's ancient bond with the night elves. Malfurion and Tyrande got married, now sharing rulership of the night elf nation.
===The Shattering: Prelude to Cataclysm===
When word reached the night elves of Magni Bronzebeard's fate (turning into stone while trying to help heal the land), Tyrande personally came to Ironforge. With Malfurion by her side, she was in attendance during the ceremony honoring Magni. It was during this time that Lady Whisperwind met the young prince of Stormwind for the first time.The Shattering: Prelude to Cataclysm, chapter 16
A dozen Sentinels guarding a crop caravan were attacked and killed by the Twilight's Hammer cult in Ashenvale. Blame for the act would, however, be manipulated to fall on the Horde and their new Warchief Garrosh Hellscream. Two soldiers arrived in Stormwind City to report the attack to High King Varian Wrynn. These events would result in a meeting between Hamuul Runetotem, Elerethe Renferal, and other druids, as well as Cairne Bloodhoof challenging Garrosh to a mak'gora duel.The Shattering: Prelude to Cataclysm
===Cataclysm===
The natural disasters caused by the Cataclysm took many lives from Rut'theran and other night elf villages across the nation's territory, including Feralas and the battles against the Hatecrest naga there. When Tyrande returned to Darnassus, she conducted a memorial service for all those who had fallen from the recent calamitous events.
In the Eastern Kingdoms, a group of Sentinels and night elves were sent to the Wetlands in search of the Greenwarden, where they established Greenwarden's Grove. There they would come into conflict with the Dragonmaw clan, though the Sentinels were easily able to hold off the orcs' attacks.The Crazed Dragonmaw
====Dealing with Teldrassil's corruption====
Among the foremost guardians of Teldrassil, the Sentinels were some of the first to respond to emergent threats to the World Tree. By the time of the Cataclysm, the corruption buried deep within the tree itself had begun to emerge and threatened to overtake the region. The Sentinels continued to draw on all available recruits to aid their efforts, especially around the area of Shadowglen.The Balance of Nature#Notes These forces dealt with many new enemies across Teldrassil, particularly the corrupted Gnarlpine tribe of furbolgs based from Ban'ethil Hollow.Resident Danger Sentinel forces were also dispatched to the Oracle Glade, to push back an encroaching colony of harpies.The Enchanted Glade In the end, the corruption afflicting Teldrassil was decisively purged, and the future of the World Tree secured.The Vengeance of Elune
====The Shen'dralar is welcomed====
A group of Highborne known as the Shen'dralar successfully appealed to Tyrande Whisperwind to be allowed to make a return to kaldorei society. After the Sundering, the night elves had outlawed arcane magic on the pain of death.The Warcraft Encyclopedia/Night Elves However, some time before the Cataclysm a Highborne archmage named Mordent Evenshade sought an audience with Tyrande and proposed to set aside long-standing differences and to combine resources, skills and numbers to prepare the wider night elven race for the challenges it faces. Despite the doubts of certain Sentinels,Sentinel Stillbough this proposal was accepted. The Shen'dralar were allowed a cautious return among their kaldorei brethren, with some young night elves being trained by them to become new night elven mages, and, conversely, some of the Highborne taking up the druidic arts or being initiated into Elune's priesthood, major societal changes that marked the first steps towards reconciliation between the Highborne and wider night elven society.
====The Gilnean refugees====
 
After an outbreak spread the worgen curse uncontrollably across the war-torn nation of Gilneas, the Shattering also destroyed the reefs which protected this human kingdom from naval attacks, causing the Forsaken to launch an invasion. A contingent of Sentinels with heavy siege weaponry accompanied a major fleet that landed at Keel Harbor, assisting the worgen in acquiring the Scythe of Elune, helping them to understand and deal with their transformation and holding back the Forsaken's assault. Together, the Sentinels and Gilneans bought the civilian populace time to evacuate by ship to Teldrassil.The events from the Worgen starting experience After this, the kaldorei integrated the Gilnean Worgen into their culture; granting them asylum within Darnassus itself, in the Howling Oak, allowing several female worgen warriors to join the Sentinel armyAdella, Silvia and Tambre and bringing worgen druids into the Cenarion Circle.Selyria Groenveld
Tyrande and Malfurion conducted a summit near Darnassus in order to vote the kingdom of Gilneas into the Alliance. However, resentment of Gilneas and its ruler, Genn Greymane, ran deep in Stormwind's King Varian Wrynn. However, Varian's animosity was only one of many unsettling developments in Darnassus. An uneasiness crept over the once-immortal night elves as the first of them fell victim to the infirmities of age. While they coped with their mortality, tensions flared over the reintroduction of the Highborne into their society. Many night elves were unable to pardon the Highborne for the destruction unleashed on Azeroth millennia ago by their reckless use of magic. When a murdered Highborne was discovered on the outskirts of Darnassus, Malfurion and Tyrande moved to stop further bloodshed and unrest by appointing one of the night elves' most cunning and skilled agents to find the killer: the renowned warden Maiev Shadowsong. Jarod Shadowsong, Maiev's brother, had also returned and brought his wife with him in an attempt to heal her of her illness. Jarod cooperated with Maiev in helping her with her case. Meanwhile, Malfurion attempted to mend fences between Varian and Genn.
