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[Tournament of the Blades]

The Tournament of the Blades is the Red Blade tribe's official tournament event. It's usually held roughly two times a year (though sometimes more frequently), often in the Ring of Trials in Nagrand unless the situation and location of the tribe calls for a different venue.

Although the tournament's main purpose is to bring the tribe together and to give orcs a chance to show off their new abilities and skills, it's viewed by many as a chance to bring honour to their name in times of peace as well. Orcs who perform well can find themselves in contention for promotion, or simply carve a legacy for themselves -- be it Sadok Sharptongue proving he might back his words up with actions by winning two consecutive tournaments, or New Blood Grogona's upset victory against Rrosh-tul Bloodmark.

The greatest reward an orc can get on the Tournament of the Blades is honour. There are no prizes in the form of gold or other goods, as the prospect of growing stronger through trial and combat as well as earning honour for one's name is considered enough of a prize. That said, the winner of the tournament is nonetheless given the honourary title of Tribe Champion (formerly Blademaster) within the tribe's ranks. Although this rank does not give any additional privileges, the reigning Champion of the tribe can sometimes be expected to step forward as the tribe's representative on other tournaments instead.

Variants:

It is also customary to hold a free-for-all melee amongst the tribe during the Tournament of the Blades. Whichever orc stands tall after surviving all comers is bestowed with the name of Ballcracker.

The tribe is a frequent competitor at other tournaments held amongst the Horde, be they Grand Tournaments of the Horde or otherwise. The Tribe Champion is typically expected to perform well here, but the title can typically neither be won or lost in these contests.

Very recently, Sadok Sharptongue has began to hold a monthly Brawl For All tournament series. Unlike the Tournament of the Blades, this brawl tournament features orcs fighting in two or three-way contests with limited armor and no weapons. Whichever orc reigns supreme by the end is known as the tribe's Bruiser. Mokhtar Axenheart was crowned the inaugural Bruiser after winning the first tournament.

Past Tribe Champions:

• Greggar Ironfoot
• Groshnakk Wyrmbreaker
• Hakon Wolfmane
• Kozgugore Feraleye
• Krogon Devilstep
• Muzjhath Farstride
• Rargnasha Bloodmark
• Rashka Facebreaker
• Sadok Sharptongue
• Vlog Ironblood
• Kogra Windwatcher
• Razaron Madeye

[The Tutor & Trainee Relationship]

The New Blood are considered to be the lowest rank within the tribe's structure. They are the newly joined recruits, still expected to prove themselves towards their peers and the tribe itself. An orc may be considered New Blood when he is formally accepted into the tribe by an Elder after a face-to-face meeting, sometimes informally referred to as an interview.

As the unproven fresh meat of the tribe, New Bloods are not allowed to wear the tabard of the Red Blades, and upon being accepted, they must seek a tutor to show them the ways of the tribe and orcish culture.

After a trial period in which the orc must gather three Marks of the Red Blade for completing their tutor's tasks or accomplishing noteworthy feats in the tribe's service, the New Blood will be reviewed and, if deemed worthy by both the Elders and his tutor, be given the chance to swear the Oath of Blood.

The Tutor & Trainee Relationship

As a trainee in the ways of the tribe, the New Blood's foremost duty is to listen and heed to everything his tutor says, and treat him with the respect he demands. Without the approval of a tutor in the end, the New Blood will not make any progress in the tribe whatsoever. The tutor will be the source of knowledge as the New Blood develops his reputation, increases his knowledge on the tribe and gets to know other orcs.

Once they have sworn the Oath of Blood, an orc may become a tutor to New Bloods himself. Though there is no formal limit to the number of trainees an orc may have, any more than three New Bloods at a time is likely to leave the tutor unable to make spare time for each orc in any given week.

Tutors are expected to show the trainee what it takes to be a true Red Blade. Whether this is through conversation, action or both will be up to the tutor himself to decide. The only official requirement is that the tutor gives the trainee at least one task in the trainee's time of service and is there to approve whether or not the trainee is ready to swear the Oath of Blood.

[The Oath of Blood:]

Oathbound are those who have taken the Oath of Blood and are considered as true members of the tribe. Although they do not fulfill any specific roles, they enjoy all the privileges that comes with being an orc of the tribe, and are allowed to take training into any of the tribe's paths.

Oathbound are very much like the common villagers of a town. They're the accepted members of the community, but they haven't shown any of their true worth yet, and are yet to develop themselves in the ranks of the tribe. Don't let that fool you, however. Each of these orcs have proven themselves worthy of full membership of the tribe, having been accepted as a brother or sister within the pack.

From here on out, orcs may choose to take their rank for granted or, like any true orc would, continue their quest for knowledge and strength by going down any of the available paths. Furthermore, at this point on, orcs will be encouraged to start wearing wolf heads, the symbol of the tribe, as well, and will be allowed to wear the tribe’s tabard.

The Oath of Blood:

The Oath of Blood is the oath every orc makes towards the tribe when he's deemed ready to become a part of its inner circles. It is usually offered to New Blood on the tribal meetings, after he has proven to his tutor that he's ready to be taken in as an Oathbound of the tribe. In earlier years, there was no specific consistency amongst tutors for when this might be, though more recently, amassing three Marks of the Red Blade from completing tasks and other important tribal feats is the standard for proving oneself ready.

The oath is considered to be a test as much as it is a guideline for all the orcs of the tribe. At Tribe Meetings or other important occasions, a higher ranking orc of the tribe, typically the Chieftain, presents the New Blood with a dagger in front of a fire. The importance of the Oath is explained, after which the New Blood will have to agree with said oath and draw his blood into the fire.

In the tribe's early years, the contents of the Oath were an adaptation of the Blood Oath of the Horde, only adjusted in the sense that it reflects upon the visions of Akesha Redblade. The oath tells the New Blood to remain loyal to his brothers and sisters of the Horde and the tribe, as well as never to fall prey to the clutches of the Burning Legion again, emphasizing on the free spirit of the orcish race. In more recent years, the Oath's precise contents have changed from orc to orc, though the spirit of the Oath and its significance remain the same.

Oathbreaker:

An Oathbreaker is a Red Blade who has risen above the rank of New Blood and sworn their Oath of Blood, but for whatever reason has betrayed the principles of the Red Blade Tribe and broken their Oath.

What qualifies as an Oathbreaking offense is ultimately subjective, but in most regards, the Chieftain's word is final. Oathbreaking may include disobeying direct commands from an Elder, recklessly endangering or assaulting other orcs of the tribe, killing or otherwise harming children, abandoning the tribe to pledge allegiance to another organisation, or generally behaving in a dishonorable fashion inconsistent with the spirit and code of the Red Blade tribe.

Oathbreakers may earn the right to take the Oath of Blood anew, but the process is more difficult than a fresh New Blood as trust is harder to re-earn. Much like any other New Blood, they must find a tutor to prove themselves worthy. However, they must gather five Marks of the Red Blade (instead of the usual three), and must complete a final task given by the Chieftain, which is related to the offense which resulted in their Oath being broken. An example of this is Trakmar Bloodmaw, who broke his Oath after a barbaric assault on Thur'ruk Sharptongue. Before being allowed to retake his Oath, Sharptongue inflicted a similar assault as recompense on a penitent Bloodmaw.

An Oathbreaker is of course no longer bound to their Oath of Blood, so they may leave the tribe to join another organisation with no further consequence. Breaking an Oath sworn in blood is a matter many orcs view dimly, so they might still expect a frosty reception from their former brothers and sisters in blood.

Exile:

Dependent on the offence, Oathbreaking may be accompanied with an order of exile being placed upon the orc's head. Exiles are not barred from any specific place or land, but will not be permitted to travel with the tribe, and will usually be ignored or at worst attacked by the Red Blades.

