XT-002 Deconstructor

King Varian Wrynn
Title	<King of Stormwind>
Gender	Male
Race(s)	Human
Level	?? (Boss)
Class	Gladiator (comic); Warrior (WoW & TCG)
Reaction	Alliance Horde
Affiliation(s)	Alliance, Alliance of Lordaeron, Kingdom of Stormwind, Valiance Expedition, House of Wrynn, Crimson Ring (formerly)
Occupation	King of Stormwind, High King of the Grand Alliance, Leader of the Valiance Expedition, Gladiatorial slave (previously)
Location	Stormwind Keep, Stormwind City and various others (see Locations)
Status	Alive
Relative(s)	Tiffin (wife, deceased), Anduin (son), Llane (father), Adamant (grandfather), Varia (grandmother), Landen (great-grandfather)
Mentor(s)	Terenas Menethil, Anduin Lothar, Hjalmar Anvilmar, Rehgar Earthfury
Companion(s)	Broll Bearmantle, Valeera Sanguinar, Bolvar Fordragon, Thargas Anvilmar, Jaina Proudmoore, Arthas Menethil

"I am the King of Stormwind and no one, not the naga, nor the Scourge, nor the fiery lords of the Burning Legion will keep me from my people!"

Varian Wrynn, also known as Lo'Gosh the "Ghost Wolf", is the current King of Stormwind, head of military in the Alliance and the son of the late King Llane Wrynn. Under his leadership, the humans of Stormwind lead the Alliance to victory against the Lich King in Northrend, and now seek to bolster their strategic holdings against their perennial enemy, the Horde. Known for his tenacity and fierce will, King Varian Wrynn is committed to protecting the Alliance's interests and raising his son, Anduin, to follow in his place. With the world plunged into chaos by the great Cataclysm, he has taken up military leadership of the Alliance, and vowed to forge a new destiny for Azeroth.

Biography

The First War

Young Varian in the burning streets of Stormwind.

Varian Wrynn was born to King Llane Wrynn in the Kingdom of Azeroth and as a youth lived a joyful and prosperous life as prince of Stormwind. But all that changed when the orcs appeared from beyond the Dark Portal and attempted to destroy his homeland, thus ushering in the First War between his beloved Kingdom of Azeroth and the Horde.

Anduin Lothar, the Champion of Stormwind, rallied his countrymen and armies and gutted out a desperate attempt to hold the Horde at bay and to keep them away from King Llane, Varian, and Stormwind. While Lothar enjoyed some small success in holding back the Horde, his efforts were dashed when Garona Halforcen, who had become an ally to Stormwind, betrayed King Llane under orders from the Shadow Council and cut his heart out, giving it to Gul'dan. Varian could only watch helplessly as his father was murdered and the Horde overran his kingdom, burning its homes and slaughtering all who stood in their way. The death of his father affected him greatly, his later closest friend Arthas Menethil recalls him looking weary and ragged when he first sees him, and says that he'd "lost absolutely everything but his life."

Exodus to Lordaeron

Anduin Lothar, convinced that Stormwind could not be retaken, gathered Varian and all who remained in the city and led an escape from their homeland. Narrowly escaping by boat into the sea, they headed North while Lothar gathered his thoughts aboard his ship. Consulting with Varian and the Kirin Tor mage Khadgar, they determined that in order to preserve humanity from annihilation by the Horde they would need to warn King Terenas, ruler of Lordaeron, of the danger that loomed on the horizon.

After landing at the port of Southshore, Lothar gathered Prince Varian along with Khadgar and several knights and marched towards Lordaeron. Upon arriving young Varian was greeted by King Terenas, who treated him as an equal king despite Varian's young age. King Terenas quickly offered him his pledge to stand by him until his homeland was retaken and invited him to stay with him for as long as he was willing. Although at first Varian was slightly shy being in a Kingdom he had never seen before, he quickly overcame his timidity and Varian found King Terenas' son Arthas Menethil, who was just a few years younger than he, as a great new friend and the two quickly formed a close friendship. Shortly after he began staying in Lordaeron, King Terenas formed the Alliance of Lordaeron. Under the command of Anduin Lothar, its supreme commander, this alliance was finally able to put an end to the Horde reign during the Second War. However, the victory came at a great price as Anduin Lothar was killed shortly before the war ended and would not live to see the retaking of his Kingdom of Stormwind.

Friendship with Arthas

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

After taking up shelter in Lordaeron, Varian quickly became friends with Arthas Menethil who was anxious to meet another young prince. Though most of the time he kept his composure, Varian once broke into tears as Arthas tried to console him about the assassination of his father. He was later recalled by Arthas as his "best friend" for much of their childhood and adult lives, and Varian frequently sparred with the less-athletic Arthas in an attempt to toughen him and make him a better paladin. They built up a friendly rivalry, and a year after Varian was crowned king, they met and sparred on the day of Arthas' ascension to the Order of the Silver Hand. Though not outwardly spiteful, Arthas frequently lamented that he was not as physically strong as Varian. During the later murder of King Terenas, Arthas recalled words that Varian once said about how King Llane was "stabbed right through the heart" moments before he plunged Frostmourne through his own father's heart. After Arthas' falling in with the Scourge and rise to become the new Lich King, Varian began to see him as the ultimate traitor to the Alliance.

Rise as King

File:VarianTiffinAnduin.JPG

Varian with his wife and son.

Varian holding Tiffin as she dies.

With Stormwind retaken and slowly being rebuilt (thanks to King Terenas, who had urged the Alliance to help fund the rebuilding of Stormwind), Varian was officially crowned King of Stormwind at the age of eighteen. King Terenas himself was well-pleased with how Varian had grown into a clever and noble King, feeling a father's pride as he had grown attached to Varian over the years, considering Varian his second son. The Stonemasons, led by Edwin VanCleef, came to lend their help in rebuilding Stormwind and hoped to forge a new future for themselves, with aspirations that riches would soon follow their work's completion.

During his reign as king, Varian left Stormwind City under the stewardship of the House of Nobles and traveled to the many corners of his kingdom to protect his people from raiding orc parties, meet with spies who were searching for the assassin Garona, and direct the restoration of his kingdom. After many months Stormwind was finished, reborn as a kingdom of majesty and architectural brilliance eclipsing even its once-pristine condition before the First War. It was during this time of renewed tranquility that Varian would marry a young, beautiful woman named Tiffin Ellerian and conceived a son, Anduin, named for Lothar.

However, the Alliance soon began fracturing, and the elven Kingdom of Quel'Thalas, along with the human kingdoms of Stromgarde and Gilneas seceded. Despite this, King Varian vowed he would stand by King Terenas and the Alliance as they had stood by him in his time of need. It was also during this time that the Stonemasons who had rebuilt Stormwind demanded to be paid for their service to King Varian and the House of Nobles. However, the corrupt House of Nobles, under the influence of Katrana Prestor, refused to adequately pay the guild for its work. King Varian was unable to negotiate a resolution that appeased both parties. It is suspected that Lady Katrana had ensorcelled half the House of Nobles and half the Stonemasons and because of this, both sides refused to begrudge their positions, with the House of Nobles only offering meager compensation while the Stonemasons continued to demand extravagant sums. Though the Stonemasons were compensated for their work, they received only a fraction of the pay they felt they had earned, and so Edwin VanCleef and the Stonemasons set to rioting in the streets of Stormwind, demanding just compensation. The riot was dangerous and chaotic and in the confusion Varian's young queen was brutally murdered. Edwin VanCleef fled Stormwind with the Stonemasons while Varian mourned Tiffin's death. He subsequently fell into a great depression that was ensorcelled to span a decade and during the Third War. During which, Lady Katrana took advantage of his ensorcelled state to politically outmaneuver him but over time, he fought off the magical effects and regained his conscious and will. Varian soon reasserted his control over the Stormwind government and vowed to continue to create a new and better world for himself, his son, and the people of Stormwind.

Abduction

After the dust had settled from the Third War, Varian journeyed to Theramore to speak with Lady Jaina Proudmoore regarding Horde/Alliance relations. En route, he was abducted by the Defias who had been told of his diplomatic trip through a spy rumored to live within the Kingdom of Stormwind itself. Rumors circulated that he was taken to Alcaz Island and was held captive there. These rumors were true.

