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- [00:00]
Nicole
I was never really a runner. The way I see running is a gift, especially when you have stage four cancer. I'm Ann. I'm running the Boston Marathon presented by bank of America. I run for Dana Farber Cancer Institute to give people like me a chance to thrive in life, even with cancer. Join bank of America in helping Anne's cause. Give if you can@b of a.com supportann what would you like the power to do? References to charitable organizations is not an endorsement by bank of America Corporation. Copyright 2025 Nordstrom brings you the season's.
- [00:34]
Lexi
Most wanted brands, Skims, Mango Free People.
- [00:37]
Nicole
And Princess polly, all under $100. From trending Sneakers to beauty must haves, we've curated the styles you'll wear on repeat this spring.
- [00:47]
Lexi
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- [00:49]
Nicole
Pickup make it easier than ever. Shop now in stores and@nordstrom.com.
- [00:56]
Lexi
Foreign.
- [01:07]
Nicole
Welcome to the Fantasy Fangirls podcast, where two sisters dive deep into beloved fantasy lore, character themes, series and more.
- [01:16]
Lexi
I'm Lexi, older sister and Fantasy Lore nerd.
- [01:19]
Nicole
And I'm Nicole, younger sister and romantic at heart.
- [01:22]
Lexi
And today is episode nine of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros, where we're covering chapters 44 through 44 49. But before we begin, please listen closely to our spoiler warning. Every episode has spoilers for the entire Empyrean series, including all of Onyx Storm, iron flame and fourth wing. Which means even though this episode nine focuses on chapters 44 through 49, we are pulling in themes, lore, foreshadowing and more from the entire book.
- [01:48]
Nicole
We are officially in the final third of this book. Friends, things are getting real. Cities are falling, first years are manifesting shadows, Zaden's using his shadows and very creative ways. If you don't know what I'm talking about, then please go finish Onyx Storm. You only have a little bit left. We will be here when you're done.
- [02:08]
Lexi
Next, we Fantasy Fangirls are adults who say adult things about adult books. In other words, friends, this podcast, and especially today's episode is rated R. You.
- [02:17]
Nicole
Better believe I am going beat by beat through the chair scene just to, you know, clear up the confusion that it has caused us on the Internet. That's the only reason. So please really be mindful of those little listening ears.
- [02:31]
Lexi
Additionally, we are so excited to see you at upcoming live events. We will be featured guests at Enchanticon in St. Louis, Missouri, August 15th through 17th.
- [02:40]
Nicole
Then we will be at the Everflame Ball along with Pen Cole for the first ever Kindred's Curse Saga Ball on August 30th in Castle Rock, Colorado. Then we will be back at the Dragon Gauntlet in Boyne City, Michigan September 12th through 13th.
- [02:53]
Lexi
Then Romanecy Bookcon in Orlando, Florida from October 23rd through 25th.
- [02:58]
Nicole
Check out our website for more information to all of these events.
- [03:02]
Lexi
Last thing before we jump into this Onyx Storm Episode 9 if you love fantasy Fangirls and want more events, more content, more community and just so much more all around, please check out Fantasy Fan Club.
- [03:12]
Nicole
We have three membership tiers that you can join. First the Cadets, which includes access to our Boppin Discord live Q&As from Lexi and I, a book club, exclusive author interviews, trivia, community events, promo codes for live events like the ones we just listed, plus 20% off all merch. That is for $6 a month. Or or you can join the Dragon Riders which includes everything from the cadet level plus early access to ad free episodes, our full episode outlines and special voting privileges. That is for $10 a month. And lastly we have the Iron Squad which includes everything from the previous two tiers plus behind the scenes content. A welcome gift. I just sent out 225 of them yesterday. I'm not even kidding. Giveaways, a private Discord channel, and your name shouted out on the podcast. That is for $25.
- [04:03]
Lexi
Join the party at fantasyfangirls.com fan club. The link is also in the show notes. And really and truly, thank you so much for supporting us as we've turned this podcast into our livelihood. It's all because of you and we appreciate you so much.
- [04:16]
Nicole
And now it is time to fly to Oratia for Runes rotation and Shadow Bondage.
- [04:24]
Lexi
To start off every episode, Nicole does us the honor of summarizing what happens in this stretch of chapters. So listen up because Battle Brief is in session for chapters 44 through 49 of Onyx Storm.