In extreme instances, orcs may be exiled upon the pain of death, at which point a refusal to stay away from the tribe's matters will be punished with execution, typically at the hands of its Chieftain. After orchestrating an aborted coup, former Varog'Gor Vashnarz Talonslayer was killed by then-Chieftain Rargnasha Bloodmark after she appeared in Garadar during the Kosh'harg season, in a matter still mired in controversy.

[High Blade]

High Blade and True Blood are Elder ranks in the tribe, but unique in the sense that they modify the ranks of Rrosh-tul, Thur'ruk and Varog'Gor, rather than entirely replace their duties.

High Blade

The High Blade is one of the oldest ranks in the the tribe that is still in existence to this day. The High Blades serve the reigning Chieftain as their second in command, and take over the tribe's daily leadership in his absence. At present day, there can only be three High Blades at once, namely one for the Rrosh-tul, Thur'ruk and Varog'Gor each.

The High Blades serve as the second-in-command. These orcs have constantly devoted their lives to the tribe by organizing events, showing responsibility and showing the ability to take over leadership whenever their Chieftain required them to.

To become High Blade, an orc must have made it to either the rank of Rrosh-tul, Thur'ruk or Varog'Gor, have shown a lifetime of service to the tribe, and have proven oneself able to lead fellow orcs in daily tribal matters.

High Blades of the Tribe:

• Kozgugore Feraleye [Varog'Gor]
• Mazguul Sharpeye [Thur'ruk]
• Morgeth Feralheart [Varog'Gor]
• Rargnasha Bloodmark [Rrosh-tul]
• Sadok Sharptongue [Thur'ruk, Current]

True Blood

The True Blood is strictly a rank of privilege and respect within the tribe's structure. An orc who has been named True Blood is considered to have been an officer of great importance in his own time, and is presently considered to have retired from that position.

The True Blood are the orcs who have shown the tribe they were prepared to devote their entire life to the well-being of the tribe for a great deal of time, but have now chosen to step back from their duties and further serve the tribe as a regular member. Although they do not perform any more particular duties, they are expected to be treated with the equal amount of honour as they would have been in their time of service.

To become eligible for the position of True Blood, an orc must have been a Rrosh-tul, Thur'ruk, Varog'Gor or High Blade for a proper amount of time and performed a great deal of service to the tribe. Orcs who lose their rank due to dishonorable conduct or neglect of their duties are generally not given this title.

Recent True Blood of the Tribe:

• Claws [Assassin]
• Gruulg Steelbrow [Rrosh-tul]
• Karak Stormsong [Rrosh-tul]
• Vezara Wolfheart [Thur'ruk]

[Origins:]

Cunning, deception and subterfuge: the Dark Knives, or Gul'thauk in archaic orcish, are most at home in the shadows. Coming from the fringe of orcish society, they are a closely-knit band of sneaks, sorcerors and other outcasts who ply their unusual trades in service of the tribe. As the first step on the Path of Cunning, this strange breed is watched closely by Varog’Gor, to whom they directly answer to.

The Gul'thauk's duties are numerous. Though orcs typically place great value in honour and honesty, subterfuge is sometimes a necessary evil to get things done. In concert with the Varog'Gor, the Gul'thauk discreetly ensure the tribe's safety through scouting, gathering intelligence and research. Whether poring through ancient tomes or interrogating the enemy, the Gul'thauk must use all their cunning to win the day both on and off the battlefield.

Origins:

The newest rank of the Red Blades, the Gul'thauk have a recent but complicated history. First proposed by High Blade Sharptongue, with the backing of Matriarch Feralheart, the Gul'thauk were intended to be an avenue for the arcanists, warlocks and necrolytes who fit poorly in the ranks of Nag'Ogar and Gosh'kar. When Kozgugore reclaimed the mantle of Chieftain after his Kor'kron imprisonment, he began to train Crothu Bloodletter and Dabina Skullsunder as the first Dark Knives. Their training, and the rank of Gul'thauk itself, found itself waylaid when Rargnasha became Chieftain.

Eventually, Varog'Gor Devilstep would make the idea his own, training a handful of prospects with a new curriculum that emphasised subterfuge and cunning over magical knowledge and dark arts. The first Gul'thauk promoted were a broad church of rogues and spellcasters, and they have since become the natural first step on the path to Varog'Gor.

Tribe History:

The Gul'thauk are preceded by the earlier Assassins from Akesha Redblade's days. The Assassins were once the eyes and ears of the tribe. It was their task to seek out information and scout locations, then feed this back to the leaders of the Red Blades. In battle, they were a fearsome weapon. They hit hard and fast behind enemy lines, taking down enemy leaders and other key targets. They answered to the First Assassin, who for the majority of their existence was Claws.

The Assassins were abolished after their roles were slowly taken over by the more common rogues of the tribe, who were uncommon among the tribe as it was, considering how many orcs preferred to value honour in the field above working in the shadows. It remained this way until the Gul'thauk were established years later.

Requisite:

Those wishing to become Gul'thauk must take the Oath of Blood and accept training from the Varog’Gor. They are typically sworn into secrecy as they train in a range of more unorthodox techniques, and if successful, are at last sworn into the ways of the Gul’thauk.

Gul'thauk of the Tribe:

• Arkail Blastblade [current]
• Caruk Blackblade [current]
• Gashuk Soulfury [current]
• Gridish Rimeweaver
• Kyrazha Throatrender [current]
• Therak Duskstalker
• Uzguul Stormgaze [current]
• Vanara Ashveil [current]

[Origins:]

Known for their wisdom and experience in all manners of mysticism, the Thur'ruk (Spirit Speakers in archaic orcish) are the tribe's spiritual guides in times of both peace and war. The Elder rank of the Path of Wisdom, the Thur'ruk are assisted ably by the Gosh'kar.

A small circle of some of the tribe's most respected and venerated orcs, be they sages, seers, loremasters or mystics, the Thur'ruk often serve as crucial advisers to the Chieftain. They perform most of the rituals required for the tribe in order to preserve the careful balance between the living and the spirits, and are tasked with maintaining the Annals which document the tribe's present and distant past.

The circle of the Thur'ruk is clouded with a mysterious façade, as only its own members and the Varog'Gor know of the rituals that bind the Thur'ruk so closely together.

Origins:

Known as Spirit Speakers in the Red Blade tongue, the Thur-Ruk Oracles have been a part of Clan Redblade for as long as one could remember. In effect serving as the clan's Far Seers, the Thur-Ruk served as the spiritual guides of the clan. As such, they were often seen as the Wolfking's advisers when he would require aid of matters that were closely tied to spirituality or the finer way of thinking.

When Mruthgor took over control of the clan, it was the circle of Thur-Ruk Oracles who aided him in doing so, becoming a vital part of the Cult of the Wolf that rose at the time. Whilst the Varog'Gor practiced the more bestial side of teachings within the cult, it was in fact the Thur-Ruk who ensured spiritual balance was found within the tribe, and made sure it was kept that way. They particularly excelled at befriending the aspect of the Wild, which may well be due to the fact that wolves involved a great deal of their practices.

Requisite:

Accepted training from another Thur'ruk or the Chieftain as a Gosh'kar and, once approved, perform the Rite of Vision. The training is highly specialised dependent on the craft of the trainee, and may include advanced rituals, punishing pilgrimages and mastering the Tribeslore.

