Azir,the Emperor of the Sands,Omah Azir

Stats: health: Health550+119, resource: Mana320+40, health regen: Health regen. (per 5s)7+0.75, resource regen: Mana regen. (per 5s)8+0.8, armor: Armor22+5, attack damage: Attack damage52+3.5, attack speed: Base AS0.625, gameplay radius: Gameplay radius65, selection radius: Selection radius89, release: 2014-09-16, changed: V13.23, role: Specialist, position: Middle, rangetype: Ranged, adaptivetype: Magic, cost: 4800|880

Biography:
Games

AzirMainFormalAscendingResurrectingHumanTitlesReal nameOmah AzirNickname(s)Hawk-FatherHawk EmperorAlias(es)The Emperor of the SandsGolden SunBeloved of Mother DesertCharacteristicsSpeciesGod-WarriorRevenantHumanPronoun(s)He/HimTimelineBorn:2040 BN - 2025 BNWeapon(s)Staff of OfficeSand Magic and Sand SoldiersSun DiscPersonal statusStatusAlive(Resurrected)Place of originShurima City,Shurima(Ancient Times)Current residenceShurima City,ShurimaFamilyUnnamed Father†Unnamed Mother†Unnamed Step-Mothers†Unnamed Siblings†Unnamed Spouses†Unnamed Lovers†Unnamed Children†Sivir(Descendant)Professional statusOccupation(s)Shurima's EmperorRegion(s)ShurimaRelated character(s)XerathAatroxRhaastVarusNasusRenektonCassiopeiaSivirTaliyah

Azir

• Main
• Formal
• Ascending
• Resurrecting
• Human
Titles

Real name

Nickname(s)

• Hawk-Father
• Hawk Emperor
Alias(es)

• The Emperor of the Sands
• Golden Sun
• Beloved of Mother Desert
Characteristics

Species

• God-Warrior
• Revenant
• Human
Pronoun(s)

Timeline

• Born:2040 BN - 2025 BN
Weapon(s)

• Staff of Office
• Sand Magic and Sand Soldiers
• Sun Disc
Personal status

Status

Place of origin

Current residence

Family

• Unnamed Father†
• Unnamed Mother†
• Unnamed Step-Mothers†
• Unnamed Siblings†
• Unnamed Spouses†
• Unnamed Lovers†
• Unnamed Children†
• Sivir(Descendant)
Professional status

Occupation(s)

Region(s)

Related character(s)



Azirwas a mortal emperor of Shurima in a far distant age, a proud man who stood at the cusp of immortality. His hubris saw him betrayed and murdered at the moment of his greatest triumph, but now, millennia later, he has been reborn as anAscendedbeing of immense power. With his buried city risen from the sand,Azirseeks to restore Shurima to its former glory.



Contents

• 1Background1.1Early life1.2The Catastrophic Ascension
• 2Appearance
• 3Personality
• 4Abilities
• 5Relations5.1Xerath5.2Ezreal5.3Sivir5.4Nasus&Renekton
• 6Read More6.1Biography6.2Starring Champion6.3Mentioned Champion6.4Alternate Universes
• 7Trivia
• 8Change log
• 9References
• 10See also
• 1.1Early life
• 1.2The Catastrophic Ascension
• 5.1Xerath
• 5.2Ezreal
• 5.3Sivir
• 5.4Nasus&Renekton
• 6.1Biography
• 6.2Starring Champion
• 6.3Mentioned Champion
• 6.4Alternate Universes
Background[]

Early life[]

Azir was the last son of the emperor of Shurima. He never received the same love from the emperor as did the other children. It was highly unexpected that he would be the one to become emperor. He spent most of his time studying the texts rather than training for combat.

Azir met a slave looking for texts for his master in the library. Surprisingly, he was able to help Azir understand complex grammar from an ancient text. The two quickly became friends after this, and Azir named the boy Xerath, even though slaves were not allowed names.

One day, while the royal family was travelling in the desert, they were attacked by assassins. Azir and Xerath had gone out to plot the stars. Xerath managed to suppress the attacker while Azir plunged a dagger into his throat. But Azir’s brothers had all been killed before Renekton managed to slay the assassins. Azir promised that one day, he and Xerath would be brothers.

Azir, now heir to the throne, began to train in combat under the tutelage of Renekton. He learned to wield the sword and spear.

Strangely, all the sons of the emperor’s wife began to die before they were born. Then one was finally born. But during a great storm, the emperor’s wife was killed along with her newborn son. It was said that the emperor went mad with grief and took his own life, leaving Azir to take the throne.

The Catastrophic Ascension[]

Xerath had secretly longed for the power of ascension himself and saw Azir as a threat to his own aspirations; a world without slavery, and to end that, he secretly planned to guide Azir to the Dais of Ascension himself. On the day of Ascension, just as Azir is ascended-Xerath used his magic to subvert the ritual, causing it to fail and unleashing a catastrophic explosion that destroyed the capital city of Shurima, killing many of Azir's people in the process.

In the aftermath of the failed ascension, Azir was presumed dead, and Shurima fell into ruin and decay. However, Azir had actually ascended in a flawed and incomplete manner, becoming trapped in a state of suspended animation, his body and spirit separated from each other. Over the centuries, Azir's spirit remained dormant, while his body was preserved in a state of stasis within a chamber in The Sun Disc, an ancient structure that had been built to harness the power of the sun and the magic of the Ascended. It wasn't until the present day, whenThe Sun Discwas rediscovered and reactivated, that Azir's body was reawakened, and his spirit was reunited with it. When the tomb containing the Sun Disc and Azir was opened, chaos broke out andSivir's blood spilled over to the sand, awakening the falcon god in the process.