Shortly after King Varian was kidnapped, Bolvar Fordragon was made Regent-Lord of Stormwind and vowed to find and rescue King Varian at any cost. Lady Prestor also became a royal advisor, and convinced Highlord Bolvar to have King Varian's 10-year-old son, Anduin Wrynn, crowned King of Stormwind, though the actual power remained in Fordragon's hands until either Varian was returned or Anduin reached the age of ascension.

Gladiator

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

Lo'Gosh the gladiator, wearing the belt of Anduin Lothar.

An amnesiac Varian Wrynn, as seen at the beginning of Issue #1.

Lo'Gosh in the Trading Card Game.

Lo'Gosh becomes a Crimson Ring Champion

Varian somehow managed to escape his confinement and left the island, though his bid for freedom was not wholly successful. Half-drowned and suffering from memory loss, he was found washed up on the shores of Durotar by a caravan of orcs led by the gladiator trainer Rehgar Earthfury. After successfully fighting off an enormous crocolisk using only a stick, he was captured and enslaved as a gladiator by the impressed shaman. Unaware of the human's true identity, Earthfury humorously nicknamed his new slave "Croc-Bait" and threw him into a cage with his other two gladiator slaves: Broll Bearmantle and Valeera Sanguinar. That night, in order to help him remember his past, Broll placed Varian in a trance, wherein he saw a vision of himself as a child in a burning city.

After arriving in Orgrimmar, Rehgar started training his team. Rehgar taught the three gladiators new ways to kill as well as strategy in single and team combat. While in the Ring of Valor- the Crimson Ring’s secret training grounds- Varian refused to engage in combat for the amusement of the orcs. Though the orcs in the training grounds labeled him a troublemaker, Rehgar permitted his disobedience and allowed him to watch on as his partners trained. It was only when Valeera was drawn into a fight with Sparkeye’s gladiator team, did Varian pick up a sword to defend his team mates. Though Varian’s team emerged victorious from the battle, they were left injured and exhausted from their fight. Rehgar offered no respite as he permitted Hyku Steeledge to take advantage of their weakened state and attack them. With both his team mates defenseless, Varian engaged Hyku Steeledge in single combat and slew him. From that battle, Varian learned to always expect the unexpected in the Crimson Ring and following the rules of combat, inherited Hyku’s twin orc blades.

Rehgar later led the trio to the secret armory of the Crimson Ring in the Hall of Legends, where after seeing a familiar-looking lion-headed plate belt, Varian received another flashback: a bald, bearded man stands on the deck of a boat in a storm, wearing the belt and called Varian "lad.

Eventually the three traveled to Dire Maul in Feralas where the gladiatorial contests took place. After many bloody battles, they emerged the victors of the Crimson Ring tournament. Impressed by Varian's skill at arms, the crowd gave him the orcish moniker "Lo'Gosh" — which means "Ghost Wolf".

After the tournament, Rehgar took Lo'Gosh and Broll to the tauren city Thunder Bluff, where they were both permitted to undergo a cleansing ritual in the Pools of Vision that would reveal more about the gladiators' pasts and guide them to their futures. In the waters of the pools, Lo'Gosh saw another vision: a fair-haired female who was ostensibly his wife holding an infant boy, telling him that his people and his son need him. Unfortunately, his vision was interrupted by a cave elemental that had been haunting the pools of vision, a foe which he subsequently defeated. Nevertheless, having learned more of his past, he planned to escape from Rehgar at the next possible opportunity.

In thanks for defeating the cave elemental, Broll and Lo'Gosh were invited to the tent of Hamuul Runetotem, elder druid of the tauren. He told Varian the legend of the original Lo'Gosh — a massive, white wolf-beast renowned for its ferocity in battle, already 10,000 years old when the Burning Legion first invaded Azeroth. According to the arch druid, the wolf's legend extended through Azeroth to trolls, goblins and dwarves who all had their own version of the story. In each tale, Lo'Gosh's unyielding will and sheer ferocity enabled him to push through the boundaries of the afterlife to aid his people. Hamuul then gave Lo'Gosh a feather, which Broll immediately recognized as belonging to a hippogryph. The night elf used it to call Sharptalon from Ashenvale, and immediately made a bid for freedom with Lo'Gosh.

Broll and Lo'Gosh eventually reached the Cenarion Enclave in Darnassus, and were summoned to dinner by Tyrande Whisperwind. Tyrande sent the two to Theramore, where Jaina Proudmoore would be able to help restore his memories.

Upon arriving in Theramore, Jaina vowed to Lo'Gosh that she would unravel the mystery surrounding him, and called upon her chamberlain, Aegwynn, to help. Breaching the dark aura surrounding Lo'Gosh's memories, visions revealed a fire and a voyage, the birth of his son, the death of his wife, and new darkness. Despite an invisible wall preventing Jaina and Aegwynn from further delving into his memories, they were able to confirm that he had been traveling to Theramore, and that he was, in fact, Varian Wrynn, the lost King of Stormwind.

Lo'Gosh squares off against a Naga.

Clearly having been the victim of a dark magic attack, Jaina prepared one of her own ships to carry Lo'Gosh to Stormwind in the Eastern Kingdoms, where she hoped that he could learn the identity of his enemies. Now knowing that his wife is dead, Lo'Gosh was eager to return to Stormwind and reunite with his son, though Aegwynn advised him that circumspection was necessary, as Anduin could be endangered by any hasty actions. On the docks, Broll and Lo'Gosh reunited with Valeera and prepared to set out for Stormwind.

Revelations

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Lo'Gosh involved in a bar brawl.

Varian and Lo'Gosh

While Lo'Gosh, Broll, and Valeera were traveling on the Wavecutter — Jaina Proudmoore's private vessel — Lo'Gosh contemplated the revelations Jaina had told him. Despite being revealed as one of the rulers of the Alliance, he became unsure if he truly wanted to resume being "Varian Wrynn" — if he had a choice, he would remain as "Lo'Gosh", a simple gladiator. Doubts began to fill Lo'Gosh's head as they traveled to Menethil Harbor.

During the voyage their vessel was attacked by naga lead by Morgala Darksquall. The fight between Lo'Gosh and the siren was brutal and during the bout a flash of lightning from the naga's trident left his notable crossed facial scars. Lo'Gosh also had another glimpse into his lost memory — remembering the Defias abducting him on his diplomatic mission to Theramore, the naga attacking him on Alcaz Island for ransom, the funeral for his beloved wife Tiffin, and the day he was crowned King of Stormwind. Almost all of Lo'Gosh's memory had been returned, except some vital parts of his abduction.

Jubilant throngs of Stormwind's subjects turned out for a massive ceremony to welcome home their king. However, the Varian that returned was arrogant, frivolous, and markedly interested in Katrana Prestor. The people of Stormwind had only been informed that Defias had ransomed the king, a ransom paid with a painful new tax. Upon his return, however, Varian seemed concerned only with spending more of his people's money, leaving affairs of state by the wayside. Anduin Wrynn was distressed by his father's change.

Around the same time, Lo'Gosh appeared at Menethil Harbor with Broll and Valeera. The group had a chance encounter with a drunkard in Menethil Harbor, who ran after realizing that Varian was still alive. Lo'Gosh and his companions gave chase with the intent of having "a conversation." The man ran to a bar filled with Defias members, who attempted to take out Varian again, resulting in a chaotic bar brawl. During the fight, Lo'Gosh met Thargas Anvilmar an emissary from Magni Bronzebeard whose brother had once trained the king.

Though the drunk escaped, Lo'Gosh found a dying defias mage to question. Though the mage did not reveal who wanted Varian dead, he said that the person had paid in Stormwind gold. The mage mocked Lo'Gosh by claiming that his son would be murdered. The three gladiators and Thargas then continued on their way to Stormwind.

A few days later in Stormwind City, King Magni Bronzebeard was on a visit and was discussing war plans against the orcs and Dark Iron dwarves with King "Varian" and Bolvar Fordragon. However, Varian Wrynn was counseled by Lady Katrana Prestor to not send troops to help the dwarves fight against the dark irons. King Magni left disappointed in Varian's subservience to Lady Prestor's wishes and his dishonorable demeanor. While going to the Deeprun Tram, Magni was met by the young Prince Anduin Wrynn who told the dwarven king he too suspected something amiss about his "father".

Some time later, as Anduin was practicing his archery with his "father" and inquired him how he was kidnapped by the Defias, and wondered how he came in the hands of the Naga for a ransom, to which his father told him his past was blank and he could not recall any events.