- [04:36]
Nicole
Chapter 44 when venon and Hurd Paint the Town Red by Doja Cat they took it a little too seriously, leaving half of Krovla covered in crimson. Why didn't they just take cover in Navarre, you ask? Because King Towry wanted his Regina George moment and he went full.
- [04:52]
Lexi
You can't sit with us.
- [04:53]
Nicole
With Styneva fallen, morale is tanking hard. Not only did 12 venon take out 25,000 people, they also now have six crates of fresh alloy hilted daggers. Yes, it is quite sus, but that's a problem we're gonna think about later because it's time for a quick trip to the archives. Violet's been keeping secrets. I think I've heard that one before. And it's time to spill some tea. Zaden is a venin dun Dun Dun. Chapter 45, Dream Walk Time. And this time, Dreythus has gone up in flames. And the sage is back, baby. And he's ready to play a game. Did I mention the game is played with a long hard object? Get your heads out of the gutter. I mean the sword of Tirandor. The next morning, it's time for class. Today's battle mounts the goal. Jump off your dragon, take out a venom projection, then get back on your dragon. All without breaking a bone. Hopefully it's Violet's turn. And good luck, because our girl can barely do a run on landing, let alone whatever the hell this is. But don't worry. The good overprotective curmudgeon dragon Tern alters the move to accommodate his rider and. Holy shit. It worked. After class, Violet takes a line out of Zaden's book and gives him a present and a note. But Zaden is still in full on brooding mode. But she's not the only one trying something new. Felix is here. And he brought news. The oration wards are failing much sooner than they expected. So help us, Violet Sorrengail. You're our only hope. Chapter 46. Between sparring classes wielding with Felix and training with Imogen, Violet is pooped. But there's no rest for the wicked. The crew has to make leave for Oratia soon. Who better to bring them than Pancheck? That can't possibly have any negative consequences, right? Speaking of consequences, Zaden is opening Tirandor's borders. But Mr. Cheater Cheater Auburn Hair Eater is over here screeching about his kingdom this. And you can't do that. But everyone knows damn well those poor Emil citizens are dead if they don't. So fuck off, Holden. Go take a nap in your basket or something. Just when discussion is getting interesting, Wisps of shadow spread throughout the room. But they're not Zadens this time. Second squad, first year. Lynx has manifested shadows and Zaden officially has his nonvenin magical balance. Chapter 47. Watch out, Toothless. It's Sleeg and Sawyer's turn. After a quick hop, skip and a jump, Sawyer manages to climb his seat. And he can fly. He can fly. He can fly. He can fly. The riot is back together, baby. Back in Oratia. Violet is hesitant to go to her and Zaden's room, but it doesn't take that much convincing from Bode to get her moving in that direction. Though she's not in her room long before Brennan Knock knocks on her door, bringing some news with him. He knows about Xaden, and he can't mend him. Chapter 48 who's ready for a late night study session? Not Violet, but she definitely needs one because all those runes won't temper themselves. However, homework is gonna have to wait because someone else is knock knock knocking on her door. I wonder who that could be. Maybe possibly a handsome, brooding shadow daddy. And he's ready to make up for lost time in exchange for one thing and one thing only.
- [07:52]
Lexi
Control.
- [07:53]
Nicole
But don't worry, there's no more waiting. Chapter 49 and Bang, Bang, bangity bang. I saw the shadowy handcuffed hair.
- [08:00]
Lexi
Bang.
- [08:01]
Nicole
Literally. That's it. That's the chapter.
- [08:04]
Lexi
Yay. This podcast is sponsored by Jack Black, the number one men's skin care and body care brand that's available at premium beauty retailers like Nordstrom, Sephora.com and Ulta.
- [08:16]
Nicole
Have you ever finished a chapter of the Empyrean series and thought to yourself, gosh, I wish my partner smelled like Zaden. Well, Rebecca Yarros did not just give us Zaden's shadow wielding, scarred, broody perfection, she also gave us the exact details of what he smells like. Mint. Something that borders between citrus and floral wrapped up in riding leathers. And luckily, Jack Black basically bottled that scent. Jack Black's All Over Body Wash smells almost exactly like Zaden Ryerson.
