Onyx Storm Reveals How Violet Will Locate Xaden in the Upcoming Empyrean Novel

Warning: SPOILERS ahead for Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros. The story of Onyx Storm culminates with a cliffhanger, leaving Violet and Xaden apart. Despite Xaden’s insistence that Violet should not seek him, the narrative hints at potential reunification in the forthcoming sequel of the Empyrean Series. The ending portrays a difficult journey ahead for both protagonists; Xaden, transformed, is likely to become entangled with the venin, while the weight of Tyrrendor’s fate appears to rest on Violet’s shoulders. This absence will undoubtedly have a profound effect on Violet’s character development in the next installment.

It’s almost certain that Violet will embark on a quest to find Xaden, motivated either by a need for him to combat the venin or her unwavering determination to locate him. Their dragons’ mating bond can only bridge short distances; thus, the prevailing theories suggest that breaking the bond between Tairn and Sgaeyl complicates her search. However, the enchanting second signet Violet possesses may provide essential assistance in this quest. Notably, Onyx Storm introduces a significant tool: a compass gifted to her on Zehyllna.

The Significance of Zehyllna’s Gifts in Onyx Storm

The Concept Behind Trager’s Death and Zihnal’s Gifts

The cover of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros and a green forest background — Image Credit: Yeider Chacon

Upon visiting Zehyllna, the isle dedicated to the Fourth Wing’s god of luck, Violet and her companions are offered various gifts, ranging from mundane items to ominous symbols like an arrow that ultimately leads to Trager’s untimely death. Initially, his demise appears to serve no purpose; however, it opens the path to discovering irids, leading them to the existence of a new dragon breed. Thus, his sacrifice might not be in vain, aligning with a greater narrative arc.

Moreover, with Theophanie’s death reinforcing the reality of deities within the Empyrean Series, it opens the door for Zihnal’s gifts — including the compass Violet receives — to hold deeper implications for future plots. This indicates that the compass, which she mistakenly deems broken, may regain significance as she seeks to reunite with Xaden in subsequent novels.

The Significance of the Compass in Onyx Storm

Speculations About the Compass: Guiding Toward Venin or Heart’s Desire

Violet receives “a black compass on a dark chain” during their game on Zehyllna, but she quickly discards its importance, claiming the needle doesn’t point north. Although her skepticism is understandable, this compass may possess hidden capabilities beyond mere navigation. The way the man who presents it assesses her hints that it holds more value, possibly directing her toward the venin or even leading her back to Xaden.

While theories abound regarding its purpose, one Redditor proposes that the compass may guide Violet unerringly towards whatever she needs most, a fitting alignment with the series’ overarching themes. Throughout Onyx Storm, Yarros deliberately intertwines concepts of direction and belonging, intensifying the bond between Violet and Xaden.

This connection becomes especially evident in Chapter 46 when Violet’s heart reacts to Xaden’s presence: “Xaden walks through the door, and my heart stops. His gaze jumps to mine like a compass pulled north.”Such repeated motifs might signal a meaningful reunion on the horizon.

The Compass and Its Possible Link to Violet’s Dream Walking

Dream Walking: The Compass as a Navigational Tool

Onyx Storm Cover and Dragons — Image Credit: Yailin Chacon

A potential interpretation of the compass is that it may activate during Violet’s dream walking, a skill that she is not yet aware she possesses at the moment it is gifted to her. The full extent of her second signet remains undisclosed in Onyx Storm, leaving an aura of mystery around its functionalities. When Violet confronts this ability in future installments, the compass could provide critical guidance, particularly in reaching out to Xaden through dream walking.

While Rebecca Yarros has not announced a debut date for the next book in the Empyrean Series, she indicated a hiatus following the release of Onyx Storm. Regardless of how it functions, the compass is poised to play a pivotal role moving forward, with Yarros placing considerable emphasis on Zihnal’s gifts. As Violet embarks on her quest, the compass’s eventual purpose will surely unfold in the anticipated sequel.

Source: Reddit

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