Arcane Season 1 was released in 2021, and even though it introduced us to the influential mother of Mel Medarda, we hardly get time to get to know her. However, Ambessa Medarda gets a chance to shine in the sequel of the animated TV series based on League of Legends. So, if you’re a curious fan seeking more information about the character of Ambessa in Arcane, we have got you covered.
Spoiler Warning: This post includes spoilers for Arcane Season 2, now out on Netflix.
Who Is Ambessa Medarda in Arcane?
Ambessa is a confident Noxian woman who would go to any extent to achieve whatever she desires. Her father raised her in a way that made her ruthless and merciless towards everyone around her. She is someone who wouldn’t think twice before brainwashing anyone for her own good.
When she was ten, her father introduced her to violence and battles. She tried doing the same with her children — Mel and Kino. However, none of her kids walked down the path she wanted them to. Kino grew up as a diplomat who never used violence if the task could be executed the other way, and Mel walked in her brother’s footsteps.
Moreover, as we see in Arcane Season 2 Episode 3, Ambessa can go beyond her limits to accomplish her goals. For instance — if she has to kill someone who will eventually become a thorn in her path, she will not hesitate to finish them off. She is also a potent Melee combatant who often carries a dagger-like weapon. She can severe the enemies with a single blow of the sharp weapon.
In the Arcane TV show, we see Ambessa arrive in Piltover after the introduction of Hextech. From the very start, she only wanted to get her hands on the technology, but she found Mel standing against her at every step. Mel knew that if Ambessa got her hands on Hextech, she’d use the power to dominate every nation. So, Ambessa used the ongoing war between Zaun and Piltover to get what she wanted. You can read about Ambessa’s true intentions in our companion post.
After Jinx kills the council members, Ambessa spills oil in the fire and escalates the situation by orchestrating an attack at the memorial. She knew that Zaun’s sacrifice would lead her to Hextech. In the end, she imposes Martial Law and uses Caitlyn to do her bidding. However, it’s yet to be seen what exactly she wants to do with the Hextech and why the Black Rose organization is opposing her.
Is Ambessa a Villain in League of Legends?
Yes, Ambessa has been introduced as the newest champion in League of Legends recently, and until now, the game hasn’t seen her as a villain. The show, however, has made it clear that she’s an antagonist. Since the Arcane TV show and LoL game are canon, it is safe to assume that she’s a villain in the game as well.
Interestingly, she was introduced in the game as a Champion after making an appearance in the show. She is among the playable characters who have been specifically designed for experienced gamers. No wonder the woman appears so powerful in the animated show.
Aparna Ukil
