Deadly Throw

Warchief Garrosh Hellscream
Title	Warchief of the Horde, Overlord of the Warsong Offensive, Leader of the Horde Expedition, Son of Hellscream
Gender	Male
Race	Orc (Humanoid)
Level	?? (Boss)
Class	Warrior
Reaction	Alliance Horde
Affiliation(s)	Horde, Mag'har, Warsong Offensive, Nation of Durotar
Occupation	Warchief of the Horde and chieftain of the Warsong clan, formerly leader of the Horde Expedition, Overlord of the Warsong Offensive, Master of Warsong Hold, personal advisor to Thrall, and one of the military leaders of the Mag'har
Location	Grommash Hold, Orgrimmar, and various other locations throughout Azeroth (see Locations)
Status	Alive
Relative(s)	Grom (father)

"On blood-soaked fields of battle, frigid winds carried the proud warrior's screams. In war he won the hearts of his people, and in return he shall guide their future."

—Pride of the Horde

Garrosh Hellscream is the current Warchief of the Horde, chosen by Thrall to succeed him in the wake of the Shattering.

Garrosh grew up on Draenor in the shadow of his father, the great warrior Grommash Hellscream. Chieftain of the Warsong clan, Grom was the first orc leader to drink the blood of Mannoroth, subjugating the orcs to the Legion’s will. Before this event, Garrosh was among several orcs who had become ill with the red pox. They had been quarantined far away in Nagrand, allowing them to escape the demonic corruption. The younger Hellscream was ashamed of his father for many years until he met Thrall and learned of Grom’s heroic redemption. Garrosh has since embraced his potential as a strong leader, most notably in Northrend, where he directed the Horde advance through the Borean Tundra and won the hearts of his people.

Uncompromising and fiercely proud, Garrosh intends to restore the orcs’ glory by any means necessary.

Biography

Early Life

Garrosh is the son of Grom Hellscream, and was born on Draenor. Not much is known about his younger years, as his first appearance is after the Second War. It is known that he, unlike most of the orcs, did not drink the blood of Mannoroth.

Beyond the Dark Portal

This section concerns content related to the Warcraft novels, novellas, or short stories.

During the human invasion of Draenor, many Mag'har - the uncorrupted orcs who settled in Garadar, a stronghold in Nagrand - were ill due to the red pox. Garrosh was among them.

Kargath Bladefist visited them at Garadar in search of warriors to aid him. Garrosh asked him about his father, and wanted to fight with him, but Kargath ignored him at first, calling the Mag'har weaklings and not orcs any more, and they could do the Horde a favor by dying. Later on Garrosh asked Greatmother Geyah about his father, but the answer caused him to enter a deep depression.^{[citation needed]} 

Chieftain of the Mag'har

Garrosh in Nagrand

This section concerns content related to The Burning Crusade.

Garrosh eventually rose to become an important chief among the Mag'har. He was aided by Jorin Deadeye, son of the Bleeding Hollow clan's former chieftain, Kilrogg Deadeye. When our heroes first meet Garrosh, he was sullen, pessimistic, even depressed. He was worried about the health of his clan's matriarch, Greatmother Geyah, who was ill. Garrosh knew that when she died, he would be expected to lead the Mag'har, and that troubled him as well. Garrosh believed himself fated to repeat his father's mistakes.

Garrosh admitted that he was ashamed of his father. The last news Garrosh had had of his father was that Grom had drank Mannoroth's blood, and everything that transpired after this event was unknown to Garrosh for a long time. Indeed, Garrosh did not learn of his father's heroic death until Thrall arrived in Nagrand and re-enacted the events for Garrosh's benefit. Learning that his father had eventually overcome his weakness for power – Grom gave his life so that the orcs would be free of demonic influence – Garrosh appeared to gain strength and confidence, believing he is no longer fated to fail himself and his people.

Theramore Peace Summit

This section concerns content related to the Warcraft manga or comics.

Thrall brought with him Garrosh Hellscream back to Azeroth to be his advisor. Later on the retired gladiator master Rehgar Earthfury also became one of Thrall's advisors. Rehgar and Garrosh used to be in disagreement with each other: while Garrosh wanted to destroy the Alliance, who he considers the Horde's enemies, and take Azeroth for their own; Reghar wanted to remain open to diplomacy with the Alliance and conserve their treaty of non-agression with Theramore.

When Thrall decided to go to a new meeting with the human King Varian, he brought with him his two advisors, Rehgar and Garrosh, as well as some Kor'kron. Reghar recommended Thrall not to bring Garrosh with them, but the Warchief thought it would be a good idea as it would help Garrosh to re-think his attitude toward the humans.

Garrosh, alongside Thrall, traveled in a zeppelin to Theramore, where Varian and Thrall had a peaceful discussion with an eye toward mutual gain; though Garrosh thought it better for the Horde to take what they needed by force rather than exchange their resources. Varian had to leave early as Goldshire and Southshore were said to be under simultaneous distress by the Scourge. Upon exiting Theramore, the Twilight's Hammer cult invaded the city. After catching a glimpse of Garona, Varian thought that Thrall had sent her to assassinate him as the Shadow Council had done to his father. Garrosh accused the Alliance of plotting the attack in an attempt to lure him and Thrall into a trap while Varian blamed the Horde; specifically Garrosh. Though tempers flared between Varian and Garrosh, Thrall and Garrosh left Theramore peacefully. Garrosh, however, felt that Varian had insulted the orcs' honor and that by leaving peacefully the orcs were losing face at the summit.

