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sevizzz · 4 months ago

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ambessa costume design analysis: war and family

*rubs hands together* Alright let’s do this

I think we forget that, before season 1 episode 8 “Oil and Water,” we didn’t have a reference for the Medarda standards that Mel supposedly failed—this is why Ambessa’s first appearance is so striking. While Mel has completely scrubbed red from her wardrobe, red is the first thing that jumps out with the cape and the accents—a bold color that is associated with passion and violence and decisiveness, all traits that Ambessa proudly boasts

The grey and black then point to functionality and metals like iron, which are used more for warfare, in contrast to gold, which is a softer metal

The immediate next observation is the functionality of the outfit—the shoulder and hip guards, the belt and abdomen armor, the pants, the boots. While in good condition, the immediate conclusion that we get is that, like Sevika and Vi, this is a character who like a free range of movement to dish out violence, and the casual way with which she wears this outfit shows how at ease she is with this violence, how she values her physical strength

(hilariously, in the art book screenshot below, the top right draft for Ambessa’s outfit shows her in a symmetrical white waistcoat with gold and black accents like Mel’s Piltover outfit, which I’m glad that they didn’t use in the end, but I think Ambessa would’ve worn it at least once to freak Mel out)

Her hair is free and wild, almost careless, again in contrast to Mel’s carefully groomed braids (keep this in mind for later)—where Mel lets her put together appearance speak of her character, Ambessa’s not carelessness, but her confidence

The picture with Mel and Ambessa in front of the former’s painting is also interesting, because we can see how the red from the sails matches Ambessa’s red—unity with nation, as for the purposes of the story, Ambessa is Noxus, but then we see that the ambient coloring of the painting is gold—Mel’s color. The painting—Mel’s vision—is the closest we see mother and daughter aligned, with Ambessa just having invited Mel to come back, and the beautiful and almost dream-like scene behind them unites them briefly

Of course, this is Arcane so that never happens, which brings us to one of my favorite images of Ambessa:

Firstly, this is just mwah so sexy there’s the ambient red of the scene from the ashes and fire, adding to the association of red as violence, but more significantly:

It’s the first time she wears gold—and it’s in a war mask, already smeared with blood and green chems

So this outfit just—props to the design department. Just. Gorgeous. Beautiful. Outstanding. 100/10 villain outfit

So there’s a lot going down here, so I’ll start with real world inspirations: from this post by @hyperfixationcritter (it has so much more info, i would def recommend the whole thing!), we can see that the headdress could be inspired by Zulu isicholos and the red threading is similar to the Dahomey warriors, which I love, as they could’ve just gone with the Roman and/or medieval aesthetic natural to Noxus, but instead they went with African influences, so when we see the pinnacle of Medarda splendor, it’s distinct and unique

Also here’s some art book insights (my eternal thanks to @stealingpotatoes for the photo!)

So from the regal outfit drafts, we can see them cycling out different ideas of war-like aesthetic, from the more modern military aesthetic with the side cloak and clean lines which would be more like a cleaned up version of Ambessa’s first outfit, to the symmetrical wing-like gold breastplate that, interestingly, mimicks Mel’s back tattoo. I still like the version that they settled on the most, but I love how we can see what aspects they wanted to evoke through the process

The blood mask is definitely more Viking-like in aesthetic, but I feel this is something a younger Blood Sweat & Tears Ambessa would do

And going to the actual mask, it’s interesting to note that it looks more Noxian gray and iron than the final color, which brings me to my favorite point:

Firstly, I love how you can see the similarities in features in mother and daughter, but more than that, what jumps out? Gold—Ambessa’s decadent earrings and lip ring, the breastplate, the accents on the outfit, except in contrast to Mel, Ambessa’s gold speaks of war—the earrings are triangular and pointed, the breastplate is a functional piece of armor

Narratively speaking, when Mel disappears, Ambessa is not only politically but also visually primed to take her place as the power in Piltover

Also I want to share insights from this post by the fabulous @melmedarda

And it leaves you to wonder, is it a Medarda custom to braid their hair when at war? To wear gold to war where all of Noxus wears red and black and silver?

