Podcast Episode Summary: Dear Fantasy Reader – Ep 6: Onyx Storm: Breaking Down Theories & Predictions PART 1

Introduction

In Episode 6 of Dear Fantasy Reader, titled "Onyx Storm: Breaking Down Theories & Predictions PART 1," hosts Hannah, Karly, and Kinsey delve deep into the intricate world of Rebecca Yarros’ Empyrean series. With their characteristic blend of meticulous analysis and passionate discussion, the trio explores a multitude of theories surrounding the upcoming installment, "Onyx Storm." Released on January 10, 2025, this episode serves as a comprehensive primer for fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the saga.

1. Character Survival and Development Theories

• Sawyer’s Fate and Potential Survival ([02:14] Hannah & [02:50] Kinsey)

  The discussion begins with Sawyer, a character who suffered the loss of his leg in "Iron Flame." Kinsey posits, "I think he will use his signet power to control a bionic leg. This means he will be able to stay within the writer's quadrant. Also, I think it's pretty much guaranteed that he will survive until the very end of the series" ([02:50] Kinsey). Hannah adds, "I think it's absolutely not a coincidence that he has that ability that would potentially allow him to ride a dragon again" ([04:09] Hannah), suggesting that Sawyer’s metallurgist skills and signet abilities are key to his continued presence in the series.

• Dane’s Redemption Arc and Signet Implications ([05:15] Kinsey & [08:07] Kinsey)

  The conversation shifts to Dane, a character who has been met with mixed feelings from the fandom. Kinsey theorizes a "full circle redemption arc" for Dane, potentially culminating in his sacrifice to complete his redemption ([05:15] Kinsey). Hannah reflects on Dane’s complexities, stating, "I have to say, I love this theory. I was heartbroken for Sawyer at the end of Iron Flame and this, as much as I know, will be really difficult for his character and development" ([04:09] Hannah). The hosts explore the dark side of Dane’s signet, considering whether his abilities inadvertently harm others' souls through memory manipulation ([08:07] Kinsey).

• Jinia’s Mysterious Motives ([13:37] Carly)

  Jinia, another pivotal character, is scrutinized for her suspicious actions. Carly expresses distrust, highlighting numerous "weird coincidences" surrounding Jinia’s interactions with other characters, particularly Violet ([15:17] Carly). The hosts debate whether Jinia’s actions are genuinely deceitful or part of a larger, more benevolent agenda, citing her connection to the scribe quadrant and her role in critical plot events.

2. Brennan and Naolin: A Possible Romantic Connection ([24:59] Kinsey & [25:38] Carly)

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Brennan and Naolin, where the hosts explore the potential romantic relationship between these two characters. Carly firmly believes they are "more than just squad mates or friends" and cites Rebecca Yarros’ hints during interviews to support her theory ([24:59] Carly). Kinsey echoes this sentiment, adding, "the entire fandom agrees that they're lovers, and it might not be as heartbreaking as you think" ([25:38] Kinsey). The discussion also touches on the tragic possibility of Naolin turning Venon and the implications of his potential death on Brennan’s fate.

3. Jack’s Complex Arc: Redemption or Immortality? ([46:00] Carly & [62:19] Hannah)

Jack emerges as a character shrouded in mystery and complexity. The hosts debate whether Jack will undergo a "redemption arc" or possess an element of "immortality." Carly suggests, "A friend on Bookstagram is absolutely convinced that Jack will get a redemption arc" ([62:19] Carly), while also entertaining the notion that Jack might never die, referencing his potential for eternal presence in the series ([62:19] Kinsey). Hannah remains skeptical, hoping for a character with pure intentions akin to Liam, yet acknowledging Rebecca Yarros’ penchant for crafting morally gray characters.

4. Papa Sorengale’s Research and Assassination ([68:07] Carly, [75:05] Kinsey)

The hosts delve into the enigmatic figure of Papa Sorengale, Violet’s father, discussing his extensive research into feathertails and wards. Carly theorizes that Papa Sorengale’s initial goal was to find a cure for Violet’s physical ailments, which led him to feather tales and, ultimately, to uncover deeper, more dangerous secrets about the magic system ([68:07] Carly). Kinsey adds layers to this theory by contemplating Papa Sorengale’s potential discovery of ancient prophecies or historical texts that set the stage for the current conflicts ([75:05] Kinsey). The conversation suggests that his pioneering research may have led to his assassination, orchestrated by factions threatened by his uncovering of forbidden knowledge.

