Exploring The Silver-Haired Venin Of Onyx Storm: The New Villain In Fourth Wing Explained

Warning: SPOILERS ahead for Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros.

Introduction of Theophanie: A New Menace in the Empyrean Series

The latest installment, Onyx Storm, expands the Empyrean universe by introducing a formidable antagonist known as Theophanie. Initially hinted at in an excerpt featured by Cosmopolitan, this silver-haired venin adds complexity to the plot. As the narrative unfolds, readers quickly grasp the connection between Theophanie and the protagonist, Violet, along with her role as the temporary main villain. Although her time in the story is limited, Theophanie certainly leaves a profound impact, creating chaos and emotional turmoil for Violet and her companions.

Characterization of Theophanie

In comparison to Berwyn, who is characterized mainly through Xaden’s visions, Theophanie stands out as one of the most well-developed villains in the series thus far. Her character reveals intricate motives and showcases a range of abilities that provide a deeper insight into the venin’s nature. While it is unfortunate that readers may not encounter her again in future volumes of the Empyrean Series, her interactions with Violet and the lessons learned prove invaluable.

Meet Theophanie: First Encounter with Violet and Garrick

Early in Onyx Storm, Theophanie makes a striking entrance as she introduces herself to Violet and Garrick. Displaying a calm demeanor, Theophanie engages them during a vulnerable moment without immediate hostility, revealing her primary interest lies in Violet. Unlike other antagonists, she does not resort to violence, aware that harming Garrick would only provoke Violet’s wrath. Theophanie expresses confidence that Violet could eventually join her ranks, despite Violet’s staunch refusal.

Theophanie: A Maven of Power

Diving deeper into the world of venin, Theophanie is classified as a Maven, representing one of the highest echelons of power among her kind. The intricacies of the venin hierarchy are explored in Onyx Storm, detailing the evolving nature of these beings from initiates to mavens. As a Maven, Theophanie commands abilities that rival those of the dragon riders, drawing power directly from the source instead of a signet.

Theophanie’s Weather Manipulation Abilities

Violet’s first encounter with Theophanie reveals her capacity to harness lightning, a power that initially mirrors Violet’s own abilities. However, the story gradually unfolds to demonstrate that Theophanie’s talents extend far beyond this single element. Identified as a storm wielder, her powers encompass broader weather manipulation, elucidating the perilous conditions that Violet and her allies must navigate throughout the narrative.

Theophanie’s Motivation: Interest in Violet and the Spirits

Theophanie maintains a keen interest in Violet throughout the book, as she seeks to persuade the young dragon rider to ally with her. Similar to Berwyn’s motives, Theophanie aims to harness Violet’s formidable abilities. Additionally, her fascination with Andarna, the irid scorpiontail dragon, suggests a deeper strategy. The book hints at Andarna’s historical significance and possible role in past conflicts with venin, indicating that Theophanie’s ambitions extend beyond just recruiting Violet.

The Shared Connection: Silver Hair and the Goddess Dunne

Violet is intrigued by Theophanie’s silver hair, which echoes her own unique hair color. This shared trait unveils a deeper connection to the goddess of war, Dunne. Throughout the book, it’s revealed that both characters have ties to Dunne’s priestesses, linking their fates in unexpected ways. Violet’s near dedication as a child and Theophanie’s past as a priestess clarify their resemblance, shedding light on how their respective choices led them down divergent paths.

The Final Confrontation: Theophanie’s Downfall

In an intense climax, Theophanie meets her end at Violet’s hands, having successfully incited significant turmoil throughout Onyx Storm. Just when it seems Violet and Tairn are on the brink of defeat, a crucial tool given by Aaric turns the tide. The sharp piece from Dunne’s temple, intended as a weapon in her direst moment, ultimately becomes the instrument of Theophanie’s demise. As Violet strikes, she invokes the vengeful essence of the goddess, sealing Theophanie’s fate and hinting that this remarkable villain will not return in subsequent entries of the series.

Source: Cosmopolitan

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