Heart of War

This section concerns content related to the Warcraft novels, novellas, or short stories.

Garrosh appears as a character in the short story Heart of War. In the story, Garrosh recalls the events of his first visit to Orgrimmar. Being the first Mag’har to set foot on Orgrimmar, many observed him with curiosity and some with awe. He encounters an old soldier from the first war who remembers serving with his father. The retired soldier tells him that he is proud to see a portion of their orcish legacy remain and would gladly serve under him if he could. He tells Garrosh that he will make his people proud.

Yet not all are happy to see Grom’s legacy and heir. An orc woman named Krenna is not impressed with his lineage, as she sees Grom as the one who instilled the blood curse on her people in the first place. Nor is she impressed with Garrosh for that matter. From Krenna, Garrosh learns the harsh realities the orcs have to contend with. It is very difficult to wrest a living in Durotar. Durotar is a desert, making farming impossible. Though the markets overflow, they rely heavily on imports from distant places. Though Ashenvale Forest would be suitable for their people’s needs, Warchief Thrall prohibits them from settling there. Meanwhile Theramore soldiers continue to encroach on their land unchecked. Causing orcs like Krenna to become bitter and frustrated with her people’s leadership.

Garrosh is enraged by her contemptuous demeanor towards Thrall and Grom and threatens to assault her if she continues her treasonous attitude. Krenna’s sister, Gorgonna, intervenes to stop the fight before it started and urges Krenna to walk away. Krenna reluctantly stands down and walks away, leaving Gorgonna to apologize for her sister. Gorgonna explains to Garrosh that her sister doesn’t understand that her people live in Durotar as a way to atone for the crimes their people committed during the First War. Garrosh is also frustrated with her attitude and counters that their people did what they needed to do in order to survive and even if they did need to atone, why should the children of the orcs who had nothing to do with the war, have to suffer for the sins of their parents? Gorgonna shows him her green skin and explains that her people bear the mark and legacy of her people just the same and that she will atone in whatever way her warchief sees fit. Gorgonna tells Garrosh that he would not understand as he is a Mag’har, and because of this he is free of such a burden.

Garrosh is shocked that Thrall would ever be that unreasonable. He becomes irritated at Krenna’s words and the more Garrosh reflects on them, the more he becomes increasingly frustrated and impatient. Garrosh becomes frustrated with Thrall’s lack of action against the Alliance and the Scourge; frustrated with having to divide the orcs’ resources and forces to deal with the problems of the other Horde races; frustrated to see the Scourge infect their food supplies with plague and rain death upon them while Thrall refuses to unleash the full might of the Horde. Garrosh is determined to preserve Orgrimmar and restore the orcs’ glory by any means necessary, even if he has to force Thrall’s hand to do so.

A Council for War

This section concerns content related to Wrath of the Lich King.

Garrosh and Thrall do battle in the Ring of Valor.

Garrosh was present later in Orgrimmar in a meeting with Thrall, Lady Sylvanas Windrunner, High Overlord Saurfang, Grand Apothecary Putress and Rehgar Earthfury to discuss what to do about the Scourge. After consulting Saurfang and the spirits, Thrall favored a more cautious approach to dealing with the Scourge: an advance scouting party to the frozen continent before committing troops, as well as meeting with Jaina Proudmoore to find out what the Alliance were planning to do about the Lich King. Garrosh however, felt that dealing with the Alliance would put the Horde in danger and wanted to take the Horde's armies and conquer the humans and then march to Northrend and crush the Scourge; advocating that the Horde should rule all of Azeroth. Thrall, irritated by Garrosh's recklessness and bold challenges to his authority, answered that the humans were not a threat and that he would not underestimate the Lich King by walking blindly into a Scourge trap. Thrall then provoked Garrosh to challenge him to a duel by saying that he would not make the same mistakes as his father, Grom Hellscream. Frustrated with his leader's apparent lack of action and the insults to his father, Garrosh challenged Thrall to a duel in the Ring of Valor to settle the matter.

The two orcs fought for some time until it seemed Garrosh had gained the upper hand. He began to taunt Thrall, but the battle was interrupted by a Herald of the Lich King threatening Orgrimmar with destruction. Hearing this, Thrall used [Chain Lightning] on Garrosh and both left the ring, with Thrall telling the younger Hellscream that they would settle their dispute later. The city was attacked by countless abominations and frost wyrms and a few death knights.

Thrall and Garrosh led the forces of the Horde in repelling the Scourge attack, with the help of Saurfang, Sylvanas, Reghar, the city defenders, and some adventurers. After the Scourge assault force had been dealt with, Garrosh asked to be sent to Northrend again. This time, Thrall agreed and ordered Saurfang to begin preparations for war.

War in Northrend

This section concerns content related to Wrath of the Lich King.

Garrosh Hellscream was named Overlord of the Warsong Offensive, the main army of the Horde Expedition to Northrend. He established his command post at Warsong Hold in the Borean Tundra, on Northrend's western coast.

Garrosh leads the Horde forces into Northrend.

Unlike his appearance in Nagrand, where he had been downtrodden and apathetic, Garrosh was much more hotblooded and reckless in his role as Horde commander in Northrend. His chief advisor, High Overlord Saurfang - who drank from the same chalice that corrupted Grom Hellscream - warned against Garrosh's savage tactics, fearing a resurgence of the bloodlust that had dominated the Horde prior to the death of Mannoroth. The two often spared over tactical decisions, particularly in regards to supply lines between the Hold and the Forsaken forces in Howling Fjord. Even if he disagreed with Saurfang, Garrosh appeared to have at least a grudging respect for the old warrior. Saurfang warned Garrosh that if he went too far against the Alliance and lead their people down a "dark path", Saurfang himself would kill Garrosh. Garrosh did not challenge Varok, but sarcastically questioned how he had managed to survive so long without falling victim to his guilt and sense of morality.