====Drama in Feralas====
General of the Sentinel Army Shandris Feathermoon and her stronghold on the Sardor Isle in southern Kalimdor was invaded by a Hatecrest naga force led by Lady Szenastra.Seeds of Faith Nelara was tasked with the evacuation of the civilians from the stronghold. The naga eventually drove them from the island, while Shandris and a few survivors were rescued by Tyrande and Malfurion. Shandris relocated to the mainland where they built a new fortress.The Battle of Sardor The Sentinels remained undeterred, however, and launched a massive effort to push the naga out of their territory. With help from Alliance heroes, Shandris and her forces were successful in crushing the invaders' ranks and slaying their leader.General Skessesh (quest) The new war effort in Feralas at this time would lead to several changes for the Sentinels themselves, such as the addition of the Moonclaw worgen to their ranks for the first time. General Feathermoon herself would mentor at least three of the worgen to serve as her lieutenants.General Shandris Feathermoon
In other parts of Feralas, the night elves worked against Cho'gall and the Gordunni ogre clan, who sought to abuse ancient powers within Dire Maul. To properly wage this campaign, the Sentinels called on their allies from the forests, including local wisps, hippogryphs, and treants. Their forces rallied, the kaldorei confronted Cho'gall himself in Dire Maul's arena, where they decisively defeated him. This victory would end Twilight's Hammer influence in Dire Maul, and firmly drive the cult from Feralas.Might of the Sentinels Under orders from Feathermoon, Sentinel and Alliance forces would further make war on the Woodpaw gnolls in southern Feralas. The gnolls were eventually dealt with, and the Sentinels further rallied the region's faerie dragons and mountain giants for their war effort. Other threats neutralized at this time included the silithid infesting the Writhing Deep,Stinglasher (Alliance) and the ogre garrison at the Gordunni Outpost.Taming The Tamers (Alliance) Sentinels forces would also engage with the Grimtotem tribe in and around New Thalanaar in Feralas's far east. The tauren laid siege to the outpost in an attempt to seize the area, and fighting between them and the kaldorei defenders would spill over into neighboring Thousand Needles. This particular conflict would continue for some time, even after the end of the Cataclysm.Traveler: The Spiral Path, pg. 114
====The Ashenvale war====
Soon after the evacuation of Gilneans, the Ashenvale war started when Warchief Garrosh Hellscream began a renewed campaign to conquer Ashenvale, launching two separate Horde offensives in the region.The events of the Ashenvale storyline Across the zone, Sentinel forces with assistance from the rest of the Alliance worked to halt or turn back the Horde's advance centered on Astranaar, with varying degrees of success. Small-scale skirmishes with the Horde would occur at Bathran's Haunt and in the areas surrounding Astranaar. Astranaar itself was also attacked by Hellscream's Hellions from the air, and the town was subsequently set on fire. Sentinel and Alliance forces were eventually able to control the blaze while using glaive throwers to repel the airborne attackers.Astranaar's Burning! Throughout the coming campaign, Astranaar would remain intact as the Sentinels' main base in Ashenvale.
Early in the conflict, the fortified position at Silverwind Refuge was one of the first bases to fall to the Horde, who turned the resident water elementals against the sentinel defenders. The surviving forces would regroup at Stardust Spire, as Silverwind became the Horde's launching point for the coming campaign. The Sentinel Army would strike would go on the offensive against the Warsong Lumber Camp to the east, with the intention of interrupting their logging efforts there.Agents of Destruction Accompanied by ancients of War, the sentinels rampaged through the camp itself, slaying Overseer Gorthak, and laid siege to the nearby Splintertree Post. In preparing to try and retake Silverwind Refuge, the night elves based from Stardust Spire chose to deal with the befouled water elementals of Mystral Lake.Retaking Mystral Lake Eventually, they were able to purge many of the elementals, as well as the corruption's source: Tideress.
Like Astranaar and other outposts, Maestra's Post was also targeted by the Horde. Ground forces accompanied by demolishers battered the small Sentinel garrison commanded by Sentinel Onaeya. Despite the odds, the tide was turned by the intervention of Alliance heroes, who led small Sentinel strike teams to effectively cripple the Horde forces and their artillery. Responsible for controlling the surrounding area of the forest, Maestra's Post continued to act as a strategic asset for the kaldorei.A Squad of Your Own The vanguard of orcs from the Warsong clan made contact with Sentinel troops stationed at Raynewood Tower and Raynewood Retreat, another of the night elves' forward outposts. The tower's defenders were aided in their struggle by local dryads. Raynewood would eventually be reinforced with the Forest Heart, allowing the defenders to summon the Shade of Shadumbra against their foes. The essence of this great cat was highly effective at tearing through the Warsong ranks, defeating at least 50 of the attackers along with much of their artillery.Defend the Tree! This marked a major Sentinel victory that decisively preserved Raynewood.
