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| − | {{ |
+ | {{Section top}} |
| + | {{Game banner|Swain|offset=top:-40%}} |
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| − | ==Lore== |
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| + | {{Champion bio|Swain |
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| − | The earliest account of Swain's existence comes from a [[Noxian]] infirmary doctor's notes. According to them, Swain limped into the ward without cry or complaint: his right leg was snapped in half, with bone protruding from the skin. A small, scowling bird seemed affixed to his shoulder. The doctor gawked in horror as the young adolescent answered questions about his health and age with a calm, even stare. Even behind the echoing crack as the sand counterweights reset his tibia, Swain’s measuring gaze never flickered, nor did his eyes twitch from the pop of his fibula. He refused the doctor’s recommendation of magical treatment for the leg’s inoperable damage, requesting only a spare crutch before shuffling away. He next surfaced in documents from the Noxian military, although it is evident that they are incomplete. Normally a crippled boy would be turned away in shame from Noxus’ proud legion, but the records indicate his first designation was that of a ranking officer. |
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| + | |render = |
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| + | <gallery> |
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| + | Swain Render.png|Main |
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| + | 02NX007-full.png|Current |
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| + | Swain Demon Render.png|Demon 1 |
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| + | 02NX007T2-full.png|Demon 2 |
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| + | Swain Raum Render.png|Demon 3 |
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| + | Swain Insights 09.jpg|Demon 4 |
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| + | </gallery> |
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| + | |real_name = |
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| ⚫ | |||
| + | * {{ai|Vision of Empire|Swain|Raum}} <small>(Demon's name)</small> |
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| + | |nickname = |
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| + | |alias = |
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| + | * The Noxian Grand General |
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| + | * The Master Tactician |
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| + | * Grand General Swain |
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| + | * The Demon of Secrets <small>(Raum)</small> |
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| + | |species = [[Human]] <small>([[Magical Alteration|Magically Altered]])</small> |
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| + | |pronoun = He/Him |
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| + | |origin = {{age}} |
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| + | |weapon = |
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| ⚫ | |||
| + | * {{ai|Vision of Empire|Swain|Demonic Magic}} |
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| + | * {{LoR|The Leviathan|artwork=true}} |
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| + | |status = Alive |
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| + | |originplace = [[Noxus Prime]], [[Noxus]] |
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| + | |residence = [[Noxus Prime]], [[Noxus]] |
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| + | |family = Unnamed Parents {{dead}} |
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| + | |pet = {{cbi|Beatrice|'Beatrice'|nolink=true}} |
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| + | |occupation = |
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| + | * Trifarix Leader of Vision |
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| + | * Noxian Grand General |
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| + | * Warlock |
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| + | * Demon of Secrets <small>(Raum)</small> |
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| + | |region = {{fi|Noxus}} |
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| + | |faction = |
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| + | * {{fi|Trifarix}} |
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| ⚫ | |||
| + | |related = Fiddlesticks, LeBlanc, Darius, Jarvan IV, Garen, Gangplank, Katarina, Draven, Vladimir, Irelia, Kled, Boram Darkwill |
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| ⚫ | |||
| + | {{cbi|Swain|Jericho Swain}} is the visionary ruler of {{fi|Noxus}}, an expansionist nation that reveres only strength. Though he was cast down and debilitated in the {{fi|Ionia|Ionian}} wars, his left arm severed, he seized control of the empire with ruthless determination... and a new, demonic hand. Now, '''Swain''' commands from the front lines, marching against a coming darkness that only he can see—in glimpses gathered by shadowy ravens from the corpses all around him. In a swirl of sacrifice and secrets, the greatest secret of all is that the true enemy lies within. |
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| + | {{Background quote|I have learned enough to detest all men. Only nations may be revered.|Swain}} |
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| − | The men who've served under him (and survived) have remained in his charge with unshakable faith and loyalty. He leapt through the High Command's hierarchy, often ascending when superiors requested demotions to join his unit. A cunning strategist, Swain was decorated after every battle he fought, regularly hobbling in contemplation at the front of the assault. His rise to power seemed unceasing until he was suddenly relegated to inactive status prior to the [[Ionia]]n Invasion - a bewildering decision which reeked of bureaucratic subversion. If Swain was upset by the events which unfolded, he never belied it. His face was so implacable that it was popularly rumored to be a mask, disguising something utterly inhuman beneath. More controversy surrounded the bird that never left his shoulder, whose name he whispered only to it. When [[Demacia]] escalated its presence in [[the League]], Swain was immediately returned to active duty. |
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| + | <span class= "toclimit-1">__TOC__<span> |
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| + | == Background == |
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| + | === Early life === |
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| + | Jericho Swain was born into an affluent Noxian family, among the established houses that trace shortly after the nation's founding. They were also favored by the emperor of Noxus―{{cbi|Boram Darkwill}}―having been instrumental in his rise to the throne. |
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| + | Yet House Swain was also among many that hungered for power, and as such were part of a secret cabal called the {{fi|Black Rose}}. His parents were especially intent on finding some dark power hidden in the depths of the [[The Immortal Bastion|Immortal Bastion]], that which eluded discovery for many years as it cackled in the darkness like a raven's caw. |