As Azir awakened, he was confronted by the brutal reality of his empire's decline and the treachery of those who had sought to undermine him, especially the now berserkXerath. Despite these obstacles, Azir remained determined to reclaim his throne and rebuild Shurima, using his newfound power and knowledge to unite his people and restore their former glory.

Appearance[]

Azir is a tall male humanoid figure with features of a bird, specifically a falcon, his head is that of a golden falcon with blue eyes that shine like sapphires.He wears ancient golden Shuriman armor with red ribbons hanging from his arms and a white cape on his back.

When he was human, Azir was a brown-skinned man and quite stocky, with long dark hair tied in dreadlocks and various trappings of royalty.He didn't wear a shirt but his chest and arms were adorned with all kinds of Shuriman amulets and necklaces, he wore white baggy pants with red ribbons around his hips.

Personality[]

Azir is a proud, determined ruler who sees potential in others. While he originally had no chance of being emperor, he befriended Xerath and saw him more than just a mere slave, but also a friend and even a brother. He wished to repay Xerath by giving him rewards and a higher status, but the societal values of Shurima prevented this. Despite this, Azir wished to become emperor to abolish slavery and give Xerath what he would've wanted, but his power led to him becoming hubristic, which was Azir's biggest weakness and one of the causes of Shurima's downfall. While he did have selfless intentions for the empire, his arrogance prevented him from communicating his goals with Xerath and seeing when he was being manipulated, and his shortsightedness towards the consequences of his actions caused Xerath's resentment to grow to the point where by the time he announced his plan, it was too late and Xerath had already made his decision to betray him.

Since his resurrection, Azir now wishes to rebuild the empire and return Shurima to its former glory is a very noble gesture, calling upon the help of his allies in order to do so.

However Azir has shown a quite noble and generous side, since one of the things he always wanted to do after becoming emperor was to abolish slavery and help the poor, he has shown a kinder side of him when he saved Sivir's life.

Abilities[]

• Ascended:Azir is an Ascended, also known as God-Warriors or Sunborn. The Ascended are mortals that were empowered by The Sun Disc into immensely powerful demigods. Each Ascended has unique powers depending on the individual they were prior to the Ascension.Immortality:The ascended do not age, and do not need to eat or sleep. Barring beings of similar power, the Ascende cannot be killed.Sand Magic:Azir can control the sands of the Shuriman desert to his desires, creating almost anything that he desires, like massive building and cities around him.Sand Soldiers:Azir mainly uses his power over the sand to create his mighty Sand Soldiers, powerful constructs that serve as his personal army. The Sand Soldiers are completely under his control, are far more powerful than a normal human and don't need neither sleep nor food.
• Immortality:The ascended do not age, and do not need to eat or sleep. Barring beings of similar power, the Ascende cannot be killed.
• Sand Magic:Azir can control the sands of the Shuriman desert to his desires, creating almost anything that he desires, like massive building and cities around him.Sand Soldiers:Azir mainly uses his power over the sand to create his mighty Sand Soldiers, powerful constructs that serve as his personal army. The Sand Soldiers are completely under his control, are far more powerful than a normal human and don't need neither sleep nor food.
• Sand Soldiers:Azir mainly uses his power over the sand to create his mighty Sand Soldiers, powerful constructs that serve as his personal army. The Sand Soldiers are completely under his control, are far more powerful than a normal human and don't need neither sleep nor food.
Relations[]

Xerath[]

Xerath'streachery made Azir furious at his former soul brother betraying his trust to become an Ascended being and destroying Shurima in the process. He can't let go because he truly loved his nation, however much his ambition may have led him astray. He can't accept responsibility for what happened to his kingdom - he blames Xerath, but was it really Xerath's fault...? Or was it the emperor who couldn't see the cruel intent of his most trusted advisor - and friend? And yes - for the moment, he is an emperor without an empire. An emperor without a people. He has nothing - but he'll do everything with his newfound power to change that, and rebuild Shurima into the thriving, powerful empire it once was.

Ezreal[]

GivenEzreal'sexploration of the Shurima Desert and robbing of artifacts from its tombs, it's likely Azir won't be entirely fond of him.

Sivir[]

Azir dislikesSivir'sgraverobbing but does not resent her. She is family after all, and saving her fromCassiopeia'sbackstabbing meant everything at the time of his revival. He would hold his hatred for Cassiopeia for almost ending his bloodline forever.

Nasus&Renekton[]

When he was young, Azir was taught ancient knowledge fromNasusand combat fromRenekton. The Ascended brothers' teachings will prove useful for the trials ahead.

Azir is disappointed that a mighty warrior such asRenektonhas been reduced to a rabid beast after being tortured beyond insanity for imprisoning himself with Xerath.

On the other hand,Nasusmight be the only remaining Ascended that can help the Emperor. Azir deeply respects Nasus, though the Curator looks down on him for his arrogance and for what his hubris did to Shurima.[1]

Read More

Biography



Biography

The Emperor of the Sands

ByGraham McNeill

Starring:Azir

Mentioned:Nasus,Renekton,Sivir,Xerath

Starring Champion



Short Story • 4 Minute Read

Arisen

ByAnthony Reynolds Lenné

Azir walked the gold-paved Emperor's Way. The immense statues of Shurima's earliest rulers – his ancestors – watched his progress.