By the time Theramore was destroyed, the Horde had been fully driven from the Ashenvale forest.Jaina Proudmoore: Tides of War After the battle for Ashenvale was over, the identity of the Highborne murderer was discovered to be the traitorous Maeiv. Following Maiev's betrayal, Tyrande appointed Shandris to assist Jarod Shadowsong in choosing from among the Sentinels some possible candidates for his new security force.Wolfheart, chapter 29 The Alliance resolved their issues and voted Gilneas back into the Alliance.Wolfheart
====The war reaches Darkshore====
Though Malfurion Stormrage had become the co-ruler of the night elves, his Cenarion Circle remained a neutral organization, intent on restoring balance following the cataclysm. Malfurion himself halted the slow collapse of Darkshore, with aid from Thessera the green dragon, Aroom the Wildkin and Elder Brownpaw the Furbolg. Along the coast near Auberdine, Sentinels mounted on hippogryphs worked to rescue many civilians fleeing the ruined town. Though numerous night elves were rescued, many did not survive the ordeal.The Last Wave of Survivors
Night elf territory was one of the main fronts during the Alliance-Horde war. The Shatterspear tribe of Jungle trolls joined the Horde and assaulted northern Darkshore. The Sentinels responded by sending a contingent of troops to the north from Lor'danel. The conflict quickly escalated as both sides fought within the Ruins of Mathystra. Eventually, the Sentinel forces attacked the Shatterspear War Camp (reinforced by the Horde) in preparation for a full assault on Shatterspear Vale.Denying Manpower The kaldorei were successful in sacking the War Camp, while also slaying much of the Shatterspear leadership. Wasting no time, a Sentinel army suddenly marched on Shatterspear Vale in full force, accompanied by ancients and siege weapons.The Front Line The attack overwhelmed the troll defenders, who were pushed back into their encampment. There, the invading Sentinels crushed the remaining defenders, while also killing the Shatterspear leader Jor'kil the Soulripper. The decisive victory in Shatterspear Vale ended the troll threat in Darkshore for the foreseeable future, while securing Lor'danel's northern flank.The events of the Darkshore storyline Throughout Darkshore, the Sentinels, serving as the region's local defenders, continued to battle the Twilight's Hammer cult.The Twilight's Hammer As part of this, the ruined town of Auberdine was retaken and the Twilight's Hammer plans in the area dashed. The cult's presence in Darkshore, and the damage caused by their actions, was ultimately contained, though the local population had suffered greatly.
====The Stonetalon massacre====
As the conflict began to spill over into the neighboring Stonetalon Mountains, Sentinel huntresses and other Alliance forces struck against Horde elements around the border. Specifically, Krom'gar Incinerators destroying the local flora were attacked and routed.Hellscream's Legacy At Silverwind Refuge, the Sentinels further gathered intelligence on the new Horde weapon known as The Bomb, while also dealing with Chief Bombgineer Sploder.The Goblin Braintrust A squadron of Sentinel huntresses were sent to scout the Horde's intentions at Windshear Hold; though many were captured, they would ultimately be freed by Alliance agents.Free Our Sisters Trueshot Point would be set up as an extension of Stardust Spire into Stonetalon Mountains. There, Darnassian cannoneers commanded by Kalen Trueshot began using gnomish cannons to strike against Horde air forces in Stonetalon to great effect.The Only Way Down is in a Body Bag
Fighting would prove especially fierce around Thal'darah Overlook, where Sentinels (along with other Alliance forces) held off a determined Horde siege. In the midst of the battle, the nearby Thal'darah Grove would be bombed and completely destroyed by the Horde.The events of the Stonetalon Mountains storyline In the wake of the destruction of Thal'darah Grove, the Sentinel forces at Thal'darah Overlook attempted to punch a hole through the Horde's lines to make contact with the base at Farwatcher's Glen. Using glaive throwers, they were successful in cutting through the sieging force and reaching the glen to the south.Thal'darah's Vengeance
Away from the conflict with the Horde, at Stonetalon Peak, Sentinels would find themselves attacked by minions of the Old Gods as a wave of corruption swept across the area. Many sentinels were overcome by this malignant force and turned on their sisters as they tried to fight back the tide. Under the direction of Sentinel Mistress Geleneth, the night elves gradually began to make progress, destroying the invading n'raqi and laying their corrupted brethren to rest.Back to the Depths! (Stonetalon Mountains)Putting Them to Rest
====Azshara====
The night elves continued to hold a military foothold in Azshara in the form of Talrendis Point, from which the Sentinels' assault on new settlements of the Bilgewater Cartel in Azshara was held off.The events of the Azshara storyline While the Sentinels held the front line against orc grunts, Horde agents of Orgrimmar would slip through and help undermine the defense from the rear.Let Them Feast on Fear
====The second Battle of Hyjal====
However, the biggest contribution for the night elves following the cataclysm was at Mount Hyjal, where Ragnaros invaded to try and destroy Nordrassil and the Cenarion Circle, the Shadow Wardens and the Green Dragonflight united against him, forming the Guardians of Hyjal. The guardians were successful in fighting off the initial fire elemental invasion, resurrecting several of the Ancient Guardians. When the fire elementals invaded again, aided by Fandral Staghelm and his newly formed Druids of the Flame, the guardians were not only successful in fighting them off, but even managed to infiltrate the Firelands, killing Ragnaros and many of his lieutenants, including Staghelm, as well as constructing the Sentinel Tree to keep watch over the area.The events of the Mount Hyjal quests