Thur'ruk of the Tribe:

• Mazguul Sharpeye
• Norviskrall
• Rhonya Steelheart
• Sadok Sharptongue
• Vezara Wolfheart

See Also:

Visions of the Thur'ruk

[Origins:]

Whether a master tactician or a renowned fighter and leader, the Rrosh-tul (or Blood Guard) are expected to be all of this, and more. The Elder rank of the Path of Strength, they are the tribe's experts on all matters of warfare, and lead as well as train the Nag'Ogar as a subordinate to the Chieftain himself.

Like the centurions of the Horde, they may have the privilege to take the Nag'Ogar under their own command at their own leisure to form small war bands and, for example, go out on a hunt, raid, train orcs or carry out the Chieftain's main orders in the field of battle.

Origins:

The orcish race is no stranger to war, and neither was Clan Redblade when it still resided on an unscathed Draenor. As offspring of dangerous mercenaries, the clan had to ensure its future was secured by many more generations of able warriors to come. Although the Nag'Ogar formed the backbone of the clan, it wasn't martial skill alone that decided the outcome of the battlefield. These warriors would require guidance, leadership and inspiration. This is where the Rrosh-tul, the Blood Guard, came in.

As the numbers within Clan Redblade grew, so too did their army. With the increasing amount of Nag'Ogar, the need arose to train more of these orcs, as well as to guide them in the field of battle. Inspired by the legendary warriors of old, the Rrosh-tul rose up to be the link between the Chieftain and the Nag'Ogar on the battlefield. Carrying out his exact orders, they would make sure the warriors ended up where they were meant to be, and cut their way through the enemy's ranks under the Rrosh-tul's watchful guidance.

Tribe History:

Within the Red Blade tribe, the Overlord rank may be considered an antecedent of the Rrosh-tul. The Overlord was once considered a position of great privilege and respect within the tribe's structure. Standing on equal position to the High Blades, the Overlord was expected to lead the tribe in times of war.

Akesha Redblade, realizing that there were others with far more experience leading orcs in battle, opted to pass control of the tribe onto her Overlord in times of combat. Since Akesha's disappearance, the Chieftain of the tribe has assumed the majority of the duties of the Overlord.

Past Overlords included Azuril, Kad the Bear, Kozgugore Feraleye and Rehbande.

Requisite:

Those wishing to become Rrosh-tul must have served the tribe for a proper deal of time as Nag'Ogar (or in rare cases Gul'thauk), and shown both exceptional strength and honour in the field and within the tribe.

Rrosh-tul of the Tribe:

• Gnash Stronghand
• Gridish Rimeweaver
• Grogona Wolfheart
• Gruulg Steelbrow
• Karak Stormsong
• Mozrogg Doomhowl
• Rargnasha Bloodmark
• Revax Hellbrew
• Tazok Drakebane
• Thanuk Bearfist
• Kargnar Bloodpaw
• Nosh'marak Ironclaw

See Also:

Howls of the Rrosh-tul

[Origins:]

Part of the Path of Wisdom, the Gosh'kar (or Disciples of the Totem) are second only to the Thur'ruk in their ability to commune with the spirits and elements. Though the Gosh'kar serve as the Thur'ruk's pupils and trainees, in hopes of one day becoming one of the revered Thur'ruk themselves, they certainly have their own responsibilities as well.

The Gosh'kar often aid the Thur'ruk on spiritual undertakings, rituals and journeys, though they are often looked towards when in need of healing or general knowledge of spirituality and mysticism as well. They are also expected to begin familiarising themselves with both the Tribeslore and Horde cultures, in the hopes of passing on wisdom to others around them. In the absence of a Thur'ruk, they may even be given the honour of leading a ritual on behalf of the tribe.

Origins:

Some of the tribe's ranks can trace their formation to Clan Redblade, but the Gosh'kar are a considerably more modern calling. Although the Thur'ruk had served as reliable and trusted guides to the tribe as seers, it soon proved to be a challenge for many to in fact complete the many challenges that were laid before them in order to be considered worthy to join their ranks.

In order to serve as a stepping stone, as well as an important place for the common shaman and seers among the tribe to develop their skills and understanding of the spirits among one another, Kozgugore Feraleye founded the Gosh'kar. These Disciples of the Totem were intended to serve as pupils underneath a chosen Thur'ruk, who will in turn serve the Gosh'kar as a tutor and example.

Requisite:

To become eligible to train as Gosh'kar, orcs must have become Oathbound of the tribe and accepted training from a Thur'ruk. Their aptitude in mending, counselling and ritual matters are often tested, and they are instructed to begin regularly reading the Tribe Annals. Their training concludes with a Vision Quest.

Gosh'kar of the Tribe:

• Grek'thar Earthstorm [current]
• Kogra Windwatcher [current]
• Magrahra Emberheart [current]
• Rhonya Steelheart
• Sadok Sharptongue
• Shargla Thunderfang
• Srelok Grimtide [current]
• Tarag Bloodhorn [promoted posthumously]
• Trakmar Beastbane [current]
• Vezara Wolfheart
• Vraagar Blackmane [current]

[The Wolfking:]

The Chieftain of the Red Blade tribe is, like those of most other clans of old, the appointed leader ultimately responsible for the fate of the tribe.

While the Red Blade tribe has a long history of reigning Chieftains, not all were referred to as such. Following the rule of Kraag, they were generally known as Wolfkings. Some, like Mruthgor, were referred to as Shaman-King instead of Chieftain (usually referred to if descending from the line of Mruthgor, until the rule of Grenth Stonebrow). Others still were referred to as Matriarchs, like Grugna Longhand (usually when the Chieftain was female). Regardless, all of these fulfilled the same purpose as Chieftains usually do, being considered the undisputed leader of the clan or tribe.

The Wolfking:

The Wolfking is traditionally one of the descendants of Kraag the Wolfking's line of leaders of Clan Redblade, fulfilling the same role as Chieftains would with other clans.

The Wolfkings were some of the first Chieftains to have led Clan Redblade in the times of old, the first of which being Kraag. The name "Wolfking" is derived from the hold they were said to have over the pack of wolves that stalked the mountains close to the Redblade settlement, which Kraag had subdued when he tamed the great wolf Magoth.

The Wolfkings were known to have some very specific appearances that would distinguish them from other orcs. For one, they would all wear the great warmask of Kraag, which was made out of Magoth's remains. They often held a black wolf companion along their side as well, said to be descendants from Magoth's line.

The line of the Wolfking was said to end when Gruthgar the Ragged died. This was when the Shaman-Kings took over. Due to missing records, however, it is unclear how the Wolfkings had gotten to be in charge again, as there are tales of reigning Wolfkings leading up to the events of the Rise of the Horde.

When the modern-day Red Blade tribe traveled to the past alternate Draenor, they took inspiration from the legend of Kraag when they warred with the mighty garn. After completing a ritual in which they burnt the remains of a mighty hunt as offerings, a Garn Spirit would come forth and lead them to a long-dormant Shamanstone within the settlement of Kraag'gol, granting them the Might of Magoth, imbuing their strength, vitality and agility.

Under Kozgugore's command, the tribe culled lone wolves straying too far from the garn-pack and painted their faces in their blood. The tribe then approached the pack’s full-blooded Garn Alpha and his mate â€" and put them to a bloody end. With the death of their Alpha, the remainder of the pack seemed to capitulate with booming words from Chieftain Kozgugore Feraleye and the display of their Alpha’s head. They soon approached the tribe not as beasts to be subjugated… but as equals.

After the tribe and their new companions had some time to acquaint themselves with one another, they soon solidified their bond in blood with a raid upon a neighboring garn-pack â€" wolf and orc alike were gorged on slaughter as the half-breeds’ garn-like ferocity and the orcs’ mighty resolve won the day for them. As their wolf-allies howled into the night, cries would emerge from the orcs: “For Wolfking Kozgugore!”

