Genius Onyx Storm Theory Revolutionizes Magic and Dragon Lore in Fourth Wing

Rebecca Yarros’ Empyrean Series has reached a new pinnacle with the highly anticipated release of Onyx Storm. This latest installment introduces the seventh dragon breed while offering a deeper insight into the intricate political landscape of Navarre’s provinces. Readers will also discover new territories alongside the expansion of the series’ rich lore. Notably, this newly unveiled world has promising implications for the series’ existing magic system. A thought-provoking theory on Reddit explores how the relationships between dragons and magic in Fourth Wing may evolve in upcoming novels.

The Staggering Evolution of Magic in Onyx Storm

Yarros has meticulously crafted the magic system in Fourth Wing, enabling humans to harness magical powers only through profound bonds with dragons or gryphons. This bond allows both creatures to draw magic from the earth and channel it into their human counterparts. In Onyx Storm, however, it becomes evident that riders and their dragons struggle to access this magic while traversing the isles, where the land offers no magical energy. Interestingly, Andarna, the irid dragon, defies this constraint, suggesting a unique aspect of irid magic, which may operate under different principles than those governing the Empyrean.

Magic Derived from the Sky

The unique qualities of irid dragons come to light throughout Onyx Storm. Despite the barren lands of the isles, these dragons seem able to harness magic inexplicably. This indicates a potential shift in the understanding of magical sources; one theory posits that irids are capable of drawing magic from the sky rather than the ground. Throughout various challenges faced on the isles, Violet retains her connection with her dragons, even demonstrating her capability to wield lightning signet powers in seemingly impossible situations. The root of this ability might stem from her bond with Andarna, the irid dragon, implying that this unique breed could tap into an atmospheric source of power. This leads to a fascinating question: did the Empyrean once channel their magic in a similar manner? Considering the name ‘Empyrean’ translates to “heavens”or “skies, ”it raises intriguing possibilities.

Evidence Supporting the Sky Magic Theory

Key Moments That Suggest a Greater Truth

This theory doesn’t derive from speculation alone; there are compelling moments throughout the series that lend credence to the idea. The foundational narrative of Fourth Wing positions Violet in direct conversation with the venin, who intriguingly notes her innate ability to access celestial power. Initially perceived as merely a reference to her lightning abilities, this could indicate deeper, untapped potential. As highlighted in a poignant quote:

“Such untapped power. No wonder we were called here. You could command the sky to surrender all its power, and I bet you don’t know what to do with it, do you?”

—Fourth Wing, Chapter 37

The text emphasizes Violet’s unexplored capabilities, hinting that her resources extend beyond the merely elemental. Throughout her journey in Iron Flame, she is continually referenced as “the one who wields the skies, ”reinforcing the notion that her powers are fundamentally linked to celestial magic beyond typical ground-related sources. Yarros further amplifies this concept in Onyx Storm, where Violet expresses her longing to draw power from the skies, coupled with her ability to sense magic surrounding her, even amidst the desolation of the venin lands.

The Irids’ Unique Position in the Empyrean Lore

Distinction from Other Dragon Breeds

Analyzing the departure of the irid dragons from Navarre over 600 years ago, coinciding with the chaos of the Great War, it becomes clear that significant changes have influenced their lineage and beliefs. The irids possess physical differences, including iridescent scales, which allow for camouflage, and their distinct rejection of weaponized traits aligns with their peaceful philosophy. In stark contrast, Empyrean dragons can evolve to adopt weaponized forms post the ‘dreamless sleep’ phase.

Though not every Empyrean dragon is Evil, the implications of their dependence on ground magic suggests a correlation with their aggressive natures. The irids have openly criticized the Empyrean for their alliances with humans and for engaging in warfare. The decision of irids to sever ties from humans and the dependency of Empyreans on these beings to channel magic hints at alternative source dynamics that fuel their abilities.

“Bonds are merely magical ties. You are irid. You are magic. Bend it, shape it, break it as you see fit.”

—Onyx Storm, Chapter 53

Irids possess the intrinsic capacity to summon and manipulate magic without a rider’s dependency, reinforcing their distinct identity and potentially enriching future narratives around the magic systems in the series.

Future Implications of Sky Magic in the Empyrean Series

Curing the Venin and New Directions for Narrative

The theme of utilizing magic from the skies versus the ground has been foreshadowed in the Fables of the Barrens. These stories are believed to have real implications within the lore, potentially revealing how to combat–or even heal–the venin. One cautionary tale describes a brother who commanded “the sky to surrender its greatest power, ” ultimately defeating a venomous adversary. This wisdom, deeply instilled in Violet by her father Asher Sorrengail, signifies that the resolution to the venin’s plight may indeed lie within celestial magic.

Should future conflicts leverage the sky’s power, it has the potential to revolutionize the series as Violet’s lightning powers represent the sole force capable of vanquishing the venin. Thus, it stands to reason that unlocking the mysteries of sky magic could redefine monumental battles against dark adversaries in the Empyrean landscape.

Source: Reddit

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