===Tides of War===
When the Horde was about to attack Theramore, Jaina asked Tyrande and Malfurion for warriors and ships.Jaina Proudmoore: Tides of War - Jaina nodded. “[...]I'll be contacting the other Alliance leaders as well. The kaldorei may be able to send both ships and warriors - pg. 128 The High Priestess and her husband sent Shandris and a group of Sentinels to aid the defense effort.Jaina Proudmoore: Tides of War - “Battle sister,” Shandris said, returning the smile gently. “The archdruid and the high priestess send me to you with joy, and it is with joy that I and my Sentinels come to aid you” - pg. 167
Tyrande and her husband were also willing to help Varian in the counter-attack by sending a few dozen ships.Jaina Proudmoore: Tides of War - “Malfurion and Tyrande are more than willing to help you as best they can. You may look to see a few dozen of our graceful ships alongside yours in the not-too-distant future.” - pg. 258
===Mists of Pandaria===
High Priestess Tyrande, having had a vision of some sort of light from the mysterious Pools of Youth created by an ancient civilization in the hidden continent of Pandaria, wondered if these pools could restore kaldorei immortality. She had Lorekeeper Vaeldrin embark on a quest for the pools, backed by a group of Sentinels led by his daughter, Lyalia. Using a series of ancient magical scrolls, the lorekeeper successfully opened a portal to the Krasarang Wilds - these night elves were the first members of the Alliance to arrive on the continent. In search of the pools, the night elf expedition clashed with the local mogu, as well as a similar expeditionary force of Horde Sunwalkers. However, the expedition from Darnassus soon found themselves trapped by mogu magic, imprisoned within a magic bubble that slowly drained their life, until Kang Bramblestaff and an Alliance adventurer rescued them. Soon thereafter the freed expedition constructed the Incursion to continue their search for the pools.The events of the Krasarang Wilds storyline
However, once found, it turned out that the pools would not grant immortality freely. Instead, they could only transfer life energies from one person to another. During a battle with the mogu, Lyalia was captured and killed. With the new knowledge of the nature of the pools' magic, Vaeldrin sacrificed himself to save his daughter. Despite these setbacks, the expedition was not without achievements, helping the Pandaren fight off the Dojani mogu and aiding in the defense of Stoneplow. Later on, being one of the largest Alliance forces on the continent prior to Landfall, Lyalia led the Sentinels to the Vale of Eternal Blossoms where they gained a strong presence at the Shrine of Seven Stars.The guards at the shrine are either night elf or one of the night elves' natural allies.
====Landfall====
When High King Varian Wrynn launched Operation: Shieldwall, Tyrande and a cadre of Sentinel rangers would be part of the united Alliance war effort in the Landfall campaign. Based in Lion's Landing this invasion force waged a major campaign against the Horde in Krasarang Wilds. While there, she and her rangers begin to pursue a Horde party and eventually find them holed up in the Temple of the Red Crane.Lion's Landing (quest) In the A Little Patience scenario, Tyrande is urging Varian to take decisive action and charge the temple by force, before the Horde could completely fortify themselves or be rescued by reinforcements. However, Varian decided to take a more cautious approach and was able to lure out the Horde army from the Temple of the Red Crane and decimate them with the Alliance's hidden traps. The victory resulted in the annihilation of the Horde army and its commander with minimal to no casualties for the Alliance. After attaining victory, Tyrande acknowledges the wisdom of Varian's strategy and becomes impressed by his leadership. Tyrande then pledges the night elves' support to Varian's command.A Little Patience (quest)
Tyrande is later seen in the Shrine of Seven Stars summit, where Alliance dignitaries and allies discuss the pros and cons of using the Sha. She was horrified by the Sha's dark power and proposed to destroy them.Heart Of The Alliance
Thanks to the efforts of SI:7 Agent Connelly, the Alliance learned of the Horde plans with the powerful mogu artifact called the :Divine Bell. Night elf sentinels located the hidden crypt, found and secured the Divine Bell and took it to Darnassus, all thanks to the sacrifice of Sarannha Skyglaive. However, it was all in vain, as a sunreaver agent working for the horde infiltrated the city under the banner of neutrality by the Kirin Tor and entered undetected, he located the bell in the Cenarion Enclave and teleported it to Silvermoon City. After learning of the theft, Jaina goes to its former location and found specs of magic leading a path to the city's exit. After finding the source, she saw a portal leading to Dalaran and it was at this point that she realized that action needs to be taken. Soon after the discovery, the Purge of Dalaran began.
Back in northern Kalimdor, the nation of Darnassus also participated in the battle of the Northern Barrens, transporting and escorting war resources taken from the Kor'kron out of the area.
====Siege of Orgrimmar====
During the Siege of Orgrimmar, Tyrande had mustered an army of her people in Ashenvale and began a slow march towards Orgrimmar, picking up siege weapons and more troops on the way. After the Alliance and Horde rebel armada landed at Bladefist Bay, Tyrande's forces appeared from the west and, using glaive throwers, managed to destroy the front gate of Orgrimmar and prevent a protracted siege from developing. She and her Sentinels then distracted Garrosh's Kor'kron to buy time for the Alliance forces and Darkspear rebels to invade the city.