Though no blood-kin to the Line of Kraag and making no claim to the title itself, it was clear that in the eyes of his orcs, Feraleye’s uncovering of Kraag’gol, leadership against the Garn Alpha and union with the half-breed pack had made him worthy of the title in his deeds. From that day on, Kozgugore would be known as Wolfking, the first since Grenth Stonebrow.

The Shaman-King

Similar to the Wolfking, the Shaman-King was once one of the many kinds of Chieftains that Clan Redblade has seen in its time. They were usually known for their shamanistic backgrounds, prior to becoming a Shaman-King.

The first Shaman-king came to power when Gruthgar the Ragged was said to have died without an heir. Mruthgor, a shaman who was one of the Chieftain's most trusted elders, was named by the Clan's oracles to rule in the Wolfking's stead. Mruthgor, as well as many of his followers, were said to have been powerful spirit walkers.

It's unclear how long the rule of the Shaman-kings was made to be. Due to uncompleted records, it's yet unknown when the Wolfkings rose to power again, relieving the Shaman-kings of their duties. However, it is believed that the Shaman-Kings instead took over leadership of the Cult of the Wolf, which Mruthgor had founded in his first days, to instead act as the Wolfking's trusted guides on the spiritual path.

The Matriarch:

The Matriarch is considered to be the female variant of the title of Chieftain. Although female leaders were relatively uncommon in Clan Redblade and orc society as a whole, they still managed to leave a lasting mark upon the clan's history as female leaders.

The first female to be given the title of Matriarch was Grugna Longhand. She was the daughter of Hukraz, who died without any male heirs. Although she was originally referred to as a Chieftain as well, she was eventually revered and referred to as a Matriarch after providing a long and peaceful golden age for the clan. Few other cases are known in the history of the Clan, but a new and important name in the line of Matriarch was Akesha Redblade, who founded the tribe after the corruption.

Challenging the Chieftain:

Though Chieftains could previously be challenged by any orc through the rite of Mak'gora, the rules have slightly been adjusted in the Red Blade tribe.

Unless chosen personally as a successor by the reigning Chieftain, an orc may only choose to challenge the ruling Chieftain if at least half of all orcs of the tribe support the orc's claim. Moreover, the orc must at least be of the rank of Rrosh-tul, Thur'ruk, Varog'Gor or High Blade.

Chieftains of Clan Redblade:

• Githya Redblade (Warlord of Redblade Warband)
• Kraag the Wolfking (Wolfking)
• Kraagash, Son of Kraag (Wolfking)
• Hukraz (Wolfking)
• Grugna Longhand (Matriarch)
• ? ? ?
• Gruthgar the Ragged (Wolfking)
• Mruthgor the Shaman-King (Shaman-King)
• ? ? ?
• Grenth Stonebrow (Wolfking)
• Akesh the Poisoner

Chieftains of the Red Blade Tribe:

• Akesha Redblade (Matriarch)
• Kozgugore Feraleye
• Morgeth Feralheart (Matriarch, temporary)
• Kozgugore Feraleye [continued]
• Rargnasha Bloodmark
• Kozgugore Feraleye (Wolfking) [continued]

[The Covenant:]

The Covenant was an alliance formed by several guilds, organisations, clans and tribes belonging to the Horde. It can be considered a forerunner to the modern-day Horde Gathering.

The Covenant:

In an effort to form a united front against the growing Alliance threat, the Covenant was often at the forefront of several of the grander Horde-Alliance conflicts following the Third War. The Covenant was called together by the War Councils, where these conflicts were discussed, before action would be undertaken. The Covenant also financed several expeditions to more remote areas of the world, such as the Molten Core, Karazhan, Gruul's Lair and Zul'Gurub.

While the Red Blade tribe was a major and constant player within the Covenant, it consisted of many other organisations, some of which came and went as time passed. These organisations were, among others, the Old Lordaeron, the Second Gurubashi Empire, Quel'Sin, La Danse Macabre, Taur Nu Fuin and the Mistrunner Tribe.

The Covenant saw its final days during the time of the assault on Northrend. The Horde was no longer in need of an individual organisation to look after its campaigns against the Alliance, as the Horde was coming closer and closer to an open war with the Alliance. Moreover, the betrayal of the Forsaken at the Wrathgate was the cause of several internal conflicts between Forsaken members and the rest of the Covenant's members, causing any further operations to be stalled.

Though the Covenant was never officially abolished, many of its organisations are no longer active or too small to pose a force to be reckoned with. Several offspring organisations have poured forth from these remnants however, and individual alliances still exist between these guilds which have often resulted in cooperative efforts against the Alliance.

The Horde Gathering:

In more recent years, the Horde Gathering formed to ensure the various factions within the Horde could keep in contact with one another. Initially formed with organisations including the Red Blade Tribe, the Banner of the Bloodhoof, the Shatterskull Marauders and Sin Belore, the Gathering would soon see warfare from the Battle for Theramore to the Jade Fist Campaign upon Pandaria.

With the declaration of the Rebellion against Garrosh Hellscream, the Gathering's forces would become increasingly centralised under General Rargnasha Bloodmark. Though this militarism made the Gathering a more effective fighting-force in the efforts to liberate Ashenvale and eventually Orgrimmar, it would cause considerable tension amongst some of its members. Following a non-aggression pact signed with the Alliance, the Shatterskull Marauders would implode, with Chieftain Thrakha Ironsong leading the remnant while the outspoken Grim Stonepaw would form his Blood Wolf Clan and leave the Rebellion.

The Horde Gathering became increasingly political in the months following the Rebellion, with the Blood Wolf Clan considered outcasts and barred from meetings. Factions would form within the Gathering, with key figures within the Shatterskull Marauders and Flying Bolts Company actively moving to have Rargnasha Bloodmark tried and disbarred for arranging for a controversial gift of bandages soaked in dragonsblood to be given to each Gathering organisation.

As the Iron Horde invaded Azeroth through the Dark Portal, the Gathering's tensions would strain again. The Blood Wolves were brought back into the fold, only for another disagreement between Rargnasha and Grim to result in the Gathering splitting in two. Rargnasha would lead the so-called Banners, including the Red Blades, the Path of Dawnchaser, the Ashal Anore and the Painted Skulls; while Grim would arrange the cooperative Ironbreaker Council, comprised of his Blood Wolves, the Shatterskulls, Flying Bolts, Warsong Blades and the Second Gurubashi Empire. Though relations were practically hostile at first, as the final battle in the Blasted Lands loomed, Rargnasha and Grim were sighted in a rare display of managing to coexist for a couple of minutes.

After the Battle of Tanaan, the Horde's forces would scatter and become more decentralised. The self-imposed exile of Rargnasha and return of Kozgugore Feraleye as Chieftain would change the circumstances enough to permit the Gathering be called again. Closer to its original informal roots, this refreshed Horde Gathering would be held more sparingly as the various Horde factions loosely coordinated their efforts over Draenor. Fences were mended between the Red Blades and Blood Wolves amongst others, and it would seem the Gathering now continues healthily, months after its very existence came into question.

[Origins:]

The Cult of the Wolf was a famed legacy of Clan Redblade. Founded by the Shaman-King Mruthgor, it was a closed circle of Thur'ruk and Varog'Gor whose sole purpose was to carry the Clan onto the path of shamanism and nature worship.

Origins:

Mruthgor was the founder of the legendary Cult of the Wolf. Little is known of the origins of how Mruthgor came to found this circle of shaman, but the most commonly told story is that, after a long period of searching and meditating, he had found the spirit of the first revered Wolfking. With the Wolfking's help, he created the Cult in order to make sure that the clan will continue walking the path of the spirits and the wilds, true to the wolves that had once terrorised and, eventually, allied the clan.