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| − | {{quote|"If you haven't yet lost the ability to ask, you may not yet ask for relief."|'''Swain'''}} |
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| + | The cabal had aided Darkwill's political rise, but in time he rejected their influence thereafter. {{cbi|LeBlanc}}, head matriarch of the Black Rose, manipulated Swain as a young nobleman into revealing the Black Rose and executing its most prominent members, including Swain's own parents and Leblanc herself. However, LeBlanc's execution was a deception, and she retreated back into the shadows of Noxus to wait for an opportunity to strike. For exposing the corruption, Swain was granted a commission in the Noxian army, where he would serve for years to come. |
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| − | ===Swain Seizes Power in Noxus=== |
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| − | {{main|Noxus}} [[File:KatarinaAndTalon.jpg|thumb|250px|Katarina and Talon arrive in Noxus to witness Swain's coronation as Grand General.]] |
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| + | === Discovery of Raum === |
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| − | {{ci|Swain|Jericho Swain}} defeated Keiran Darkwill in a duel contesting the leadership of [[Noxus]] last night, winning the support of High Command. Despite rumors of involvement with the [[Institute of War|Institute of War's]] scandal in [[Kalamanda]], Swain has been named Grand General – the highest position in Noxus. |
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| + | Swain learned firsthand that the empire's true strength was upheld not by pure Noxian ferocity, but by all its people united in spite of their origins. Nobles and foreign slaves alike were all seen as soldiers on the front lines. |
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| + | Swain had carved out his career in securing the western borders, as well as expanding into {{fi|Shurima}}. But in time, the aging emperor grew more paranoid and unhinged over his own mortality. Fighting wars on too many fronts, lusting over magical relics; greed became the clear motivation of the regime. |
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| + | During the invasion of {{fi|Ionia}}, Darkwill retasked much of the warbands to hunt for artifacts that could extend mortal lifespan, With Swain's forces depleted, it became nearly impossible to engage the enemy. At the Battle of the [[Placidium]], his troops were overrun in what should have been an ambush. Swain was gravely wounded with his knee shattered and his {{cbi|Irelia|arm cut off}}. On the verge of death, he felt a familiar darkness press upon him again as a {{cbi|Beatrice|raven|nolink=true}} approached to feed; but he would not let it take him. Staring into the bird's eyes, he saw a vision of the dark truth: that LeBlanc had seduced Darkwill with promises of extending his life, and had sent Swain to die. It was not the raven that told him this, but something deeper. This was the great power that Swain's parents had been looking for, and now he knew it could be found. |
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| − | High Command remained divided in support between the two men since Swain returned [[File:Swain TyrantLoading.jpg|thumb|125px|left|Swain as the Grand General of Noxus]]earlier this month. Keiran Darkwill challenged Swain to a duel to settle the dispute, claiming that such a standstill was a "coward’s game." Many members of High Command believed this to be a strong move and expected Keiran, a notoriously skilled duelist, to win. Keiran intially had the upper hand but due to Swain's magical tactics, Keiran surprisingly lost. |
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| + | Returning to Noxus, Swain was disgraced and regarded as nothing more than a cripple. Through his fragile state, Swain set about in search of that strange power, that which cackled in the darkness like a raven's caw. What he found was Raum, an ancient entity that preyed on the dying and consumed their secrets. But the man solved a puzzle even the demon did not anticipate: a way to wield its power. |
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| − | The gathered members of High Command unanimously agreed to swear loyalty to the Master Tactician. With none remaining to protest his claim, High Command named Jericho Swain the Grand General of Noxus. |
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| + | === Establishment of the Trifarix === |
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| − | While High Command has embraced his rule, Swain’s leadership remains controversial in Noxus's lower houses. Some accuse Swain of willing participation in Heywan Relivash’s scheme to obtain Kalamanda. |
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| + | Swain had physically restored himself and could use magic to defeat his enemies, along with using Raum to listen to the secrets of the dying. Over the course of many years, Swain amassed power, allies, and elaborate plans to kill Darkwill. In the end, it only took one night to capture the throne. Swain revealed himself to all of Noxus, leaving Darkwill dead and the throne empty. In its place, he established the Trifarix: a council of 3 members to take over the responsibilities of the emperor. Together they embody Noxus' core values, with Swain representing Vision, {{cbi|Darius}} exemplifying Might, and The Faceless one embodying Guile. This Council was made so that no one man could rule Noxus, and if one were to divert from the foundations of strength that Noxus was built on, the other two would be able to keep them in check. Moreover, this insurance would counterbalance Swain should he ever befall to demonic corruption. |
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| + | Swain immediately pulled back the Noxian forces from Darkwill's untenable ventures. He also held conventions detailing his plans for the empire, pardoning the noble houses that swore fealty, and allowing dissenting houses to safely leave the empire. A large part of the dissent was over the new policies that grated traditional power systems such as inherited lordship, personal wealth, and ownership of human property.<ref>[[Proclamation of the Trifarix]]</ref> |
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| − | ==Quotes== |
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| − | ;Upon selection |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain Select|''"The early bird guts the worm"''}} |
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| + | Seeing areas of concern abroad and within, Swain sent one of the empire's best assassins in an almost impossible task.<ref>[[Katarina: Issue 9]]</ref> {{cbi|Katarina}} was assigned to kill the {{fi|Demacia|Demacian}} king {{cbi|Jarvan III}}, as well as her own father {{cbi|Marcus Du Couteau}}, who has suspected ties with the Black Rose. However, Marcus intercepted the written order and managed to deter her long enough to get close to destroying Swain. The Grand General intervened in the final duel and backfired the implosive weapon to destroy Marcus instead. He then congratulates Katarina on her success and revealed that the assignment was a test to find an assassin that could eliminate Swain in the event that he becomes corrupt. |