Upon arriving at Ironforge, Lo'Gosh was informed by King Magni that much of what had transpired was no coincidence and that someone was secretly orchestrating the events, knowing of King Varian's significant importance to the Alliance. Magni had previously enlisted the aid of Highlord Bolvar Fordragon and Marshal Windsor at the behest of young Anduin, who suspected the Varian in Stormwind to be an impostor. Varian, having studied sword fighting with Windsor for years, held a deep respect for him as a friend and ally. A disturbingly short time after Marshal Windsor began his investigation, he had come to the conclusion that the impostor Varian may not only be an impostor, but a dragon.

As Lo'Gosh and Magni continued to converse they were secretly being followed by a bearded man. Valeera sensed arcane energy being manipulated and witnessed the man creating a dagger with the intent to kill Lo'Gosh. Valeera quickly subdued the man, but he transformed into a black dragon and fled.

Outside Stormwind, Anduin, Varian, Bolvar, and Lady Prestor were riding horseback through the countryside with Anduin trying to implore his father to listen to Stormwind's problems, but before he could elaborate, his horse was purposely roused by an unknown assailant causing Anduin to lose control and tumble over a ledge, Varian swiftly caught Anduin, and upon making physical contact, his mind is enveloped with visions of the Defias carrying him while knocked out, strapped to the ground and covered in a rune-circle with robed figures casting dark magic, being chased on Alcaz Island by naga, and finally jumping over a cliff reaching for branches just beyond his reach.

Anduin, embracing his father, lost any doubts about him being an imposter. Varian started to tell Bolvar, Anduin, and Lady Prestor about his visions until Lady Prestor touched him and remarked how astonished she was by his nobility. Bolvar surmised that Varian becomes befuddled when around her and loses his honor and respect for others and becomes more anxious in discovering the secrets of Varian's abduction and sudden return knowing this would lead to trouble.

Via magic, Bolvar informed King Magni that Windsor's report indicated he was close to discovering the dragon's identity but was captured by Dark Iron dwarves in Blackrock Depths. Lo'Gosh and his allies mounted and rode to Blackrock Depths and rescued Windsor, who revealed to Lo'Gosh what he had discovered regarding his investigation.

Return as King

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

Lo'Gosh and Varian wielding their twin blades.

Lo'Gosh and Varian.

Marching through the gates of Stormwind, Lo'Gosh and his friends were halted by General Marcus Jonathan under the direct jurisdiction of Katrana Prestor, who ordered their immediate arrest and execution as traitors. Windsor succeeded in convincing Marcus of his loyalty to Stormwind as they had previously served together under Turalyon.

Katrana Prestor hastily gathered soldiers only to have the false-Varian tell her that she was disobeying the chain of command and was not in charge of Stormwind. Entering Stormwind Keep, Lo'Gosh declared Katrana's masquerade was over and called her by her true name, Onyxia.

Revealing her dragon form and transforming multiple guards into dragonspawn, Lo'Gosh and his allies began battle in the great hall of Stormwind Keep. The arrival of Highlord Bolvar Fordragon along with Anduin greatly aided them in securing the keep but Reginald Windsor was killed moments later by Onyxia.

Lo'Gosh engaged his doppelganger, claiming he threatened the stability of his kingdom and nearly cost the Alliance Thandol Span, only to have his doppelganger retort he was starting to repress her spells and regain control of his actions. Anduin, surprised by seeing two Varians, urged them to stop fighting to face the true threat, the brood mother Onyxia. The great dragon snatched Anduin and teleported them to her lair daring Varian to follow suit. Regrouping with his friends Varian was left to grieve the loss of his son and told his friends the final battle would end in Onyxia's Lair .

Relinquishing command of Stormwind to Bolvar, his old friend begins to sense that despite two Varian's commanding Stormwind, they both carried polar opposite personalities. Lo'Gosh was incredibly anxious to find his son while showing incredible will in commanding his troops, while the other Varian was calm, passive and charming ever since ridding himself of Onyxia's influence.

After journeying across the sea and dispatching some of Onyxia's drake assassins, Varian's forces finally arrived at Theramore. They all met up with Jaina Proudmoore and she told them she had discovered what dark magic was used on them in an old tome. Jaina came up with the theory that Onyxia greatly gained influence over Varian after his wife's death but periodically lost control as Varian's attachment to Anduin grew and so she attempted to reassert her control by using a spell that would not kill Varian but would remove and destroy his conscience, will, and responsibility.

Jaina cast enchantments around the two Varians and they recalled the last part of their abduction: Being on Alcaz Island tied to the ground, cloaked figures casting dark magic causing unbearable pain as he desperately tries to break himself free. In a blinding flash of light he awakes to find himself laying next to an exact duplicate. Onyxia unmasked herself intending to kill the strong-willed Varian but is stopped by the arrival of Morgala Darksquall and her naga. The cloaked figures and Onyxia turn into dragonkin and battle the naga while the strong-willed Varian breaks himself free and begins to fight. He tried to free the other Varian and implores him to find a weapon but discovered his other is too unnerved to properly wield a weapon.

The other Varian is knocked off a cliff, falls into the ocean and is captured by the naga. Varian is left alone to fight and tricks Onyxia into believing she had killed him. Pleased, Onyxia left before more naga appeared. Morgala attempted to capture Varian but he fled to another side of the island and jumped into the ocean, knowing he wouldn't be followed as that part of the ocean contained many rocky shoals. His escape failed, however, as the strong tide overpowered him and he's swept away to the shores of Durotar.

Back in Jaina's tower both Varians came to the startling conclusion they are both the same person and at the same time only half of what they should be. Jaina explained that although Onyxia's spell split them in half, they were both able to fight past the spell and regain who they truly were, even though they both lived as separate beings.

One Varian became Lo'Gosh, the gladiator champion of the Crimson Ring and fought to regain his memories and birthright. The other Varian was ransomed and returned to Stormwind, and was further ensorcelled by Onyxia. While bereft of will, he would break free once again. After a moment, Jaina unveiled two ancient elven swords, Shalla'tor the Shadow Render and Ellemayne the Reaver. After receiving their new weapons, both Varians decreed retribution would finally be brought to Onyxia.

Corruption Ends

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Varian restored

Leading an assault against Onyxia, both Varians engaged her in battle. Weapons and magic clashed with her numerous dragonkin with both sides determined to win. Onyxia cast a fear spell on Broll and tail swiped Jaina, removing them from the battle after growing agitated by their constant spellcasting.

Becoming desperate to end the fight, Onyxia began casting the spell she was going to use on Alcaz Island to kill Lo'Gosh, but Lo'Gosh's double responded by stepping in front of the blast, saying he should die because Lo'Gosh was the embodiment of the true Varian.

Not willing to sacrifice his double, Lo'Gosh leapt alongside his other self hoping to save him. The magic spell became disrupted by having the two Varians in the spell, and after a moment of silence Varian emerged, his two halves fused back together.

Onyxia desperately tries to incinerate him, but Varian swiftly reached Onyxia's head and impaled her with his newly-fused elven sword, Shalamayne. With Onyxia dead, Varian reunited with his son and friends, telling them their long and noble deeds will be rewarded and Stormwind has been reborn with a new hope for the future.

Theramore Peace Summit

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Garona attempts to assassinate Varian.

While taking a tour of Kalimdor, Varian was asked by Jaina Proudmoore to meet with the orc Warchief Thrall so that they may discuss plans to ease tensions between the Horde and Alliance. Varian however, was still wary of orcs for their role in Stormwind's destruction during the first war and didn't trust them to be true allies; yet Jaina assured him that Thrall was someone she trusted with her life. Though he was content with just Stormwind and the Horde no longer being in a state of open war and reluctant to enforce such a peace, he was convinced by Anduin and Valeera to attend citing that a human-orc alliance may benefit Stormwind’s prosperity.

At Theramore, Varian and Thrall had a peaceful discussion with an eye toward mutual gain. They first talked of their pasts and then discussed resource problems; like the Horde's war against the night elves for lumber. Varian offered to provide Thrall's people with lumber and in exchange the Warchief offered copper and exotic hides in return. Varian had to end the summit early as Goldshire and Southshore were reported to be under simultaneous distress by the Scourge. Thrall and Varian were about to depart amicably but upon exiting Theramore, the Twilight's Hammer cult invaded the city. The Alliance races of the Twilight cultists attacked the Horde representatives while the Horde races of the Twilight cultists attacked the Alliance representatives. After catching a glimpse of Garona, Varian thought that Thrall had sent her to assassinate him as the Shadow Council had done in the past with his father After a time battling, the Twilight's Hammer's casualties began to rise. Varian was about to strike a mortal blow to Garona when Med'an entered to protect his mother. Varian tossed Med’an aside and was captured by a retreating Stasia who left Garona to die at the hands of their targets. Garrosh blamed the Alliance for the attack while Varian blamed the Horde; specifically Garrosh. Though Varian was suspicious of the Horde’s involvement with the attack, he decided to investigate and reveal the true motives and conspirators of the attack by interrogating Garona himself. Yet Garona was ensorcelled with magic that made her believe that she had planned the assassination out of her own volition. All that Varian managed to get from her was that her mission was not only to assassinate him but his son, Anduin, as well. Varian enraged, was on the verge of dispatching Garona once again only to be stopped by Jaina this time, who had claimed Garona as Theramore’s prisoner.