- [08:44]
Lexi
Jack Black has everything your man, or even maybe you, needs to stay smelling and feeling delicious. They're All Over Wash uses amazing ingredients like shea butter, sea kelp, and jojoba to keep skin soft, smooth and completely touchable. Because some men might have shadows and scars, but that doesn't mean they have to have dragon scale dry skin.
- [09:03]
Nicole
I love it when Brett uses Jack Black. I can always tell. I hug him a little extra longer because I'm like, oh, Zaden. It's so nice that actually I've started using it too and I just love like giving myself a whiff and being like, like right now. I definitely used it this morning.
- [09:20]
Lexi
If you want simple, effective products that your significant other and even you will love, you need Jack Black head to getjackblack.com FFG and use code FFG for 10 off your order. Once again, that's getjackblack.com backslash FFG for 10 off. And make sure you use our promo code FFG so they know we sent you. All right, writers, it's time to dawn our signet power and discuss key insights, character analysis, lore, foreshadowing theories, and oh so much more. Quest Squad has just returned to Buzgaeth after disobeying orders on their aisle mission because they did not report back to Asgaieth or even Devarelly in between stops. And just like they expected, they're all going to be court martialed, right? Right? Nope. Turns out King Tari is so grateful to have his missing youngest son found that he's forbidden any form of punishment for the better part of a year. He hasn't known where Aric or as he's royally known Cam is. Halden has been searching high and low for his little brother, but in all the wrong places where Holden would be. And like Lilith said when she ran into Auric at the ending battle of Misgaith and Iron Flame, the king has been looking for him. So y our Quest Squad does not have to worry about any punishment. What a gigantic relief. I do want to briefly address something we've heard throughout the fandom, specifically about Onyx Storm and that is Violet doesn't really face the consequences of her rebellious acts, especially given the context of how strict and quite frankly ruthless this leadership is. And I'll be honest, it's a fair observation. This is the biggest example of that. Building up the risks and what the punishment will be for the past third of this book. And then in a few words, it's dismissed and everybody moves on. And I do. I agree that I wish that we did get more consequences needing to play out. And I can understand why Violet keeps eluding punishment when she disobeys orders for one. Yeah, it is plot convenience. The story is moving forward as it focuses on problem solving and it would be a much longer book if she had to answer for all of her rebellious acts. Like this part about King Tari being relieved just to have his son back is a great example of Yep, gotta keep moving the story along. There is war. There is so much going on we got to keep it moving. And number two, like Violet declared to Daddy Atos earlier in the book, they can't and won't harm her because she is bonded to two very important dragons. So yeah, while this might be I'll even call it one of my little gripes with Onyx Storm, I don't say that very often. It is something just to acknowledge and move on from as we sometimes have to do from stories. I forgive it. But back to Quest Squad's return. Leadership separates the group and questions them for 12 hours each with scribes. And while Violet is exhausted from this endless debrief, she's also not going to complain. Because this is a hell of a lot better than, you know, getting court martialed. Violet even worries if they're trying to suss out souls in their stories. As if they suspect that they had more than rare texts to guide them. Which is actually true because no one else knows about her father's research on the Isles. That did help Quest Squad out a lot. But I wonder if they are maybe thinking there is something else to this. Like, obviously they don't know about Violet's dad's research. Or maybe they do and they are suspicious about that. Like maybe they're wondering if Quest Squad had somebody as a guide that they're not telling them about. Or they were were in cahoots with an aisle behind Navarre's back. I don't know. Just throwing out ideas. As we learn in battle brief, a lot has happened these past three and a half weeks and it's not good whatsoever. The map that shows the Venon attacks, it's covered. Making Violet wonder how the Venin have covered this much territory so quickly. Half of Crova is red and in Venon control now. Only the southern tip where Corden is and west, where Dreyfus is, are spared.
- [12:57]
Nicole
Add this to the list of times that Cordon is mentioned. Miraculously still standing. Cordon falling is becoming the new we're going to the Isle of Kingdom. So like, I swear to God, if Corden doesn't fall next book, I will be shocked. Add that probably to our bets list.
- [13:13]
Lexi
You know what? Maybe the Venin are aquaphobic like the people of Hedotis.
- [13:19]
Nicole
Considering the Bay of Malak exists on the map. I don't think so. But good try, Lexi. Good try. Now pause real quick because how many dark wielders would it take to cover this much territory? And no, I am not going into Venon troop math. I am instead wondering if their numbers are growing that much faster. Not because of their hyper sex bunny acts, but instead because are they recruiting people that much faster when they go into cities? Because there is so much painted in red flags right now. Are they going into cities and saying turn or else we'll kill you and that's how they're getting more troops? I'm not including Cygn in this because I am convinced Sigmies and just turned that in the entire province.