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| − | ;Attacking |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.attack1|''"A calculated risk."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.attack2|''"My bird is hungry."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.attack3|''"Impeccable decision."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.attack4|''"They dare oppose Noxus?"''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.attack5|''"My pleasure."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.attack6|''"Dispatch these worms."''}} |
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| + | === [[The Black Powder Plot]] === |
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| − | ;Movement |
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| + | Secessionists held the mineral-rich [[Rokrund Plains]], crafting explosives that deterred Noxian forces from advancing. This prompted Swain to visit the campaign generals and discuss strategy. One of these was General {{ui|Brannin Granth}}, a secret operative of the Black Rose that plotted to kill Swain. Within the meeting, he proclaimed that the battle was unwinnable without death and revealed an explosive fuse ready to blow. Swain chuckled at the profound suggestion, agreeing that while the soldiers may die anyway, their sacrifice makes way for a greater reinforcement. He then reveals his demon arm and quickly strangles Granth. "Granth and I... we always look for what must be sacrificed in order to win." |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move1|''"A Noxian does not dawdle."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move2|''"My destination is absolute."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move3|''"I'll give the orders."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move4|''"Victory awaits."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move5|''"I'm five steps ahead of you."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move6|''"If you insist."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move7|''"My thoughts exactly."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move8|''"How obvious."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.move9|''"Efficient strategy."''}} |
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| + | === [[The Principles of Strength|The Delverhold Affair]] === |
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| − | ;Taunt |
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| + | Seven years into the Trifarix rule, delegates Oram and Alyssa from [[the Delverhold]] approached the council to negociate concessions in response to a local crisis. The mineral export quotas became unsustainable with the dwindling reserves in the Ironspike mines, sinking the people into poverty. Furthermore, Oram argued that their treaty to the empire had been invalidated with the death of the emperor, which permits the Delverhold to extricate from the empire if necessary. While Swain agreed to hear the terms, Darius argued that there was no compelling bargain. |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.taunt|''"Another opponent, another disappointment."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|SwainRaven.taunt|''"I bet you taste like chicken."'' (when transformed)}} |
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| + | Some days go by, and the delegates attempted to seize and extort the Faceless One for their vote. But in a deceptive trap, Oram is killed by Alyssa and she is quickly captured by the guards. She is brought before the Trifarix, whom were fully aware of the extortion, but recognize her disaffection in the Delverhold. Swain candidly stated that the Trifarix did not want to encourage other provinces to make demands as well. Alyssa said that she knew the Delverhold governor would use the delegates' deaths to justify secession, but returning Delverhold to the kingdom rule would be a grave mistake long-term. She then suggested to become governor herself in order to maintain relations with Noxus. The council agree to the idea and sent a Trifarian entourage with her back to Delverhold to claim office. |
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| − | ;Joke |
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| − | {{ogg|Swain.joke|''"If we approach strategically from the flank... Oh who am I kidding, let's just morph and eat them."''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|SwainRaven.joke1|''"You're seriously asking a giant demon bird...for a joke?"'' (when transformed)}} |
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| − | {{ogg|SwainRaven.joke2|''"Seriously, again?! Just drop it!"''}} |
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| − | {{ogg|SwainRaven.joke3|''"Think logically for ONE SECON--CAW CAW CAWCAWCAW!!"''}} |
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| + | == Appearance == |
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| − | {{cj|Swain}} |
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| + | Swain is a fair skinned man with long, white hair. He wears black armor, black pants, and a black coat. His left arm was restored with the power of Raum, and consequently glows a shade of red. |
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| − | == |
+ | == Personality == |
| + | Swain is cold and calculating, often seeing people's lives as pieces in a bigger game. He is a master tactician and general, able to predict his enemies' next move with his cunning intellect and win battles swiftly and efficiently. Swain does not often act in his own interests, rather doing whatever is best for Noxus, as he knows that the empire is much more important than him, and he is committed to returning it back to its foundations and making sure that it outlasts him. |
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| − | *''Swain has been designed by [[Coronach]]''. |
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| − | == |
+ | == Abilities == |
| + | * '''Demonic Bonding:''' After being defeated in battle, Swain made a pact with Raum, the Demon of Secrets. This granted him several new powers that very few can match. |
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| − | [[File:Swain.jpg|left|105px]]Announcement made in the sneak peak by ByronicHero: |
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| + | **'''Emotional Feeding:''' Like other Demons, Raum can feed himself from a specific emotion, in this case, secrets. By absorbing the secrets of others, Raum, and by extension Swain, can sustain themselves for prolonged periods of time. Swain also gains knowledge from these secrets and can use this knowledge for his own benefit. |
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| − | ''Here at Riot Games, we're making every attempt to ensure that we deliver exciting champions to even the most twisted and deviant of human minds. So if you're a budding veterinarian or ornithologist, it's now your turn to start getting excited. Meet Swain, the Master Tactician. In addition to being a distinguished Noxian gentleman of impeccable wealth and taste, Swain also just happens to be a fan of our feathered friends. And like some people who wind up at the League of Legends, well... let's just say that he's much more than meets the eye.''<ref>[http://www.leagueoflegends.com/board/showthread.php?t=266363 Champion Sneak Peek: Swain, the Master Tactician] at [[LeagueofLegends.com]]</ref> |
