Understanding Violet’s Decision with Imogen in Onyx Storm and Its Implications for the Next Fourth Wing Release

Warning: SPOILERS ahead for Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros.

Understanding Imogen’s Actions and Violet’s Memory Loss in Onyx Storm

Onyx Storm, part of The Empyrean Series, showcases the formidable abilities of one of its most powerful signets, however, the book concludes with an intriguing twist: Violet’s memories have been erased by Imogen. The complex dynamics between Imogen and Violet evolve significantly throughout the series, transitioning from animosity to a budding friendship across the initial three installments. By the conclusion of Fourth Wing, Violet begins to place her trust in both Imogen and the marked ones after fighting valiantly alongside them.

In Onyx Storm, this relationship takes yet another unexpected turn, leaving a cloud of tension looming between Violet and Imogen once more. At the novel’s climax, Violet returns to Aretia without recollection of the previous 12 hours, unaware that Imogen is behind the memory wipe. Arriving at House Riorson, she learns of the chaos unfolding around her—dragon eggs stolen, riders and dragons lost, and the mysterious disappearance of Xaden. Adding to her confusion is the wedding ring she finds on her finger; a symbol of her legal marriage to Xaden, yet devoid of any memories associated with it, all due to Imogen’s actions.

Unraveling the Mystery of Violet’s Memory Loss

Imogen’s Use of Her Signet on Violet

The ambiguity surrounding Violet’s memory quickly unravels as the final lines of Onyx Storm come into play. When confronted by Violet about the erasure of her memories, Imogen cryptically replies, “What you asked me to.” This revelation indicates that Imogen utilized her signet on Violet, a capability identified in earlier books in the series. Imogen’s signet permits her to erase short-term memories, a power hinted at prior to this point.

Why Did Violet Ask Imogen to Erase Her Memories?

The Safety Implications Regarding Xaden

The conversations between Violet and Imogen remain sparse towards the end of Onyx Storm, yet several logical motives for the memory erasure emerge. Primarily, it appears crucial that Violet remains unaware of Xaden’s whereabouts or intentions, especially considering he is implicated in serious criminal accusations as the third book wraps up. While Xaden has ample reasons to trust Violet, the complexities of their relationship and his potential clandestine motives necessitate her ignorance.

If Violet retained knowledge of Xaden’s plans, it might not only jeopardize her safety but could also risk incrimination should sensitive information slip. As the stakes rise, the protection of Tyrrendor hinges on Violet’s continued freedom, forcing her allies to make difficult choices.

Furthermore, the emotional toll of Xaden’s departure after their marriage weighs heavily on Violet. His foreboding note—insisting she should not search for him—acknowledges her determination and unwillingness to give up. Thus, while safety remains paramount, it’s reasonable to consider that Violet might find solace in a temporary escape from painful memories through Imogen’s intervention.

Exploring Imogen’s Signet in The Empyrean Series

Unknown Aspects of Memory Restoration

Imogen’s signet in The Empyrean Series serves a distinctive purpose—it allows her to erase recent memories. However, the specificity of its limitations remains largely unexplored.It remains uncertain whether Imogen possesses the power to restore those memories, thus casting doubt on whether Violet will ever recall the events following the battle in Onyx Storm.

Although Violet might eventually learn of significant happenings from the accounts of others, it would be disappointing if Yarros chose not to share Violet’s wedding with Xaden directly. Insights through flashbacks from Xaden’s perspective could be a potential alternative, but it remains to be seen whether Violet will reclaim her lost memories. The prospective narrative direction Wheeler may take introduces an element of suspense regarding Violet and Imogen’s relationship going forward.

Previewing the Anticipated Sequel and Impact of Memory Loss

Anticipation of Tension Between Violet and Imogen

While there is no definitive timeline for the release of the next installment in The Empyrean Series, Rebecca Yarros has indicated a pause before returning to the narrative. Notably, the extent of Imogen’s awareness concerning Violet’s and Xaden’s strategies leading into the sequel remains ambiguous. It’s feasible that she acted without full knowledge of the motives behind Violet’s wish to erase her memories.

Should Imogen possess knowledge of Xaden’s plans, her character could find herself in jeopardy as the story unfolds. If the truth surrounding the memory wipe becomes public, her safety may be compromised, amplifying the stakes in the forthcoming sequel. One thing is certain: tensions will undeniably rise in the NEXT Fourth Wing book as the characters confront their intertwined fates and the burdens of their secrets.

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