Practises:

Although the exact practises of the members of the Cult were a long-kept secret, it's rumoured that one of these practises involved sacrificing to the spirit of the Wolfking, and that they called on the Wolfking to grant them strength in battle and to steal away the hearts of their enemies. Some of the orcs gained a reputation as berserkers, fierce fighters and ravagers. Some said that they would enter a trance before battle and that the spirit of the wolf would take over their bodies, transforming them into half-orc, half-beast warriors. These became known as the Wolf Claws, the Varog'Gor in the language of the Red Blades.

The Varog'Gor weren't the only addition to the Cult, however. In the centre of the circle, there were the Thur-Ruk Oracles, who carried out mysterious rituals and served as the Clan's elder shaman.

All record of the Cult of the Wolf appears to have vanished when Clan Redblade ceased to be.

The Bowl:

The following parchment survives in the Annals, written by then High Blade Thur'ruk Mazguul Sharpeye:

"Orcs of the Tribe!

Recently a bowl has come into my possession, brought to me by Varog'gor Greggar Ironfoot. I know for truth that this bowl is from the orginal Red Blade Clan and with the correct 'key' it can bring us much knowledge of time past. This key eludes me.

Upon the bowl is an inscription which reads: Fire Ice Lightning Life . Blood Oshu'gun Wilds Lore . Ancestors Nagrand Draenor . Storm Peak Inferno Rain Ice Thunder . Spirit Peak Earth Air Kalimarg Stone . Oshu'gun Fire .  Tempest Hunt Element .  Water Oshu'gun Life Flame . Cloud Union Lightning Tornado .

If any orc an tell me what this means then I and the rest of the Tribe would truely be in your debt.

High Blade Mazguul Sharpeye"

Attached to the parchment is another, a reply:

"Great Thur’ruk Mazguul Sharpeye,

After an embarrassingly long period of reflection, I finally saw what was the intention of a writer. Even thou words defining elements, Holy Mountain, language of elements and others are definitely powerful ones, the proper text of the inscription can be noticed by looking at first letters only. Therefore it reads:

FILL BOWL AND SPIRIT SPEAKS OF THE WOLF CULT

The question has to appear in mind: have you ever filled it? Its effects could be interesting, especially that this sentence is too general to state anything in particular about the history. During my journeys through our ancestors’ homeland I had the honour to encounter the Spirit Wolf... Could the bowl be a way to contact with it? I would be honoured if You could write to me back, or tell me if we met, about further insight into the bowl’s matter.

Ready to serve,

Gordahar

P.S.: Actually, my first idea was that the text tells about a belief, now forgotten. It stated that in the times our ancestors lived in Draenor, the elements were untamed, chaotic and destructive. The Spirits on the peak of Holy Mountain talked with them in Kalimag, the language understood by the nature’s forces. They were trying to peacefully calm the raging elements down. Nevertheless, it did not work and the Oshu’gun was in fire â€" either literally or metaphorically. The spirits therefore used their own power, or maybe power through shamans, and hunted elements, taming their rage and extinguishing fire. The clouds were then formed, as mixtures of elements but in ordered state...
Almost all words fit the story!
Still, it is probably untruth. But, well...
Who might really know that?"

[Origins:]

The Kosh'harg Festival is a biannual event held by the diverse and numerous orcish clans of Draenor. It takes place around the spring and the autumn equinoxes, in honour of the time when day and night are the same length.

Origins:

Because of the vast differences in culture, dress, religious dogma and dialects between all the orc clans when they lived on Draenor, they were generally insular and independent cells. However the elders of all clans recognized the importance of meeting to discuss various matters, and thus the Kosh'harg was created and honoured.

Kosh'harg was always held in the shadow of Oshu'gun, the "Mountain of Spirits" in Nagrand. Any violence or vendettas pursued during the event was strictly forbidden and held grave consequences, since Nagrand was considered holy ground. The length of the festival depended on how many pressing concerns needed to be addressed, but such matters were a rarity, and the gathering shifted much more to the mood of a festival rather than a commune. Many Kosh'hargs were simply meet-and-greets to catch up and see old faces once more.

Within the Red Blade Tribe:

Since the corruption, many orcs have neglected their heritage and had long forgotten about celebrations such as the Kosh'harg. When they at long last settled in Durotar however, many orcs started to search for traces of their past lives again. One of the many traditions that sprung from this was the Kosh'harg, which is now once again a traditional celebration within communities such as the Red Blade tribe.

Twice a year, the tribe, along with any other orcs and friends of the tribe, ventures out to Nagrand to celebrate this tradition. Like their ancestors, they gather in the shadow of the sacred mountain Oshu'gun, sharing with each other tales and feasting upon food and drink. They are also encouraged to dare each other to friendly challenges or trials should any of the orcs be willing. Due to the ground they stand on, shedding blood in hostility or any other such conflicts are strictly forbidden, yet friendly duels are still allowed.

During the Festival, it is customary for the tribal Thur'ruk to venture within the Spirit Mountain, bearing blessings for the ancestral spirits. As is increasingly customary, the ancestors often grant visions or prophecies of the near or distant future in return. In the Annals, a record of these has been kept and many have indeed come true, though others have yet to be realised.

Though it is tradition to hold the Festival in the foothills of Oshu'gun, Kosh'harg has not always been held on the same grounds. In the prelude to the Battle for Theramore, all of central Kalimdor was considered vulnerable territory, and so the Kosh'harg Festival was held within Durotar's Valley of Trials, so the Horde forces could quickly respond to any Alliance incursions. When the Red Blades traveled to alternate Draenor, they held Kosh'harg on a cliff overlooking the Spirit Mountain, due to a hostile Warsong Clan annexing the Spirit Woods around Oshu'gun.

[Within the Red Blade Tribe:]

A Vision Quest is a journey, most often undertaken by a shaman of the tribe, that serves to broaden the orc's view on the world, as well as a means to find oneself in order to know what path to tread in the near future. The vision quest represents a tribe member’s passage from one stage to another, such as from youth to maturity or from maiden to mother. Shaman typically undergo several vision quests throughout their careers, each one unlocking hidden knowledge within their souls.

To venture on a vision quest, the seeker leaves her tribe behind and finds a natural area that feels quiet and sacred to her. The seeker leaves all trappings of civilization behind, including weapons and clothes, taking only a waterskin with her. The tribe’s shaman provides the vision speaker with a bundle of herbs to eat in the sacred area. These herbs facilitate the vision quest. Only a trained shaman may set a seeker on her vision quest.

A vision quest lasts two to four days. Traditionally, the quest begins with a powerful urge to leave the sacred area. The seeker must resist this temptation and remain in the place she chose. Most seekers remind themselves of the sacred task they perform and soothe themselves with knowledge that they can survive a few days alone. Once the urge to leave passes, the seeker feels a sense of buoyancy. She seems to float out of her body and see the land spread out beneath her. She examines her body and, in doing so, comes to understand her soul. Each physical feature reminds the vision seeker of past experiences, her ancestors or her race. She meditates on these things until she feels at peace with herself.

At the apex of the vision quest, a spirit animal comes to the seeker. The animal represents the seeker’s spirit; fierce warriors may see a bear, while timid herbalists may see a rabbit. The seeker feels an instant bond with the animal. In rare cases, the spirit animal may lead the seeker away from the sacred area to a place of great power. This sometimes happens to seekers who later become shaman.