Before Varian left Theramore to prepare his campaign against the Scourge, he was convinced by Valeera to let her remain in Theramore and work with the ensorcelled Garona to reveal Garona’s masters and deal with the threats to Varian and Anduin’s safety. Varian declared he will no longer attend any more peace summits and that after the threat of the Scourge has been dealt with, he will return to Theramore to claim Garona for execution.

Return to Stormwind

Scourge Invasion

Soon after regaining his throne, Stormwind was attacked by the undead legions of the Scourge. Varian, alongside his friend Bolvar Fordragon, was successful in repelling the undead forces after a long battle in Stormwind Harbor. Founding the Valiance Expedition to cope with the Horde in destroying the Lich King, Varian sent Bolvar to oversee the creation of a base at Angrathar the Wrathgate in the Dragonblight, right in the shadow of Icecrown itself.

After being directly confronted by Thassarian with a personal request of Highlord Tirion Fordring, King Varian permits death knights of the Ebon Blade into the Alliance to aid in the fight against the Lich King.

Battle for the Undercity

The King in deep thought.

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

After receiving word of Bolvar's death Varian is overwhelmed with anger and sorrow, having considered Bolvar a brother for ruling his kingdom and raising his son during his absence. He sent Jaina Proudmoore to Orgrimmar to discover the reason for the Horde's betrayal. He deemed this as an act of treason and demanded retribution for his friend's death. Jaina returned and informed Varian that Varimathras and the Royal Apothecary Society had betrayed them all and the Horde no longer controlled Undercity.

Varian and Jaina gathered the Alliance army and attacked Undercity, hoping to reclaim it as Lordaeron for the Alliance and bring Putress to justice. When entering Undercity, Varian becomes disgusted by the condition of the once great city, which he knew since childhood. Tracking Putress to the Apothecarium, Varian and Jaina defeated him. But to Varian's horror, they also discovered dozens of mutilated and defiled human corpses, on which the Apothecary Society experimented on to create the New Plague. Realizing that, although the Alliance and Horde agreed to a small truce over the years, the Forsaken had been secretly creating a means to kill them all.

Varian confronts Thrall and declares that peace can never be achieved. When a fight breaks out between the Alliance and Horde, Jaina stops Thrall and Varian from killing each other and teleports Varian, herself and the Alliance army back to Stormwind, hoping to stop further bloodshed and chaos. After losing his friend Bolvar Fordragon, and defeating Grand Apothecary Putress, Varian appears to declare war against the Horde during the quest The Battle For The Undercity after the attack on Thrall and his forces in the Undercity.

Secrets of Ulduar

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

When Brann Bronzebeard learns that Yogg-Saron has escaped its ancient prison in Ulduar, Rhonin and Jaina Proudmoore request aid from King Varian, and so he asks for them to meet in the Violet Citadel. While Rhonin is speaking with King Varian, Thrall and Garrosh Hellscream arrive at the citadel and disregard Jaina's warnings to not enter the tower.

Before Rhonin is able to explain Varian turns and sees Thrall and Garrosh demanding to know what they are doing there. Garrosh insults Varian and draws his weapons, and Varian does the same before Garrosh charges at him, knocking Jaina out of the way in the process. After Rhonin breaks the fight up, he calls upon the Horde and Alliance to work together against the Old God. Varian points out that more men died from the Horde's treachery at the Wrathgate than from the Scourge, and refuses to ally with them. He appears to withhold full Alliance support, telling Rhonin he is through working with the Horde, and telling Thrall and Garrosh that he hopes the death god (what the Vrykul call Yogg-Saron) takes them all, before promptly teleporting out with his men.

Crusaders' Coliseum

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

King Varian, accompanied by Jaina Proudmoore, attends tournaments at the Crusaders' Coliseum in Icecrown, surrounded by various champions and representatives of the Alliance.

Main article: Argent_Tournament#Alliance_and_Horde_leadership

Icecrown Citadel

King Varian at Light's Hammer in Icecrown Citadel.

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

Varian, again accompanied by Jaina, appears in Icecrown Citadel during the Alliance outro following the defeat of Deathbringer Saurfang. Muradin Bronzebeard attempts to block Varok Saurfang from claiming the body of his son, but Varian intervenes on the High Overlord's behalf, voicing his respect and honor for fellow warriors, and allows him to pass.

Some time after the opening of the Frostwing Halls, Varian can also be found in the entry hall of Light's Hammer. He provides the [Strength of Wrynn] buff for Alliance raiding parties. If you speak to him and tell him he is not needed, you will need to reset the instance (provided you are not already saved to it) in order to gain the buff again.

Stormrage

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

Sometime after the defeat of the Lich King, Stormwind was being attacked by the Emerald Nightmare corruption. Varian was able to escape its corruption using an anti-dreaming potion. Yet to his horror, he was unable to save his son Anduin, who was one of many consumed by the Emerald Nightmare. When Malfurion Stormrage gathered a diverse army of survivors to assault the Emerald Nightmare and do battle with the Nightmare Lord and his army of corrupted nightmare creatures, he tasked Varian to lead the army in the upcoming battle. Still embittered and distrustful of the Horde, he adamantly refused to lead an army with Horde members with in its ranks and preferred that the Emerald Nightmare take the Horde. He later reconsidered and agreed to lead the army when he was convinced by Malfurion to put his hatred aside for Anduin's sake. Though Horde members were wary to be under Varian's command, through the efforts of Baine Bloodhoof, the Horde races were able to put aside their differences and follow Varian's orders. Varian Wrynn led the diverse dreamform army in the Emerald Dream and against impossible odds, the army was able keep the Emerlad Nightmare's army preoccupied while Thura and Malfurion defeated the Nightmare Lord on both the Emerald Dream and Azeroth planes. Even as the battle grew dire, those who knew the legend of Lo'Gosh grew more confident under his leadership when they saw flashes of a wolf's face appear in Varian's dream form. After the threat of the Emerald Nightmare had been defeated, the world began to rebuild. King Varian was one of the Alliance guests who attended the wedding ceremony between Malfurion Stormrage and Tyrande Whisperwind.

Elemental Unrest

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

King Varian takes part in the discussion about the recent earthquakes with the other major political heads of the Alliance. He also offers quests concerning the infiltration of the Twilight cult within Stormwind society.

Later on during the final event Varian also assists in the defense of Stormwind during the elemental invasion of the city, he primarily operates out of the Trade District. He also assists Alliance players in the destruction of Prince Sarsarun and Kai'ju Gahz'rilla.

The Shattering: Prelude to Cataclysm

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

King Varian infiltrates Ironforge alongside SI:7 in The Shattering.

While attending a memorial service for those who died from the Lich King war at the Cathedral of Light, the service was interrupted by two night elf Sentinels who reported a savage and brutal attack on one of the night elf convoys and the thievery of their goods. Though the Alliance and Horde agreed to a peace treaty after the Lich King war, the brutality of the attack left everyone on edge and was considered in violation of their peace treaty agreement. Varian automatically suspects Thrall to have ordered the attack but Jaina Proudmoore comes to his defense and vouches that most likely these attacks were not authorized by him, nor should he be held responsible for them, as she claims that Varian also can’t control all of his people as evidence of the Defias. Angry with Jaina for recalling the Defias to him, Varian’s Lo’Gosh personality emerged, and he becomes intimidatingly aggressive as he accuses her of being a poor judge of character, as evidence of her misjudging Arthas, as well as a “mewling pacifist” who puts peace first, no matter the cost.