- [14:01]
Lexi
That's a good point. I do think that they are recruiting more people. Absolutely. And I wouldn't be Surprised if some people were like, you know, instead of dying, I would rather become a Venin. And I don't think that there's really much opportunity, like when they're in the attack and in the cities. But I could see like refugees or the Venin are maybe infiltrating beforehand. Or they especially probably want to target the Griffin flyers too, because they are already able to channel and it's easier for for them and they would be more powerful. So that's a good point.
- [14:30]
Nicole
Or maybe this is the aftermath of. Because last book we know that they attacked Zolia and we can assume a lot of the Cliff Spain flyers turn venom.
- [14:40]
Lexi
Oh, I never thought about that.
- [14:41]
Nicole
Oh, I assumed that. I definitely assumed that. But I wonder if like now their training quote unquote has ended and now they're being pushed out into the field.
- [14:50]
Lexi
Maybe I'm thinking through a lot because I never thought about them targeting Cliffsbane and doing it being like a gigantic recruitment effort.
- [15:01]
Nicole
Well, I think they definitely were recruiting prior and then anyone left standing, quote unquote, was who died or who was attacked.
- [15:09]
Lexi
Then there's the Breivik province, which has been red for a while now. In fact, Sineva, which is more north in Breivik and close to the border of Cygnisen, is somewhat of an outlier for their recent attacks. As the Venin have been moving southwest toward the Tyrandor border, poor millions are.
- [15:24]
Nicole
Fleeing in every single direction except one, towards Navarre. We learned from Kat that during interviews, Violet was only interviewed by Navarrians, while Kat and we assume the other flyers had promish also doing their questioning, which led to some extra info being shared. I wonder if that was kind of some under the table information. Navarre at King Tari's demand is not letting anyone from outside the borders in. Of course, Navarre is still holding information back from its people. Later in this stretch of chapters, we will learn from the Duke of Color and Haldan that their reasoning is being unable to feed double the population. Not to mention that they're already weakening the outposts by taking away alloy hilted daggers. But given that they're about to get 40,000 troops and will need to have some kind of supplies for them, I personally don't think this is the only reason. So here's my reasoning. Number one, King Tari is a weenie and I would not be surprised if he has someone whispering in his ear telling him to hold strong here, for lack of a better term. And I will say maybe this person might even be a Venin. They don't Want more people in the way for the incoming Venin to get to the hatching grounds, given that that is their ultimate goal to drain.
- [16:41]
Lexi
See, I would think Venin would want more people in because then they can sneak Venon in because I think that is another reason that King Tari does not want to allow people in, because he can't trust the people coming through into the border.
- [16:54]
Nicole
Number two, I guess actually number three now, because that's point number two. We saw in the scenario meetings earlier on this book that the higher ups in Navarre are really scared of poor Emil, despite acting all, you know, high and mighty. So I also wouldn't be surprised if the same old, same old 400 year prejudice is on full display here. After all, we did get the feeling from the Duke of Caldir it's Nevarians first. Poor Melians have been taking their alloy hilted daggers for a long time in order to survive against the dark wielders. We saw the this at Montserrat in fourth wing. So I've also bet that there's worry that the Promish would continue stealing alloy and they cannot afford to lose any more from the outposts.
- [17:31]
Lexi
Well, and Navarre has been peddling this narrative that the Promish are violent and terrible for centuries and that propaganda has become truth no matter what the actual circumstances are.
- [17:41]
Nicole
Well, let's talk about those circumstances because as Halden will say to Zaden later, quote, you're choosing their people over ours. This is truly what this boils down to. It's Nevarians believing that it's an us versus them fight for survival, while Tearish, and I would argue also a lot of the Promish believe fight for survival, but that's not really the case at all. The Promish refugees don't endanger the Nevarians if they're not Venon. It is truly an all of us decision for survival.