In the place of power, the seeker undergoes an additional test, such as a test of combat against a wild animal or a test of skill where she must heal a wounded creature or retrieve an object from a dangerous natural location. Upon completing her vision quest, a seeker usually takes some small item from the sacred area, such as a rock or a bit of animal fur, and keeps it as a reminder of her quest. A seeker who fails to complete her test may try again when she and her shaman feel ready.

Within the Red Blade Tribe:

Although largely the same, aspiring Gosh'kar of the tribe are most often given a Vision Quest in order to prove themselves worthy at the end of their training. Held under the guidance of a Thur'ruk, upon surviving this Vision Quest, the orc will be welcomed into the ranks of the Gosh'kar, the Disciples of the Totem.

[History:]

Om'riggor is a rite of passage in orcish society. Om'riggor is practised amongst all orc clans, and both male and female orcs enter adulthood through Om'riggor. Typically, the rite of Om'riggor becomes available at approximately the age of twenty.

History:

In the time before the rise of the Horde, Om'riggor required the initiate to track and slay a talbuk by his or herself, in what was referred to as a 'solo kill'. Initiates were permitted only to bring a single weapon with no armour or provisions. If the initiate was successful in the solo kill, he/she will paint the blood of the prey upon his/her face as proof. Upon the initiate's return, a clan shaman will taste the blood, and if deemed genuine, the initiate will be inducted into adulthood through a formal ceremony. Their ceremony is conducted by the clan's shamans and presided over by the clan leader who declares the initiate(s) full members of the clan.

As the orcs settled on Kalimdor, they started to pick up their former traditions and return to their shamanistic roots. One of the many traditions that was reinvented was the Om'riggor. The basic principles remains the same with orcs who come of age within the Horde, and Azerothian orcs have adapted to applying the rite of passage to native creatures.

Within the Red Blade Tribe:

Within the Red Blade tribe however, the Om'riggor has an extra meaning. Many who join the tribe have not yet managed to fulfil their Om'riggor, typically because they were born after the corruption and were never given a chance to take the rite in the past. Orcs are allowed to take the Om'riggor once they are Oathbound or higher. No matter their rank, the orcs will still get their tribe name and an equal amount of honour appropriate to their deeds and their story told.

When the participating orcs are sent out, they may only carry one weapon of choice with them, and must strip their upper body of any armour. They are typically given an amount of time as to how long they have to track down a prey and bring it back to the tribe. When returning, they are expected to have painted the blood of their prey upon their faces, and bring back proof of their kill as well. This can be anything ranging from bones or teeth to a certain weapon (if the foe was humanoid) or otherwise. The prey they choose to kill equals the honour gained. This means that bigger preys or more impressive ways of felling a prey will be better rewarded than a simple kill, encouraging the more skilled to track and fell better opponents. After the story of the kill has been told in front of the tribe, one of the shaman will taste the blood on the face of the warrior and commune with the spirits to confirm that there was no lie about the story and the kill was made without help.

Rewards:

An Om'riggor is often a chance to harvest hunting trophies, as well as a chance for the hunter to come to meet their inner self as they're sent out on an important task on their own. More importantly, the orcs are given their last name after completion of an Om'riggor. This name often reflects either a trait of their personality, the means with which they chose to hunt, or something related to their chosen prey. If an orc already has an existing last name, it is up to him or her to choose freely as to whether to keep the old name, or accept the newly-given one.

Transcripts:

Initially recorded by Karak Stormsong, the Path of Wisdom now aim to write a transcript for each orc who has undergone the Rite of Om'riggor in recent years.

[Preparation]

[A scribbled note at the top:]
Found these papers stuck at the bottom of the Annals. Who wrote them? How did it even get here? It seems to be the account of a past war, written from a human perspective? Your guess is as good as mine.
- High Blade Sadok Sharptongue

Preparation

((October 2007))

Ten long months had passed by, since the climactic end of the Covenant War at Winter Veil. And much had changed in terms of politics, military strengths, leadership and the event of the re-opening of the Dark Portal. All these changes had effected both the Alliance and Horde.

The Covenant, the Horde's main body of military forces, had recovered its losses over the months, and waged a partial guerilla war on the Alliance, making small, daring raids and impressive attacks. However, it was neither determined nor effective in harming the Alliance as a whole.

The Alliance however had slowly nurtured its own union of Alliance orders, counter attacking the occasional Covenant attack, with minor skirmishes, and including a frantic weekend in September that saw open battle occur from the Exodar, to Alterac and ending in the only massive battle between the wars, beyond in the Dark Portal in Hellfire Peninsula.

The events of the Burning Crusade also pulled the Blood Elves of Silvermoon and Draenei of the Exodar into taking sides, and contributing with their forces.

At the forefront of the Horde's forces was the now greatly bolstered Orcs of the Red Blade under their Matriarch, Akesha Redblade and her leading General, Overlord Kozgugore Feraleye. Furthermore, Blood Elf troops from the Ashen Enclave and Sin Belore joined the Covenant under the Horde's banner, along with the mercenary group known as the Sixty Thieves, and the adventures from the order of ‘Taur Nu Fin’.

The Gurubashi Empire was still a part of this union, but under the rule of Emperor Tziak, the Empire became more reluctant to aid its allies, preferring to leave them to their own devices, and becoming more and more isolationist.

The Alliance on the other hand was far less unified, surprisingly, since the valuable lessons of Winter Veil. Meetings only convened between the major groups when direly needed. Primarily this loose alliance was made up by the Disciples of Light under Aarian Northlight, the Shining Strand under Bishop Fortesgue, the Dwarven Rifle Squad under Burgen Copperforge, and finally the veteran forces of the Stromgarde Remnants under Seiken Trollbane.

As for territories, the offensive guerilla tactics of the Horde had slowly washed away the efforts of the Alliance since the previous war. Ashenvale was near annexed, since the Starseekers had disbanded, and Duskwood suffered near weekly small raids from Stranglethorn Vale by the Empire. Furthermore, the Horde often raided other various outposts including Theramore, Menethil Harbour, Thelsemar via the Badlands, and Lakeshire. Though, the Arathi Highlands remained mostly under Alliance control, despite the presence of a small Red Blade garrison in Hammerfall.

All in all the political climate in most Alliance cities urged the military to undertake an offensive campaign of some form, in order to stem this steady flow of draining and demoralizing attacks. The Alliance High Command soon made a formal request on the loosely united Alliance orders, under Trollbane’s leadership, offering support if he would undertake such a campaign. The majority of the orders accepted, and work to reclaim the lost territories began.

Immediately, and primarily, the Rifle Squad, Strand, Disciples and Arathorians began training in mobile warfare as well as siege warfare in Loch Modan. Making clever use of the varying countryside, both Burgen and Seiken trained the troops of this coalition (with the permission of the other leaders) against each others and together in caves, on islands, mock attacks on towns and field combat. Most importantly though, mounted and mobile combat was rehearsed, allowing for superior mobility in battle and the ability to cover ground as a force with great speed.

Ironically, during one such afternoon of training, the alarm bells of Thelsemar rang while the army was in the south east of the loch. A band of raiders and plunderers serving a troll named Jexa had attacked, the small raiding party was however very much unaware of the massive force training nearby. Quickly assembled and deployed under Burgen’s leadership, the coalition quickly arrived at the scene, surrounded and out-flanked the enemy, quickly crushing them with no fuss, using the exact same tactics they had previously been learning.

[Origins:]

The Nag'Ogar (or Iron Warriors) are considered to be the backbone of the tribe in times of war. They're the trained professionals when it comes to all matters of warfare, and as such are considered to be some of the tribe's most valued fighters. Always the first to charge straight into battle, these orcs show the right example to fellow Red Blades of what a true fighting orc looks like. Part of the Path of Strength, the Nag'Ogar are led by the Rrosh-tul.