Despite Saurfang's warning, Garrosh appointed commanders and they conducted the war in such a manner as to focus strongly on battling the Alliance. In particular, Conqueror Krenna, the commander at Conquest Hold in the Grizzly Hills, bucked completely the war with the Scourge in favor of making war with the Alliance. Like Garrosh, she was hotblooded to the point of recklessness in pursuing the Alliance, so much so that she had to be deposed by her sister Gorgonna, an underling at Conquest Hold. The commander of Orgrim's Hammer above Icecrown was also concerned with defeating the Alliance in Icecrown, and even within Icecrown Citadel, the Horde faced off against the Alliance, as the Skybreaker and Orgrim's Hammer did battle as well.

Garrosh Hellscream, Overlord of the Warsong Offensive, in Warsong Hold.

Garrosh is a firm believer of “honorable” combat; as evidence of his deprecation of the Broken Front. Though he endorses conflict with the Alliance as much as possible, he will only permit it if it is done in a manner that fairly tests the martial prowess of the Horde. Using underhanded tactics such as poison and mind control is considered “cowardly” by his standards.

Secrets of Ulduar

This section concerns content related to Wrath of the Lich King.

Thrall and Garrosh were summoned urgently to Dalaran to speak with the leader Rhonin. Arriving before the human King Varian Wrynn had departed, Garrosh and the king proceeded to skirmish in the Violet Citadel, but Rhonin halted the fight with a magical shield before harm came to either. Rhonin suggested that the Horde and Alliance work together against the new threat of Yogg-Saron in Ulduar, but Garrosh and Varian were partisan to the idea and Wrynn was portalled out. Garrosh expressed the opinion that a true Warchief would never partner himself with cowards.

Crusaders' Coliseum

This section concerns content related to Wrath of the Lich King.

Garrosh, alongside Thrall, was later in attendance at the new Crusaders' Coliseum in Icecrown, surrounded by various champions and representatives of the Horde. During the tournament Garrosh requested that Tirion uses warriors of the Horde to challenge the heroes in the tournament in order to show the strength of the Horde. He will cheer on Horde players following their victories.

Main article: Argent_Tournament#Alliance_and_Horde_leadership

Icecrown Citadel

Garrosh in Icecrown Citadel

This section concerns content related to Wrath of the Lich King.

After patch 3.3.2, Garrosh could be found at Light's Hammer inside Icecrown Citadel. He provided the [Hellscream's Warsong] buff for Horde raiding parties. If an adventurer spoke to him and told him he is not needed, the instance will have to be reset in order to gain the buff again.

Elemental Unrest

This section concerns content related to Wrath of the Lich King.

During the Elemental Unrest, Garrosh defends the Valley of Strength from invading elementals. He also assists Horde players in the destruction of Crown Princess Theradras and Grand Ambassador Flamelash.

The Shattering

This section concerns content related to the Warcraft novels, novellas, or short stories.

File:Gift of Gorehowl.jpg

Garrosh receives Gorehowl from Thrall

Cairne Bloodhoof travels to Warsong Hold to meet with Garrosh and Varok, and though impressed with the hold's fortifications, cannot help but compare it to architecture seen during the previous wars. With the war in Northrend as good as over, Garrosh is recalled to Orgrimmar to experience to a hero's celebration, in honor of the Horde's victories under his leadership. While on route, Garrosh waylays an Alliance carrier wrecked at sea. He disposes of most of its crew, reasoning that it is in Horde waters, though a distressed Cairne urges him to relent. Garrosh then gives the survivors supplies and rations, informing them that they had witnessed both the Horde's might and the Horde's mercy. Garrosh and his crew are satisfied with the outcome, though Cairne shows signs of concern.

Back in Orgrimmar, Garrosh and the Northrend veterans are given a warm welcome by Warchief Thrall, and Garrosh encourages all veterans of the expedition to participate. A celebration is held in their honor, and Thrall later bestows Gorehowl, the axe of Grom Hellscream upon Garrosh. Garrosh displays a natural affinity for the mighty weapon, like his father before him. Though the Northrend victory was a cause of great celebration in the Horde, a rough road seems to await it -- and Thrall calls upon a meeting.

The land of Durotar is naturally harsh, and recent signs of elemental distress and disasters had further weakened the orcs' land. Now without reliable supply routes, and the night elves of Ashenvale refusing to allow trade with the Horde following the Wrathgate fiasco, the citizens of Orgrimmar are on the brink of experiencing a famine. Thrall, Cairne and Hamuul Runetotem resolve to negotiate peacefully with the night elves, as Hamuul holds a high position within the Cenarion Circle comprised of both tauren and night elves. Garrosh, however, is outraged at such a notion. Viewing the Wrathgate as a tragedy to both factions, Garrosh concludes that the night elves boast no right to stand in the way of their survival -- and that the orcs should simply take what they need to survive by force. His suggestion is rebuked by Cairne, and after a heated exchange, Garrosh excuses himself.