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| + | ***'''Life Draining:''' The Secrets that Swain collects come in the form of Soul Fragments. Taking a soul Fragment from someone drains them of their energy and gives it to Swain. By doing so Swain can heal himself and strengthen his powers. |
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| + | ** '''Extended Awareness:''' Swain has heightened senses, meaning that he can perceive and sense things that few else can. He can see things from far away and perceive supernatural powers that no others can notice. |
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| + | ***'''Demon Ravens:''' Swain can summon several demonic Ravens that are connected to his mind. He can use them as a way to gather intelligence and spy on people. |
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| + | ** '''Demonic Energy:''' Swain can manipulate powerful dark energies to his liking. Those dark energies come from Raum, and depend on how strong Raum himself is. |
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| + | *** '''Energy blasts:''' Swain can summon powerful eldritch blasts. |
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| + | *** '''Limbs Creation:''' Swain can create limbs for himself such as hands and wings. |
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| + | * |
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| − | ==Patch history== |
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| − | {{scroll box|content= |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.141]]:''' |
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| − | * Basic attack range increased to 500 from 480. |
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| − | ** Range increased to 625 from 600. |
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| − | ** Slow increased at later ranks to 20/25/30/35/40% from 20/23/26/29/32%. |
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| − | * {{ai|Ravenous Flock|Swain}}: cooldown reduced to 8 seconds from 10. |
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| + | == Relations == |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.139]]:''' |
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| + | === {{Cbi|Irelia}} === |
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| − | * Fixed a bug with Swain's skins that caused the game to hitch the first time {{ai|Decrepify|Swain}} was used. |
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| + | Irelia cut off Swain's left arm during the Battle of the Placidium. |
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| + | === {{Cbi|Darius}} === |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.138]]:''' |
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| + | Swain and Darius are two of the three heads of the Trifarix of {{Fi|Noxus}}, embodying the Noxian values of Vision and Might respectively, along The Faceless One, who embodies Guile. |
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| − | * {{ai|Ravenous Flock|Swain}}: upkeep cost reduced to 5/6/7 mana from 5/7/9. |
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| − | * Basic attack frame speed increased. |
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| + | === {{Cbi|Draven}} === |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.133]]:''' |
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| + | When audiences for the [[Reckoners|Reckoning arenas]] waned and Draven fell into a drunk stupor, Swain found him and offered him a role in his coup against Boram Darkwill. He became integral to Swain’s plan, killing Darkwill himself. He is considered a close ally by Swain. |
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| − | * Fixed a bug where Swain had reduced mana regeneration while in Raven form. |
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| + | === {{Cbi|Katarina}} === |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.122]]:''' |
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| + | Katarina serves as an assassin for the Trifarix council, killing people at their command. It is also hinted that Swain may know what happened to her father. |
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| − | * {{ai|Ravenous Flock|Swain}} now prioritizes champions instead of choosing targets randomly. |
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| + | === {{Cbi|Urgot}} === |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.121]]:''' |
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| + | Urgot was sent away from {{Fi|Noxus}} to {{Fi|Zaun}} as a part of Swain's coup, as he was seen as a liability and a potential threat to Swain's plan. |
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| − | * {{ai|Ravenous Flock|Swain}}: now heals Swain for 75% of the damage dealt versus champions and 25% versus minions instead of 50% regardless of the target. |
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| + | ==={{Cbi|Mordekaiser}}=== |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.120]]:''' |
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| + | It is likely that Raum worked for Mordekaiser or was used by him, as Swain found Raum in the [[Immortal Bastion]]. |
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| ⚫ | |||
| − | ** It now heals Swain for 50% of the actual damage dealt to enemies (instead of 50% of the raw damage the ability deals). |
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| − | ** Now the heal is not reduced if the damage dealt is absorbed by shields. |
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| + | === {{Cbi|Gangplank}} === |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.107]]:''' |
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| + | Gangplank stole The Leviathan, Swain's personal warship and the head of the Noxian fleet. Because of this, Swain despises Gangplank and wishes to see his demise. |
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| − | * {{ai|Carrion Renewal|Swain}} (Rework): |
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| − | ** New passive: Restores Swain a flat amount of mana equal to 9 (+1 per level) after killing an enemy unit. |
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| − | *** Old passive: Increases Swain's base mana regeneration by 300% by 5 seconds after killing an enemy unit. |
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| + | ==={{Fi|Black Rose}} === |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.105]]:''' |
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| + | Swain has close ties with the {{fi|Black Rose}}. The organization is currently trying to either control Swain or kill him in order to take the throne from him. Swain knows this and is trying to take down the organization, but knows that it is unlikely that he will accomplish this goal. |
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| − | * {{ai|Decrepify|Swain}}: leash range slightly increased. |