Origins:

Long ago, in the days of the Wolfking, the orcs of Clan Redblade settled in the lands to the far north of Draenor. In the wooded valleys nestled between snowy peaks, they gave up their old lives as mercenaries and became hunters and farmers. Peace reigned and yet the threat of war was ever present.

The Wolfking knew that the clan needed a strong army to defend its lands. So, Kraag built a Greathall in the centre of their village of Kraag'gol. He selected the strongest and most loyal of the orcs to dwell there with him as a part of his household. These orcs became as brothers and sisters to him. They ate at his table, they trained together with axe, shield and bow. They became known as the Iron Warriors, the Nag'Ogar, in the ancient tongue of that land.

Over the years of Clan Redblade, the Nag'Ogar came to be respected above other orcs. For all orcs are warriors at heart, but few were more loyal or more brave than the Nag'Ogar. Many were the tales of their battles and their victories. Orc children learned the names of great heroes of the Nag'Ogar at their father's knee and each hoped to prove worthy to dwell in the Wolfking's hall when their time came.

The Clan Redblade is long gone now, swept away in the tide of the Legion and the Nag'Ogar is forgotten by all save a few. Yet the ideals that united these orcs remain. A pride in their clan and a respect for the warrior that each orc carries in his heart. Perhaps one day the Nag'Ogar shall once again mount their wolves and ride to battle in defence of hearth and clan ... and orc children will again learn the names of great heroes who fought as brothers and placed honour above all things.

Tribe History:

Within the Red Blade tribe, an antecedent of the Nag'Ogar were the Raiders. They were veterans of the tribe, having proven themselves in battle.

Orcs were formerly elevated to the status of Nag'Ogar upon taking the Rite of Om'riggor. With the introduction of the Gosh'kar and Gul'thauk ranks, the Nag'Ogar have become more specialised and so the Om'riggor no longer automatically entails promotion to Nag'Ogar.

Requisite:

Having become Oathbound of the tribe, accepted training from a Rrosh-tul and having organised and led a hunt with at least three fellow orcs to hunt down a worthwhile foe, and report back to the Chieftain with at least two of said orcs to confirm the report of the hunt.

Nag'Ogar of the Tribe [incomplete]:

• Burgorg Rockeater
• Garashna Windsister
• Gashuk Soulfury
• Gorewolf Giant-Ripper
• Grogona Wolfheart
• Groshnok Gorewrath [current]
• Gruthikk Forgestone
• Gruulg Steelbrow
• Igurg Wildstride
• Karak Stormsong
• Kargnar Bloodpaw [current]
• Keishara Wildeye
• Kiro Youngblood
• Krogon Devilstep
• Logush Heartseeker [current]
• Marogg Stonefist
• Mazguul Sharpeye
• Mozrogg Doomhowl
• Muzjhath Farstride
• Nograx Blackspine
• Osan Strongtusk
• Rashka Facebreaker [current]
• Revax Hellbrew
• Scharda
• Tazok Drakebane
• Trakmar Beastbane
• Troxigar Stormaxe
• Tzarket Bloodhowl
• Vezara Wolfheart

((As it's gonna be impossible to recall all the Nag'Ogar that ever were, especially since it was once given to everyorc who took the Om'riggor, if I've missed any out let me know.))

[Origins:]

The Varog'Gor (or Wolf Claws) share the same kind of secrecy the Thur'ruk do when it comes to their inner tasks. For the outside world, however, the Varog'Gor's tasks mostly revolve around being the Chieftain's personal bodyguards and the tribe's most respected and exemplary warriors. In the Chieftain's absence, they often take it upon themselves to lead the tribe, and practically offer themselves to devote their life to the well-being of the tribe, as they have always done.

Origins:

The line of Kraag ended when the last of his kin, Gruthgar the Ragged, died without an heir. The elders of the Clan gathered and consulted the Thur-Ruk Oracles to ask the spirits of the ancestors who should lead them now. The oracles named Mruthgor, a shaman of the tribe who had been one of the old Chieftain's most trusted elders and so he became chieftain and a new dynasty began. Mruthgor was the first of the Shaman-kings and each of his successors was in their turn a powerful spiritwalker.

It was in the reign of Mruthgor that the Cult of the Wolf came into being. These orcs began to sacrifice to the spirit of the Wolfking. They called on the Wolfking to grant them strength in battle and to steal away the hearts of their enemies. These orcs gained a reputation as berserkers, fierce fighters and ravagers. Some said that they would enter a trance before battle and that the spirit of the wolf would take over their bodies, transforming them into half-orc, half-beast warriors. They became known as the Wolf Claws, the Varog'Gor in the language of the Redblades.

The Varog'Gor's fearsome reputation was matched only by their terrible appearance. These berserk orcs would wear armour adorned with spikes and claws, long cloaks of thick leather or fur and on their heads they wore masks shaped like the heads of ravening wolves. Some would train mountain wargs to fight beside them and it was even said that some could take on the shapes of wolves and would run along with their brethren growling and howling like beasts.

Mruthgor encouraged this new cult and made the Varog'Gor the heart of his army. The orcs of the clan began to regard them with a mixture of great respect and more than a little fear. Warriors of the Nag'Ogar would compete for the honour of being chosen by the Varog'Gor to join their pack, but the Varog'Gor would only choose a few to join them. It was not enough to be the strongest or bravest, the Varog'Gor chose only those with the right character, the right kind of spirit to become one with the wolf.

During Akesha Redblade's reign, the Varog'Gor's responsibilities could be compared to those of the Red Guard instead, until Clan Redblade's old records were uncovered and Kozgugore Feraleye took over leadership of the tribe.

Tribe History:

Within the tribe, the Varog'Gor's forebears were the Red Guard. Once the shield of the tribe, in battle they formed the Matriarch’s personal guard and protected her from any threat. At other times, when the Red Blades gathered to meet, the Red Guard watched over the meeting place and ensured the safety of the leaders of the tribe. Only the most loyal, disciplined and efficient fighters could join the guards.

The Red Guards were led often by a captain of the guard. It was he who decided who were to be allowed into the circle of guards or not. Guards were ordered to safeguard the Matriarch at all times, flanking her during important events and battles, or watching the surrounding area during meetings. They were most commonly recognised by their red cloaks and helmets. They held a considerable amount of power over other orcs, being some of the strongest of the tribe, and some even questioned whether the Red Guard had too much individual power by themselves.

The Red Guards were been abolished after the Matriarch stepped down from her ruling position, and were replaced by the current-day Varog'Gor, whose task is similar in the way that they function as the bodyguards of the Chieftain.

Requisite:

Having made it to either the rank of Oathbound or any of the Senior or Elder ranks, and completing all of the tasks given to them by the Chieftain himself, as well as having become trusted enough to be able to stand next to the Chieftain. Any orc of any rank may be drafted into the ranks of the Varog'Gor, nullifying any other training over the importance of that of the Varog'Gor.

Varog'Gor of the Tribe:

• Greggar Ironfoot
• Groshnakk Wyrmbreaker
• Kaigron Ripclaw
• Kozgugore Feraleye
• Krogon Devilstep
• Morgeth Feralheart
• Muzjhath Farstride
• Nergul Darkblood
• Therak Duskstalker [current]
• Vashnarz Talonslayer

See Also: Blood of the Varog'Gor

[Quick Links:]

The Odds & Ends forum is a home for in-character articles, documents and stories of historical interest to Orcs of the Red Blade. From origin stories for Clan Redblade to accounts of great tribal battles and festivals to wider explanations of ranks, this section will slowly replace the Events, Ranks and Stories section of the OotRB Wiki.

