Velen - The eredar leader

Origins and the Rise of the Draenei

Velen, a revered figure among his people, began his story on the planet Argus, the original home of the eredar race. He was one of the three eredar leaders, alongside Kil'jaeden and Archimonde. When the dark titan Sargeras approached the trio with promises of knowledge and power in exchange for their allegiance, Velen had reservations. A vision, granted by the naaru (a race of benevolent, energy-based beings), showed him the truth of Sargeras’ corruption and the dire fate of his people should they accept the dark titan’s offer.

Guided by this vision, Velen declined Sargeras’ offer and, with the help of the naaru, led a group of like-minded eredar to escape Argus. These refugees would come to be known as the Draenei, or "exiled ones" in their language.

Journey Across the Cosmos

Velen and the Draenei spent thousands of years fleeing the Burning Legion, Sargeras’ army, moving from one planet to another. Each refuge ended in discovery and conflict, pushing the Draenei further across the cosmos. Eventually, they found a relatively peaceful planet they named Draenor, or "Exiles' Refuge."

Life on Draenor

On Draenor, the Draenei established a new civilization and lived in relative peace for centuries. They built the city of Shattrath as their capital and spread their teachings about the Holy Light and the ways of the naaru. However, their peace was shattered when Kil’jaeden discovered their location. Feeling betrayed by Velen's earlier escape, Kil'jaeden manipulated the orcish clans of Draenor into waging war against the Draenei.

The Orcish Invasion and the Exodus

The orcs, fueled by demonic blood provided by Kil’jaeden, attacked the Draenei, nearly driving them to extinction. In response, Velen and a group of surviving Draenei managed to escape Draenor aboard the dimensional ship, the Exodar. They crash-landed on Azeroth, specifically on the islands off the west coast of Kalimdor.

A New Home on Azeroth

Upon their tumultuous arrival, Velen and the Draenei were initially met with suspicion but eventually forged alliances with the Alliance, sharing common foes in the Horde and the ever-looming threat of the Burning Legion. Velen’s wisdom and the Draenei’s advanced technology proved invaluable in the battles that followed.

The Fight Against the Burning Legion

Velen’s story reached a pivotal moment during the Legion's third invasion of Azeroth. He played a crucial role in uniting the forces of Azeroth against the Legion, participating directly in several key battles. His long-awaited confrontation with Kil'jaeden ended with the latter's defeat aboard the Legion's command ship, the Deceiver’s fall marking a moment of profound personal and universal significance for Velen.

Legacy and Continuation

With the Burning Legion’s threat diminished, Velen continues to lead his people towards healing and rebuilding, focusing on nurturing the Draenei's culture and their alliances on Azeroth. His leadership is characterized by a contemplative and visionary approach, deeply rooted in his faith in the Light and the teachings of the naaru.

Conclusion

Prophet Velen’s story is a saga of faith, perseverance, and leadership. From the high halls of Argus to the battle-scarred landscapes of Azeroth, his journey is a testament to the resilience of the Draenei and the enduring power of hope against despair. As the Draenei rebuild and look to the future, Velen remains a guiding light, his eyes ever fixed on the horizon, seeking a peaceful path for his people in the vast universe of World of Warcraft.