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| − | * {{ai|Torment|Swain}}: range increased to 625 from 600. |
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| − | * {{ai|Ravenous Flock|Swain}}: cooldown decreased to 10 seconds from 15. |
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| − | * Updated Swain's recommended items. |
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| + | ===={{Cbi|LeBlanc}}==== |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.103]]:''' |
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| + | Swain considers LeBlanc, the head matriarch of the Black Rose, as his rival. Swain and LeBlanc's personal relationship is vague, and they may have been lovers at some point.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/leagueoflegends/comments/7vqwkp/were_the_rioters_who_updated_swain_ask_us_anything/dtuj6ih/?context=3 Relationship between Swain and LeBlanc]</ref> When Boram Darkwill first took the throne and refused help from the Black Rose, LeBlanc, unbeknownst to Swain, manipulated Swain into revealing the Black Rose and making it look like she was executed and the Black Rose was dead.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/0/https://boards.na.leagueoflegends.com/en/c/developer-corner/jsdqvwff-ask-me-anything-about-narrative-for-warwick-urgot-swain-nunu-willump-and-pantheon-vgus?comment=00150000 Interlocutioner on Swain and LeBlanc]</ref>{{Quote|"So I guess this makes us enemies with benefits?"|{{cbi|Swain}}, to {{cbi|LeBlanc}}}} |
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| − | * {{ai|Carrion Renewal|Swain}}: mana regeneration bonus increased to 300% from 250%. |
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| − | * {{ai|Decrepify|Swain}}: |
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| − | ** Ability power ratio increased to 0.9 from 0.75. |
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| − | ** Fixed a bug where it would slow through {{ai|Highlander|Master Yi}} or {{ai|Ragnarok|Olaf}}. |
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| − | ** Fixed a bug where the damage portion sometimes would not stop after breaking the leash. |
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| ⚫ | |||
| − | ** Base damage increased to 75/115/155/195/235 from 72/110/148/186/224. |
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| − | ** Ability power ratio increased to 0.8 from 0.6. |
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| − | * {{ai|Nevermove|Swain}}: ability power ratio increased to 0.7 from 0.5. |
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| + | ===={{Cbi|Sion}}==== |
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| − | '''[[V1.0.0.102]]:''' Added. ([http://leagueoflegends.wikia.com/index.php?title=Swain_the_Master_Tactician&oldid=326820 Original Stats]) |
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| + | Swain obtained Sion from the Black Rose after the organization left Sion in his own tomb for years. Swain now uses him as a living weapon to use against his enemies. |
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| − | * {{ai|Decrepify|Swain}}: Swain sets his raven to cripple an enemy. Over the next three seconds, the target takes damage over time and is slowed. |
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| + | |||
| − | * {{ai|Nevermove|Swain}}: Swain marks a target area. After a short delay, mighty talons grab hold of enemy units dealing damage and rooting them. |
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| + | === {{Cbi|Vladimir}} === |
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| − | * {{ai|Torment|Swain}}: Swain afflicts his target, dealing damage to them over time and causing them to take increased damage from Swain's attacks. |
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| + | Vladimir has recently brought himself back into the public eye, becoming a vocal opponent against the Trifarix Council, and this has caught Swain's attention. However, Vladimir's previous public identity has not been completely forgotten, and it is hinted that Swain may know of Vladimir's true nature.{{More lore}} |
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| − | * {{ai|Ravenous Flock|Swain}} (Ultimate): Toggle: Swain transforms into the form of a raven, during this time up to 3 lesser ravens strike out at nearby enemies each second. Swain is healed for half the damage dealt by the Ravens. |
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| + | == Trivia == |
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| − | * {{ai|Carrion Renewal|Swain}} (Innate): Swain gains increased mana regeneration for 5 seconds upon killing a unit. |
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| + | ;{{cbi|image=Swain OriginalSquare old2.png|Swain|Swain, the Master Tactician|size=32}} |
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| ⚫ | |||
| + | * Swain was a member of the {{fi|The Black Rose}}, a dark and mysterious group that controlled Noxus before the rise of the military government. They were thought to no longer exist. However, with the reemergence of their leader {{cbi|LeBlanc}}, the Black Rose are working towards getting the organization back into power. |
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| + | * During the War of [[Kalamanda]], {{cbi|Garen}} and his Dauntless Vanguard hindered the progress of Swain and his army's advancement at every turn. |
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| + | * Swain and {{cbi|Jarvan IV}}, have a deep, hate-filled rivalry. He has attempted to kill Jarvan IV on several occasions. |
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| + | ** It is theorized he fought LeBlanc impersonating Jarvan in order to trigger a war with {{fi|Demacia}}. |
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| + | * Swain is a fan of {{cbi|Sona}}. |
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| + | * As a nod to his old lore, Swain has a raven named {{ui|Beatrice}}.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/0/http://na.leagueoflegends.com/board/showthread.php?p=3283051#post3283051 @ JesterCapp / Art Team [Official]]</ref> (< Latin ''beatrix'' "she who gladdens") |
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| + | |||
| + | ;{{cbi|Swain|Swain, the Noxian Grand General|size=32}} |
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| + | * His Demon of Secrets is named Raum as noted by {{cbi|Fiddlesticks}}.<ref>[https://twitter.com/notquitefrodo/status/1239990837163016193 The name of Swain's demon]</ref> |
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| + | ** In real-life ''"demonology"'', {{w|Raum}} is stated to be a Great Earl of Hell, ruling thirty legions of demons. He is depicted as a crow which adopts human form at the request of the conjurer. |
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| + | * Swain's ''Trifarix Council'' was probably based on the Roman {{w|Triumvirate}}, Swain being the Leader of Vision; |
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| + | ** Possibly based on {{w|Classical latin|Latin}} ''trifārius'' "in three parts~places" (cf. Sanskrit cognate त्रिधा ''tridhā''), from PIE [https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Reconstruction:Proto-Indo-European/tri- ''*tri-''][https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Reconstruction:Proto-Indo-European/d%CA%B0eh%E2%82%81- ''dʰóh₁-''].<ref>DeVaan, M. ''Etymological dictionary of Latin'', p. 202</ref> |