===War Crimes===
Tyrande served as the accuser during Garrosh's trial in the Temple of the White Tiger. Her advisor for the trial was Chromie. Using the :Vision of Time, Tyrande displayed scenes from the past to prove the accusations against Garrosh, opposing the defender Baine Bloodhoof. After Kairoz and the Dragonmaw clan, led by Zaela, freed Garrosh and took him with them, the August Celestials revealed that they never considered executing Garrosh for even a moment and that everyone else was on trial instead.
===Warlords of Draenor===
Several Sentinel guards accompanied the Alliance into , guarding Starfall Outpost. They also had a small presence in and in Stormshield on Ashran. If chosen, they can also guard the Lunarfall garrison.
A contingent of wardens, including Cordana Felsong, was sent by Maiev Shadowsong to accompany and protect Archmage Khadgar on the alternate Draenor.The Tomb of Sargeras Cordana was, however, corrupted by and joined the Burning Legion's side.
===Legion===
The Warrior's Terrace of Darnassus would be the venue for a garden party hosted by the aristocratic Taylenne Sweetsong at the time of the third invasion of the Burning Legion. Unbeknownst to the many dignitaries and dilettantes in attendance, their host was, in fact, a homunculus sent by the Legion to infiltrate night elven society. A Horde rogue working with Lilian Voss and the Uncrowned would ultimately infiltrate the city and assassinate Taylenne, bringing an end to the threat.Hiding In Plain Sight (Horde)
Sentinel units gathered in Stormwind City and accompanied the Alliance forces into the first battle on the Broken Shore. They were also present in several areas of the Legion's assaults across Azeroth where they established military camps to protect Alliance assets.
Tyrande attended Varian Wrynn's funeral in the aftermath of the Broken Shore and assuaged King Anduin Wrynn's doubts about their success against the Burning Legion. She also approved of Anduin's decision to accept the Illidari into the Alliance ranks, noting that they will be a powerful weapon in their war against the demons.The Fallen Lion When Jace Darkweaver arrived at the funeral to inform the assembled leaders that Stormwind's guards have been infiltrated by the Legion, Tyrande realized that Maiev Shadowsong had freed the demon hunters from their imprisonment and the situation was even more dire than she realized.Demons Among Us (Alliance)
General Shandris Feathermoon and several members of the Sentinels joined the Unseen Path based in Trueshot Lodge in Highmountain and assisted the hunters in their campaigns, such as fighting the Legion in the Violet Hold.
After receiving a vision of Malfurion, Tyrande traveled to Val'sharah on the Broken Isles to find that Xavius had returned, corrupted Ysera, and captured her husband. Angered, Tyrande began to pursue the Nightmare Lord through the forest. In her pursuit, she discovered Elothir, one of the three archdruids of Val'sharah, who had fallen to the Nightmare's corruption and dies before her eyes but not before leading her down Malfurion's trail.
Tyrande authorized the release of the Scythe of Elune to the druids of the Dreamgrove, and sent Valorn Stillbough, Belysra Starbreeze and several of the Sentinels to the Twilight Grove in Duskwood.The Scythe of Elune
Tyrande was also present in Stormwind Keep as part of a royal audience of Alliance member state leaders, attending the ceremonies hosted by High King Anduin Wrynn to honor Alliance adventurers for their effort in the battles against the Horde, rewarding them with a :Grand Marshal's Medal of Valor.Reaching Prestige Rank 2.
====Insurrection====
During the Burning Legion's third invasion, portals were created between Darnassus and Suramar in order for the Sentinels to engage in the Nightfallen rebellion to support the nightborne rebels in their war against Grand Magistrix Elisande. Tyrande and her Sentinels arrived in Meredil, forming a temporary alliance with the nearby sin'dorei forces led by Lady Liadrin and Grand Magister Rommath, as well as reserving part of her camp for Vereesa Windrunner and her war mages. Despite this temporary alliance, the elven nationalities did not go well together, and on the eve of battle, Tyrande, like Liadrin, was somewhat ashamed to admit that her forces had been exchanging insulting items and verbal harassment with the sin'dorei camp, and had any such items removed before insults turned into violence.
Tyrande promised the nightfallen leader to help defeat the Legion and destroy the Nightwell.Take Me To Your Leader (Alliance) The Darnassus High Priestess arranged to spread bulletins and posters within Suramar City itself, to tell the residents of the Alliance's arrival and hopefully inspire more to join the rebellion.
Along with blood elf and Kirin Tor reinforcements, the kaldorei laid siege to Suramar City, before pushing into the metropolis itself. The Sentinels set up a major camp on the city limits, and after the sin'dorei and shal'dorei had breached the city's center, Tyrande led these kaldorei forces into the city.