Most of the threads in this forum can be considered actual IC documents within the Tribe Annals. Therefore, stories about the interior thoughts of characters, personal diaries and journals, and most other fiction should go as ever in the Campfire Forum.

Where do you come in? The Campfire is a big place, and there are lots of other thread strewn around the forums. If you see a thread that you think belongs here and isn't here yet, please post it in this thread so an Admin or Mod can move it to its new home.

Thanks and enjoy!

Quick Links:

Ranks:

• Chieftain
• High Blade & True Blood
• Varog'Gor
• Thur'ruk
• Rrosh-tul
• Gosh'kar
• Nag'Ogar
• New Blood

Old ranks:

• Gul'thauk
• Packweaver
• Oathbound, Oathbreaker & Exile

Tribal Events:

• The Covenant & Horde Gathering
• Cult of the Wolf
• Kosh'harg Festival
• Rite of Om'riggor
• Tribesmoot
• Tournament of the Blades
• Vision Quest

[Name:]

Name: Akesh the Poisoner
Alias: The Betrayer
Rank: Chieftain

Age: Deceased
Gender: Male
Race: Orc
Clan: Clan Redblade
Class: Shaman, later Warlock
Alignment: Chaotic Evil

Family: ? ? ? (mate), Akesha & Shuska (daughters)
Known Friends: Shadow Pact, Burning Legion, the Old Horde
Known Enemies: Grenth Stonebrow, the Frostwolf Clan, the Draenei

Appearance:
A sickly, almost anemic orc, Akesh's green-skinned body looks like that of a whelp, but he has a deceptive, almost unholy strength following his drinking of the demon-blood.

Eschewing all Clan heirlooms, Akesh's spiked metal armor is laced with toxic venoms, arakkoa feathers and the skulls of full-grown and even young draenei. Eventually, Akesh would wear demonic horns on his forehead, but whether this is a mutation or simply part of his armor is unknown.

Personality:
Akesh is an orc of inexhaustible malevolence and cruelty. Whether he was always this way, before he delivered himself into the Legion's hands, is unknown. With ruthless ambition and no ethical qualms whatsoever, Akesh manipulates those around him with the cool demeanor of an experienced puppet-master. He enjoys inflicting unspeakable anguish upon those who oppose him, but will also kill quickly if the situation carries heavy risk.

History:
Born and raised in the clan as a relatively normal orc, many would be unable to imagine the horrors Akesh would be able to commit when he would grow to be of age.

Seduced by promises of power, Akesh took it upon himself to rid the clan of its reigning chieftain, Grenth Stonebrow, who actually intended Redblade to join clans such as the Frostwolves in the opposition of the creation of the Horde, in order to instead have the clan join the Horde in its conquest over Draenor.

Contacting Kil'jaeden's agents in secret, he promised to deliver Clan Redblade over to the Shadow Pact. He formulated his plan, carefully made the arrangements and when all of the pieces were in place, he made his move.

After a night of feasting, when many of the orcs were sleeping off their ale, Akesh stole into Grenth's greathall. Finding the chieftain asleep, Akesh pored a deadly poison into the ear of the sleeping orc. He then crept away to carry out the next part of his plot.

Akesh had spent months winning over Grenth's guards. He told them tales of their leader's weakness. He told them how they had been held back. He told them that fighting Kil'jaeden would mean death, but joining Kil'jaeden would lead them to glory. They were ready to do anything he asked, while he had been poisoning Grenth, the guards had been busy kidnapping Grenth's mate and son.

In the morning, the orcs of Clan Redblade awoke to not only find their chieftain had died in his bed, but that his son had declared that Grenth had wanted Akesh to succeed him as chieftain and that Grenth's widow intended to marry Akesh to further legitimise his claim. The astonished orcs had little choice, but to accept. Akesh had the backing of the chieftain's guards and those few who spoke out against him were arrested, and incidentally, never seen again.

Within days, Akesh was proclaimed chieftain of Clan Redblade and when Kil'jaeden summoned Mannoroth the Destructor and the clan chiefs were required to drink of his blood, Akesh did so willingly and so sealed the fate of his whole clan.

Akesh fought for the Horde when they invaded Azeroth and led the remains of Clan Redblade in battle after battle. However, it was not at the hands of the Alliance that Akesh met his end. He was himself betrayed. Akesh died at the Assault on Blackrock Spire, but the arrow that felled him was shot from an orcish bow -- perhaps to avenge Grenth, or simply a power-play by one of his more ambitious captains.

With Akesh's death, Clan Redblade came to an end and was swallowed up by the old Horde.

Things you may know about this character:
Before Akesh died, he had borne two children from Grenth's widow, their names being Akesha and Shuska, the former of which would eventually seek to redeem her blood line's name and found the Red Blade tribe as it is in its current state.

Things you may not know about this character:
Akesh showed some promise as a shaman prior to being enlisted by the Shadow Pact.

Akesh's fate on the alternate Draenor is unknown. If alive, he may have aligned with the Shadow Council, or been enlisted into the Iron Horde, or even have pursued the path of shamanism free of corruption.

Memorable Quotes:
N/A

Other Information:
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[Name:]

Name: Grenth Stonebrow
Alias: Last of the Wolfkings
Rank: Chieftain & Wolfking

Age: Deceased
Gender: Male
Race: Orc
Clan: Clan Redblade
Class: Warrior
Alignment: Chaotic Good

Family: ? ? ? (father), ? ? ? (mate)
Known Friends: Durotan, the Frostwolf Clan
Known Enemies: Akesh the Poisoner, Ner'zhul, the Old Horde, the Burning Legion

Appearance:
Grenth was seen in none of the traditional heirlooms of the Clan, save for the now-weathered Warmask of Magoth, which he wore on special occasions. In battle, he favoured a metal-reinforced wolfmask bearing the emblem in his clan -- the orcs of his Clan took to calling it his Crown.

The rest of Grenth's armor appears well-maintained but decidedly rustic, complete with bones, tusks, horns and claws as decoration. Though not the most imposing of figures, Stonebrow remained fit and particularly agile for a warrior.

Personality:
Prepared for peace but ready for war, Grenth was a young but wise orc who rarely acted without first seeking counsel from the Thur-Ruk Oracles of his Clan. He often followed his instincts, practising honor, mercy and justice amongst the Clan.

In the end, it was his idealistic nature and famed hospitality towards allies perhaps brought about his downfall -- he failed to see the most insidious elements stirring even in Clan Redblade.

History:
Grenth was known to be a venerable chieftain, true to the traditions that lived on in his clan. When the orcs started to mobilize against the Draenei and formed the vicious Horde however, he was one of the chieftains who refused to join, joining chieftains such as Durotan of the Frostwolf Clan in the opposition instead.

The Burning Legion sought to control all of the orcish clans however, and it wouldn't take long before they had found their pawn in Akesh instead. With their aid, he poisoned Grenth in his own greathall, ensuring that even Clan Redblade would fall into the hands of the demon masters.

Things you may know about this character:
Though Grenth is traditionally known as the Last of the Wolfkings, this title is now inaccurate as the Red Blade tribe's Kozgugore Feraleye has since laid claim to the rank of Wolfking.

Things you may not know about this character:
A lot of information surrounding Grenth, including details of even his closest family, appear to be missing. Whether this is a concerted effort by Akesh to erase him from the Clan's history, or simply misplaced as a result of the tumult surrounding the Clan's effective dissolution into the Horde is unknown.

The fate of Grenth Stonebrow and Clan Redblade upon alternate Draenor is unknown. Kraag'gol lays in ruins, and the only Clan orc the Red Blade tribe have encountered was a spirit slain by ogres.

Memorable Quotes:
N/A

Other Information:
N/A

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