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| + | * The ''[[Swain#The Black Powder Plot|Black Powder Plot]]'' to assassinate Swain references the {{w|Gun Powder Plot}} by English Catholics to blow up {{w|James VI and I|King James I}} and the {{w|House of Lords|House of Lords}}. |
||
| + | * Swain likes to play a [[vastaya]]n strategy game called Xa'h, which is similar to chess.<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/leagueoflegends/comments/7vqwkp/were_the_rioters_who_updated_swain_ask_us_anything/dtukq5o/ Interlocutioner - Swain AMA]</ref> |
||
| + | * One of the reasons that the Trifarix was made was because Swain knows that either his demon or his ambitions may potentially overwhelm him and would have to be stopped.<ref>[https://twitter.com/LaurieGoulding/status/1101164083816984576 Can Swain be defeated by his demon?]</ref> |
||
| + | * The six-eyed ravens around him are not actual ravens but rather manifestations of his demonic power.<ref>[https://twitter.com/LaurieGoulding/status/1282866349958508545 Scathlocke on Swain's ravens]</ref> |
||
| + | * As revealed in {{cbis|Rell}} [https://youtu.be/ukA99Hx9EJw live Q&A]: |
||
| + | ** Swain has neglected the power vacuums left behind from his motions to dismantle the previous Noxian government. He was very well aware of the Black Rose academy that {{cbi|Rell}} was training in, but did not intervene. |
||
| + | ** Swain knows almost all secrets, the ones he has difficulty knowing are those predating Raum (his demon). |
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| + | ** He knows about [[World Rune]]s, but not where they've been hidden by {{cbi|Ryze}}. |
||
| + | ** Swain is aware of most major threats around Runeterra thanks to his crows, but has decided to deal with them later over more intermediate ones. |
||
| + | ** Swain and {{cbi|Aurelion Sol}} are tied for most knowledge about the universe, {{cbi|Zoe}} comes very close. |
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| + | |||
| + | ==Change log== |
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| + | {| class="article-table ruling-table" |
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| + | ! colspan="2" | Character blurb |
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| + | |- |
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| + | | <!--Release date--> |
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| + | | Added. |
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| + | |} |
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==References== |
==References== |
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| + | <references /> |
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| − | {{Reflist}} |
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| + | |||
| − | {{C-bot}} |
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| + | ==See also== |
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| − | [[Category:Champion backgrounds]] |
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| + | {{Character roster}} |
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| + | |||
| + | {{Character categories|Swain|playable=true|lol = true|tft = true|lor = true|ruinedking = true}} |
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| + | |||
| + | [[cs:Swain/Příběh]] |
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| + | [[fr:Swain/Historique]] |
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| + | [[pl:Swain/historia]] |
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| + | [[sk:Swain/Background]] |
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Latest revision as of 08:50, 28 December 2023
Jericho Swain is the visionary ruler of 
Noxus, an expansionist nation that reveres only strength. Though he was cast down and debilitated in the 
Ionian wars, his left arm severed, he seized control of the empire with ruthless determination... and a new, demonic hand. Now, Swain commands from the front lines, marching against a coming darkness that only he can see—in glimpses gathered by shadowy ravens from the corpses all around him. In a swirl of sacrifice and secrets, the greatest secret of all is that the true enemy lies within.
 | "I have learned enough to detest all men. Only nations may be revered." — Swain |
 |
Background
Early life
Jericho Swain was born into an affluent Noxian family, among the established houses that trace shortly after the nation's founding. They were also favored by the emperor of Noxus―
Boram Darkwill―having been instrumental in his rise to the throne.
Yet House Swain was also among many that hungered for power, and as such were part of a secret cabal called the 
Black Rose. His parents were especially intent on finding some dark power hidden in the depths of the Immortal Bastion, that which eluded discovery for many years as it cackled in the darkness like a raven's caw.
The cabal had aided Darkwill's political rise, but in time he rejected their influence thereafter. 
LeBlanc, head matriarch of the Black Rose, manipulated Swain as a young nobleman into revealing the Black Rose and executing its most prominent members, including Swain's own parents and Leblanc herself. However, LeBlanc's execution was a deception, and she retreated back into the shadows of Noxus to wait for an opportunity to strike. For exposing the corruption, Swain was granted a commission in the Noxian army, where he would serve for years to come.
Discovery of Raum
Swain learned firsthand that the empire's true strength was upheld not by pure Noxian ferocity, but by all its people united in spite of their origins. Nobles and foreign slaves alike were all seen as soldiers on the front lines.
Swain had carved out his career in securing the western borders, as well as expanding into 
Shurima. But in time, the aging emperor grew more paranoid and unhinged over his own mortality. Fighting wars on too many fronts, lusting over magical relics; greed became the clear motivation of the regime.
During the invasion of Ionia, Darkwill retasked much of the warbands to hunt for artifacts that could extend mortal lifespan, With Swain's forces depleted, it became nearly impossible to engage the enemy. At the Battle of the Placidium, his troops were overrun in what should have been an ambush. Swain was gravely wounded with his knee shattered and his 
arm cut off. On the verge of death, he felt a familiar darkness press upon him again as a 
raven approached to feed; but he would not let it take him. Staring into the bird's eyes, he saw a vision of the dark truth: that LeBlanc had seduced Darkwill with promises of extending his life, and had sent Swain to die. It was not the raven that told him this, but something deeper. This was the great power that Swain's parents had been looking for, and now he knew it could be found.
Returning to Noxus, Swain was disgraced and regarded as nothing more than a cripple. Through his fragile state, Swain set about in search of that strange power, that which cackled in the darkness like a raven's caw. What he found was Raum, an ancient entity that preyed on the dying and consumed their secrets. But the man solved a puzzle even the demon did not anticipate: a way to wield its power.