Mel choses her battleground to be politics and subtlety and diplomacy. Ambessa choses the wolf and the blade

Furthermore, the coloring is primarily white, black and gold—Mel’s colors—showing how even if she did return, these signifiers of the identity she built for herself have been overtaken and their meaning inverted—in a way, her mother has stolen that from her, and that’s so twisted and incredibly interesting at the same time (also interesting to note that Mel seems to be primed to be Caitlyn’s support after Cassandra Kiramman’s death, but then Ambessa takes up that role, and then it returns to Mel during the final battle)

After this change, we really only see Ambessa in her workout martial arts outfit with Caitlyn, otherwise it’s variations on accessories on a basic theme, much like Mel’s season 1 outfit really only changes with the ratios of black and white, and while yes, I’ve said before that it would be cool to see some variation, story-wise giving a character a recognizable outfit works towards creating them as a recognizable and steady figure—Mel as the stable reference for wealth, Ambessa as the glory of war

I love this photo so much—firstly, the only change is the hair, which has been reworked from it’s complicated headdress into functional twin braids, and there’s a beautiful balance between the blade and the Medarda ring on her hand. This is probably the most gold we see her wearing, at the height of her military power, before the power of a butch with beautiful eyes compels Caitlyn to betray her

Here we can clearly see that the regal outfit is very easily turned into a functional outfit—even at her most decadent, it takes two seconds to lose the coat and have free range to wield weapons

Returning to the mask, in the final battle, we can see its iconic claw marks from Warwick—wear and tear from the war that we saw happen onscreen from a clash of two Wolf-coded figures (I have thoughts about the wolf metaphor in relation to social dynamics and the lone wolf idea as portrayed by Vander and Ambessa, but that’s a whole other discussion)

Design-wise, it’s also very smart to have the anti-magic runes be green—it makes them easy to spot against Ambessa’s usual design

But of course they can’t save her, and Ambessa dies, and in the final shot, she looks like this:

The lack of focus on gold or armor makes us focus on her face, and for a moment, there is such softness there as she gazes at Mel. Because yes, she was the armor and the blade and the iron and gold, but in the end, she was just a mother who loved her daughter. She was a horrible parent and a violent warlord, but the love was there, and in the end this is what we focus on, because everything else were just the expressions of the power she gained to protect them.

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sevizzz · 4 months ago

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Ambessa Blurb

Somewhat Arranged Marriage AU ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ CONTENT WARNINGS ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ Before Cut: References to death, Lightly arranged marriage, Relatively light threats

After Cut: Eating Out (r! Receiving), Orgasm Denial, Gentle Intimacy

- Your arranged marriage to her was an unexpected one. Neither of you had been fond of the male population within your respected kingdoms.

- This distaste caused a large rift within your family while hers was too intimidated to test her. After all, she killed many of her own blood to obtain the throne. And she wouldn't hesitate to do it again to maintain it.

- The talk of marriage had once again arrived. You always dreaded these conversations but never once faltered in your decision to not be with a man of all things. You'd rather one of the tracking dogs. At least they're loyal.

- You haphazardly look through the stack of proposals, letters, and scrolls. Each one varying in cost, quality, and color. A multitude of too similar looking crests decorating the wax seals.

- It was almost impressive how each province and family is so determined to have a special crest yet they all look undeniably similar to one another. Bird wings, swords, helmets, blah blah blah. The same dramatic spiel as always.

- As you flutter through the pages, one falls out with a heavy thud. The sound of the paper thicker and more luxurious than the others.

- You pluck it off the rug covered hardwood of your office and use your sharp pointed nails as a letter opener.

- The seal is undeniably distinct, a soft scoff leaving you. Amused that this is the only distinct letter within a massive stack.

- You falter for a split second when you see the sigil of the Medarda's. A massively powerful family with a brand new head of house. Quite the intimidating figure.

- The letter itself isn't too lengthy but is definitely detailed as needed. It starts proper and undeniably formal before breaking off. A clear indication that the sender grew bored of the usual customs and expectations.