Starring:Azir

Mentioned:Sivir,Xerath



Video

Descent into the Tomb

Scroll after scroll in Noxian libraries chronicle the power buried within Shurima. Now Cassiopeia thinks she's found the key. Learn how the saga began.

Starring:Azir,Cassiopeia,Renekton,Sivir,Xerath

Mentioned:Nasus



Video

Empires of the Ascended (Video)

A buried empire. A brother’s betrayal. A relic that could change everything.

Starring:Azir,Nasus,Renekton



Comic

Fall of the Empire

By Numerous creators



Starring:Azir,Nasus,Renekton,Xerath



Video

Rise of the Ascended

Discover the tale of Ancient Shurima, where the fates of Azir and Siver intertwine.

Starring:Azir,Sivir

Mentioned:Nasus



Short Story

Water and Shade To You

ByGraham McNeill

For the first time Khari could remember, flowers grew on the street leading from the town square to the Cut.

Starring:Azir

Mentioned:Renekton,Sivir,Xerath

Mentioned Champion



Short Story • 36 Minute Read

Bloodline

ByGraham McNeill

Taliyah had almost forgotten how much she'd missed the furnace heat of Shurima – the sweat and crush of hundreds of people pushing, cursing, haggling and speaking with such passion and speed that outsiders often thought they were fighting.

Starring:Nasus,Sivir,Taliyah,Xerath

Mentioned:Azir,Renekton,Yasuo



Game

CONV/RGENCE

ByDouble Stallion Games

Rewind the Past, Control the Future - Explore and traverse through the spectacular city of Zaun as Ekko, a young inventor with an ingenious device to manipulate time, in this story-driven action platformer. Play as a young Ekko and realize the full potential of one of League’s fan-favorite Champions.

Starring:Aximander,Camille,Chadd,Corin Reveck,Corina Veraza,Drake Poingdestre,Ekko,Elie,Inna,Jinx,Lem,Red,Rungs,Vale Poingdestre,Warwick,Wyeth,Zarkon Poingdestre

Mentioned:Ashlesh,Azir,Blitzcrank,Darius,Dr. Mundo,Eramis,Evil Kay,Farron,Fiddlesticks,Janna,Jayce,Kay,Nasus,Orianna,Renata Glasc,Seraphine,Shomi,Singed,Twitch,Urgot,Vi,Viktor,Zac,Zeri,Ziggs



Short Story • 4 Minute Read

Darkness Renews

ByGraham McNeill

Am I a god?

Starring:Renekton

Mentioned:Azir,Nasus,Xerath



Short Story • 4 Minute Read

Echoes in the Stone

ByAriel Lawrence

Taliyah was outrunning the sandstorm when she first noticed the water. In the beginning, it was faint, just a cool dampness she felt as she lifted the stones from deep beneath the sand. As she drew closer to old Shurima, wet streaks dripped from each new stone as if they were weeping. Taliyah knew the rock had stories to tell as she sped across the desert, but she didn't have time to listen, to hear if they were tears of joy or sadness.

Starring:Taliyah

Mentioned:Azir,Sivir



Short Story

Feast of the Prophet

ByJared Rosen

Meir follows a crowd of cultists out of the prophet’s tent city, and down into a low valley at the edge of the desert.

Starring:Malzahar

Mentioned:Azir,Bel'Veth



Short Story

Hollowspun

ByDana Luery Shaw

Kai’Sa peers out from the mouth of the tunnel and feels like she’s standing at the edge of the world.

Starring:Kai'Sa,Taliyah

Mentioned:Azir,Rek'Sai



Video

Homecoming



Starring:Taliyah

Mentioned:Azir,Nasus



Short Story • 4 Minute Read

Ouroboros

ByRyan Verniere

Nasus walked at night, unwilling to face the sun. The boy followed in his wake.

Starring:Nasus

Mentioned:Azir,Renekton,Xerath



Short Story

Roots of a Poisoned Tree

ByGraham McNeill

Dust hung in veils as Shoorai followed the mechanical-limbed form of Tunnel-Chief Hewlett deeper into the mine shaft.

Starring:Malphite

Mentioned:Azir,Taliyah



Short Story • 9 Minute Read

Sai Kahleek (Short Story)

ByOdin Austin Shafer

Six boys and a camel, and the boys were cheaper to replace. Some were orphans and escaped slaves, but most were off casts — teenagers abandoned by families too poor to keep them. When Shahib offered him the work, Jaheje hadn't eaten in days.

Starring:Rek'Sai

Mentioned:Azir,Renekton



Biography

The Battle Mistress

ByRayla Heide

Starring:Sivir

Mentioned:Azir,Cassiopeia,Nasus,Renekton,Taliyah,Xerath



Short Story • 19 Minute Read

The Bird and the Branch

ByAriel Lawrence

A young stone mage from Shurima encounters an unlikely mentor in the mountains of Ionia.