- [18:11]
Lexi
As part of Professor De Vera's welcome Back quest squad, she highlights their success in securing an army of 40,000 soldiers thanks to their new alliance with Zelna. First of all, I love how she brings up the success because all Violet can focus on is their failures from this mission. But it wasn't a complete failure, even if they did lose a Yearmate to get that Army. Because these 40,000 soldiers can help turn the tide of this war. And the continent needs every last scrap of hope right now. Devera asks the battle brief classroom, how do they Recommend Using these 40,000 soldiers?
- [18:41]
Nicole
And it's a question really that makes me love Devera even more. Like we Know that this decision at least. Least right now. I'll get to this later. Is obviously Nevarian leadership's decision, but she's teaching them all how to think as strategic leaders. Like Devere is the goat of this series. I love her.
- [19:00]
Lexi
I love her too. A first year from second wing says that they should be stationed here at Bisgaeth to protect the Wardstone. Okay, While that would have been valid to stop Jack fucking Barlow and Iron Flame, that's not the imminent threat anymore. With all the Venon invasions in poor meal.
- [19:14]
Nicole
Well, I'm just gonna say second wing. I'm back on my second wing. Bullshit. If they're like, oh, we should have them at like one of the stupidest places possible, they wouldn't be in the way. Technically, I'm just gonna say that sounds like some Venin bullshit to me.
- [19:30]
Lexi
See, I'm arguing that it would be a good suggestion based on what happened with the battle of Buzgaoth.
- [19:35]
Nicole
It's a good suggestion for last book.
- [19:37]
Lexi
Yes, exactly.
- [19:38]
Nicole
But they're thinking in the past, not the present or the future. Which is what de Vere is trying to teach them.
- [19:42]
Lexi
Exactly. Exactly. Exactly. But I am saying I can see why they thought this, even though it is not correct nowadays.
- [19:49]
Nicole
I can too. And I definitely think you're right. But I wouldn't be me if I didn't point out that it also could be some sus. Second wing bullshit.
- [19:58]
Lexi
Kat suggests that they should be sent south to hold the line so cordon doesn't fall.
- [20:03]
Nicole
I love that she suggests this without being called on. Like she is in her full fuck the world era. And I love it. I love it because she wasn't before. Well, she's just amped it up a little.
- [20:16]
Lexi
Sure, this would be great to protect the king, but that's also a little biased coming from his niece. Violet thinks the troops should be stationed near the western border of Tyrandor. But she doesn't say anything because she recognizes her own bias to protect Tyrandor. Ah, foreshadowing for her to truly be Tyrandor's protector. But also, I wonder if Tyrandor will utilize these 40,000 soldiers. Because it was Violet's group that technically secured the alliance. What's going to happen to these 40,000 soldiers if there really is a civil war between Tyrandor and Navarre? With the standoff quickly approaching, who will get these troops? I imagine Zelna will be more allied with Tyrandor. Especially because Arryk was the one who negotiated with them. And he is going to Support Tyandor.
- [20:58]
Nicole
Oh, just you wait. I'm about to go into full theory mode around this.
- [21:03]
Lexi
Dain thinks his army should be split, where half go south to defend King Tokaris and Corden like Cat mentioned, and then the other half to the western line. Like what Violet is silently thinking. After all, these troops are most needed in Port Meal right now. And by protecting Crowley's western border means keeping the Venin out of Navarre. I personally think this is a great strategy, though I am still very worried for this army up against even a few Venin. It's such an imbalance of strength and power.
- [21:28]
Nicole
Well, and we should also mention because when I was first thinking this, it was like western line. If we're looking at Navarre, the western line is the ocean. But how they're talking is the western line of poor Emile. I do kind of like that they're using western line not as Nevarians, but saying it as the poor Emilian western line. It's just that nice little extra touch.
- [21:45]
Lexi
Devara goes on to give her suggestion. Divide them into thirds, putting two groups where Dain suggested in the south and the western border of Poor Meal. Then the remaining third stationed at Nevarian outposts. Because if they lose wards, Navarre won't be safe at all anymore. Outposts need to be manned because Venin may target attack here and take alloy hilted daggers like they took the big shipment in Siniva. And there are already limited amounts of alloy hilted daggers at each outpost, only enough to keep the wards up. So any attack where these weapons that power the wards are taken could be detrimental to the Nevarian wards. I do think this is going to happen in book four, where outposts start getting attacked and the Nevarian wards will fall again. And this ally hilted dagger shortage will be very, very bad and in our faces. Zaden will soon be withholding one of the key ingredients to make the alloy hilted daggers. So the Bisgae forge won't be producing more weapons to keep powering the wards. And there's already not enough as Navarre has given shipments to Poor Meal to fight against the Venin.