- The letter branches off into discussion of the marriage months and how the individual is interested in your hand to aid in getting the councils' attention off your backs. They wish to rule their land as you wish to rule yours.

- The letter is very well pieced together, even with the sudden shift in tone. As you near the end, a distinct sentence stands out. "Noxians are loyal to their wedded forever. I expect nothing in return besides your hand within it and equal loyalty."

- You take a deep breath, squinting a bit before reading to see which sad sack decided to be desperate and reach out to your incredibly independent kingdom for a marriage proposal.

- What a sad guy-

-... Ah shit. It's Ambessa Medarda.

- Well... could be worse! Right? Yeah. Could be a man. And this may be your only shot at actually getting a wife like you've always dreamed of.

- Though, it is a wonder about how she'd be as a wife. She won't cheat as she stated, and you didn't imagine to ever do the same to her.

- But she's an incredibly intelligent woman. One that is so unbelievably thorough in everything she does that there's never a mistake on her part. And if there is? She won't allow word to escape.

- The quill rests heavy in your hand as you look over the letter you have written in return. Your request for an audience with her is what starts it off. Followed by your interest in discussion of what the two of you are truly looking for within this... arrangement.

- The marriage won't be a usual one. It's expected and demanded upon, but you two at least have the choice of who you can select. And luckily for you too... you both want a woman to rule beside.

- You dip the quill into the ink before signing the letter off. Using your custom sigil upon a dark pink wax. It was a color rarely ever used within formal arrangements due to many seeing it as "girly" or "improper".

- But you do doubt Ambessa would care much for that. After all, you are to be married. She'll be seeing quite a lot ot you and who you are. May as well give her a warning of your preference for more... improper styles and colors.

- When she receives the letter, her brow quirks. A huff of amusement leaving her as she tilts the letter received from you. The dark pink wax glittering faintly in the flames of the fire across from her.

- She appreciates the small bit of audacity before popping it open. An appreciative hum leaving her as she sees your request for an audience. How intriguing. Such an attentive one you are. How... wife like.

- She calls for her messenger to bring her some paper and her pen. Writing out a letter in return, agreeing to the request. Pressing her ring into the wax to seal it.

- When the two of you meet, she walks in in all her glory. Tall, imposing, and a steady look within her eyes. As if she knows what she wants before the two of you even speak.

- Her eyes take in your attire. The leather detailing on the top of your dress gives is a more masculine appeal. The heavy boots and weighted skirt allow for easy movement along with keeping the fabric down from the harsh winds that are common this far up in the mountains.

- You rise from the table and bow in greeting to her. The faintest hint of surprise in your eyes as she raises her hand, not wishing for you to bow and offer such formalities.

- When you straighten, she takes your hand and places a kiss to the back of it. A deep sign of respect within your people's culture. Most commonly preserved for married couples due to the hands being seen as a sacred thing. Their usage for safety and not harm. Her calloused ones speaking of a language your people rarely partake in.

- The sacred history tying back to when your people first became healers. Their hands bringing people back from the brink of death. You are not a society of war, but you are known for being steady and not taking kindly to threats. A steady, strong, but peaceful kingdom.

- You watch as she maintains eye contact as her lips connect to the back of your hand. The contact gently lighting up your senses as she silently pledges herself to you through the language of your people.

- The action cementing your marriage before a ceremony could even take place. She's offered herself to you before any discussion of the arrangement. She knows what she wants. And you are it.

- She holds your gaze and keeps her lips against your hand. The softness of her breathing contrasting with her sharp eyes. She's waiting to see your acceptance or denial of her pledge. The new warlord placing the decision within your hands.

- You hold her gaze for a long while, processing the determination within her alongside her decision. Her clear display of a Noxian's distaste for wasted time shown in her choice. She has no doubts that you are meant for her.

- When your hand cups her cheek, the proposal is accepted. Your palm warm against her skin. The two of you holding eye contact as she remains on one knee before you.

- This is not weakness, nor is it submission on her part. This is clear unfiltered communication from her. She kisses your palm in return. You are her equal now. Her wife. Hers.

- The decor is grand, as expected from two separate rulers coming together. The marriage of a war nation and a healing society is unheard of. Though it would mean a unified front against all of the surrounding nations.

