Onyx Storm Theory Resolves My Major Issue with the Book’s Key Andarna Choice

The latest installment of The Empyrean Series, titled Onyx Storm, has sparked profound discussions, particularly around the character of Andarna. This theory offers an intriguing perspective that addresses my concerns regarding the direction of Andarna’s storyline in the third book. Although I navigated carefully to avoid major spoilers, I found Onyx Storm to be particularly captivating, full of surprising twists and revelations crafted by Rebecca Yarros. However, certain elements of Andarna’s arc left me dissatisfied, even amidst the new insights gained about her character.

One aspect that caught me off guard was Andarna’s quest for the irids and their surprising rejection of her. I expected a more significant role for the irids within the story, yet their involvement felt underwhelming and confusing, particularly regarding their timing in the narrative. The circumstances surrounding Andarna’s swift return from the den of the irids left me puzzled. Thankfully, a theory I stumbled upon on Reddit shed light on her quick return and provided some answers about the elusive seventh breed of dragon.

Irid Theory: Understanding Andarna’s Rapid Return to Violet in Onyx Storm

Time: A Different Dimension for the Irids?

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros Book Cover — Custom image by Yeider Chacon

This theory posits that time operates differently for the irids, which could clarify why Andarna was able to return to Violet so abruptly. Initially, her departure appeared final but was resolved quickly.After being rejected, an irid offered Andarna the opportunity to return, which she accepted, causing sadness for Violet and Tairn. While the emotional turmoil was difficult to digest, it became even more perplexing with Andarna’s rapid reappearance, seemingly without any severe consequences from her absence.

Andarna was absent from Chapters 54 to 64 in Onyx Storm. However, after contemplating the theory regarding the irids and their unique perception of time, it became apparent that she could have experienced years within their realm, effectively training her control over time. This would empower her to return to Violet the instant she sensed danger, enabling her to prepare for her pivotal role following Onyx Storm. Although this notion may seem improbable given the grounded nature of the magic system, evidence scattered throughout The Empyrean Series supports its plausibility.

Compelling Evidence Supporting the Theory of Differential Time for Irids in The Empyrean Series

Evidence from Andarna’s Original Signet and Time in the Egg

The unique feature of Andarna’s feathertail signet, which can halt time, combined with her extensive 650-year stay in the egg, provides strong backing for this theory from Onyx Storm. These narrative elements allow The Empyrean Series to weave this plot twist without revealing too much prematurely.Andarna’s original signet, previously set aside to allow for Violet’s second signet, appears to be an overlooked yet critical clue. Its significance lies not only in Andarna’s identity as an irid but also in emphasizing the esteem the irids hold among both riders and venin.

Andarna’s extraordinary duration in her egg—an anomaly among dragons—highlights the uniqueness of her abilities.While dragons often have lengthy lifespans, there is no evidence suggesting any other dragon can extend their hatching period as Andarna did. The way she describes that experience with Violet reinforces the plausibility of this theory, minimizing the strain that such extended periods might typically entail.

Resolving My Key Concern with Andarna’s Narrative in Onyx Storm

The Unnecessary Nature of Andarna’s Departure

A cover image of Onyx Storm on an illustrated background of dragons and mountains — Custom image by Yailin Chacon

My primary concern regarding Andarna’s journey in Onyx Storm is that her departure appeared unnecessary, yet this theory lends depth and significance to that plot point. I empathized with her struggles regarding her uniqueness among dragons and her rejection by the irids. However, her eventual exit was disheartening.Characterized by loyalty and fierce devotion to her found family, Andarna’s sudden departure felt out of character, especially following the harsh treatment she received from the irids.

If the theory holds water, it could pave the way for future books to delve further into the world of the irids and their historical conflicts with the venin. As Andarna rejoins Violet, my concerns about the rapid nature of her return lingered, leading me to doubt whether she could have gained the necessary knowledge in such a short span. However, the theory reshapes this perception, positioning it as a deliberate narrative approach rather than an overlooked plot device, allowing Yarros to explore the implications of Andarna’s time manipulation and challenges to the linear perceptions held by Tairn and Violet. Additionally, it opens the door for further insights into the irids and their historical triumphs over the venin.

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