Garrosh, observing the skull of Mannoroth and lost in thought, is approached by the enigmatic Magatha Grimtotem. He immediately expresses a mild disdain for the Grimtotem matriarch, noting that hers is the only tauren tribe who had not sworn loyalty to the Horde. Magatha simply offers him words of support, ensuring him that the Grimtotem will join the Horde when needed -- and that Garrosh himself would be exactly what the orcs need, precisely when they need it. Garrosh is appreciative of that sentiment at least, and the two retire.

The elemental upheaval begins to increase in potency, and Orgrimmar itself is caught aflame by rampant fire elementals. No longer able to properly converse with the maddened beings, Thrall decides that action must be taken to discover the cause of this chaos, and begins preperations for a journey to Nagrand. However, this is not an act he can undertake as the Warchief -- and Thrall is forced to consider a temporary replacement. Thrall's immediate thought is Cairne, though the elderly tauren was not an orc -- in times such as this, unrest would likely follow if such a decision was made. Thrall laments the death of Dranosh Saurfang, who would have made an ideal Warchief, and this line of thought brings him to another conclusion; another orc who could keep the Horde together during his absence -- Garrosh.

Garrosh is summoned to Grommash Hold, and Thrall officially names him the acting Warchief. Taken aback, Garrosh hastily mentions that his place is on the battlefield -- he knows much of war and tactics, but little of politics. Thrall ensures him that he will not be alone in this task, and that Cairne, Eitrigg and Vol'jin will be on hand to advise him. Garrosh accepts this charge.

Cairne is defeated by Garrosh in a duel to the death.

Now as the highest authority figure within the Horde, Garrosh begins to repair the damage wrought on by the elemental uprising -- beginning with the remodelling of Orgrimmar. What was once little more than a village of huts, had become an aggressive bastion of a capital, reinforced by the metals used in Warsong Hold. Garrosh reasons that no fire will be able to spread again with this, and he and Cairne appear to finally see eye-to-eye.

However, events are set in motion outside of Garrosh's control -- the peaceful meeting between the tauren and the night elves is sabotaged by agents of the Twilight's Hammer clan, posing as agents of the Horde, who brutally murder the entire gathering and leave Hamuul as its only survivor. Hamuul, likening the agents' attitude to that of Garrosh's, informs Cairne of what had occured.

Garrosh Hellscream in Orgrimmar.

Cairne berates Garrosh over the events that had transpired, just as Garrosh finished being ritually tattooed. Among them was the very same distinctive jaw tattoo that his father had, by an orc tattooist that had been apprenticed to, and had assisted, the orc that had tattooed Grom. Cairne accuses Garrosh of orchestrating the unprovoked attack on the druids, though Garrosh informs him that had he been behind it, he would have announced it to the world. After another fierce exchange, their time as allies essentially breaks down, and Cairne concludes that Garrosh is not fit to lead the glorious Horde after all -- and that for the sake of the Horde, Garrosh must be dethroned. Cairne challenges him to a Mak'gora for the title of Warchief, though Garrosh ups the stakes, forcing it to be a battle to the death in an attempt to deter his opponent. Cairne, however, gladly accepts, and informs Garrosh of the rules befitting a proper Mak'gora -- the dress-code and of the shaman's blessing allowed on their weapon of choice.

Garrosh's earlier encounter with Magatha seems to have bore fruit, and the Grimtotem matriarch offers to bless Gorehowl.

Garrosh and Cairne begin battle in the Orgrimmar Arena, their fighting styles initally cancelling each other out fairly well. However, as Cairne begins to land serious blows upon Garrosh, Garrosh is backed into a corner. Garrosh attempts a desperate strike, slicing Cairne's chest and bifurcating his runespear. Though a formidable blow, it did not seem to appear fatal -- until Cairne inexplicitly collapses from it. Though surprised, Garrosh quickly takes advantage of the situation, and with one final glance at Cairne, deals him the killing blow.

Unbeknownst to Garrosh, Magatha had used him as an instrument in her betrayal of Cairne. Lacing Gorehowl with poison, she had ensured that even minor blows would be fatal to the High Chieftain. Elated, Magatha begins the next step of her plan -- the hostile takeover of Thunder Bluff, and the death of Cairne's son and successor, Baine Bloodhoof.

Garrosh finds himself dealing with mixed emotions. Though still not entirely sure of why Cairne had accused him of such a crime, he was satisfied with the knowledge that it had apparently been a fair fight. Eitrigg quickly dispels this notion, and upon observation, the two discover traces of the same poison that had sealed Cairne's fate. Enraged and distraught, now knowing that he had unwittingly robbed Cairne of a fair fight, and that Magatha had robbed him of his own honor, Garrosh lets his rage take him.

Magatha, now in control of Thunder Bluff, requests aid from her new Warchief. Garrosh replies via letter, wishing her a violent demise, and ensuring her that no aid will be given - her life is now in the hands of the Earth Mother. Having believed she had found a useful tool in Garrosh, Magatha is infuriated by his response.

Garrosh brandishing the mighty Gorehowl.

Without aid, Magatha and the Grimtotem still loyal to her are defeated by Baine Bloodhoof and his followers. Garrosh and Baine meet in the Thousand Needles, and Garrosh attempts to mend his bridges with the equally betrayed new chieftain. Expecting the same challenge from Baine that Carine had given him, Garrosh is surprised when Baine refuses such a notion. Outing Magatha as the true traitor, Baine offers Garrosh the loyalty of the tauren people. Impressed, Garrosh gladly accepts.

As Our Fathers Before Us

This section concerns content related to the Warcraft novels, novellas, or short stories.

