Top 10 Questions Raised by the Ending of Onyx Storm

Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros.

Onyx Storm continues to intertwine the narratives established in Fourth Wing and Iron Flame, while simultaneously introducing new mysteries that deepen the plotlines of the Empyrean Series. As the story evolves, we find Violet and her companions embarking on a journey to the enigmatic Isle Kingdoms, culminating in a climactic battle that, while lacking the death toll seen previously with Liam and General Sorrengail, still carries an emotional weight. The ending of Onyx Storm extinguishes any remaining hopes for Xaden’s recovery and unveils multiple disheartening developments during the book’s climax.

Upon her return to Aretia, Violet grapples with the disorientation stemming from her lost memories of the previous twelve hours. Shockingly, she uncovers the devastating losses incurred in her absence. In an unexpected twist, the ending reveals that she and Xaden are now legally married, even as he remains elusive. As the book wraps up, Rebecca Yarros sets the stage for numerous questions as we approach the next installment of the Empyrean Series. Many of these inquiries are likely to be addressed soon, while others might hang unresolved until the series concludes.

1. Why Did Andarna Return From The Irids So Quickly?

Insights Needed on Andarna’s Hasty Decision

In Onyx Storm, Andarna is on a mission to locate her kin from the seventh breed of dragons, as introduced in Iron Flame. Despite her efforts leading her to the Isle Kingdoms, she discovers that the irids, her estranged family, do not embrace her warmly. These peaceful dragons look down on her bond with Violet. After an initial rejection, Andarna is offered a choice: to abandon Violet and connect with her own kind, which she ultimately decides to accept. The forthcoming sequel must illuminate the motivations behind this pivotal decision.

2. What Is The Connection Between the Venin & the Irids?

Are The Irids Key to Overcoming Empyrean Series Villains?

Fourth Wing cover — Custom Image by Yeider Chacon

As Violet and her allies engage with the irids, the sequel does not provide clarity on their relationship with the venin. It’s evident that Navarre’s leadership believes the irids possess the knowledge necessary to defeat the venin, yet their evasiveness raises suspicion. Notably, Andarna was cast out parallel to the defeat of the venin, indicating a potential link between these critical events—one that needs to be uncovered in the next book. Moreover, the silver-haired venin named Theophanie exhibits an unsettling attraction to Andarna, suggesting that the dragons may indeed hold the secret to subduing the venin.

3. How Will Violet’s Dream Walking Be Used Against the Venin?

The Irids Consider Violet’s Second Signet “Dangerous”

Violet’s ability to dream walk is unveiled in Onyx Storm, allowing her to access the nightmares of others, predominantly Xaden. This intriguing power, characterized as “dangerous” by the irids, hints at a more significant role in the impending battle against the venin. Given her new classification as an Inntinnsic, her dream-walking might evolve to serve as a weapon against enemies or as a means for espionage. Unpacking this potential is essential in the next sequel.

4. Why Does Theophanie Want Jack Barlowe Dead?

Could Jack Know Crucial Secrets About The Venin?

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros — Custom Image by Yeider Chacon

Jack Barlowe, while not a dominant character in Onyx Storm, becomes a focal point for Theophanie, who displays a lethal interest in eliminating him. Despite his limited dialogue, it appears that Jack possesses information that is vital to thwarting the venin’s plans. His survival could be critical for future avenues of conflict resolution, further emphasizing the need for clear exposition on his role in subsequent books.

5. Who Is Xaden’s New “Brother”?

Yet Another Character Joins the Venin Ranks

Character Turned Venin — Custom Image by Yailin Chacon

In an emotional twist at the conclusion of Onyx Storm, a character close to Xaden is revealed as the newest convert to the venin. Xaden reflects on his new “brother”with a mix of sorrow and concern, as this transformation adds to Berwyn’s leverage over him. However, the identity of this character remains undisclosed, sparking curiosity as to who this individual could be, increasing the stakes for Xaden and Violet as they navigate the impending challenges.

6. What Is Xaden’s Plan at the End of Onyx Storm?

A Cryptic Understanding Between Xaden and Sgaeyl

By the story’s end, Xaden embraces his transformation into a venin, striking a mysterious agreement with Sgaeyl regarding his next actions. They intend to seek Violet’s assistance, suggesting that her involvement is crucial to whatever plan he is concocting. Yet, the specifics of Xaden’s intentions remain veiled, creating anticipation for a deeper exploration of these themes in future installments.

7. Who Are the Missing & Dead Characters from Onyx Storm’s Final Chapter?

Aretia Faces Turmoil Upon Violet’s Return

Onyx Storm Cover with Blood — Custom Image by Ana Nieves

In the aftermath of the tumultuous events, Violet returns to find Aretia in upheaval, marked by casualties among both individuals and dragons. Although Brennan alludes to the missing Garrick, the full extent of loss remains unclear. This looming uncertainty introduces further tension into the narrative that the next book must resolve, as readers ponder the identities of those who have perished and the implications of their absence.

8. What Happened to the Missing Dragon Eggs at the End of Onyx Storm?

Chaos Surrounds the Disappearance of Dragon Eggs

Alongside casualties, the theft of dragon eggs adds to the turmoil at the story’s end. Violet learns from Brennan about this disturbing development, raising questions regarding the motives behind the theft. While the venin may seem like the logical suspect, other players could be at work, hinting towards alliances and betrayals among characters that could complicate the storyline significantly in future installments.

9. Why Does Imogen Wipe Violet’s Memory?

The Memory Wipe May Lead to Future Conflict

Onyx Storm Special Edition — Custom Image by Ana Nieves.

In Onyx Storm, Imogen performs a memory wipe on Violet, erasing her recollections of marrying Xaden and the chaos in Aretia. The reasons behind this act remain ambiguous, with Imogen refusing to fully clarify her intentions. Whether Imogen acted altruistically or as part of a secret agenda can set the stage for potential conflict in future narratives, particularly if Violet unearths the truth.

10. Will Xaden Ever Be Cured After Fully Turning Venin in Onyx Storm?

A Resolution Might Be a Long Time Coming

Throughout Onyx Storm, Violet holds onto the hope of finding a cure for Xaden’s new condition. The irids assert that no remedy exists, and Xaden himself seems resigned to his fate. However, the prospect of an undiscovered cure still lingers, leaving readers anxious as they look forward to how Violet’s quest unfolds in the coming installments. The search for a potential solution may stretch across the remaining two books, reinforcing the series’ overarching narrative tension.

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