- Such a strong connection, albeit shocking, would mean such an influx of power that any noble with a backbone would feel threatened by. But that's exactly what you both want. Though you are more of the silent appreciator of the increase, your people have never been the overly prideful type. You'll let Ambessa handle that.

- The ceremony is a combination of both of your cultures. The rare furs, expensive fabrics, and Noxian gemstones are but few of the gifts she brought you while courting. In return you gifted silks, wine only available within your kingdom, and an array of polished daggers you picked for her specially.

- The final gifts are extraordinary on both parts. She approaches you in the masuline attire of her people, the gold detailing and hand sewn patterns showing her power, wealth, and authority.

- The silver and fur detailing of your own dress contrasts with hers. It offers a delicacy that is needle sharp.

- In her hand is a box containing a necklace for you to wear. The design special for the two of you, these will be your symbols of marriage. Rings for hers, chokers for yours. She even went the extra mile to forbid anyone else from wearing it or crafting a replica.

- "This is not your only gift. I have brought two to complete our courting." She speaks calmly, taking her time to appreciate you in the sharp metals and delicate designs of your wedding dress. The silver and white contrasting with the gold and black upon her. A beautiful, balanced, difference. The sun and moon.

- 'How rude. I only came with one. You should have warned me.' You tease back as she holds the box between the two of you. The velvet box soft on your fingers as you open it to see a silver and diamond choker. A large glittering faint blue diamond dangling in the center while hundreds of identical white diamonds fill the rest of the choker.

- She lifts the necklace from its confines, allowing you to turn your back to her before she clasps it around you. Her fingers trailing over the design and across your shoulders. Your back to her signifying the trust you have placed within her to always have yours.

- She places a kiss to the back of your neck, right above the choker. She lets it linger before gently spinning you back around. The large faint blue teardrop diamond sat perfectly within the notch of your collarbone. The light catching it and casting sparkles of white on your skin.

- She hums in appreciation before allowing you to retrieve the necklace you had made for her. The box you present made of a thick leather, a custom design on top with a wolf on it. Its eyes shining as she opens the box.

- Within it sits a gold choker, near identical to yours but not quite. A deep red marguise cut garnet sits right in the center of the necklace, a sharp cut compared to the soothing droplet that your diamond is crafted in.

- Hundreds of smaller garnets decorate the rest of the choker, all distinct within their shape and identical to one another. She turns her back to you, kneeling so you are able to reach her neck.

- She closes her eyes as your delicate fingers clasp the choker into place. Her back to you now completing the final courting ritual. The turn from one another showing the trust you two have gained and loyalty that is now forming. You will have each other's back. No matter what.

- Once the clasp is placed, you lean forward and kiss the back of her neck in return. Silently showing your appreciation for her affections and signaling that you will offer the same.

- The action brings a low rumble from her chest. Almost a purr. She waits for you to back up before rising again. Her hands placed on your hips, the feeling both grounding and almost burning.

- "Let us legalize our marriage. My wife." She murmurs before placing a kiss upon your lips. Offering her arm for you to link with. Leading the way to the ceremony hall where your vows will be spoken. Or at least the public ones. You two will share your true ones in private. The public doesn't need to know the depth of what they are not apart of.

- "Your second gift will be presented in private. I wish for you to see it beside mine." She states mysteriously as you both walk towards the bustling sound of the large hall.

- 'I look forward to anything you offer, my love.' You reply back, a feeling of strength and unfiltered acceptance whirling within you. She will be your wife. It will be completed today. It will be you two against the world from here on out.

- That purr returns again, an unfiltered and content sound that comes from deep within her. One that's special for you. All of her hidden pieces are presented for you.

- The two of you enter the large hall and roars of approval come from her people. A smile gracing your lips at the excitement. Ambessa seems to puff up with pride as she guides you beside her. Clearly proud to have you by her side as you both walk to the alter.

- After the festivities are finished, the two of you stumble out of the main hall together. The dark hallways giving you privacy as she cups your face and chases your lips.