Starring:Taliyah,Yasuo

Mentioned:Azir



Biography

The Butcher of the Sands

ByAnthony Reynolds Lenné

Starring:Renekton

Mentioned:Azir,Nasus,Sivir,Xerath



Biography

The Curator of the Sands

ByAnthony Reynolds Lenné

Starring:Nasus

Mentioned:Azir,Renekton,Xerath



Short Story

The Faceless God

ByGraham McNeill

I watch the worm wriggling its way up from the sand.

Starring: N/A

Mentioned:Azir,Xolaani



Short Story

The Legend of the Darkin

ByGraham McNeill

The darkin are thrice-cursed - once by the ancient enemy they faced, again by the fall of their glorious empire, and finally by the betrayal that has damned them for all eternity.

Starring: N/A

Mentioned:Azir



Biography

The Magus Ascendant

ByGraham McNeill

Starring:Xerath

Mentioned:Azir,Cassiopeia,Nasus,Renekton,Sivir



Biography

The Pride of Nazumah

ByMichael Luo

Starring:K'Sante

Mentioned:Azir,Tope,Xerath



Biography

The Stoneweaver

ByAriel Lawrence

Starring:Taliyah

Mentioned:Azir,Yasuo



Biography

The Unforgiven

ByAriel Lawrence

Starring:Yasuo

Mentioned:Azir,Riven,Taliyah,Yone



Short Story • 25 Minute Read

Twilight of the Gods

ByGraham McNeill

They came to a dead city in the mountain's shadow under cover of night.

Starring:Naganeka,Zoe

Mentioned:Aatrox,Azir,Nasus,Rhaast,Varus



Short Story • 3 Minute Read

Unbound

ByAnthony Reynolds Lenné

This was the moment.

Starring:Xerath

Mentioned:Azir



Short Story • 5 Minute Read

Water

ByOdin Austin Shafer

Sivir's throat felt like it was coated in a layer of broken glass. The cracked flesh of her lips burned. Her eyes refused to focus. I've given them more than enough time to move on.

Starring:Sivir

Mentioned:Azir,Cassiopeia



Short Story

With Teeth

ByGraham McNeill

Firewood was precious in the desert, but the blackened ruins of Vekaura offered a plentiful supply of charred timbers to hurl on bonfires.

Starring:Renekton

Mentioned:Azir,Nasus

Alternate Universes



Video

Ao Shin's Adventure

Every little dragon has a destiny.

Starring:Aurelion Sol,Azir,Jinx,Sett,Teemo,Veigar,Yuumi



Video

Galaxies



Starring:Aurelion Sol,Azir,Braum,Kindred,Neeko,Ornn,Pantheon,Warwick



Video

Make History

In this battle of regions, one will conquer all others to make history.

Starring:Alistar,Ashe,Azir,Bard,Brand,Caitlyn,Cassiopeia,Elise,Evelynn,Janna,Karma,LeBlanc,Lee Sin,Lucian,Morgana,Nautilus,Orianna,Pyke,Ryze



Video

Rise of the Elements



Starring:Azir,Kindred,Ornn,Warwick



Comic

Academy Adventures: Series 1

ByGutter Rat



Starring:Ahri,Darius,Ekko,Vladimir

Mentioned:Akali,Amumu,Anivia,Azir,Bard,Blitzcrank,Braum,Cho'Gath,Elise,Ezreal,Fiddlesticks,Fiora,Gnar,Heimerdinger,Ivern,Jhin,Jinx,Karthus,Kog'Maw,Lulu,Lux,Malzahar,Miss Fortune,Nidalee,Olaf,Poppy,Rek'Sai,Renekton,Rumble,Ryze,Shaco,Shen,Sion,Sona,Soraka,Talon,Taric,Teemo,Tristana,Trundle,Twitch,Urgot,Varus,Veigar,Vel'Koz,Vi,Yorick,Zed,Ziggs,Zyra



Music Video

GIANTS

ByTrue Damage

Intro

Starring:Akali,Ekko,Qiyana,Senna,Yasuo

Mentioned:Ahri,Azir,Book,Camille,Corki,Jinx,Kayn,Kindred,LeBlanc,Lucian,Pyke,Rhaast,Tahm Kench,Teemo,Thresh,Twitch,Yuumi



Comic

Playtime with Gnar: Series 2

ByRachel J. Corey



Starring:Gnar

Mentioned:Ahri,Azir,Braum,Caitlyn,Darius,Draven,Fiddlesticks,Lux,Soraka,Vi,Viktor,Warwick



Comic

Punches and Plants: Series 2

ByRisu



Starring:Vi,Zyra

Mentioned:Aatrox,Ahri,Alistar,Amumu,Annie,Aurelion Sol,Azir,Bard,Blitzcrank,Caitlyn,Cho'Gath,Diana,Draven,Ekko,Ezreal,Fizz,Galio,Gnar,Graves,Heimerdinger,Jayce,Kha'Zix,Kog'Maw,Leona,Lucian,Lux,Malphite,Maokai,Miss Fortune,Nasus,Nautilus,Nidalee,Olaf,Orianna,Poppy,Quinn,Rakan,Renekton,Riven,Rumble,Shaco,Taric,Teemo,Tibbers,Tristana,Trundle,Udyr,Valor,Vel'Koz,Viktor,Volibear,Warwick,Wukong,Xayah,Xin Zhao,Yasuo,Ziggs