- [22:43]
Nicole
While this question is producing some very valid answers, Devera ends the discussion saying that ultimately the decision is up to leadership. Which while we're talking about things we're thinking are gonna happen in book four. Yeah, this is not going away. This is absolutely coming back. Because since the 40,000 troops are technically loyal to Violet and Arc, like Lexi was saying earlier, because they're the ones who struck the deal, I think the Troops are not going to be up to Nevarian discretion. They're going to be up to tyrandors, AKA violence. If Nevarra is in charge, it might be Quest Squad Grady's version all over again. Quite frankly, it's going to be stupid move after stupid move to unknowingly delay time. To knowingly delay time. We never really got a full answer with that in this book. Or they will only deploy the 40,000 troops within Navarre, which is, sadly, if they do get their hands on them, I think that's exactly what's going to happen. Which is so not where the fuck they're needed right now. So I think early next book we're going to see this dissonance play out, arguing over who gets the troops. And Violet will ultimately be the one in charge of them, especially given the general conversation her and and Satan had earlier this book.
- [23:52]
Lexi
What if Aric. Because Arik is the royal that he spoke to the queen about, so technically he was the one who negotiated the deal. What if it's kind of his troops and then he's leading them, but he's working closely with Violet. Again, this is assuming that he is not the new Venon brother.
- [24:10]
Nicole
I definitely don't think he is, because he has such a role to play, just from a storyline perspective. He has such a role to play at Tyr and Ornament. Next book. Being Violet's confidant. Like, I think they're going to get a lot closer next book. Like not in a romantic way, obviously, but in a she's married, technically in a confidant way, like I keep saying. Another reason I think that they're going to be in charge of the troops is because the troops even have to dock at the southern part of the continent, which is Tyranor's borders, basically. So Violet is going to have to have the decision of where to put them. And I think she's going to do the Tyrandor line. I think she's probably going to have to do the Caldir line because Halden and his whole troops are waiting. Or they're camping out right there. And also probably cordon so that King Tokares doesn't die. And that's where half of the army is going to die.
- [25:00]
Lexi
So you think she's going to send some of those troops to do a civil war with Halden?
- [25:05]
Nicole
Oh, I'm getting all up in that later. Like this stretch of chapters, not a whole lot happens, but it cemented some things that I think we're going to see in Book four for me, including a war on two front threats.
- [25:17]
Lexi
Let's dissect the attack on Sineva and how it fell. Because after all, you've got to study the enemy strategy to prepare and do better next time, or the enemy will execute the same plan again. 12 Wyvern and 12 Venon took out this city, with an estimated casualty count of 25,000 lives. Oh, that is so hard for comparison. When Zolia fell last fall, there were approximately 10,000 lives lost. This is the most casualties of any modern battle they've ever analyzed. Demonstrating just how disastrous Sineva falling is. Thanks to a storm that Theophany was wielding to conceal the incoming Wyvern, they were able to drop out of the sky and descend within the 50 foot city walls. The Wyvern started a fire in the famous textile district. And it's believed that there were wind wielding venom to spread the fire and devour most of the city. Sadly meaning most citizens burned to death. Unfortunately, the four drifts of Griffins and flyers permanently stationed in Geneva, they perished. As well as two of the four dragons and three of the four riders recently stationed here to protect the Queen. The only reason we have accurate account of what happened at Cineva is because the one rider and two dragons returned. Four Wyvern and Venon held the perimeter. Four flew directly to the palace to take out the queen, and four concentrated on the barracks and armory.