Establishment of the Trifarix
Swain had physically restored himself and could use magic to defeat his enemies, along with using Raum to listen to the secrets of the dying. Over the course of many years, Swain amassed power, allies, and elaborate plans to kill Darkwill. In the end, it only took one night to capture the throne. Swain revealed himself to all of Noxus, leaving Darkwill dead and the throne empty. In its place, he established the Trifarix: a council of 3 members to take over the responsibilities of the emperor. Together they embody Noxus' core values, with Swain representing Vision, 
Darius exemplifying Might, and The Faceless one embodying Guile. This Council was made so that no one man could rule Noxus, and if one were to divert from the foundations of strength that Noxus was built on, the other two would be able to keep them in check. Moreover, this insurance would counterbalance Swain should he ever befall to demonic corruption.
Swain immediately pulled back the Noxian forces from Darkwill's untenable ventures. He also held conventions detailing his plans for the empire, pardoning the noble houses that swore fealty, and allowing dissenting houses to safely leave the empire. A large part of the dissent was over the new policies that grated traditional power systems such as inherited lordship, personal wealth, and ownership of human property.[1]
Seeing areas of concern abroad and within, Swain sent one of the empire's best assassins in an almost impossible task.[2] 
Katarina was assigned to kill the 
Demacian king 
Jarvan III, as well as her own father 
Marcus Du Couteau, who has suspected ties with the Black Rose. However, Marcus intercepted the written order and managed to deter her long enough to get close to destroying Swain. The Grand General intervened in the final duel and backfired the implosive weapon to destroy Marcus instead. He then congratulates Katarina on her success and revealed that the assignment was a test to find an assassin that could eliminate Swain in the event that he becomes corrupt.
The Black Powder Plot
Secessionists held the mineral-rich Rokrund Plains, crafting explosives that deterred Noxian forces from advancing. This prompted Swain to visit the campaign generals and discuss strategy. One of these was General 
Brannin Granth, a secret operative of the Black Rose that plotted to kill Swain. Within the meeting, he proclaimed that the battle was unwinnable without death and revealed an explosive fuse ready to blow. Swain chuckled at the profound suggestion, agreeing that while the soldiers may die anyway, their sacrifice makes way for a greater reinforcement. He then reveals his demon arm and quickly strangles Granth. "Granth and I... we always look for what must be sacrificed in order to win."
The Delverhold Affair
Seven years into the Trifarix rule, delegates Oram and Alyssa from the Delverhold approached the council to negociate concessions in response to a local crisis. The mineral export quotas became unsustainable with the dwindling reserves in the Ironspike mines, sinking the people into poverty. Furthermore, Oram argued that their treaty to the empire had been invalidated with the death of the emperor, which permits the Delverhold to extricate from the empire if necessary. While Swain agreed to hear the terms, Darius argued that there was no compelling bargain.
Some days go by, and the delegates attempted to seize and extort the Faceless One for their vote. But in a deceptive trap, Oram is killed by Alyssa and she is quickly captured by the guards. She is brought before the Trifarix, whom were fully aware of the extortion, but recognize her disaffection in the Delverhold. Swain candidly stated that the Trifarix did not want to encourage other provinces to make demands as well. Alyssa said that she knew the Delverhold governor would use the delegates' deaths to justify secession, but returning Delverhold to the kingdom rule would be a grave mistake long-term. She then suggested to become governor herself in order to maintain relations with Noxus. The council agree to the idea and sent a Trifarian entourage with her back to Delverhold to claim office.
Appearance
Swain is a fair skinned man with long, white hair. He wears black armor, black pants, and a black coat. His left arm was restored with the power of Raum, and consequently glows a shade of red.
Personality
Swain is cold and calculating, often seeing people's lives as pieces in a bigger game. He is a master tactician and general, able to predict his enemies' next move with his cunning intellect and win battles swiftly and efficiently. Swain does not often act in his own interests, rather doing whatever is best for Noxus, as he knows that the empire is much more important than him, and he is committed to returning it back to its foundations and making sure that it outlasts him.
Abilities
- Demonic Bonding: After being defeated in battle, Swain made a pact with Raum, the Demon of Secrets. This granted him several new powers that very few can match.
- Emotional Feeding: Like other Demons, Raum can feed himself from a specific emotion, in this case, secrets. By absorbing the secrets of others, Raum, and by extension Swain, can sustain themselves for prolonged periods of time. Swain also gains knowledge from these secrets and can use this knowledge for his own benefit.
- Life Draining: The Secrets that Swain collects come in the form of Soul Fragments. Taking a soul Fragment from someone drains them of their energy and gives it to Swain. By doing so Swain can heal himself and strengthen his powers.
- Extended Awareness: Swain has heightened senses, meaning that he can perceive and sense things that few else can. He can see things from far away and perceive supernatural powers that no others can notice.
- Demon Ravens: Swain can summon several demonic Ravens that are connected to his mind. He can use them as a way to gather intelligence and spy on people.
- Demonic Energy: Swain can manipulate powerful dark energies to his liking. Those dark energies come from Raum, and depend on how strong Raum himself is.
- Energy blasts: Swain can summon powerful eldritch blasts.
- Limbs Creation: Swain can create limbs for himself such as hands and wings.
