Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros: The Next Thrilling Chapter in The Empyrean Series
Rebecca Yarros has captivated readers with her Empyrean series, blending high-stakes fantasy, dragon riders, and political intrigue into an unputdownable saga. Following the explosive endings of Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, the third book, Onyx Storm, is one of the most anticipated fantasy releases of 2024.
Fans are eager to see where Violet Sorrengail’s journey leads next—especially after the shocking betrayals, devastating losses, and newfound powers revealed in Iron Flame. Will she and Xaden survive the growing threats? What secrets do the venin and the wards still hold? And just how powerful will Violet’s connection to Tairn and Andarna become?
In this deep dive, we’ll analyze everything we know (and theorize) about Onyx Storm, from its potential plot twists to character arcs, world-building expansions, and fan theories taking the fandom by storm.
1. Where We Left Off: Recap of Iron Flame’s Cliffhanger
Before diving into predictions, let’s revisit the critical moments from Iron Flame that set the stage for Onyx Storm:
- The Wardstone Failure: Despite Violet’s efforts, the wards protecting Navarre collapse, leaving the kingdom vulnerable to venin attacks.
- Xaden’s Corruption: In a heart-wrenching twist, Xaden turns venin to save Violet, raising questions about his control, morality, and future.
- Andarna’s Evolution: The young golden dragon reveals her true nature as a seventh breed, with powers that could change everything.
- The Rebellion Grows: The fliers, gryphons, and rebel forces prepare for all-out war against the corrupt leadership of Navarre.
These unresolved threads guarantee that Onyx Storm will open with high tension and immediate consequences.
2. Onyx Storm Predictions: Plot & Character Arcs
Violet’s Struggle with Power & Leadership
Violet is no longer the fragile scribe she once was—she’s a rider bonded to two dragons, a skilled fighter, and a key figure in the rebellion. However, Onyx Storm will likely test her in new ways:
- Mastering Andarna’s Abilities: As a rare seventh breed, Andarna’s powers could be the key to restoring the wards or defeating the venin.
- Navigating Xaden’s Transformation: Can Violet save Xaden from his venin curse, or will she be forced to make an impossible choice?
- Political Maneuvering: With General Sorrengail’s true loyalties in question, Violet may have to confront her mother directly.
Xaden’s Descent & Redemption
Xaden’s sacrifice at the end of Iron Flame leaves him in a dangerous position. Possible developments:
- Fighting the Venin Influence: Will he resist corruption, or will he become an antihero?
- Hidden Powers: Some fans speculate his new state may unlock abilities tied to the original six dragon breeds.
- Relationship Strain: His bond with Violet will be tested like never before.
The Dragons’ Role in the War
- Tairn’s Past: Will we learn more about his previous rider and the first war with the venin?
- Andarna’s Destiny: Her growth could reveal ancient dragon secrets that shift the balance of power.
- New Alliances: More dragons may join the rebellion, including wild ones beyond Navarre’s control.
3. Expanding the World: New Mysteries & Conflicts
The Truth About the Venin
- Are they purely evil, or is there a deeper origin to their corruption?
- Could there be a cure or a way to reverse their transformation?
The Continent’s Hidden History
- What lies beyond Navarre’s borders? Other nations, lost dragon sanctuaries, or ancient magic?
- Will gryphon riders and fliers play a larger role in the war?
The Empyrean’s Secrets
- The titular Empyrean (the highest dragon council) may hold answers about the wards and the first war.
- Could there be traitors among them?
4. Fan Theories & What Readers Are Saying
The Empyrean fandom is buzzing with predictions. Here are the most popular theories:
- “Violet is the Key to the Wards”: Her lightning power may be tied to their restoration.
- “Xaden Will Turn Antagonist (Temporarily)”: He might struggle against the venin influence before redemption.
- “Andarna is a Reincarnated Ancient Dragon”: Her breed could be linked to the original ward creators.
5. Release Date & How to Prepare
While Yarros hasn’t confirmed an exact date, Onyx Storm is expected in late 2024 or early 2025. To prepare:
- Re-read Iron Flame for hidden clues.
- Follow Rebecca Yarros’ social media for updates.
- Join fan discussions (Reddit, Discord, and BookTok are full of theories!).
Final Thoughts
Onyx Storm promises to be a game-changer in the Empyrean series, with higher stakes, darker twists, and epic dragon battles. Will Violet and Xaden survive the storm? Or will the venin’s shadow consume them? One thing’s certain: readers won’t want to miss this next installment.
What are your predictions for Onyx Storm? Share your theories in the comments!
