What it is
Noxus holds the harsh steppes of eastern Valoran and grows by conquest. It is ruled by the Trifarix, a council of three that stands for Vision, Might and Guile, and it calls itself a meritocracy: anyone who proves their strength and talent can rise, whatever their birth.
Its capital is the Immortal Bastion, an ancient fortress first built by Mordekaiser. Noxus borders the Freljord to the north, Shurima to the south and Demacia to the west, and it holds territory in Ionia and Shurima.
The short version
- Government: the Trifarix, since about 990 AN. Swain embodies Vision and Darius embodies Might; the third member's identity is unknown.
- Capital: the Immortal Bastion, built by Mordekaiser.
- Culture: strength above all, gladiatorial combat in the Fleshing Arena, and the elite Trifarian Legion.
- Rivals: Demacia, and Ionia, which it invaded and failed to hold.
The story in 4 steps
- Step 1
From tyranny to tribes
Before Noxus existed, the Immortal Bastion belonged to Mordekaiser, whose reign is remembered as the Age of Tyranny. After the Rune Wars the Noxii tribes took the fortress and founded modern Noxus.
- Step 2
The rivalry with Demacia
Noxus and Demacia fought on and off for centuries. Sion's killing of King Jarvan I is the war's most famous moment.
- Step 3
The invasion of Ionia
For about five years Noxus invaded Ionia, conquering territory and taking magical artifacts. The campaign finally failed, and Irelia led the Ionian resistance.
- Step 4
The Trifarix
Around 990 AN Swain overthrew Emperor Darkwill and a council of three replaced the emperor. The wiki describes a second invasion of Ionia as looming.