The combined elven army fought straight to the foot of the Nighthold, but the kaldorei, sin'dorei, quel'dorei, and shal'dorei rebels were confronted by Grand Magistrix Elisande herself at the Nighthold gate. When she turned to address Tyrande, Elisande claimed that the kaldorei had disgraced their glorious past, hiding in trees and cloaking themselves in "false piety", no better than the trolls that skulk their forests. Using her great mastery of time magic, Elisande trapped the combined elven army in a time stasis and departed. Khadgar then worked together with an Alliance adventurer to rescue Tyrande alone from the time bubble, while a Horde adventurer rescued Liadrin. The rest of the army, however, remained frozen in time on the steps before the Nighthold, the battle lost.Temporal Investigations
When Thalyssra and her advisors relocated to the site of the Nightwell, which had become unstable without the Eye of Aman'thul, Liadrin and Tyrande observed whether the first arcanist will save it or let it die. After Thalyssra chose to let the Nightwell die, Tyrande was hopeful that the Nightborne would learn to survive without its corrupting powers.Fate of the Nightborne
===Before the Storm===
After being made aware of the dire condition Azeroth was in, Tyrande Whisperwind and Malfurion Stormrage met with King Anduin Wrynn to discuss the night elves' progress in healing Azeroth and their investigations about :Azerite. Malfurion told him that the Cenarion Circle sent druids to Silithus to assess the damage. As they rode through the city of Darnassus on nightsabers, Malfurion further elaborated that the druids of Cenarion Hold were all killed by Sargeras' destruction and Tyrande had sent priestesses of Elune to help when she got word of their deaths. Although the night elves thought to make moonwells to heal the wounds of Silithus, their priestesses and druids were unable to finish creating one with the goblins plundering Azerite from the land. The night elves, however, found a vein of Azerite and took some samples to study. Malfurion told Anduin that although he cannot deny the magnificence of Azerite's power, he promised Anduin the night elves will do all within their power to prevent its misuse. Tyrande introduced Sentinel Cordressa Briarbow to Anduin who's unit was providing protection to the Explorers' League. Anduin commended Tyrande for her wise initiative and pledged some of his own men to guard further expeditions as well. During their discussion, a gnome Kirin Tor mage portalled in to deliver a message from Kalecgos. Kalecgos reported Jaina Proudmoore's visit to him and informed Anduin she will be unavailable for the foreseeable future. Anduin revealed the message spoke of Jaina and all the leaders spoke of their hopes that Jaina will one day return to active duty in their coalition. With their business concluded, Anduin Hearthstoned back to Stormwind.Before the Storm
In Silithus, Captain Briarbrow's unit was ultimately killed by the goblins of the Horde.
===Battle for Azeroth===
====War of the Thorns====
As part of the opening stages of the Fourth War, the Horde readied itself for conquest on Kalimdor. After being briefed of SI:7 reports stating that the Horde was deliberating heatedly the conquering of Silithus, High Priestess Tyrande Whisperwind and King Anduin Wrynn agreed this argument over war strategy indicated that the Horde had weaponized :Azerite and were planning to secure a monopoly of the mineral in Kalimdor. With the draenei diminished from the Argus Campaign, the night elves remained the speediest Alliance presence in Kalimdor to respond to Horde aggression. Tyrande had begun to secretly amass a night elf army in Feralas to intercept the Horde forces should they march to Silithus. After further reports indicated that Warchief Sylvanas Windrunner had endorsed the Silithus campaign, Tyrande and the other Alliance leaders deliberated on their course of action. Tyrande stated that if the Alliance was in agreement, her army stood ready to deter the Horde's campaign. King Anduin, in the end, gave his endorsement to deploy the night elven troops. While Tyrande was at Stormwind City aiding in the planning for the upcoming war and with the night elf fleet en route to Silithus, the Horde saw an opportunity to attack Ashenvale, leaving Malfurion to hold the line. When word reached Stormwind of the Horde invasion, the Alliance leaders realized that the Horde had deceived them into weakening Ashenvale's defenses. The Alliance leaders coordinated with each other to accommodate as many refugees as possible and to reinforce the Ashenvale warfront. Tyrande planned to fight by Malfurion's side as soon as she could, but she had to tend to the needs of the refugees being evacuated to Stormwind before she could depart to Kalimdor. Though troubled by her people's predicament, she was uplifted by her allies' stalwart commitment to her people's well being. She, in turn, assured her allies that even should her city fall and be held hostage, the Alliance will not become divided. 
With only the Darnassian City Guard to protect many of their holdings, the kaldorei would eventually lose Astranaar, as the invaders pressed on to Darkshore. Captain Delaryn Summermoon and Malfurion Stormrage directed the defense of the night elven territories, as the Sentinels worked frantically to slow the Horde. The most concentrated fighting initially occurred in southern and central Darkshore. Though the Sentinels inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy, their numbers were overwhelming. The Sentinel commanders are especially targeted and killed by Horde rogues.Elegy
Sometime in the late stages of the War of the Thorns, Malfurion's wisp wall defense failed and he went off to confront Sylvanas alone. Malfurion sent a missive to Tyrande to tell her of his plan and his farewells. This new information had compelled Tyrande to fight by Malfurion's side despite Anduin's objections. When Anduin realized nothing he could say would dissuade her, he gave Tyrande his :Hearthstone that he had attuned to Stormwind and told Tyrande to come back with Malfurion alive, since their people would need their leadership in these troubled times now more than ever. After portalling into Darnassus, Tyrande gave an inspirational speech to improve morale for her people before taking her Hippogryph to search for Malfurion. Tyrande prayed to Elune, who shined a shaft of moonlight from the sky to direct her to her beloved. Tyrande arrived to see Malfurion at the mercy of Varok Saurfang. But the old orc had struck Malfurion from behind while he had battled Sylvanas Windrunner, which he found dishonorable, and could not bring himself to kill Malfurion. Tyrande arrived just in time to heal Malfurion's grievous wound and saved him from the brink of death. For sparing her husband's life Tyrande allowed Saurfang to live, and she brought Malfurion to Stormwind with the Hearthstone that Anduin had provided.