Anduin overhears their argument and interrupts them. He leaves disgusted with his father’s attitude towards Jaina and pacifism, a philosophy that he also believes in. Varian later apologized to Jaina for their spat and informed her that he would not take any violent actions against Thrall without proof. He sent an emissary to question Thrall on the attack. He stipulated to Thrall that he publicly denounce the attack, make a reaffirmation of the Horde’s commitment towards the peace treaty, send all offenders of any attack to the Alliance, and publicly reprimand the savagery in which the attack was committed. Thrall was only willing to reaffirm the Horde’s willingness to continue the peace treaty and denounce the breaking of the treaty, but his unwillingness to reprimand the savagery in which the attack was carried out, the thievery of the night elves' goods, or apologize for the murders, has weakened his popularity with Alliance leaders. Varian thought it best to send Anduin away to Theramore, where he can be under the guardianship of Jaina Proudmoore, and later Ironforge, where he can learn to improve his martial training and hopefully understand the need for his caution with the Horde. Varian figures that it would be best for him and Anduin to spend some time apart while he figures out how to deal with the aggressive outbursts evoked by his Lo'Gosh personality.

When Varian heard that Moira Thaurissan took over Ironforge with her Dark Iron guards in the wake of King Magni Bronzebeard's petrification, Varian was outraged. Moira was holding everyone in the city hostage, including his son for a time. Varian and eighteen SI:7 operatives embarked on a mission to liberate Ironforge and assassinate Moira Thaurissan. When Varian was about to execute Moira, Anduin, who had rushed back to Ironforge, convinced Varian that it would be better to guide Moira to be a better leader rather than to just execute her. Despite Moira being a tyrant who held the city hostage, she was still the legitimate heir to the throne and killing her would only put the succession of Ironforge into question, thus leading to more chaos and conflict. Where as if she lived; through her and her son, all dwarven clans can unite. Varian slowly agreed but was also conflicted as Moira had caused so much chaos and had already threatened the safety of his son. Varian agreed to spare Moira’s life but stipulated that if Moira was to be a leader and unite the dwarves, then she’d have to earn her crown by earning her people's respect. In order to take into account the opinions of all dwarves, Varian called for the formation of the Council of Three Hammers. Both father and son hugged and reconciled while the populace of Ironforge applauded King Varian’s decision.

Wolfheart

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

Wolfheart

Varian leaps into action?

As Genn Greymane was boasting about Gilneas’ victories against the Horde during the banquet welcoming the Alliance dignitaries, Varian Wrynn arrived and mocked Gilneas. Varian insulted Gilneas by implying that they were pathetic cowards and weaklings. Despite the insults to him and his people, Genn held his anger in check and tried to persuade the king of Stormwind that Gilneas has changed, and that they are now ready to be staunch supporters of the Alliance. Varian Wrynn however, was still bitter over Gilneas’ abandonment of the Alliance during their hour of need during the Third War and denounced Gilneas as an ally.

During the summit to decide if Gilneas would be readmitted into the Alliance, Varian Wrynn declared that the Alliance has no need for such fair weather friends and would never consent to allowing such mongrels into the Alliance. This left the summit in an uproar and effectively ruined any chance Gilneas had of joining the Alliance.

Though Malfurion Stormrage tried to persuade Varian to reconsider his position, his pleas fell on deaf ears. Varian cynically declared Malfurion’s summit a failure, just like so many other things that transpired in his life. Varian reveals that the turmoil his kingdom suffered under Onyxia's influence, the deaths of Tiffin and Marshal Windsor, and Lordaeron’s fall all weigh heavily on him. Even now, he struggles with being thrust into the position of humanity’s de facto leader. Before departing, Malfurion advises Varian to forgive himself for his faults and not to judge Genn with the same high standards that he places upon himself, as he will never be able to compete nor be given the chance to redeem himself. After the summit, Varian planned to leave Darnassus as soon as possible and return to Stormwind. Yet Prince Anduin Wrynn, having overheard his father and Malfurion’s argument, decided that he would not be returning with him and would be traveling with Velen on his journey. Varian, desperate not to lose his son, adamantly urged him to stay in Stormwind. With his father refusing to listen to him, Anduin turned to leave which drove Varian into a panic. Driven by rage and desperation, he grabbed Anduin’s arm and hurt him. Varian desperately pleaded with his son not to leave, promising never to hurt him again but Anduin was set on his path.

Varian sulked in Anduin’s quarters, trying to drink away his sorrows. Malfurion invited him to go hunting in order to lift his spirits but this was a ploy to bring Varian and Genn together. Having lured Varian into the worgen’s hunting grounds, an argument was sparked between Varian and Genn about who was the better hunter. Malfurion proposed a hunting challenge to settle the matter. Relishing a chance to humiliate the Gilnean king in front of his subjects, he took up the challenge and attempted to kill every one of Genn’s prey in order to put him to shame. While chasing a boar however, they inadvertently agitated a giant bear. With one of Genn’s subjects in danger, the Gilnean king and the king of Stormwind worked together to kill the giant bear, with Varian landing a killing blow to the bear’s neck with his hunting knife. Genn and his worgen honored Varian for his kill, though he didn’t stay around to accept it as he snuck off to self reflect in the woods.

After much self reflection, Varian sought Genn out again just as he was about to depart from Darnassus. Varian asked him for his help in how to better control his rage. Genn led him to the Howling Oak where he showed him a night elf ritual that allowed the worgen to control their bestial fury. Though he did warn him that not all survived the trials the ritual entailed and some had to be put down since they lost themselves to their worgen nature. Varian then drank the waters from the Wells of Tranquility, Balance, and Fury, all at once.

Taught by Genn to recall the most relevant moments in his life and the choices that led to it, Varian first recalled his childhood. In the Trial of Tranquility, Varian remembered how peaceful and happy he was growing up with his family. Yet that all ended when the orcs came, invaded his home and assassinated his father. Though his childhood was taken from him by war and violence, he realized that the good memories remained with him and could not erase what he had lived prior.

In the Trial of Balance, Varian recalled his youth as a young king. Despite having a façade of an intelligent, diplomatic, and upbeat ruler to his friends like Prince Arthas and his foster father King Terenas, Varian could not keep hidden the occasional bouts of despair and depression. Only his betrothed, Tiffin, with her vibrant personality, was able to bring balance to his dark brooding self. By bringing laughter and joy into his life, Tiffin helped Varian grow into the king that the people loved. Varian vowed to honor her memory by moving on from her death and learning to forgive, learning from his mistakes, and using them all as examples of how to confront all his issues as a man, father, and monarch.

In the Trial of Fury, Varian recalled Anduin and how he was the most precious thing in his life. He often feared for Anduin’s safety but knows that fear would only make him helpless to those things that threatened his son and his kingdom. Thinking of those threats put Varian in a rage, but as his anger grew, he recalled how his rage hurt Anduin and drove him away. Varian turned on his rage and sought to control it. Varian promised himself that he will no longer be dominated by his rage, and will channel it only in battle, as a devastating force against those who sought to harm those that he loves. Varian heard Goldrinn howling in approval and he awakened, with Genn and the worgen watching in awe as the aura of Goldrinn envelops him. Without a shadow of a doubt, Varian was indeed Goldrinn’s champion. Varian told Genn to gather his worgen, as he was determined to do battle with his enemy, Garrosh Hellscream.

Having gathered the worgen and his forces, Varian led the charge to Ashenvale and reinforced the Alliance forces battling there with Garrosh Hellscream’s Horde. With the spirit of Goldrinn fueling him with renewed vigor, Varian led the charge against the Horde, killing magnataur, Kor'kron, and Horde races that stood in his way. Goldrinn’s image formed from the dust and mist left behind in Varian’s wake and many Alliance forces took to yelling the names Goldrinn and Varian as their battle cry. Varian drew the Alliance races to him as he led an indomitable charge in his pursuit of Garrosh Hellscream. The two leaders of the Horde and Alliance clashed on several occasions, killing all that interfered with their duel. Yet while Garrosh tired, Varian was still full of stamina, which allowed Varian to press on his attack. Varian subsequently was able to wound and disarm Garrosh of the mighty Gorehowl. Though Garrosh wanted to settle the matter, the battle had turned unfavorable for the Horde and Garrosh reluctantly had to retreat. Varian allowed him to leave, citing that a good hunter knows when to let his prey run.

In the aftermath of the battle Varian was honored as the hero of the battle for Ashenvale and Goldrinn’s favored champion. Varian later called for a second Alliance summit, this time being a proponent for the induction of Gilneas and the worgen into the Alliance. Having apologized to the Alliance dignitaries for letting his faults divide the Alliance, Varian later spoke of more recent and pressing issues. Varian spoke of how many threats have arisen to challenge the Alliance. The Horde has threatened the Alliance and now more than ever, it needs to band together and match their enemies' fury and energy in order to survive in this new Azeroth that Deathwing created. With the worgen at their side, Varian assures his allies that the Alliance will prevail.