Comic

The Roadtrip

ByCassie Parkes,Marvin Clifford



Starring:Caitlyn,Gangplank,Zoe

Mentioned:Ahri,Ashe,Azir,Bard,Braum,Darius,Fiddlesticks,Garen,Gnar,Gragas,Graves,Irelia,Jinx,Kalista,Katarina,Kog'Maw,Lee Sin,Lulu,Master Yi,Nami,Poppy,Rakan,Shaco,Sona,Swain,Taric,Teemo,Twisted Fate,Varus,Xayah,Yasuo,Zilean



Comic

The Tale of the Poro King

By Numerous creators



Starring: N/A

Mentioned:Aatrox,Akali,Ashe,Aurelion Sol,Azir,Braum,Caitlyn,Cho'Gath,Darius,Diana,Draven,Ezreal,Gnar,Illaoi,Janna,Jarvan IV,Jayce,Kai'Sa,Karma,Karthus,Katarina,Kayle,Kayn,Kennen,Kha'Zix,Lee Sin,Leona,Lulu,Lux,Malzahar,Miss Fortune,Nunu,Ornn,Pantheon,Pyke,Rammus,Rek'Sai,Rhaast,Ryze,Sejuani,Shen,Sion,Sivir,Soraka,Sylas,Syndra,Taliyah,Talon,Taric,Thresh,Tristana,Trundle,Udyr,Vi,Volibear,Willump,Yasuo,Zed,Ziggs,Zoe

Trivia[]