While Garrosh and Baine had been able to put their lingering animosity behind them for the good of the Horde, new conflicts begin to arise around the time of the shattering. With the industrious goblins making use of Azshara for the Horde's military needs, the backlash of this had resulted in Orgrimmar's water supply becoming tainted and unfit to drink. Frustrated, Garrosh makes the journey to Thunder Bluff, and speaks with both Baine and Hamuul Runetotem about using shipments of water from Mulgore to rectify this problem. Though both Baine and the Archdruid are apprehensive to bow down to this demand, after some mutual haranguing Baine agrees to it. Garrosh reitirates that as Warchief of the Horde, it falls to him to keep its people safe, and leaves.

The shipments appease Garrosh, and before long the people of Durotar have fresh water to drink. However, Garrosh's attitude towards his tauren allies result in a number of them feeling alienated; some even going as far as to consider leaving the Horde over their chieftain's apparent passivity and Garrosh's increasing demands of the tauren people. As Baine struggles with this, he also learns of quilboar raiding parties harassing the water supplies and killing the tauren people. Garrosh quickly discovers this, and once again makes a trip to Thunder Bluff to confront Baine over it. While Baine is adamant that a peaceful solution to the situation is possible, Garrosh is outraged. He points out to Baine that the quilboar are attacking Horde lands and killing Horde citizens, and that he will not stand for either. Garrosh ensures him that realistic action will be taken to remove the quilboar threat once and for all.

Garrosh, together with a small regiment of 15 Kor'kron, storm the quilboar tunnels and cut down phlanxes of the beasts. As victory appears near, the quilboar launch a massive-scale ambush and overwhelm the Kor'kron regiment in the hundreds. Garrosh is backed into a corner, and while he is able to take down many more quilboar, the tide turns against him and is disarmed of Gorehowl. As things look bleak, Baine, Hamuul and several of the Sunwalkers arrive to relieve the battle. After the High Chieftain asists in dislodging Gorehowl from the tunnel wall, Garrosh and Baine fight off the quilboar and make their escape, arriving safely at the surface of the tunnels. While Garrosh is too infuriated for words, Baine informs him that the quilboar had been lacking a water source too, and Hamuul creates a river for them on the grounds that no more attacks are made against the tauren. The quilboar slink away, and the Horde forces leave triumphant.

Baine ensures Garrosh that if the tauren people require aid again, they will inform him of it, and with that, he turns his back on the Warchief and leads his people back to Thunder Bluff. Having ignored good advice, severely underestimating his enemy, getting 15 elite warriors killed for nothing, and knowing that he has completely and thoroughly embarrassed himself in general, Garrosh travels back to Orgrimmar via zeppelin without a word. Despite their misgivings, Baine later reaffirms his loyalty to the Horde that his father helped to shape.

Cataclysm

This section concerns content related to Cataclysm.

Warchief Garrosh Hellscream on his throne.

Following the shattering, Garrosh begins to take a far more aggressive stance in his war with the Alliance - leading his forces in a rampage through Ashenvale in order to secure the much sought after supplies his people need. His actions have caused the orcish people to avoid the famine that threatened Durotar prior to his ascension. He believes that if the blood of the selfish Alliance is required to give his people the essentials they need to exist, then so be it.

Garrosh evicts the majority of non-orc and non-tauren NPCs from central Orgrimmar, believing only they possess the strength to truly defend the city. However, every race is still accounted for and while being a tough leader, Garrosh sees value in all the races that belong to the Horde and uses them to the best of that value.

Garrosh comes into conflict with the Darkspear Chieftain Vol'jin, Garrosh's relationship with him breaking down in a similar manner to that of Cairne - culminating with Vol'jin threatening to kill him for his thirst for war. Garrosh banishes him for this act, and Vol'jin relocates to the Darkspear Isle. Following Thrall's intervention, Vol'jin admits that he may have acted harshly, and that Garrosh's intentions are at the very least, noble. Where this leaves the two leaders is unknown.

Following the defeat of Trade Prince Gallywix, Thrall sends goblin agents to meet with Garrosh and join the Horde. Garrosh is shown an SI:7 emblem, and notes that he knows the meaning of this all too well.

Garrosh's thin tolerance for the Forsaken is tested further after he orders them to invade Gilneas, as the Horde needs a port in the Eastern Kingdoms. Though Gilneas is initially conquered, the Gilneans are able to counterattack and push the Forsaken forces out of the city. Growing irritated, Garrosh sends his own forces to support the Forsaken, and a stalemate is reached. Garrosh later meets with Lady Sylvanas Windrunner in Silverpine Forest, and is present during her demonstration of the val'kyr's great necromantic abilities. Though the Forsaken are appeased enough by this solution to their plight as a people, Garrosh is disgusted. He dispenses High Warlord Cromush to "guard" Lady Sylvanas, and after an insulting exchange with her, leaves.

Garrosh has also explicitly banned use of the Forsaken blight, though weaker versions are considered acceptable. Most of the Forsaken seem to pay little heed to this, however, and the more powerful strains have been used multiple times since.

Garrosh dismisses Overlord Krom'gar.

During the events of Ashenvale, a demon named Durak attempts to renew the orcs' dependence on fel-power. Garrosh demands his head for this transgression. Garrosh also recruits the Shatterspear tribe into the Horde in order to mount an attack on the night elves from Darkshore.

