Scarlet Crusade

Relentless zealots clad in crimson, purging the dead until they became monsters themselves.

The Scarlet Crusade is a fanatical human order dedicated to the total eradication of the undead Scourge from Lordaeron. Originally formed in the wake of the Third War, they sought to cleanse the Plaguelands but descended into paranoia and extremism over time. While initially aligned with the Alliance, their ruthless methods often put them at odds with both friendly factions and the Horde. They are infamous for executing innocent humans suspected of infection, blurring the line between savior and monster in the eyes of many.

Quick Facts

First appearance: World of Warcraft

Lore & Background

Born from the ashes of Stratholme and the fall of Lordaeron, the Crusade was founded by survivors who could not accept the loss of their homeland to the Scourge. However, their crusade became corrupted by fear and fanaticism long before the Lich King's return. As they hunted undead throughout the Eastern Plaguelands, they began targeting anyone who showed even minor signs of illness or dissent. This paranoia led them to burn villages and kill allies, causing a rift with the Argent Dawn, which advocated for redemption over execution.

The Scarlet Monastery, their stronghold, was eventually assaulted by adventurers, leading to the deaths of High Inquisitor Whitemane and High Inquisitor Isillien. While some defected to join the Argent Crusade under new leadership, the Scarlet Crusade as a major faction was effectively destroyed during Wrath of the Lich King, and the remaining remnants—such as the Scarlet Brotherhood—are a separate, smaller group, not a continuation of the core organization.

Reader's Guide

Originally formed from survivors of the Second War and the fall of Lordaeron, this militant order dedicated itself solely to the eradication of the undead Scourge. Their methods, however, grew increasingly extreme over time. Believing that any hint of infection required immediate execution, Crusaders began hunting innocent humans alongside the undead dead. This paranoia alienated them from other Alliance forces, particularly the more pragmatic Argent Dawn. During the war against the Lich King, the Crusade fractured. Many members were slain or converted into abominations by Arthas, while others joined the newly formed Argent Crusade to fight a true war. Today, only fanatical remnants remain in the Plaguelands, continuing their crusade long after the world has moved on from their cause. They serve as a warning that zeal without wisdom brings only ruin.

Did You Know?

The Scarlet Crusade was originally formed from survivors of the Scourge's invasion after the Third War.
The Scarlet Monastery was assaulted by players; the Argent Crusade's assault was on the Scarlet Enclave, not the Monastery.