Blood of Our Fathers

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

On the day of Remembrance Day, Varian Wrynn had a nightmare in which he recalled the events of him witnessing his father’s assassination. He could only watch on in horror, as Garona, with a tear streaked smirk, plunged a dagger in his father’s chest. Varian went to his father’s side, holding him in his arms. The dying King Llane’s parting words to the young Varian was “This is how it always ends… with Wrynn kings." After which, maggots erupted from the dead king's maw—thousands upon thousands of writhing worms obliterated Llane's ashen face. This horrifying scene caused the king to scream out in terror, awakening him from his nightmare and finding himself in Stormwind Keep, with General Marcus Jonathan rushing to check on his safety. After assuring Marcus that everything was ok and being disappointed with the news that Anduin hadn't returned home yet, Varian met with Archbishop Benedictus and Baros Alexston, who were discussing plans on repairing Stormwind City, which had had been recovering from an attack by the Black Dragon Aspect, Deathwing. Much to Varian’s annoyance, Baros does note that the extensive repairs to the city wouldn’t be cheap.

As Varian examined the wreckage left behind in Deathwing’s destruction, he came across a dagger-shaped obsidian splinter protruding from a damaged wall. It was a piece of the dragon's elementium armor. Varian seethed in anger as he held the shrapnel and declared that Stormwind will rebuild and stand firm, as they always have. Whatever the cost, they will make that black beast pay for his assault. In a discussion with Archbishop Benedictus about the turmoil plaguing the world following the Cataclysm, Varian remembers that he must say a speech during the Honor Ceremony later that day. Varian knows that Stormwind is looking to him for direction in such trying times, but is unsure on what to say that will salve the deep wounds the world has suffered. General Marcus then informs him that the nobles await his presence in the Throne Room.

When Varian arrived, he was enraged to find that the nobles have been grumbling about the costs of the Alliance wars involving the kingdom, to which Varian harshly berated them for their petty complaints. Varian stated that he has led Stormwind to many victories, wars that have protected humanity and kept their enemies at bay. Varian declared that if relishing war on their enemies makes him a monster, then he is the monster that Stormwind needs. As Varian ended his diatribe, he looked around and caught the familiar face of Anduin staring back at him from the rear of the throne room. His son had arrived sometime during the king's rant. By the horrified look on the young prince's face, it was clear that nothing had changed since they last had parted on such bad terms in Darnassus. Anduin's eyes were filled with both fear and bewilderment and he later fled the throne room, after which Varian's heart sank. Varian dismissed the nobles, causing the stunned audience to slowly file out, filled with fear both of the future and of the leader of mankind. As Varian touched Tiffin’s locket, he reflected on how no one will ever understand the burdens he must endure to be a leader, and the things he must become.

Varian was left with Jaina Proudmoore and Benedictus, who tried to console and council him about his relationship with his son. Varian revealed his concerns that Anduin may not have the strength to lead the kingdom, especially in such perilous times. Both Jaina and Benedictus assured him that Anduin has a different strength to give to the world, and as a healer, he is attuned with the Light. Benedictus notes that the times have changed, and it is clear that they must change with them. The age when hearts like Lothar's were the only way to survive may be drawing to a close. The world seems to yearn for someone new. Benedictus offers both Varian and the prince a Remembrance Day gift, in which he offered to give it to him at a special location. Before departing, Benedictus assures Varian that he believes that Anduin will have the mettle and the makings of a good king, as all Wrynn kings have.

Varian later arrived at the meeting place that Benedictus told him, Tiffin’s grave at Stormwind City Cemetery. As he gazed at Tiffin's grave, he questioned if Tiffin could still love the man he has become. Later to his surprise, he was met not only with Archbishop Benedictus, but his son Anduin as well. His excitement was soon extinguished though when he saw the shock in his son’s face, which revealed that he had not expected to see him. Varian asked Benedictus if the surprise family reunion was his gift, to which Benedictus said that he also had another gift to give. Benedictus then drew a glittering silver key and placed it on Varian’s palm. It was the key to Tiffin’s locket, which had been lost many years ago. Benedictus felt now was as good a time to remind the two of more pleasant and fond memories. Varian was deeply moved by this gesture, and thanked Benedictus for being a good man and friend. After which Benedictus departed to give the two royals privacy for their reunion.

Having been reminded of their love for Tiffin and of family, the bad blood between father and son soon faded away. Anduin inquired from his father if the world was dying. Varian responded to his inquiry that he didn’t have any deep philosophy on the matter, only that he believed that the world is based on cycles, and that death, kingdoms, and kings come and go, but truth, honor, and duty last forever. To which Anduin added that love also last forever, and in his opinion, outlasts everything. Suddenly Varian knew what he must do. He offered Tiffin’s key and her silver locket to Anduin and placed it around his neck. For years, Varian had kept the locket to remind him of his responsibilities as king. To remember that actions have consequences, and a leader must live with his choices, both good and bad, because so many are counting on him. He now bestows it to his son with the hope that in the future, he too will make peace with the past. Varian apologized to his son for being so blind in not recognizing the man Anduin has become. Anduin begins to tear, confessing that he wished he could be the strong king Varian was but Varian assures Anduin that he has more courage and strength than he does. While Varian may stand rigid and inflexible against the storm, Anduin can feel the wind—and bend with it and make it his own—and thus become unbreakable. This type of strength was the type his mother possessed and will surely make him the greatest of Wrynn kings.

Soon they took notice of hidden assassins preparing to ambush them. Varian and Anduin prepared themselves for the assault by keeping their backs against the west wall, thus preventing the assassins from surrounding them. The king and the prince soon defended themselves against the assassins who were warded by dark magic. Both father and son fought in sync, with Varian using Shalamayne to defend his son from the assassins while Anduin used his bow and arrows to shoot at them from a distance. Varian however knew that they were only being kept busy while the dark sorcerer of the assassins was summoning something insidious to kill them. Anduin then placed [Power Word: Shield] on Varian, and with the power of divine magic protecting him, Varian Heroic Leaped at his enemies. Varian began dispatching enemies left and right, with Anduin covering his father’s unprotected flank with a hail of arrows. The crowns of Stormwind moved as one, slashing with blade and stinging with arrow as they cut through the line of defenders toward the ever-more-desperate sorcerer. King and prince were a perfect team, with Varian dealing unending brute force and Anduin unleashing a fusillade of biting razorheads where it would do the most damage.

The dark sorcerer quickly realized his opportunity for success was growing short, and he redoubled his efforts, sending more purple energy snaking into the glowing field. As he did, something large and fearsome began to take shape within the portal's spinning haze. Though Varian and Anduin dispatched the assassins and managed to kill the sorcerer, it was too late, a massive Twilight Hammer drakonid emerged wielding mammoth twin axes. Things began to look bleak as nothing seemed to phase the warded drakonid. The drakonid managed to wound an already tired Varian and knock him out with a tail whip. Then he concentrated on Anduin, who after attempting to run to his unconscious father, barely managed to survive a savage blow to him by using his bow to deflect the impact. Though his bow shattered and he was knocked down, Anduin continued to dodge the drakonid’s attacks. Soon Anduin was cornered and the drakonid brought down a mortal strike meant to kill. Anduin however was surprised to find Varian, deflecting the drakonid’s axe with his sword and disarming it with its impact. Varian however had to disarm himself of Shalamayne in the process, which left him defenseless from the drakonid’s second attack from his second axe. Varian was hit with the second attack right in his chest, and when he fell, he looked deep into his son's eyes to let him know that everything was all right. Varian could only think of his father’s last words to him as he died, “This is how it always ends with Wrynn kings…”

Varian urged Anduin to run and prepared himself for the death blow. Yet Anduin ran in front of his father and placed a barrier to protect the two of them from the creature’s attack. A golden nova of holy energy forced the monster to retreat as the prince advanced. As the drakonid charged, Anduin stood firm, surrounded by an aura of Holy Light. He opened his palms to the sky and spoke the words to [Dispel Magic]. With each word, the earth resonated with energy, shaking the gravestones and sending a ripple across the surface of the lake. A flash of fire exploded from the sky and hit the drakonid as he rushed in. The inferno blinded the beast, and he stumbled toward the serene silhouette of Anduin, the hideous creature screaming in both pain and rage. As the drakonid fell, his armor quickly faded to a dull gray, no longer protected by dark magics.