- The two of you kissing in a flurry of movements as your wedding rings glint and your chokers glitter. Two ways of showing your connection.

- Your back bumps against the wall as her large hand threads into your hair, her other gripping your hip as she devours you in a kiss. Needing to show her growing love for you.

- When the two of you enter her large chambers, she guides you to a room connected to it. The room filled with a large table and multiple maps displayed on it. A private room for her to think over any plans or expansions.

- She holds your hips and guides you backwards to the back of the room. Two large pieces of fabric hiding something from your sight.

- "This is your second gift..." She murmurs against your ear before spinning you to face the display. Pulling the two covers off to reveal the gift.

- A gasp leaves you as you see two identical sets of armor. Custom designed and for the two of you. Hers is solid black with a gold sheen while yours has a silver one. Her way of connecting the two of you while respecting your families designated colors.

- You can clearly see the care and time it took to make these. Her drive for perfection clearly visible within them.

- "I want you to spar with me regularly... I want my wife able to protect herself incase of any emergency... in case I'm not there" She whispers into your ear as your hand travels over the suits.

- 'Do I need to hire a trainer?' You ask softly, her body holding yours from behind as you bask in the newlywed glow. The soft light making the suits glint.

- Her grip on your tightens a bit. "No. I will train you. No need for another." She rumbles out, pressing kisses to the side of your face and and jaw. Making your head tilt to the side a bit and your eyes to close. Her lips making sure you feel the force behind the kisses.

- 'Then I will be trained by my wife.' You whisper back, leaning against her. A growl leaving her at your agreement and the idea of training you. Her large hands running over your hips and sides, keeping you close.

- "You'll be trained in more ways than one." She murmurs before nipping your neck, her tongue soothing the skin afterwards. And she upheld her promise. She always will.

- She was a very balanced teacher. Training you to keep yourself safe. She didn't care for the extra razzle dazzle or going the extra mile to make sure you were perfect. No. Her first goal is to make you deadly.

- Your magics will get you far, but a knife in someone's throat can get you farther. And you'll learn how to do so. Her wife will be deadly.

- Your image will be passive, observant, and balanced as your people naturally are. She would never make you change your nature to suit her, but she will make it razar sharp.

- The sparring sessions become a favorite part of the evening for the two of you. You get a definite task to focus on alongside quality time with your wife.

- Your marriage grows stronger each and every day. No matter the issues behind closed doors, your loyalties never falter. She's undeniably there for you as you are for her. She'd burn the world to the ground for you while you'd move mountains if it pleased her.

- The respect she has for you never leaves. When whispers from her aunts slowly swirl around your head, Ambessa is quick to silence them. A distasteful feeling in her mouth at how her so called blood is attempting to dissuade you right before your honeymoon.

- Ambessa's words slice through her family "If none of you can speak properly about my wife... then you don't deserve to speak." Its not a threat. It's a promise. And one she'll fulfill right there in her throneroom. Their blood would make your dress look gorgeous. She always loved you in red.

- Before she acts, her head turns to you. Taking in your regal form next to her, watching as you take in the situation with an ice cold demeanor. You tilt your head towards her and say calmly, too calmly, 'It would be a shame if they lost the ability to speak freely. After all, their opinions are against the crown.' You point out. Ambessa's eyes glinting lovingly as you agree with her sentiments. Your words giving her silent permission to act as she deems fit, though you'd prefer to watch her family squirm.

- You've always been the more mental kind of warfare. Enjoying and naturally reveling in the games... it is the way your land has maintained its peace for so long. A war cannot be made if the opponent suddenly grows paranoid of its declared enemy.

- Ghosts... plague... disappearances... all are easy to control and create, to mimic, when one has access to the knowledge needed. Would be a shame if Ambessa's less than favorable neices went missing. Would most definitely break the hearts of their mothers right?... right.

- But those are thoughts for another day. No need to worry your pretty little head about it. They'll learn not to speak when it's uncalled for. Or they won't. Some dogs can't be taught new tricks. Ruff. Ruff.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ MATURE CONTENT ︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

- Tensions have been high along the borders of your newly assigned lands. Causing her to remain in her office or map room more frequently.