Following Overlord Krom'gar's assault in the Stonetalon Mountains, Krom'gar's corrupt general arranges the murder of several neutral druids studying in the Thal'darah Grove. Krom'gar uses a massive bomb to completely eradicate the Grove, though Garrosh himself confronts him for these actions. Quoting words he had heard from "a wise old war hero", Garrosh grabs Krom'gar by the neck, and hurls him off the ledge of Cliffwalker Post, causing him to plumit to his elimination. He is humbled by High Chieftain Cliffwalker's talk of "mercy", and thanks him for this lesson.

Garrosh later sends Warlord Bloodhilt to salvage the situation in the Southern Barrens.

Garrosh personally spearheads the assault into the Twilight Highlands, organizing an impressive air fleet to obliterate the Twilight's Hammer cult, and claim the land for the Horde. After giving an inspiring speech to this effect, Garrosh is informed of an Alliance fleet nestled below- and orders his air support to destroy them. However, this backfires when - due to treachery from within - the Horde fleet is ambushed, undefended, by Deathwing and his twilight drakes. Although Garrosh is personally able to fend one such drake off, his ship itself suffers massive damage and falls into the ocean below. The remainder of the fleet suffers a similar fate, crashing down into the sea. Garrosh himself is considered missing in action.

Without Garrosh's direct leadership, the Horde turns to the neighbouring Dragonmaw Clan to strike up an alliance. After failed negotiations with their master, Overlord Mor'ghor, the Horde forces join a Dragonmaw rebellion led by Warlord Zaela, successfully dethroning Mor'ghor and his fel orcs. Garrosh, who had survived the crash, arrives at Dragonmaw Port and officially inducts Zaela and the Dragonmaw into the Horde.

With the assault on the Highlands going well, Garrosh turns his attention inwards- and learns that the earlier ambush was a result of treachery at the hands of Sauranok the Mystic, who had thrown his lot in with the Twilight's Hammer. Garrosh quickly disposes of the treacherous Sauranok with the player's assistance.

In World of Warcraft

Locations

Garrosh can be found in the following locations:

This section concerns content related to The Burning Crusade.

• Garadar, Nagrand (one of the military leaders of the Mag'har)

This section concerns content related to Wrath of the Lich King.

• Warsong Hold, Borean Tundra (master of the Hold)
• Argent Tournament Grounds, Icecrown (arriving with Thrall to observe the tournament)
• Crusaders' Coliseum: Trial of the Champion and Trial of the Crusader (observes the battles in the arena, and sends his champions to fight the Alliance during the Faction Champions event)
• Light's Hammer, Icecrown Citadel (provides the [Hellscream's Warsong] buff for the Horde; patch 3.3.2)

This section concerns content related to Cataclysm.

• Grommash Hold, Orgrimmar (Warchief of the Horde)
• Forsaken High Command, Silverpine Forest (arriving to observe the inclusion of the Val'kyr into Forsaken ranks)
• Cliffwalker Post, Stonetalon Mountains (punishing one of his high-ranked members for being dishonorable during To Be Horde...)
• Twilight Highlands (Leading the Horde zeppelins assault into the Highlands)

Tactics

The battle with Garrosh is arguably the most difficult of all the faction leaders, a major factor being his strategic position. At face value, the several entrances to Orgrimmar can seem appealing to a would-be raid, though Grommash Hold itself has been moved to the most populated area of Orgrimmar- leaving Garrosh flanked by a large amount of Horde players at almost all times. Garrosh's lack of elite guards is compensated by the Warchief's Herald that pulls with him, and the small amount of space allocated for the fight- leaving most of the raid susceptible to AOE and easy crowd control from Horde players, most deadly being chain fears on healers or tanks.

Grommash Hold in the center of Orgrimmar.

Garrosh has a number of powerful abilities in his arsenal. In addition to a melee [Cleave], he possesses a [Bladestorm]-like ability which slows his movement speed by 50%, dealing roughly 15000 damage to everyone in the vicinity every second, for six seconds total. Garrosh also uses berserker charge, dealing roughly 17k damage and knocking back the target by 15 yards. He also makes use of a [Shockwave] ability with an impressive range, dealing around 17k damage to all enemies to his front and stunning them for 5 seconds.

The fight with Garrosh is highly unpredictable due to the immediate outside interference. The near constant threat of a large Horde defense force can make or break the attempt, and a wipe can be incredibly difficult to recover from.

The best way to deal with Garrosh is to strike at a time where Orgrimmar's player traffic will be lowest, and downing him as fast as possible within Grommash hold. Pulling him outside is ill advised, as the Horde will become even more aware of their Warchief's predicament, and a massive wave of constant guard spawns in addition to this can prove disastrous. If the raid is successful, a quick escape is vital -- like Lor'themar Theron, Garrosh is only on a 5-10 minute respawn timer.

Players must also be careful of Horde players kiting Gamon into the area now that he is a level 85 elite. Gamon will randomly charge players and use his battleshout to increase Garrosh's attack power.

Time is a factor with most city leaders, and Garrosh is perhaps the most notable example as to why.

Abilities

•  Berserker Charge —  40 yrd range. Charges at an enemy, knocking it back and inflicting 16187 to 18812 Physical damage.
•  Demoralizing Shout —  Reduces the melee attack power of nearby enemies by 20% for 15 sec.
•  Shockwave —  Sends a wave of force in front of the warrior, causing damage and stunning all enemy targets within 10 yards in a frontal cone for 4 sec.
•  Whirlwind —  Deals 14137 to 15862 damage per 1 sec to surrounding enemies. Movement speed slowed by 50%.