• Based on the timeline inRealms of Runeterraand his lore, Azir is between 3000 – 3050 years old.
• As suggested byTaliyah'squoteLink▶️"Close to the ground, the sparrow flies faster than the falcon.", his Ascended form resembles that of a falcon.
• Azir's mother was born inVekaura.Xerathlater destroyed the city during the events ofBloodline.Azir originally intended to destroySaikhal,Xerath'sbirthplace, for revenge but was convinced not to as he was reminded that it would make him the same thing as what Xerath has become.Azir knows a lot of secrets aboutXerath'spast that are only known to the two.
• As stated by Riot Opeli in Azir's Q&A thread, Azir was a benevolent leader, a kind dictator devoted to his people's well-being and prosperity. Though he got a little ahead of himself with the over-enthusiastic Ascension ritual, even that was done with good intentions, for he saw Ascension as a means to have Shurima grow and influence the entire world.[2]This desire was never derived from conquest, as Azir truly believes Shurima was the pinnacle of civilization and could only continue to prosper.Azir put off abolishing slavery because doing so in a short period of time would likely lead to massive protests and possibly a coup. As power went to his head, however, he forgot that others also had worthwhile ideas.Azir currently wishes for the other city-states to join his empire so that they may benefit from Shurima's culture and way of life. This might prove difficult after being trapped in limbo for millennia, given the likes ofZaunare the antithesis to Shurima.So for now, Azir's motivation is to restore Shurima's glory.Back in the empire's heyday, Azir was popular with the ladies.[3]This charisma might help him restore his people to greatness.
• As stated byGem 'Lonewingy' Limin Azir's Q&A thread, Azir's gauntlets have ribbon-like tassels to emphasize his regal status and to resemble embroidered robes which in turn represent feathers, cementing the bird-like appearance.[4]
• Xerath'sAscended power was stolen from Azir, but manifests in the wrong way due to its not being intended for him.
• At the end ofTwilight of the Gods,the Chalicarhad absorbed the - for want of a better phrase - Darkin DNA essence, which, combined with Ta'anari's heart, would allow humans to craft the weapons tailored to trap the remaining Darkin at a later date.[5]Tomb of Emperors is Shuriman, but the events of the story imbued the Chalicar with a resonance to the Ascended, so it acted as a channel betweenSivirand her distant ancestor, Azir which allowed her blood to revive him. As the Alchemists of Old said, "Like attracts like...".[6]
• Azir's Q&A (Creative)byRiot Narrative team: (Note: In case people question the authenticity of the contents above, the copy-and-paste version of the orginal text is added here: )[7]1. What kind of a ruler was he?Riot-Opeli: He was a benevolent leader. Still a dictator, but a kind one, and he was interested in his people's well-being and prosperity. He got a little ahead of himself, though - hence the over-enthusiastic Ascension ritual - but even that was done with good intentions. He wanted Shurima to grow and influence the entire world.2. Why can't Azir just let go his lost empire? What he gonna rule there anyway, sands? Though I can somehow see him modeling his whole empire with sand then play empire in his head. Now I kinda got sad for him...Riot-Runaan: He can't let go because he truly loved his nation, however much his ambition may have led him astray. He can't accept responsibility for what happened to his kingdom - he blames Xerath, but was it really Xerath's fault...? Or was it the emperor who couldn't see the cruel intent of his most trusted advisor - and friend? :O And yes - for the moment, he is an emperor without an empire. An emperor without a people. He has nothing - but he'll do everything with his newfound power to change that, and rebuild Shurima into the thriving, powerful empire it once was.3. Does Azir plan to rebuild Shurima?Riot-Opeli: Yes! It's his main motivation.4. Does Azir wish to just peacefully rebuild Shurima and see if people join his ways? Or will he do it with force?Riot-Opeli: He wishes to do it peacefully, but he's not afraid of using force. It will only happen if he's forced his hand.5. What's the CURRENT state of Shurima? We've heard that it's been swallowed by the desert, and that Xerath, apparently, blew up the city, but...An empire isn't just one city. What about the rest of Shurima? What did they do for the world around them when they were at their prime?Riot-Runaan: We talked about Shurima as a place with a really thriving culture - a place with not only a strong military and a powerful emperor, but a place with a sense of personal identity (art, music, literature, trade, magical technology etc). Azir's motivation to bring the golden light of Shurima to other nations was/is not really a "conquering" aim - it's that he truly believes that Shurima was the height of civilization, and could only continue to grow more wonderful. After Xerath's corrupt ascension, everything was more or less buried beneath the sands and left to ruin, but Azir definitely doesn't think that's the end of things.6. Did Azir have any inkling that Xerath was going to betray him, or was he blind to that possibility?Riot-Opeli: He was blind to it. He totally trusted Xerath. :(7. Did Azir rule alone, or would there have been a...Mrs. Azir?Riot-Opeli: It's safe to say he was... popular with the ladies.8. What does Azir think of Nasus? Does he respect him or dislike him?Riot-Opeli: Azir deeply respects Nasus. Although Nasus views him as a little arrogant because he got to see what happened to Shurima as a result of Azir's hubris.9. What does Azir think of Yordles? Does Azir know Anivia at all or have any relation to her? Did Azir ALWAYS love birds?Riot-Entropy: Azir would welcome their furry enthusiasm, provided they directed it toward expanding Shurima's greatness. Azir was once human, so he's a great deal younger than Anivia. Nasus on the other hand... Birds soar to great heights. I can't help but think Azir would admire that.10. Does (Ascended) Azir sleep in a bed or a nest? If it's a nest, what's it made of?Riot-Opeli: I don't think he sleeps! At all!11. Given the fact that the Shurimans aren't the only sun revering culture, what does Azir think of Mount Targon and the Solari?Riot-Entropy: At the very least, intrigued. Though one can't help but wonder if once the whole "You like the Sun? Me too!" phase passes they might have some serious differences to sort out.12. How much of Runeterra (regions, city states etc.) does Azir know/remember from old-Shuriman days? How much has changed for him?Riot-Opeli: For some people, Shurima is like an Atlantis to them - they believe it's only a myth (although, obviously, they will be proven wrong). For others, like the people currently inhabiting the desert of Shurima, they knew it existed a long time ago and there are believed to be no "true" Shurimans remaining. Even Renekton and Nasus were stories for them. A LOT has changed for Azir. He has a lot of catching up to do.13. Was he always so...birdy? I mean he has fabulous legs but I wonder were they like that when he was young and...alive?Riot-Opeli: No, he was human originally. But I also think he has fabulous legs. :P14. Now that he is returned, what are his views on the other City-States like Noxus and Piltover?Riot-Opeli: Azir believes that the other city-states would benefit from Shurima's culture and way of life. He'll try to get them to join his empire and conform to his ideals. HOWEVER, he is in for quite the culture shock because so much has changed while he's been... away. I think Zaun would boggle him the most. But he wouldn't let anyone see that.
• Azir originally intended to destroySaikhal,Xerath'sbirthplace, for revenge but was convinced not to as he was reminded that it would make him the same thing as what Xerath has become.Azir knows a lot of secrets aboutXerath'spast that are only known to the two.
• Azir knows a lot of secrets aboutXerath'spast that are only known to the two.
• This desire was never derived from conquest, as Azir truly believes Shurima was the pinnacle of civilization and could only continue to prosper.
• Azir put off abolishing slavery because doing so in a short period of time would likely lead to massive protests and possibly a coup. As power went to his head, however, he forgot that others also had worthwhile ideas.
• Azir currently wishes for the other city-states to join his empire so that they may benefit from Shurima's culture and way of life. This might prove difficult after being trapped in limbo for millennia, given the likes ofZaunare the antithesis to Shurima.So for now, Azir's motivation is to restore Shurima's glory.
• Back in the empire's heyday, Azir was popular with the ladies.[3]This charisma might help him restore his people to greatness.
• So for now, Azir's motivation is to restore Shurima's glory.
• 1. What kind of a ruler was he?Riot-Opeli: He was a benevolent leader. Still a dictator, but a kind one, and he was interested in his people's well-being and prosperity. He got a little ahead of himself, though - hence the over-enthusiastic Ascension ritual - but even that was done with good intentions. He wanted Shurima to grow and influence the entire world.
• 2. Why can't Azir just let go his lost empire? What he gonna rule there anyway, sands? Though I can somehow see him modeling his whole empire with sand then play empire in his head. Now I kinda got sad for him...Riot-Runaan: He can't let go because he truly loved his nation, however much his ambition may have led him astray. He can't accept responsibility for what happened to his kingdom - he blames Xerath, but was it really Xerath's fault...? Or was it the emperor who couldn't see the cruel intent of his most trusted advisor - and friend? :O And yes - for the moment, he is an emperor without an empire. An emperor without a people. He has nothing - but he'll do everything with his newfound power to change that, and rebuild Shurima into the thriving, powerful empire it once was.
• 3. Does Azir plan to rebuild Shurima?Riot-Opeli: Yes! It's his main motivation.
• 4. Does Azir wish to just peacefully rebuild Shurima and see if people join his ways? Or will he do it with force?Riot-Opeli: He wishes to do it peacefully, but he's not afraid of using force. It will only happen if he's forced his hand.
• 5. What's the CURRENT state of Shurima? We've heard that it's been swallowed by the desert, and that Xerath, apparently, blew up the city, but...An empire isn't just one city. What about the rest of Shurima? What did they do for the world around them when they were at their prime?Riot-Runaan: We talked about Shurima as a place with a really thriving culture - a place with not only a strong military and a powerful emperor, but a place with a sense of personal identity (art, music, literature, trade, magical technology etc). Azir's motivation to bring the golden light of Shurima to other nations was/is not really a "conquering" aim - it's that he truly believes that Shurima was the height of civilization, and could only continue to grow more wonderful. After Xerath's corrupt ascension, everything was more or less buried beneath the sands and left to ruin, but Azir definitely doesn't think that's the end of things.
• 6. Did Azir have any inkling that Xerath was going to betray him, or was he blind to that possibility?Riot-Opeli: He was blind to it. He totally trusted Xerath. :(
• 7. Did Azir rule alone, or would there have been a...Mrs. Azir?Riot-Opeli: It's safe to say he was... popular with the ladies.
• 8. What does Azir think of Nasus? Does he respect him or dislike him?Riot-Opeli: Azir deeply respects Nasus. Although Nasus views him as a little arrogant because he got to see what happened to Shurima as a result of Azir's hubris.
• 9. What does Azir think of Yordles? Does Azir know Anivia at all or have any relation to her? Did Azir ALWAYS love birds?Riot-Entropy: Azir would welcome their furry enthusiasm, provided they directed it toward expanding Shurima's greatness. Azir was once human, so he's a great deal younger than Anivia. Nasus on the other hand... Birds soar to great heights. I can't help but think Azir would admire that.
• 10. Does (Ascended) Azir sleep in a bed or a nest? If it's a nest, what's it made of?Riot-Opeli: I don't think he sleeps! At all!
• 11. Given the fact that the Shurimans aren't the only sun revering culture, what does Azir think of Mount Targon and the Solari?Riot-Entropy: At the very least, intrigued. Though one can't help but wonder if once the whole "You like the Sun? Me too!" phase passes they might have some serious differences to sort out.
• 12. How much of Runeterra (regions, city states etc.) does Azir know/remember from old-Shuriman