- After a day of your own tasks and requirements as a ruler, you had decided to soothe yourself in a bath to calm your nerves.

- When the stars continue to twinkle across the sky, the world keeps spinning, and the owls hoot far into the evening, you decide to go in search for her.

- Your hair dampened and loose comfortable fabrics drape your body. Your footsteps quiet as you cross through the various halls of your shared manor.

- The marble and carpet is a grounding mix of sensations as you near her office, gently pushing the door open and stepping inside.

- Her dark eyes drift up from the litter of papers to take you in. A deep breath leaving her as she takes in your relaxed presence.

- She gives a slow blink and leans back in her office chair, creaking the wood and leather. It's the only sound that fills the space as you pad closer.

- Her legs spread to make room for you, hands bracing your hips and guiding you to straddle her. A low content sound leaving her as your arms wrap around her neck.

- She holds you close to her, making sure your bodies are flushed as she inhales your scent. Eyes closing as you hold one another. She needed this. She had needed her wife.

- The two of you holding one another until her hands start to wander. Running over your back and hips, massaging and pawing at you. A comforting action for both.

- Her eyes remain closed as full kisses are placed against the side of your face and neck. There's no rush in the movements anymore. Your presence bringing a level of comfort and relaxation to her.

- She'll lazily rock your hips against her, kissing your temple and shushing you gently when you try to put work in. "Still... let me.." She hums out, her actions a way to appreciate you and apologize for her more frequent absences due to other annoyances.

- The grievances of others have kept her from her wife's embrace, that alone is enough to start a dispute in her opinion.

- When your soft breaths pick up, she murmurs comforting words to you. One large hand cupping the back of your head. Keeping you safely tucked into her neck. Shielding you from anything else but her.

- Her free hand slips into the loose fabrics of your nightwear, brushing against your wet folds and kissing your neck as a reward for being so good for her. Being so wet for her. Such a good girl.

- She'll bounce your pretty little self right on her fingers, taking the effort and energy to pull you like a rag doll. Your lovely little sounds right against the skin of her neck and shoulder. Drool all over her glistening skin as you lick at her like a love drunk puppy.

- The slick sounds of your cunt taking her in fill the office, her thigh bouncing you as her thumb swirls your puffy clit.

- When your whines get higher, your breathing whispier, she curls her fingers. Your arousal drooling into her palm.

- "Such a messy girl..." She groans against your cheek as she presses another kiss to it. Eyes closing as she focuses on the feeling of your greedy hole sucking her up.

- She can instantly feel you squeezing her as your thighs start to shake. She grabs your waist and pulls her fingers out.

- As she manhandles you, she sucks her fingers off. Draping your body on her desk and peeling your nightwear off. Your legs still shaking from the denied release.

- Her hands wrap around your ankles and yank you to the edge of the desk. Her knees hitting the table before instantly putting her mouth on you.

- There's no time for formalities or more play than needed. Her tongue diving into you and making your legs crush her head.

- When blood rushes in her ears and you're all she can hear, she starts lapping at you like a succulent peach. The slick sounds of her mouth and your cunt fill the air. She eats like a starved woman.

- She takes everything you could possibly give, taking to it like a dog after running in the sun.

- You holds you down as your spine arches, her eyes watching your tongue loll out and body spasm. A deep growl leaving her as she doesn't miss a drop of your release.

- When you make a quiet sound, body melting into the dark wood of her desk, she rises up. Wiping her lips and sucking her fingers off of your taste. Sucking it all up.

- She leans down and captures your lips with hers, slowly and deeply kissing you as she guides your body up.

- She guides your sleepwear back up your body, kissing you on the forehead before lifting you up into her arms.

- She clicks the lamp off and carries you down the familiar halls to your shared chambers. The familiar routine of tossing your robe at the foot of the bed, stripping her clothes off, and cradling you in the clean linens, is ahead of you two.

- You're calm, relaxed, and sleepy. She's calm, relaxed, and clear headed. Perfect for bedtime. Exactly what was needed for both of you.

- What a way to relieve the tension after a rough day. Sometimes you just need your wife.

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