5. Dragons: Symbols of Corruption and Power ([77:23] Kinsey & [84:07] Carly)

Dragons in the Empyrean series are more than majestic creatures; they serve as indicators of underlying corruption. Kinsey notes that dragons with bad breath, such as Solas, Bade, and Cath, symbolize their corruption and possible transformation into Venon ([77:23] Kinsey). The hosts discuss the implications of these transformations, linking them to the broader narrative of power and its consequences within the series. Carly expands on the significance of dragon breeds and their alignment with the magic system, pondering how these dragons influence the unfolding events and character motivations.

6. The Magic System: Signets, Runes, Venon, and Venin ([30:09] Hannah & [46:00] Carly)

A critical component of the discussion revolves around the intricate magic system in the Empyrean series. The hosts dissect the roles of signets and runes, theorizing about their functions and limitations. Hannah speculates on the potential of runes to enhance lesser magics or serve as alternatives to signets, considering Carly’s idea that runes might act as "the great equalizer" in the magical hierarchy ([50:42] Hannah). Kinsey introduces the possibility that runes could prevent overuse of power, thereby balancing the magic system and maintaining equilibrium within the world ([30:09] Kinsey). The interplay between these magical elements is seen as pivotal in shaping character abilities and plot developments.

7. Prophecies, Historical Texts, and Future Implications ([75:15] Kinsey & [83:22] Kinsey)

The episode touches on the presence of ancient prophecies and historical texts that influence current events. Kinsey highlights a passage suggesting that Venon may have roots in prophetic lore, hinting at a cyclical nature of events and the role of the dragons in perpetuating these cycles ([75:15] Kinsey). The discussion explores how characters like Papa Sorengale may have foreseen or inadvertently fueled the rise of Venon through their research, setting the stage for the impending conflicts in "Onyx Storm."

Conclusion and Upcoming Content

As the episode wraps up, the hosts acknowledge the extensive scope of their discussion, announcing that this is just the beginning of a multi-part series dedicated to unraveling the complex theories and predictions for "Onyx Storm." They tease upcoming episodes that will continue to dissect character motivations, plot twists, and the evolving magic system. The trio encourages listeners to engage with their content, participate in discussions, and share their own theories through various platforms, including Discord.

Notable Quotes

• Kinsey on Sawyer’s Survival: "I think he will use his signet power to control a bionic leg. This means he will be able to stay within the writer's quadrant. Also, I think it's pretty much guaranteed that he will survive until the very end of the series." ([02:50])

• Hannah on Sawyer’s Abilities: "I think it's absolutely not a coincidence that he has that ability that would potentially allow him to ride a dragon again." ([04:09])

• Carly on Brennan and Naolin’s Relationship: "I think that they were more than just squad mates or friends. I think that there was love there." ([25:47])

• Kinsey on Jinia’s Motives: "I just think there's too much foreshadowing and too many weird coincidences, and I don't trust her." ([16:34])

• Hannah on Papa Sorengale’s Research: "I think that his research started out as an effort to find something that could heal Violet because he realized she wanted to be a writer and he did not think that would be a real option for her safely without finding a Solution for her ligaments and joints." ([68:49])

• Kinsey on Dragons’ Corruption: "They have been called out as having bad breath, rotten breath, and iron flame, which I think is a sign that they are corrupt. Turning wyvern and or their writers are Venon." ([77:23])

Final Thoughts

Episode 6 of Dear Fantasy Reader offers a treasure trove of theories and predictions for fans of the Empyrean series. The hosts’ dynamic discussions provide deep insights into character arcs, magical lore, and the intricate web of relationships that define the series. As Rebecca Yarros continues to weave her expansive fantasy narrative, listeners are left eagerly anticipating the unraveling of these theories in the forthcoming parts of the series.

Stay Tuned

Don’t miss out on the continuation of these theories in upcoming episodes, where Hannah, Karly, and Kinsey will further explore the mysteries of "Onyx Storm," ensuring that fans remain thoroughly engaged and excited for what lies ahead in the Empyrean series.

Subscribe now to Dear Fantasy Reader for comprehensive analyses, wild theories, and fangirl moments that celebrate the depth and richness of your favorite Romantasy novels. New episodes every Tuesday!