At the last possible moment, Varian, who had taken out Deathwing's splinter of armor, lunged forward with everything he had left in his body and ran it through the drakonid's armor and chest. Soon Jaina and Marcus Jonathan arrived on the scene, followed by a host of guards. As Varian lay dying, he told Anduin that he loved him, that he was proud of him, and to not mourn him as this had always been his fate. Though Marcus Jonathan and Jaina wanted to take Anduin to a more secure location, Anduin refused to leave his father. Praying to the Light, he infused his father’s body with an influx of divine energy and saved his life.

Later, much to everyone’s surprise, Varian arrived at the Remembrance Day Ceremony. Limping onto the stage, disheveled and covered in blood, came King Varian and Prince Anduin, barely holding each other up in their fatigue. As the realization of their dire state spread, a concerned murmur arose, but Varian raised his hand in a gesture of reassurance, and the crowd grew silent. It suddenly dawned on Varian that he had never found time to prepare his Remembrance Day speech. The king paused for just a moment, trying to smile through the pain, and then realized with utmost clarity that he now knew exactly what to say. He tells the people of Stormwind that Stormwind will always remain vigilant, holding the line against their enemies, will always rebuild from tragedy, and continue to learn from adversity. Stormwind will continue to grow from every direction, forging a brighter future. Each day they are alive is a great day, for each generation finds its own way to become the greatest generation that has ever lived and become the heroes of tomorrow. Varian states that though in the past they relied on strength and steel to forge their destiny, it is not the only way. In order to restore the world, a time will come when leaders need to be healers instead of warriors, those who mend instead of those who break. Only then can they truly cure their deep ills and achieve a lasting peace. Varian watched with pride as his words stirred the hearts of his people. The populace cheered for King Varian and this new direction for Stormwind.

Varian no longer felt alone in his struggle to protect the world. He had the blood of his fathers in his veins, and in turn, Anduin had it in his. Varian felt the warmth and comfort of his ancestors across the great divide. It gave him the strength to be king, and someday it would give Anduin the power to fulfill his own destiny. As Varian basked in the warmth of his people, he felt truly at home for the first time in years. He found himself relishing his great fortune to be a father, his incredible honor to be the king of Stormwind; and not for the first time, nor the last, King Varian Wrynn felt very proud to be human.

Cataclysm

This section concerns content related to Cataclysm.

Varian in the Battlecry Wallpaper

The king of Stormwind, recently returned to claim his rightful place, has little love for the Horde. His reasons are many: when Varian was a young boy, he saw his father murdered by the half-orc Garona; the orcs' warchief, Orgrim Doomhammer, slew the valorous Anduin Lothar, who had delivered Varian safely to Lordaeron after the fall of Stormwind; Varian was later enslaved by the orcish gladiator trainer Rehgar Earthfury; and at the Wrath Gate, many brave Alliance soldiers died at the hands of the Forsaken's Royal Apothecary Society. Varian, who had always been wary of the orcs, discovered that the Royal Apothecary Society had been developing the new plague for years. The events that transpired during the battle for the Undercity convinced the human king that the Horde has been left unchecked for too long: the time has come to make things right.

Varian Wrynn is involved at the end of the Westfall storyline, where you must speak with him about the return of the Defias Brotherhood.

Varian has been amassing a war fleet to assault the Twilight Hammer in the Twilight Highlands but several set backs has delayed its launch. In order to resolve the constant delays, Varian has tasked Prince Anduin to oversee the operation personally. Varian, wishing for his son to gain some life experience but fearful for his safety, instructs the player to escort him throughout his duties as prince; this escort later turns into unraveling a Twilight Hammer plot where a trusted Stormwind guard attempts to kill Varian but Anduin thwarts his plans.

Finally, Varian sends you to the Twilight Highlands to assist the Alliance via Fargo Flintlocke's plane.

In World of Warcraft

Original Appearance

This section concerns content related to the original World of Warcraft.

File:VarienWrynnKingofStormwind.jpg

Appearance prior to patch 1.9.0.

Until patch 1.9.0, players could witness the king in his captivity in the sewer dungeons of Alcaz Island just north of Theramore, though he was not involved in any quests at the time. With patch 1.10, Varian was replaced with an elite level 62 myrmidon named Tidelord Rrurgaz and a sewer full of elite naga, and Alcaz Island became home to Doctor Weavil, a major part of the Gates of Ahn'Qiraj world event.

The comic series suggests that this Varian was the "twin" which did not manage to escape, but was instead captured by the naga and later ransomed back to Stormwind into the hands of Lady Katrana Prestor.

Quests

Varian confers with the other Alliance leaders at Stormwind Keep.

From his position within Stormwind Keep King Varian Wrynn starts the following quests:

•  [15] Return to Sentinel Hill
•  [15] Hero's Call: Redridge Mountains!
•  [60] The Lord of Blackrock
•  [84] My Son, the Prince
•  [84] Rallying the Fleet
•  [84] Twilight Investigation
•  [84] Twilight Shores

Locations

Varian has appeared in numerous places throughout Azeroth:

This section concerns content related to the original World of Warcraft.

• Alcaz Island: (Imprisoned by the Naga: Removed in patch 1.9)

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

• Stormwind, Stormwind Harbor: (Defending against the Scourge assault: Removed after the Scourge Invasion)
• Stormwind, Stormwind Keep: Replaced Bolvar Fordragon as the human racial leader in patch 3.0.2.
• The Undercity and outskirts of the Ruins of Lordaeron, Tirisfal Glades: (During the Battle for the Undercity: Removed in patch 4.0.3a)
• Argent Tournament Grounds, Icecrown: (Arriving with Jaina Proudmoore to attend the games)
• Crusaders' Coliseum, Trial of the Champion and Trial of the Crusader: (Observes the battles in the arena, and sends his champions to fight the Horde during the Faction Champions event)
• Light's Hammer, Icecrown Citadel: (Provides the [Strength of Wrynn] buff for the Alliance; patch 3.3.2)
• Deathbringer's Rise, Icecrown Citadel: (After Alliance players defeat Deathbringer Saurfang)

This section concerns content related to Cataclysm.

• Zul'Farrak: (During the Elemental Unrest: Removed in patch 4.0.3a)
• Ruins of Ahn'Qiraj, Ahn'Qiraj Terrace: (During the Elemental Unrest: Removed in patch 4.0.3a)

Tactics

King Varian Wrynn within Stormwind Keep in Cataclysm.

King Varian is perhaps the hardest city leader to defeat for Horde players. The relocation of Stormwind Keep and the change of Stormwind's geography make getting to Varian undetected nearly impossible. Additionally, Varian’s elite guard are spread all the way along the path to the king, ranging as far as the steps of the keep itself. A fast kill is vital as Stormwind is highly populated during most hours and Alliance players are very likely to come to the aid of their King.

In addition Genn Greymane accompanies Varian, further complicating the battle. Genn won’t attack for the first two to three seconds after aggro as he changes into worgen form. Genn should be tanked separately from Varian and kept away from the rest of the raid due to his Intimidating Roar. For his other abilities refer to Genn’s main article.

Varian retains his previous abilities of Heroic Leap and Whirlwind as well as continuously spawning guards. In total King Varian and Genn Greymane have the largest total health of all the racial leaders (over 150 million), however the biggest threat in this fight is definitely the Alliance playerbase, success can rely almost entirely on how many respond to your raids attack.

However players should keep in mind that only Varian’s death is required for the   [Storming Stormwind] achievement.

Abilities

•  Heroic Leap —  8 - 25 yrd range. Leap through the air and slam down on all enemies within 5 yards of the target area, causing 50% weapon damage and stunning them for 2 sec.
•  Whirlwind —  8 yrd range. Attacks nearby enemies in a whirlwind of steel that inflicts 100% weapon damage. 2 sec cast.

Notable Dialogue

File:Stormwind 070910 003013 - Kirkburn 12319.jpg

Varian's statue outside Stormwind Keep.

Scourge Invasion

Main article: Scourge_Invasion#Stormwind

The Battle for Undercity

Main article: Quest:The_Battle_For_The_Undercity_(Alliance)#Notes

Argent Tournament grounds

Main article: Argent_Tournament#Alliance_and_Horde_leadership

Elemental Unrest Meeting

Main article: Elemental_Unrest_meetings#At_Stormwind_Keep

Quotes

Lo'Gosh fights various races of the Horde.