Passive ability — Name: Shurima's Legacy, Description: Innate: Whenever a turret outside the enemy team's base is destroyed, a marker is placed above its ruins which can be targeted by Azir . Innate - Disc of the Sun: Azir can select a marker to construct the Sun Disc above the ruins after a 0. 5 -second cast time . The Sun Disc will activate after being assembled over 5 seconds. The Sun Disc functions the same as a standard inner turret but deals magic damage , gains 40% AP bonus attack damage , and grants its kill credit to Azir . The Sun Disc's health decays over 45 seconds and loses 100 armor and 100 magic resistance while Azir is not alive or is too far away. Azir cannot construct a Sun Disc with the marker while he is unable to cast abilities. See Pets for more details about the Sun Disc . Link ▶️ "Return!", STATIC COOLDOWN: STATICCOOLDOWN:90, {'targeting_input': 'Targeting inputUnit', 'damage_type': 'Physical', 'spell_shield': 'Not Blocked', 'details': ['Hide', 'Details', 'Map-Specific Differences', 'Video', 'No additional notes.', 'Azircan summon aSun Discin the center of the map provided theAncient Ascendedis dead. TheSun Discwill be destroyed if theAncient Ascendedrespawns while active.']}

Q ability — Name: Conquering Sands, Description: Active: Azir orders all Sand Soldiers to dash toward the target location, dealing magic damage to all enemies they pass through and slowing them by 25% for 1 second. They also hit enemies in front of them when they come to a halt. Magic Damage: 60 / 80 / 100 / 120 / 140 (+ 35% AP) Enemies hit by subsequent soldiers take no additional damage and are instead slowed by an additional 25% per soldier. Conquering Sands will cast at max range if cast beyond that. Link ▶️ "Conquer!", {'targeting_input': 'Targeting inputLocation', 'damage_type': 'Magic', 'spell_shield': 'Blocked', 'details': ['Hide', 'Details', 'Video', 'Sand Soldiersdash about 50 units further away from Azir than the target location, making them stab targets slightly further away.', 'Sand Soldierswill stop their movement upon colliding withWind Wallbut not withUnbreakable.']}