At Wildbend River, the Darnassian Army was able to temporarily stop the Horde's advance, with both sides drawn into a military stalemate. Meanwhile, the fleet bound for Silithus returned with the majority of the Sentinel Army, further reinforcing the lines. All remaining Sentinel forces in Darnassus were now called on to join the fight.A Looming Threat (Alliance) Despite their stalwart defense, the remainder of Darkshore would eventually fall to the Horde when they flanked Lor'danel via Felwood. Tyrande tasked an Alliance adventurer with seeing to Darnassus during the Horde occupation, but soon after, the Horde burned Teldrassil down.The Guidance of Our Shan'do Tyrande went to the Wizard's Sanctum to aid in evacuation efforts and witnessed Genn Greymane and his wife Mia rescue the last night elven refugee from the burning World Tree. Tyrande named the last night elven survivor Finel — "The last" — for she was the last kaldorei to escape alive. Tyrande cradled baby Finel close and sang her an elegy.
Darnassus was completely destroyed in the Burning of Teldrassil. The survivors moved to Stormwind City, where they settled in the area around Olivia's Pond with injured refugees in the Cathedral of Light, Stormwind Harbor, and along the canals. Others were evacuated to Azuremyst Isle.Teldrassil Evacuation (Horde)
====Battle for Lordaeron and aftermath====
In a vengeful response to the burning of Teldrassil, Sentinel units would make up some of the attacking force during the Siege of Lordaeron.
The remaining Sentinels in Ashenvale were in command of Sentinel Tara Thenysil.Siege of Astranaar (Horde) Huntress Jalin led her Sentinels against Silverwind Refuge, attempting to retake it for the Alliance.Recapture Silverwind Refuge (Horde) Big Baobob allied with the Sentinels.Ancient Defenses (Horde)
====The Night Warrior====
Some time later, Shandris, Maiev, and Sira Moonwarden spoke to Anduin to try and convince him to assault Darkshore and retake it from the Horde, but with the war focused on Zandalar, Arathi, and Kul Tiras; Anduin did not have the troops to do so. As the three night elves spoke to Anduin, Tyrande went on ahead of the army to try and retake Darkshore herself.On Whispered WindsWaning Hope At the Zoram Strand on the Ashenvale/Darkshore border, Tyrande's ship was attacked by the Horde and she fled north while leaving behind her bow, her mount Ash'alah's bridle, and a book about the Night Warrior ritual.Hope The Night Warrior was the incarnation of Elune's wrath. The ritual to become the avatar of the Night Warrior was extremely dangerous, and even witnessing it would put you in danger. Legend said that long ago, the Night Warrior was used by the night elves to carve out their empire. None who have attempted the ritual since then have survived, for Elune's raw power tore them apart.In Darkest Night
Tyrande arrived at the Ruins of Auberdine to obtain the Eye of Elune, and from there to Bashal'Aran to conduct the ritual. Along the way she lost Ash'alah, who was captured by the Horde. She was trailed by Maiev, Shandris, and an adventurer while Sira scouted the beach. The three found and saved Ash'alah and met with Tyrande at Bashal'aran, where she declared to Elune that, with Elune having stood by and done nothing during the War of the Thorns, Tyrande would continue to serve Elune only if she granted Tyrande justice. Tyrande survived the ritual to become the Night Warrior, the avatar of Elune's fury, and turned her attention toward Nathanos Blightcaller on the shore. Blaming the Burning of Teldrassil on herself for allowing Saurfang to live, Tyrande swore that the time for mercy was over. Along the way to Nathanos she confronted Deathstalker Commander Belmont and his forces, then swiftly killed them and froze Belmont in place with Elune's magic. Malfurion also arrived to fight Nathanos alongside his beloved; however, Tyrande instead told him to wait at the sidelines until she gave the command.
Nathanos and two Val'kyr were attempting to raise not only Delaryn Summermoon who had died during the War of the Thorns, but also Sira who Tyrande arrived just barely too late to save from being killed. As she, the adventurer, and eventually Malfurion confronted Nathanos the two Val'kyr succeeded in raising Delaryn and Sira. Despite Tyrande's efforts to convince them not to give in to darkness, they blamed both her and Elune for abandoning them and declared their allegiance to the Forsaken. Ultimately the Horde got away, but not before Tyrande was able to slay Brynja, one of the Val'kyr. Shandris and Maiev arrived and the night elf forces flew back to the Zoram Strand. On the way, Tyrande placed Maiev in charge of the warfront in Darkshore, as despite their checkered history with each other the future of their race was on the line. When Maiev asked where Sira had gone, Tyrande hesitated and then asked to speak with Maiev alone.