Greetings

• "Stormwind honors your service to the Alliance."
• "I am Varian, but I am also Lo'Gosh."
• "The line of Stormwind's kings has been restored."
• "My open hands will reward my friends, but let my enemies beware!"
• "Stormwind is reborn!"

Irritated

• "You want to compare scars?"
• "You don't want to see my angry side."
• "I'm of... two minds about all this."
• "You must have me confused with the other Varian. He's not here anymore."
• "Hmph... if only I were still in the Crimson Ring."

Farewell

• "Never again will our kingdom be deceived."
• "Our struggles are far from over."
• "Serve with honor."
• "Fare you well."
• "The Alliance will forge a new destiny for Azeroth!"

Other

Varian in the short story "Blood of Our Fathers"

• "My father tried to protect me, too. Didn't work. The realities of life have a way of intruding."
• "Greymane only complains to hear the sound of his own voice."
• "I wish the uprising back at home would settle itself soon. I wouldn't want anyone to be hurt."
• "A gladiator's life is simple: You win and live, or lose and die. A king's life is more complex. The only truth for a king is that there are no easy answers."
• "I will seek out my enemies, and woe betide those who set themselves against me."
• "Look around you, brothers and sisters. Open your eyes! Look at what they have done to our kingdom! How much longer will we allow these savages free reign in our world?"
• "I was away for too long. My absence cost us the lives of some of our greatest heroes. Trash like you and that evil witch were allowed to roam free, unchecked. The time has come to make things right. To disband your treacherous kingdom of murderers and thieves. Putress was the first strike. Many more will come.
• "At the Wrathgate, the Horde's partnership killed more of our men than the Scourge. I'm done with your Horde. May this death god take you all."
• "The time has come to bring retribution for the countless souls lost in Lordaeron's fall!"
• "Stand down, Muradin. Let a grieving father pass."
• "When we win and the Lich King has been defeated...then let us hope your time, a time of peace and healing, will begin. When that day comes you will be greater then I."
• "It is a tragedy. I think... I believe that our kind is cursed. We are cursed to lose our greatest warriors; our most noble heroes; our most gifted scholars."
• "Some say I am no better than those we fight! That I am the monster. Well, if so, then I am the monster you need! I am the one ferocious enough to strike fear in the very heart of darkness! The one who has the courage to do whatever it takes to protect humanity from the abyss!"

Personality

Varian and Anduin bond over a hunt.

King Varian is a ruler with a fierce love for his people and his son, Anduin. He would willingly give his life to save his people. He is driven by ancient principles few understood today—a code of conduct that demanded something more of its leaders. He believes in the principles of truth, honor, and duty. Though the events of his life have left him severely distrusting of the Horde, he has shown a willingness to attempt peace. Before he was kidnapped by the Defias, he was en route to a peace summit with Thrall, during the war against the Lich King he was willing to work with the Horde at the Wrathgate, and after the war was won, he agreed to a tenuous peace between the factions. In addition, one of his closest friends is the blood elf, Valeera Sanguinar, and he was willing to allow the orc Varok Saurfang to give his son a "hero's burial." Even so, after the massacre at the Wrathgate, his willingness to cooperate with the Horde as a whole has all but evaporated; during the events in Ulduar he was quick to wish death upon them all, and later, after the night elves were attacked by orcs during the events of The Shattering, only the words of Jaina Proudmoore are enough to stave off a direct conflict with the Horde.

When his consciousness was split by Onyxia, so too was his personality. One side retained all of Varian’s knowledge, manners, and etiquette; while the other, Lo'Gosh, retained his skill in battle and is known to wage war with a relish equal to his enemies. Though the two halves were eventually reunited, they did so imperfectly. At times, Lo’Gosh is more dominant, and he is not one to shy away from conflict if he believes it is necessary.

Monuments

Valiance Keep Monument.

• A statue of King Varian, alias Lo'Gosh, stands in Valiance Keep in the Borean Tundra:

In tribute to King Varian Wrynn
known to some as LO'GOSH the "Ghost Wolf"

His miraculous return from long years of exile and hardship has ignited a new fire of spirit and courage within the Alliance.

We shall march boldly into these perilous lands holding his valor and his tenacity in our hearts.

- Highlord Bolvar Fordragon

• An additional statue of the king stands at the front of Stormwind Keep, though it bears no plaque.

Equipment

• Varian's belt was previously worn by Anduin Lothar.
• Varian wields a legendary blade called Shalamayne, which was created from a fusion of Shalla'tor the Shadow Render and Ellemayne the Reaver. He uses this weapon in the comic book, in the Secrets of Ulduar trailer, in the BattleCry mosaic, in the novel Stormrage, and in World of Warcraft (as of patch 3.3.3).
• In World of Warcraft, Varian wielded two  [Cruel Barb]'s (in beta), two  [Quel'Serrar] blades (until 3.1.0), and then two swords that looked like Shalamayne (until patch 3.3.3) before finally adorning his famed blade.

Trivia

Official action figure.

• Varian's name was originally Varien, as recorded in the Warcraft II: Beyond the Dark Portal manual. It was retconned to Varian in Warcraft III. When spelled with an "a", there is the implication that Varian was named after his grandmother, Queen Varia.
• King Varian Wrynn is one of the few racial leaders to have a completely unique model. His model is comparable to that of Sylvanas Windrunner, in that while their base models and animations are identical to that of a human and blood elf respectively, they have unique traits unavailable to players—among them being unique hairstyles, armour and facial features.
  • He was also the fourth significant character to have a full set of quotes (greetings, annoyed, and farewell), the others before him include the Lich King, Tirion Fordring, and Darion Mograine.
• Varian has been voiced by Chris Metzen and Jon St. John.
• The statistics in Lands of Conflict for Anduin Wrynn actually refer to King Varian Wrynn.
• King Varian is one of only three Alliance rulers remaining from the Second War; the others are King Genn Greymane of Gilneas and High Thane Kurdran Wildhammer of the Wildhammer clan.
• King Varian Wrynn was one of only two NPCs that retained [Heroic Leap] after the WotLK beta, prior to Cataclysm.
• According to Robby Flay, Varian's favorite drink is apple cider.
• Many fans jokingly comment about Varian's larger then average chin. This has led to the nickname, "King Chin".

Gallery

Official

• King Varian Wrynn Fight.jpg

  Fighting a dragonspawn.

• 

  In the Trading Card Game.

• 

  Lo'Gosh in combat.

• 

  Lo'Gosh takes on Two-Heads at Dire Maul.

• 

  Lo'Gosh versus Magatha's Cave Elemental.

• 

  Varian in the Death Knight manga.

• 

  Varian's official Alliance gold coin.

• 

  Poster of Varian Wrynn on Warchief's Command Board.

Fan Art

• 

  Varian wielding twin Quel'Serrar Blades.

• 

  Varian battles a dragon

• 

  Varian fighting Deathwing in his human form, alongside Garrosh.

• 

  An artistically stylised version of Varian.

Patch changes

• Patch 4.0.3a (2010-11-23): Updated for level 85. Moved to the back of Stormwind Keep with his son.
  
• Patch 3.2.0 (2009-08-04): Received unique voiced dialogue.
  
• Patch 3.0.2 (2008-10-14): Re-added to the game, new model.
  
• Patch 1.9.0 (2006-01-03): Removed.
  

Video

Secrets of Ulduar Trailer

Varian vs Garrosh at the Violet Citadel.

See also

•  [King Varian Wrynn's Silver Coin]
•  [Seal of Wrynn]
•  [Wrynn Dynasty Greaves]
•  [Varian's Furor]

External links

Stormwind Keep	Icecrown	Icecrown Citadel
Wowhead WoWDB	Wowhead WoWDB	Wowhead WoWDB

Preceded by: Terenas Menethil II

Position: High King of the Grand Alliance

Succeeded by: Incumbent

Preceded by: Llane Wrynn I (as King)

Position: Ruler of Stormwind (as King under regency of Anduin Lothar)

Succeeded by: Varian Wrynn (as King)

Preceded by: Varian Wrynn (as King under regency of Anduin Lothar)

Position: Ruler of Stormwind (as King)

Succeeded by: Anduin Wrynn (as King under regency of Bolvar Fordragon)

Preceded by: Anduin Wrynn (as King under regency of Bolvar Fordragon)

Position: Ruler of Stormwind (as King)

Succeeded by: Incumbent

nl:Varian Wrynn