Personality

Much like his father, Garrosh is a warrior-born. Though Garrosh was once highly ashamed of his heritage, a new fighting spirit was awakened within him following Thrall's revelations about who Grom truly was. His hot-headed nature came to the test during the war in Northrend, where Garrosh was quick to dismiss the more practical concerns during war in favour of a glorious battle, believing the fighting spirit of the Horde alone was enough to bring down the Scourge. He has employed ruthless but effective tactics on the battlefield, as noted by Saurfang. Unlike Thrall, who preferred to keep discreet tabs on his more dubious allies (such as those speculated to have ties with the Shadow Council), Garrosh has no qualms about speaking his mind -- making no effort to hide his low opinion on the Forsaken.

Garrosh strongly believes in the value of honor, and in a fair fight. This had led him to show a distaste for the tactics of both the Forsaken and the Alliance, and threatened the life of Korm Blackscar after the events of the Broken Front. He personally executed Overlord Krom'gar for the murder of innocents, and seems to have gleamed a number of Saurfang's creeds.

Garrosh is well-known for his fierce hatred of the Alliance. This appears to stem from his belief that the orcish people deserve a better quality of life than Durotar can offer, and views the Alliance as his primary obstacle in making this happen. To this end, he has expressed the desire for war with the Horde's rival faction multiple times, and was of the opinion that the Horde should simply take what it needs -- both before and after his ascension to Warchief.

His disregard for a more diplomatic approach is applauded by many of the orcs, who view his uncompromising attitude in regards to securing his people a future to be inspiring. However, Garrosh himself is becoming aware of the tested bonds between he and his fellow leaders of the Horde, though whether he places this dire realization on a higher pedestal than his dream of an invigorated, glorious Horde, is currently unknown.

Garrosh's armor

Garrosh at the Theramore peace summit.

This article or section includes speculation, observations or opinions possibly supported by lore or by Blizzard officials. It should not be taken as representing official lore.

As of Patch 4.0.3a, Mannoroth's skull has been moved to Grommash Hold in Orgrimmar's Valley of Strength. There, the skull can be seen as part of Garrosh's throne.

It appears that a large portion of the tusks were cut off and fashioned into Garrosh's new shoulder armor.

Notable Dialogue

Garrosh challenging Thrall.

Letter to Magatha Grimtotem

In The Shattering: Prelude to Cataclysm, during the Grimtotem uprising, Magatha sends a letter to Garrosh requesting his aid against Baine's forces. Having learned of the circumstances that led to him killing Cairne, Garrosh sends this reply:

Unto Elder Crone Magatha of the Grimtotem,

Acting Warchief of the Horde, Garrosh Hellscream,

Sends his most sincere wishes for a slow and painful death.

'It has come to my attention that you have deprived me of a rightful kill. Cairne Bloodhoof was a hero to the Horde and an honorable member of a usually honorable race. It is with disgust and anger that I discover you have caused me to bring about his death through accidental treachery.

Such tactics may work well for your renegade, honorless tribe and Alliance scum, but I despise them. It was my wish to fight Cairne fairly, and win or lose by my own skill or lack of it. Now I shall never know, and the cry of traitor will dog my steps until such time as I can sport your head on a pike and point to you as the real traitor.

So...no. I will not be sending any truehearted orcs to fight alongside your treacherous, belly-crawling tribe. Your victory or your defeat is in the hands of your Earth Mother now. Either way, I look forward to hearing of your demise.

You are on your own, Magatha, as friendless and disliked as you have ever been. Perhaps more. Enjoy your loneliness.

Dialogue with Saurfang

This is the full transcript of the dialogue between Garrosh and Saurfang:

High Overlord Saurfang says: We are surrounded ... Our enemies press in from all sides, young Hellscream. The Scourge descends like locusts from the north. The Alliance holds the only secure shipping lane in this region and even that is at risk of being lost to those dreaded mists. Our only viable port for resupply is held by the Forsaken on the other side of this blasted continent! Anything our zeppelins cannot haul must be brought in by ship and travel the length of Northrend to reach us.
Garrosh Hellscream grunts.
Garrosh Hellscream says: Shipping lanes ... supplies ... You bore me to death! We need nothing more than the warrior spirit of the Horde, Saurfang! Now that we are firmly entrenched in this frozen wasteland, nothing shall stop us!
High Overlord Saurfang says: Siege engines, ammunition, heavy armor ... How do you propose to shatter the walls of Icecrown without those?
Garrosh Hellscream says: Propose? I will show you what I propose!
Garrosh crushes the figures and flag indicating Valiance Keep on the map.
Garrosh Hellscream says: There... Now we now have a shipping lane. And just for good measure...
Garrosh crushes the figures and flag indicating Valgarde and Westguard Keep.
High Overlord Saurfang says: So the prodigal son has spoken! Your father's blood runs strong in you, Hellscream. Impatient as always... Impatient and reckless. You rush headlong into all-out war without a thought of the consequences.
Garrosh Hellscream says: Do not speak to me of consequences, old one.
High Overlord Saurfang says: I drank of the same blood your father did, Garrosh. Mannoroth's cursed venom pumped through my veins as well. I drove my weapons into the bodies and minds of my enemies. And while Grom died a glorious death - freeing us all from the blood curse - he could not wipe away the terrible memory of our past. His act could not erase the horrors we committed.
High Overlord Saurfang says: The winter after the curse was lifted, hundreds of veteran orcs like me were lost to despair. Our minds were finally free, yes... Free to relive all of the unthinkable acts that we had performed under the Legion's influence.
High Overlord Saurfang nods.
High Overlord Saurfang says: I think it was the sounds of the draenei children that unnerved most of them... You never forget... Have you ever been to Jaggedswine Farm? When the swine are of age for the slaughter... It's that sound. The sound of the swine being killed... It resonates the loudest. Those are hard times for us older veterans.
Garrosh Hellscream says: But surely you cannot think that those children were born into innocence? They would have grown up and taken arms against us!
High Overlord Saurfang shakes his head.
High Overlord Saurfang says: I am not speaking solely of the children of our enemies...
High Overlord Saurfang says: I won't let you take us down that dark path again, young Hellscream. I'll kill you myself before that day comes...
Garrosh Hellscream says: How have you managed to survive for so long, Saurfang? Not fallen victim to your own memories?
High Overlord Saurfang says: I don't eat pork...
High Overlord Saurfang spits.