W ability — Name: Arise!, Description: Active: Azir summons a Sand Soldier at the target location that is untargetable , lasts 10 seconds, and grants sight of its surroundings. The Sand Soldier expires twice as fast while within range of an enemy turret , and does so instantly if Azir is too far away. Azir periodically stocks a Sand Soldier , up to a maximum of 2. When Azir declares a basic attack against an enemy in a soldier's attack range , the Sand Soldier attacks in his stead, thrusting their spear in the target's direction to deal magic damage to enemies struck in a line and applying on-hit and on-attack effects against the primary target at 50% effectiveness. Targets hit beyond the closest take 25 / 50 / 75 / 100% (based on level) damage. Subsequent Sand Soldiers against the same target deal 25% damage. Magic Damage: 0 − 77 (based on level) (+ 50 / 65 / 80 / 95 / 110) (+ 55% AP) Sand Soldiers cannot attack structures , wards , nor traps . Arise! will cast at max range if cast beyond that. See Pets for more details about Sand Soldiers ., {'targeting_input': 'Targeting inputLocation', 'damage_type': 'Magic', 'spell_shield': 'Not Blocked', 'parries': 'Missing', 'details': ['Hide', 'Details', 'Map-Specific Differences', 'Video', 'Nearsightingeffects will only allowAzirto perform attacks from soldiers within his own sight radius.', 'Azirmust rankArise!as his first ability, and will do so automatically if he reaches level 2 before ranking an ability.', 'Azircan only command his soldiers to attack if he is able to declarebasic attackcommands himself, meaningcrowd controleffects that disable attacking, such asdisarm, do not allow him to order his soldiers to attack in his stead.', 'Damage to enemy champions fromSand Soldierstabs will draw minion aggro even if the enemy champion was not the primary target.(bug)', 'Commanding a soldier to attack will triggeron-attackeffects, but will not apply any of these effects to the target hit.', 'PENDING FOR TEST:Interaction withdodge,block, andblind.', 'Sand Soldierswill attack the closest enemy toAzirwhen using attack move (orA + RMB/Shift + RMB) orauto-attack.', 'Azirwill start the game with one point already ranked inArise!, allowing him to allocate the other two to his other abilities.', 'Limited to 3Sand Soldiersactive.', 'Charge cooldown set to 4.8/ 4.4/ 4 / 3.6/ 3.2seconds.', 'On-hit and on-attack effectiveness changed to 100%.']}

E ability — Name: Shifting Sands, Description: Active: Azir grants himself a shield for 1. 5 seconds and dashes to the target Sand Soldier , dealing magic damage to enemies within his path. Shield Strength: 70 / 110 / 150 / 190 / 230 (+ 60% AP) Magic Damage: 60 / 100 / 140 / 180 / 220 (+ 40% AP) If Azir dashes into an enemy champion , he stops and gains a charge of Arise! . Azir can cast of any of his abilities during the dash., {'targeting_input': 'Targeting inputUnit', 'damage_type': 'Magic', 'spell_shield': 'Blocked', 'details': ['Hide', 'Details', 'Video', 'Azirwill track theSand Soldierif they change locations, such as byConquering Sands.']}

R ability — Name: Emperor's Divide, Description: Active: Azir calls forth a phalanx of soldiers from 175 units behind him, catching enemies from up to 325 units behind him and charging forward 575 units in the target direction. Width: 6 / 7 / 8 soldiers Width (charge): 620 / 720 / 820 Width (impassable wall): 750 / 850 / 950 Enemies impacted by the charge are dealt magic damage and knocked away over 1 second to a line 650 units in front of Azir . Magic Damage: 200 / 400 / 600 (+ 75% AP) Upon finishing their charge, the soldiers stand as a wall for 5 seconds, acting as impassible terrain against enemies and granting sight of their surroundings. Azir and his allies can move through these soldiers. Link ▶️ "My soldiers march on!", {'targeting_input': 'Targeting inputDirection', 'damage_type': 'Magic', 'spell_shield': 'Blocked', 'details': ['Hide', 'Details', 'Video', 'The soldier units are spawned only 175 units behindAzir, but do not control theknock backdirectly. Each comes with a missile that travels the same path and conveys the damage and knockback effect.The furthest area (from 325 to 175 units behindAzir) is covered by a separate set of missiles with the same effects.All of the soldiers and their missiles will end the charge prematurely when one encountersWind Wall/Unbreakable/Blade Whirlor upon colliding with terrain that they cannot charge through.', 'The furthest area (from 325 to 175 units behindAzir) is covered by a separate set of missiles with the same effects.', 'All of the soldiers and their missiles will end the charge prematurely when one encountersWind Wall/Unbreakable/Blade Whirlor upon colliding with terrain that they cannot charge through.', 'The charge starts at 0.25seconds into the cast time.', 'This ability will cast from wherever the caster is at the start of the cast time.', "When the dash of the soldiers comes to a halt, all not-yet-affected enemies on top of the soldiers' landing locations (125 radius) are also knocked back.", "Emperor's Dividewill not be canceled ifAzirdies during the cast time.", 'While the soldiers are charging forward, the wall is not impassable terrain.This means enemies that are immune toairborneeffects can pass through the wall while its moving.', 'This means enemies that are immune toairborneeffects can pass through the wall while its moving.', "The wallwillcount as terrain for the purposes of 'into terrain' effects (e.g.Condemn,Dredge Line,Heroic Charge). This will only affect enemies, allies will pass through the wall in all circumstances, even if knocked into it by an enemy."]}

Trivia:
Azir is the first champion to have his first ability point restricted to a single one (Arise!) since it's required for the other two (Conquering SandsandShifting Sands) to function.He is also the second champion to be unable to rank up a basic ability at Level 1, the first beingZilean.
Shurima's Legacymay be referencing the Egyptian solar disc godAten[2](depicted as a sphere emanating rays of light each ending with a hand) and titular god of the short-lived monotheistic religion imposed by PharaohAkhenaten. His sonTutankhamunlater restored the polytheistic religion.
Azir's dance referencesRemember The TimebyMichael Jackson.A side-by-side comparison can be seenhere.If AzirsummonsSand Soldiers and then dances, they will follow him and dance all in sync.His soldiers will keep dance in Azir's stead while if the player types '/dance' while Azir isrecalling.If enemies cannot see Azir while he dances, his soldiers will not appear to dance to them.