====Battle for Darkshore====
After learning of Sira Moonwarden's fate, Maiev led her wardens, kaldorei forces, and the Alliance heroes to fight against the Forsaken and their Horde allies across northern Darkshore during the Battle for Darkshore. The Horde army was led by none other than Sira herself.
====Kul Tiras, the Alliance War Campaign, and Nazjatar====
A group of night elves participated in the Alliance incursions of Nazmir. They came under attack by the Horde.The Blightest Touch
==Organization==
===People and culture===
Despite being an ancient people, the kaldorei culture has only changed slightly over the millennia since the fall of the Kaldorei Empire.World of Warcraft Battle Chest Guide, pg. 153
Their way of life is still deeply rooted in their connection with nature and Elune the moon goddess. While respecting one another and often working closely together, the druids and sentinels often prefer to keep separate company. The sentinels are closely related to the nation and its affiliation with the Alliance while the druids of the nation often gather in neutral organizations outside of the nation. The balance of the society's dualistic state is clearly reflected in its co-ruling leadership, Tyrande and Malfurion.
Modern night elf society was founded on the very grounds of protecting nature, signified by their connection to the world tree.Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos Game Manual The night elven druids also have a close kinship with most of the Ancient Guardians, as all known living ancient guardians were last seen on Mount Hyjal.The events of the Mount Hyjal storyline. Cenarius the archdruid son of Elune herself is amongst the most ancient allies of the night elves, admired by both the druids and the followers of Elune, and thus the Horn of Cenarius' power is said to call the spirits of all night elves.
Darnassian society is heavily tied to their faith in Elune, as well as several other lesser gods.The Well of Eternity, chapter 8 Thus, the Sisters of Elune carry large political, social and cultural power. The night elves also worship their ancestors. This worship takes the form of offerings, traditionally rice cakes that are blessed in the Temple of the Moon.Remembering the Ancestors 
The night elves revere the moonsabers because their shimmering coats symbolize the goddess of the moon, Elune,Mount Journal entry for Swift Moonsaber and they once believed that seeing the dawnsaber breed in the wild was an ill omen.Mount Journal entry for Reins of the Striped Dawnsaber The dark-feathered bird of prey is often seen as a harbinger of doom amongst the druids of Teldrassil.Hawk Owl
===Political structure===
The High Priestess is the leader of the nation.
Fandral Staghelm, leader of the Cenarion Circle, resided in the Cenarion Enclave. Fandral believed that the future of the night elves demanded more expansionism and military planning. His radical beliefs and aggressive demeanor often led him to quarrel openly with the High Priestess, Tyrande Whisperwind.
===Notable leaders===
Name	Notes 	Status	Location
 	High priestess of the goddess Elune, former general of the night elf sentinels and the current head of the Sisterhood of Elune.	 	Various
 	Archdruid of Darnassus and a venerated leader of the Kaldorei. 	 	Various
History	Creation of Teldrassil	Creation of Teldrassil 	Creation of Teldrassil																														
Ruler 	Tyrande Whisperwind 	Tyrande Whisperwind & Malfurion Stormrage	 																														
===Military===
*Darnassian Army
**Sentinels, Shandris Feathermoon is the general of the Sentinels, the army of the night elf nation.Ultimate Visual Guide, pg. 88
***Silverwing Sentinels
***Sentinel spies
**Army of the Black Moon
**Darnassian City Guard
*Watchers
*Outrunners
*The Wardens, Maiev Shadowsong brought her wardens to fight for the Alliance in Darkshore against the Horde during the Fourth War.
===Organizations of Darnassus===
*Sisterhood of Elune
*Wintersaber Trainers
*Auberdine Village Council
*Council of the Forest
*Circle of the Ancients
*Shen'dralar Highborne
*The ProtectorateRise of the Silithid (Feralas)Jonespyre's Request
==Territories and outposts==
*Kalimdor
**Northern Kalimdor
***Ashenvale
****Astranaar
****Bolyun's Camp
****Forest Song
****Raynewood Retreat
****Silverwing Grove
****Silverwing Hold
****Silverwing Outpost
***Azshara
****Darnassian Base Camp
****Talrendis Point
***Azuremyst Isle
****Valaar's Berth
***Darkshore
****Grove of the Ancients
***Felwood
****Talonbranch Glade
***Winterspring
****Starfall Village
**Central Kalimdor
***Stonetalon Mountains
****Windshear Hold
**Southern Kalimdor
***Feralas
****Dreamer's Rest
****Feathermoon Stronghold
****New Thalanaar
*Northrend
**Dragonblight
***Stars' Rest
*Eastern Kingdoms
**Lordaeron
***Ghostlands
****An'daroth
****An'owyn
****Shalandis Isle
**Khaz Modan
***Wetlands
****Greenwarden's Grove
*Great Sea
**Pandaria
***Krasarang Wilds
****Incursion
****Sentinel Basecamp
**Broken Isles
***Val'sharah
****Lightsong
****Lorlathil
*Outland
**Blade's Edge Mountains
***Sylvanaar
==Notes==
*House Malem is a noble merchant family.
*The nation was never actually named, and the only source for this name is the in-game reputation faction, Darnassus (faction).
==References==
Category:Nations
Category:Night elf organizations