Post-Onyx Storm Predictions: Two Characters Likely to Die in the Empyrean Series Finale

Warning: SPOILERS ahead for Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros.

The future of The Empyrean Series appears grim following events in Onyx Storm. However, I hold onto hope for a significant positive development in the last two books—potentially leading to the demise of two pivotal characters. The conclusion of Onyx Storm sees Xaden embracing his transformation into venin, a dark turn that poses challenges for the forthcoming Fourth Wing sequel, despite his underlying strategic intentions. With Violet set to inherit a province embroiled in conflict with Navarre regarding venin management, the narrative is poised for deeper darkness before there is any sign of resolution.

While the venin serve as a formidable adversary throughout Onyx Storm, the ineptitude of Navarre’s leadership emerges as another serious challenge for those aiming to eradicate this threat. The kingdom’s rulers not only fail to act decisively but often make choices that inadvertently bolster the antagonists in Fourth Wing. Given that higher-level venin might be hidden anywhere, it is plausible that Navarre will face pivotal changes before the conclusion of The Empyrean Series. I predict a new king will ascend the throne by the series’ end, necessitating the deaths of two key characters to pave the way for Aaric to claim the crown.

After Onyx Storm, I Believe King Tauri & Halden Will Perish, Allowing Aaric to Rule

Aaric: The Ideal Candidate for Leadership of Navarre

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros against a fiery backdrop — Custom Image by Yailin Chacon

In contrast to fears of venin infiltration, King Tauri in Onyx Storm displays no signs of being one of them—his primary concern lies with Aaric’s potential return. However, it’s clear that he lacks the qualities necessary for effective leadership in Navarre. This is evident throughout The Empyrean Series, where Tauri either conceals external threats or misleads his subjects. His reliance on military forces to address issues indicates a lack of proactive governance, reinforcing my belief that he is destined to fall, leaving space for a change in leadership. Halden, Tauri’s eldest son and one of the most frustrating characters introduced in Onyx Storm, is equally unqualified to lead.

If Navarre’s monarchy continues as is, Aaric, formerly known as Cam Tauri, who joins the Riders Quadrant in Basgiath, emerges as the most suitable successor. Introduced in Iron Flame, Aaric is candid about his discontent with his father’s handling of venin threats. Though he expresses no desire to rule, this reluctance may reinforce his suitability for the role.Onyx Storm effectively lays the groundwork for Aaric to ascend as the king of Navarre, as it unfolds that Tauri and Halden must be removed from power to realize this potential.

The Empyrean Series: Crafting Aaric’s Path to Power

Demonstrating Leadership and Diplomacy Skills

Given the looming threat of venin breaching Basgiath’s defenses and the existence of traitors in Navarre, it wouldn’t be surprising to witness the demise of King Tauri and Halden in an upcoming installment of The Empyrean Series. Hints in Onyx Storm suggest that Aaric may stand poised to take the throne by the series’ conclusion.Lewellen explicitly conveys to Aaric that he is the right Tauri for ruling Navarre, proclaiming, “Our kingdom would have benefited from you being the firstborn, Your Highness.”The novel’s repeated exploration of power dynamics insinuates that true leaders are often those who shy away from authority.

Whereas Halden falters disastrously in diplomatic engagements during the Isle Kingdoms, Aaric excels, reaffirming his potential to lead. His sentiment that he would “dismantle the family business”rather than re-enter it suggests a progressive vision, potentially opening avenues for more democratic governance within Navarre’s framework. However, if the kingdom retains its monarchy, Aaric is still the optimal candidate for the role. His authenticity and reasonableness, combined with the insights gained from his interactions with Navarre’s military, equip him with the understanding necessary to rule wisely.

The Final Revelation About Aaric Amplifies His Importance

Aaric’s Signet Indicates His Role as a Key Character

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros cover with a purple background — Custom image by Yailin Chacon

Onyx Storm offers substantial evidence that Aaric is on the path to kingship, but the book’s conclusion regarding his character further solidifies my belief in his fate. When Sloane presents Violet with a gift from Aaric, its contents directly contribute to her triumph over the silver-haired venin, Theophanie. Violet realizes that Aaric’s foresight allows him to anticipate her needs—he possesses precognition, one of the most formidable signets within The Empyrean Series. This ability, as Violet notes, could render him stronger than General Melgren due to fewer limitations on his powers.

Although there is no confirmed timeline for the next installment in The Empyrean Series, Rebecca Yarros has indicated that she will take a hiatus before continuing with the narrative. With such a powerful signet, it seems inevitable that Aaric will rise to prominence, naturally transitioning into a leadership role capable of guiding Navarre more effectively. Speculation is rife that he may even be involved in the theft of the missing dragon eggs at the end of Onyx Storm, potentially orchestrating events to shift the war’s outcome. As we await further developments, I am hopeful that Aaric will emerge as the leader Navarre desperately needs, while anticipating the departures of King Tauri and Halden.

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