Onyx Storm Quickly Glosses Over Major Double Standard Between Xaden and Dain

In her latest novel, Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros presents a thought-provoking parallel between the characters Dain and Xaden, which remains elusive to Violet as she navigates through the intricate plot. Known for her mastery of intertwining narratives, Yarros skillfully plants narrative seeds that blossom into significant revelations later on. Each detail serves a purpose, and what may initially appear trivial often comes back to inform Fourth Wing theories later in the series. This craftsmanship suggests that the unfolding storylines will continue to evolve in the forthcoming fourth installment of the Empyrean series. Additionally, Yarros has an exceptional ability to create flawed yet relatable characters, which enhances the authenticity and depth of her storytelling.

This inclination toward ambiguity not only captivates readers but also encourages speculation, contributing to the ongoing audience engagement with Fourth Wing theories. While certain plot resolutions in Onyx Storm may feel rushed—particularly regarding the disparities in treatment between Xaden and Dain—it’s essential to view these moments as intentional choices that lay the foundation for future conflicts and character growth.

Redemption Arc: Dain’s Journey Following His Fourth Wing Transgression

Dain’s Signet Breaches Violet’s Trust

Dain’s breach of Violet’s trust, marked by both mental and physical violations, sets the stage for a long and arduous path toward reclamation of respect. This complexity unfolds through Dain’s character, whose actions stem from deep-seated insecurity regarding Violet and the pressures imposed by his father’s expectations. The tactile familiarity between them, highlighted by Violet’s observation that “He always touches me like that, ” further complicates their relationship, resetting years of friendship to a critical juncture.

Dain’s Redemption: An Ongoing Struggle

The Road to Forgiveness Is Long for Dain

Yarros effectively conveys Dain’s precarious standing in Violet’s eyes throughout Onyx Storm. When Violet requires Dain’s help during an inter-quadrant confrontation, their mutual appreciation for how they handle the incident reflects an increment in trust. This growing rapport is further evidenced when Violet must ask Dain for access to General Aetos’ office, effectively forcing her to place her trust in him to undermine his father’s authority. Dain’s successful retrieval of necessary documents serves as a significant turning point in his redemption arc.

Despite this advancement, Dain remains in a fragile position by the novel’s conclusion. His role shifts to the background during key quest chapters, leaving lingering doubts about his capacity to wield his signet responsibly. Sloane’s reminder that someone like Dain should not hold such power accentuates the ongoing tension, raising concerns regarding Dain’s mastery of his abilities over the past year.

Xaden’s Echoes of Dain’s Missteps

Xaden’s Second Signet: A Shift Towards Troubling Implications

In Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros artfully highlights the interconnectedness of Violet and Xaden’s signets. Their narrative journey raises questions not only about their alchemical relationship but also concerning the implications of Xaden’s second signet. The text becomes particularly unsettling as Xaden breaks the fourth wall during pivotal moments, further blurring the boundaries of their connection—a technique that challenges readers to navigate the complexities of their relationship.

Xaden’s ability to read the thoughts of others, including Halden and Mira, introduces additional ethical dilemmas that echo Dain’s earlier breaches of trust. Violet’s concern over Xaden’s capacity for intention-reading reflects an ongoing theme of boundary violations that remain unaddressed, culminating in moments where Violet must intervene to protect their shared privacy.

Exploring Possible Mindreading: Xaden and Violet’s Shared Mental Space

Mutual Contributions to the Ambiguity of Their Bond

Several scenarios in Onyx Storm suggest that the thought-sharing between Xaden and Violet may not inherently stem from malintent. The disruptive nature of their shared experiences often prevents deeper exploration of these issues, inviting readers to engage with the narrative’s ambiguity. While Xaden purports that Violet might have suppressed particular thoughts within their bond, this assertion could be interpreted in various ways, emphasizing the complexities of their interactions.

For instance, a critical moment in Iron Flame reveals Violet’s unprecedented access to Xaden’s internal thoughts, suggesting that their abilities are bidirectional. Notably, Xaden’s statement on page 448, “Whatever you’re thinking, stop, ” indicates that his access to Violet’s mind is not unequivocal. The distinction raises significant questions about their evolving powers and whether either character is aware of their burgeoning capabilities.

Furthermore, the couple’s emotional state intensifies their bond, which may inadvertently amplify their abilities when they reunite after being forced apart. Xaden’s lamentation of missing the connection in Violet’s mind highlights the psychological intricacies of their relationship, adding layers to their emotional depth.

Yarros has previously addressed Violet’s evolving perceptiveness, acknowledging that the stripping away of her identity complicates her ability to navigate her circumstances. In an interview with Variety, she stated, “It’s illogical to think that when you strip away someone’s everything that makes their identity, that they’re not going to flounder.” This nuanced exploration of vulnerability and strength enriches the overall narrative of love and power in Onyx Storm.

Source: Variety

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