- [26:32]
Nicole
It looks like the Venin had quite the mission of their own, rather than just the outright murder. Because in the armory there were six crates of freshly delivered, freshly powered alloy hilted daggers. For reference, there's normally only two crates at each outpost. And yet, yes, the Venin took all six and. Fuck, this is not good. Because this shipment was only delivered a few hours earlier, there wasn't time for the whole six crates to be distributed, thus giving them an advantage. Plus, Geneva was supposed to be where the daggers were delivered. Then in the morning they were going to be distributed via drifts to other cities. But upon the Venin arriving in Sineva, the armory was the first place that the Venin went. And they completely cleaned it out. Which. Which brings us to the question, why? Why would this be the objective by the Venin? Yes, alloy hilted daggers are the number one venom killer, other than, you know, Violet's lightning. So it makes sense that they want to have access to a huge storage of weapons so that they aren't used against them. But wait, there's more. Because we learn at the end of this book, when Berwyn kills who we assume is Pantex dragon with what? Ah, yes, an alloy hilted dagger. I love Zaden's next line of how the fuck was that possible? I will give the Venans this. This is a smart move. Like I'm just gonna say it. It's also highly concerning. The Venin now have six fucking crates of alloy hilted daggers. And while I'm sure they used some of those at the end of this book during the attack on Dreythis, they still have a lot more I bet. Which is concerning to say the least. And you know what? I think this is what killed the elders. At the end of this book is the alloy hilte daggers that were stolen. I just. Anything but Zayden. That's just my.
- [28:20]
Lexi
I'm gonna go with that too. Yes, I like that. I mean, I don't like that they killed a bunch of dragons.
- [28:25]
Nicole
It just wasn't Zaden.
- [28:26]
Lexi
It wasn't Zaden?
- [28:27]
Nicole
Yeah, it wasn't Zaden.
- [28:28]
Lexi
So how could we have changed the outcome? Who should we have sent in to protect the city of Cineva and go up against East Venin? They were able to do this surprise attack because of the thunderstorms common in March. But one of the first rules you learn of flying is don't fly in thunderstorms. Storms, it's too dangerous with lightning strikes. So that means all of our side's patrols were grounded and therefore not able to do their patrols and spot this incoming attack. That also means the Wyvern and Venon shouldn't have been flying in this thunderstorm in the first place. Except Theophany was with them. And she can ensure they can safely fly through the storm by manipulating the lightning so it doesn't strike any of them. Remember that as of now in our story, Violet and everyone thinks that Theophany is a lightning wield. But she will turn out to be an extremely powerful storm wielder. So I also assume this makes their job of flying through the storm undetected all the easier. Which brings us back to the question of who should the good guys have sent in to go up against this Maven lightning wielder? There only seems to be one correct answer. And it's not water wielders to stop the fire, or a powerful fire wielder to control the fire. Or even Zaden, who has a track record of holding back a dozen wyverns. All of these answers are on the defense, not offense. And still doesn't solve the problem of the maven lightning wielder. Which means Violet is the answer, and while it's not outright said here, this illustrates how much she really is the continent's last hope going up against these Venon, even if she is only a second year cadet.
- [29:56]
Nicole
However, the thought of sending Violet in to fight against a Maven is quite controversial among the Iron Squad second years. Violet herself pushes Reed to do it, though it is hypothetical after all. Major air quotes because this is such good foreshadowing for the end of the book. And while Riddick isn't really a fan of this hypothetical, Sawyer is aghast that Re would send a second year cadet against a Maven Venon. As much as he loves Violet, he knows that she's no match signet wise with someone who has had decades if not centuries to master this power that Violet's only had a little over a year. And that's not even counting that that Theophany's not even a lightning wielder, she's a storm wielder. I also wonder if Sawyer is a little extra against this because of his own personal experience of the past few months. A Venom Wyvern attack cost him his leg, and that wasn't even a Maven. If that attack cost him his leg. In his mind with Violet versus Maven, it would cost her her life, full stop. But this is the constant balance that RI has to walk with them. Friendship versus Leadership. And while RI was leaning towards siding with the former today it's Violet, the person who ironically keeps run away from leadership, who urges RI to choose to be the squad leader in that moment and truly see her as an asset to use instead of a friend. Knowing the position that Violet is at the end of this book, I wonder, also looking at book four again, if she is going to have to start making these types of decisions, seeing her squads because she's going to be in charge of the army just like Xaden is at the end of this book when Kylan and Ulysses aren't in Tyrandor. So she's going to have to start making these types of decisions, seeing her squad and her friends as those assets and sending them into battle. And that's going to win heavy on Violet.
- [31:38]
Lexi
But we can't talk about this particular battle brief without bringing up glaring and terrifying insight. There's a traitor at Bas Gaius dun.
- [31:47]
Nicole
Dun dun dun dun dun.
