Arcane welcomes its first spin-off novel

With the highly anticipated release of Arcane’s second season, fans are excited not only for the continuation of the story but also for the expansion of its world. Alongside the show, Riot Games has announced Arcane welcoming its first spin-off novel, titled Ambessa: Chosen of the Wolf. This novel will focus on Ambessa Medarda, and take readers deeper into her powerful and turbulent backstory.

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Arcane’s impact and expanding universe

Arcane, the series based on League of Legends, has captivated fans since its debut with its engaging characters and breathtaking animation. Set in the divided cities of Piltover and Zaun, the show brings to life iconic characters and explores complex themes of power, family, and survival. Created by the French animation studio Fortiche, the series has built a dedicated following and expanded into various forms of media. This includes soundtracks, DVD releases, and now a novel. This latest venture, Ambessa: Chosen of the Wolf, marks a new chapter in Arcane’s journey. Credited to offering fans an opportunity to explore the world from a different angle.

A new tale: Ambessa Medarda’s rise to power

The Arcane spin-off novel focuses on Ambessa Medarda, introduced in Arcane as the formidable mother of Mel Medarda. Written by C.L. Clark, the book will trace Ambessa’s journey within the powerful nation of Noxus, showcasing her path from a warrior to a feared general. Her story takes readers into the heart of Noxian politics and the brutal battles for power within the Medarda clan. Ambessa’s struggle isn’t only on the battlefield. She faces her cousin and former ally, Ta’Fik, in a fight for dominance and leadership within their family. Their conflict, as described in the novel, is expected to reveal the darker sides of family loyalty and ambition.

The novel will also dive into Ambessa’s complicated relationship with her daughter, Mel. While Mel possesses a sharp mind and strategic insights, Ambessa doubts her readiness to lead. The novel hints at Mel’s desire to prove herself as a worthy successor, which will bring additional tension and depth to their relationship.

Expanding the reach of Arcane

Scheduled for release on February 18, 2025, the Arcane novel, Ambessa: Chosen of the Wolf will be available in print, eBook, and audiobook formats, with Ellen Thomas, Ambessa’s voice actor, narrating the audiobook. Firstly, this novel isn’t just a standalone piece. It’s a part of Riot Games’ broader effort to connect Arcane’s universe with the League of Legends gaming world. Ambessa herself is making her way into the game as a playable champion. Her entrance is a monumental moment, marking the first time a character from the series has entered the game.

With Arcane Season 2 coming soon, this novel serves as both an expansion and a deep dive into the world’s lore, allowing fans to engage with characters and storylines beyond the screen. While Ambessa’s tale may be the first of its kind, Riot has hinted that more stories and character explorations could be on the horizon. This makes this novel just the beginning of Arcane’s larger legacy.