Garrosh as depicted in Heart of War.

Trial of the Crusader

The Horde representatives arrive at the tournament:

Main article: Argent Tournament#Alliance and Horde leadership

Introduction to Faction Champions, if playing as Alliance

Highlord Tirion Fordring yells: The next battle will be against the Argent Crusade's most powerful knights! Only by defeating them will you be deemed worthy!
Garrosh Hellscream yells: The Horde demands justice! We challenge the Alliance! Allow us to battle in place of your knights, paladin. We will show these dogs what it means to insult the Horde.
Highlord Tirion Fordring yells: Very well, I will allow it. Fight with honor!
Garrosh Hellscream yells: Show them no mercy, Horde champions! LOK'TAR OGAR!

Horde victory in Faction Champions

Garrosh Hellscream yells: That was just a taste of what the future brings! For the Horde!
Highlord Tirion Fordring yells: A shallow and tragic victory. We are weaker as a whole from the losses suffered today. Who but the Lich King could benefit from such foolishness? Great warriors have lost their lives, and for what? The true threat looms ahead. The Lich King awaits us all in death.

Garrosh's ascension

Main article: Elemental Unrest meetings#At Grommash Hold

Conversation with Vol'jin

Main article: Quest:More Than Expected

Meeting with Sylvanas

Main article: Quest:The Warchief Cometh

Stonetalon Mountains finale

Main article: Quest:To Be Horde...

Quotes

In Orgrimmar

• "Only the strongest may dwell in Orgrimmar."
• "Live by these words: Lok'tar ogar. Victory...or death."
• "Hellscream's eyes are upon you."
• "You will serve the Horde...or be crushed beneath it!"

Other

• "After all that he did for YOU and YOUR people? MAK'GORA!" (To Thrall, following a situation in which Thrall mentions Grom Hellscream being a hothead)
• "Treacherous Alliance DOGS! You summon a Demon Lord against Warriors of the HORDE?! Your deaths will be swift!" (To Jaina and Varian inside the Argent Coliseum)
• "The Lich King sought to sow the seeds of fear. Let me be the first to show him the Horde fears nothing!"
• "Kalimdor should be home to the orcs, Rehgar. All of Kalimdor!"
• "Beat them back! Remind these vermin what it means to assault the Horde! Lok'tar ogar!"
• "Get off my SHIP!" (to the Twilight drake assaulting his ship)
• "Yes, I live! No Twilight Dragon can take THIS orc down!" (before his ship crashes and capsizes)

Trivia

• The PvE server, Garrosh US, is named after Garrosh Hellscream.
• Garrosh appears to be on extremely icy terms with his fellow leaders of the Horde. In fact, Lor'themar Theron and Jastor Gallywix seem to be the only racial leaders he has not had a harsh disagreement with. On the other hand, this may only the case because he hasn't met with either of them in-game or in the expanded universe novels/comics.
• Though Thrall calls Garrosh "boy" in the pre-WotLK event, looking at the timeline and reading Beyond the Dark Portal suggests Garrosh is actually older.
• Garrosh's appearance (bulky with a shaved head) is practically the inverse of Grom's (lean with long hair).
• Garrosh initially appears to be a Fury Warrior, dual wielding Bleeding Crescents. After his extended tour of duty in Northrend and receiving Gorehowl from Thrall, however, he appears wielding his father's axe alone; presumably, he was taught the finer point of Arms from Varok Saurfang.
• He retains his old model in Warsong Hold and Garadar and only uses his new voice in Warsong Hold. He uses a regular orc voice in Garadar.
•  [Garrosh's Rage] is named after him.
• Garrosh is recognized by his tattoo, which is as long as his torso. Unlike Illidan's tattoo, Garrosh's doesn't glow.
• Garrosh's mount is a female worg named Malak.

Gallery

• 

  Garrosh in the Comic

• 

  Garrosh challenges Thrall

• 

  The Garrosh action figure

• 

  Garrosh after patch 4.0.1 with a new model, but still wielding his original axes

Videos

Lore For Noobs

Template:Youtubelink

External links

Nagrand	Borean Tundra	Icecrown	Icecrown Citadel	Orgrimmar
Wowhead WoWDB	Wowhead WoWDB	Wowhead WoWDB	Wowhead WoWDB	Wowhead WoWDB

Preceded by: Grom Hellscream

Position: Chieftain of the Warsong Clan

Succeeded by: Incumbent

Preceded by: Thrall

Position: Warchief of the Horde

Succeeded by: Incumbent

nl:Garrosh Hellscream