In League of Legends’ world of Runeterra, the Noxian empire is built on three aspects of strength – vision, might and guile. In his short story The Principles of Strength Anthony Reynolds explores this concept through the relationship between Noxus and one of its vassal states. Alyssa and Oram val-Lokan, scions of the Delverhold, have been sent to meet with Noxus’ ruling Council of Three to negotiate new terms for their alliance. To succeed, they must convince two or more of the Trifarix, but while Oram adopts a blunt, belligerent approach to negotiations, Alyssa sees things rather differently.
It’s a story that touches lightly upon the background of Noxus, inferring a sense of scale without spending too long going into details. Seen through Alyssa’s eyes there’s a texture to the locations and characters that’s instantly engaging, and a feeling of history behind the setting. Alyssa and Oram provide the drive and tension, but it’s the Trifarix – Swain, Darius and in particular ‘the Faceless’, each clearly embodying one of the three Principles – who are really the focus of the story. Overall it’s paced and plotted nicely, and while there’s action as the pace picks up, the emphasis is on character first. There’s lots to enjoy in exploring Noxus, but it’s a satisfying story first and foremost.
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The Principles of Strength is available to read for free on the League of Legends Universe website – head to the Regions section and look for Noxus. While you’re there, check out the Surviving in Noxus dev diary with Maisie and Ant to get some additional background to Noxus – beautiful concept art of characters and locations, and some really interesting information on the empire, its history and how it operates.
A lot of that concept art is also available to scroll through on the Universe website. If, like me, you’re new to League of Legends (and therefore to Noxus) I would absolutely recommend checking the artwork out, as well as that video, as in conjunction with Ant’s story it all really builds up an intriguing picture of this particular region/faction.