- Emotional Feeding: Like other Demons, Raum can feed himself from a specific emotion, in this case, secrets. By absorbing the secrets of others, Raum, and by extension Swain, can sustain themselves for prolonged periods of time. Swain also gains knowledge from these secrets and can use this knowledge for his own benefit.
Relations
Irelia
Irelia cut off Swain's left arm during the Battle of the Placidium.
Darius
Swain and Darius are two of the three heads of the Trifarix of Noxus, embodying the Noxian values of Vision and Might respectively, along The Faceless One, who embodies Guile.
Draven
When audiences for the Reckoning arenas waned and Draven fell into a drunk stupor, Swain found him and offered him a role in his coup against Boram Darkwill. He became integral to Swain’s plan, killing Darkwill himself. He is considered a close ally by Swain.
Katarina
Katarina serves as an assassin for the Trifarix council, killing people at their command. It is also hinted that Swain may know what happened to her father.
Urgot
Urgot was sent away from Noxus to 
Zaun as a part of Swain's coup, as he was seen as a liability and a potential threat to Swain's plan.
Mordekaiser
It is likely that Raum worked for Mordekaiser or was used by him, as Swain found Raum in the Immortal Bastion.
Gangplank
Gangplank stole The Leviathan, Swain's personal warship and the head of the Noxian fleet. Because of this, Swain despises Gangplank and wishes to see his demise.
Black Rose
Swain has close ties with the Black Rose. The organization is currently trying to either control Swain or kill him in order to take the throne from him. Swain knows this and is trying to take down the organization, but knows that it is unlikely that he will accomplish this goal.
LeBlanc
Swain considers LeBlanc, the head matriarch of the Black Rose, as his rival. Swain and LeBlanc's personal relationship is vague, and they may have been lovers at some point.[3] When Boram Darkwill first took the throne and refused help from the Black Rose, LeBlanc, unbeknownst to Swain, manipulated Swain into revealing the Black Rose and making it look like she was executed and the Black Rose was dead.[4]
| “ | "So I guess this makes us enemies with benefits?" |
| — Swain, to LeBlanc
| |
 |
Sion
Swain obtained Sion from the Black Rose after the organization left Sion in his own tomb for years. Swain now uses him as a living weapon to use against his enemies.
Vladimir
Vladimir has recently brought himself back into the public eye, becoming a vocal opponent against the Trifarix Council, and this has caught Swain's attention. However, Vladimir's previous public identity has not been completely forgotten, and it is hinted that Swain may know of Vladimir's true nature.
Read More
Biography
Starring Champion
Mentioned Champion
Alternate Universes
Trivia
- Swain, the Master Tactician
- Swain was a member of the The Black Rose, a dark and mysterious group that controlled Noxus before the rise of the military government. They were thought to no longer exist. However, with the reemergence of their leader LeBlanc, the Black Rose are working towards getting the organization back into power.
- During the War of Kalamanda, Garen and his Dauntless Vanguard hindered the progress of Swain and his army's advancement at every turn.
- Swain and Jarvan IV, have a deep, hate-filled rivalry. He has attempted to kill Jarvan IV on several occasions.
- It is theorized he fought LeBlanc impersonating Jarvan in order to trigger a war with Demacia.
- It is theorized he fought LeBlanc impersonating Jarvan in order to trigger a war with
- Swain is a fan of Sona.
- As a nod to his old lore, Swain has a raven named Beatrice.[5] (< Latin beatrix "she who gladdens")
- Swain, the Noxian Grand General
- His Demon of Secrets is named Raum as noted by Fiddlesticks.[6]
- In real-life "demonology", Raum is stated to be a Great Earl of Hell, ruling thirty legions of demons. He is depicted as a crow which adopts human form at the request of the conjurer.
- Swain's Trifarix Council was probably based on the Roman Triumvirate, Swain being the Leader of Vision;
- The Black Powder Plot to assassinate Swain references the Gun Powder Plot by English Catholics to blow up King James I and the House of Lords.
- Swain likes to play a vastayan strategy game called Xa'h, which is similar to chess.[8]
- One of the reasons that the Trifarix was made was because Swain knows that either his demon or his ambitions may potentially overwhelm him and would have to be stopped.[9]
- The six-eyed ravens around him are not actual ravens but rather manifestations of his demonic power.[10]
- As revealed in Rell's live Q&A:
- Swain has neglected the power vacuums left behind from his motions to dismantle the previous Noxian government. He was very well aware of the Black Rose academy that Rell was training in, but did not intervene.
- Swain knows almost all secrets, the ones he has difficulty knowing are those predating Raum (his demon).
- He knows about World Runes, but not where they've been hidden by Ryze.
- Swain is aware of most major threats around Runeterra thanks to his crows, but has decided to deal with them later over more intermediate ones.
- Swain and Aurelion Sol are tied for most knowledge about the universe, Zoe comes very close.
- Swain has neglected the power vacuums left behind from his motions to dismantle the previous Noxian government. He was very well aware of the Black Rose academy that
Change log
| Character blurb | |
|---|---|
| Added. | |
References
- ↑ Proclamation of the Trifarix
- ↑ Katarina: Issue 9
- ↑ Relationship between Swain and LeBlanc
- ↑ Interlocutioner on Swain and LeBlanc
- ↑ @ JesterCapp / Art Team [Official]
- ↑ The name of Swain's demon
- ↑ DeVaan, M. Etymological dictionary of Latin, p. 202
- ↑ Interlocutioner - Swain AMA
- ↑ Can Swain be defeated by his demon?
- ↑ Scathlocke on Swain's ravens