- [31:49]
Lexi
The shipment of daggers were delivered only a few hours before the attack. They were supposed to be distributed to other cities, but the Venin swooped in before they had a chance and targeted the daggers first. Which can only mean One thing, the Venin knew about the shipment beforehand and too many people knew about the shipment schedule. Schedule. So there is no way to pinpoint who the mole might be. As we'll come to find out in Zayden's POV chapter, the traitor is Panchec. He sells Navarre and poor meal out because he wants power. Now what exactly that entails we will explore when we get to that big reveal. And we also highly doubt he is the only traitor. Rebecca has even confirmed that Venon have infiltrated Misgaeth before. Though we do think that Panchak is working with the Venon but is not one himself. So maybe there is a Sage or Maven among their ranks too.
- [32:33]
Nicole
I swear to God, if Devera or Keondra end up being a vettant, I'm gonna lose my shit. It's because I said I liked him. That's why Violet even says that there might be a traitor in this very room. And I 1000% think that she's correct. And no, I'm not just talking about the Cygn flyers. Although yes, definitely them too. And also second wing. Earlier in this book, Zaden did not want to know information because of the risk of accidentally leaking information to the Venin. We don't know how Venin pass information, which is infuriates me. But because of Xaden's fear early this book, it certainly seems like there's more to this info sharing than just missives. So there could be initiates in this room too who are passing info to the Venin via hive mind. That's the only term I can think of right now. And good God, I really hope that next book if Xaden is with the Venin, we get more info on this and like the ins and outs, that's one thing I'm really hoping for next book is that if Satan is with the Venin in their little hive mind camps and stuff like that, he starts learning more about the Venin ways. And so we as the audience get to learn a hell of a lot more too.
- [33:41]
Lexi
I just like remember reading this part for the first time about battle brief and getting chills. I was also convinced that the traitor was Daddy Atos. I did not expect it to be Panchik, but.
- [33:52]
Nicole
And then in hindsight it's so obvious. I love it.
- [33:55]
Lexi
It's so good. Exactly. Exactly.
- [33:57]
Nicole
After class there is no time to waste. It is time to uphold one of Riddick's demands. To tell Ree, Sawyer and Yesenia that Zaden is a Venon. I love that Violet is like, but does it have to be now? And Riddick says quote, one day battle brief is going to cover how a shadow wielder took out Corden. But you won't be sitting in your seat because they will already have killed you to stop him. I love this brilliant writing though because Violet says in response to why her and Xaden were acting weird is that Xaden is brooding. This is before she tells tells them about him being a Venin, to which Riddick says that's a word for it. Just as he presses down a corner of his ice wielding patch. Zaden is not even on the page and we're getting him tied to ice. I love an ice watch. It's so good. So, heading to the archives, Jinnia leads them to a windowless study room where they won't be seen or heard. Quick aside. This windowless study rooms takes me back to college because I would seek out these exact types of rooms where I would lock myself in there for like 8 to 10 hours and just write papers. Quick shout out to my 100 page paper on a Helena monologue from Midsummer Night's Dream. The prep I did not know I was doing for fantasy fangirls. But anyway, this room is for scribe cadets only, so talk fast. Violet.
- [35:13]
Lexi
She either trusts her friends or she doesn't. And ultimately of course she does. She has to. Like we were talking about last episode with how Riddick is upset that she kept another secret from them. When this tight knit group has proven time and time again that they are each other's rocks and always there for one another. But revealing to her closest friends that Zayn is slowly turning Venin. I love how she softens the blow a little instead of saying he is Venon. It still comes with a lot of dread and fear. Just like last year when she finally shared that Venon exists. She feels terrible for having lied to her friends and keeping this very very big secret, despite her reasoning to keep it hidden. In this case, it's not her secret to tell except as Riddick insisted on the aisle. Yet it does directly impact Violet and therefore her closest friends too. Too. Because they need full disclosure to know exactly how to be able to have her back.
- [36:00]
Nicole
This is slightly ironic given what just happened in battle. Brief Ri made the choice to be a squad leader over a friend and make the decision that Violet is better suited for the war in this moment. And here Violet is asking them to be her friends and to trust her versus being the quote unquote professionals and turn him in again. It's just that constant balance between friends versus leadership and war. I will say say this Violet. This went about as well as you ever could have hoped for. They are justifiably disappointed that she kept another secret after promising she wouldn't do that again last book, even though yes, it was not her secret to keep. But they also understand that Xaden, while Venon is still fighting on their side. But that doesn't mean they're all happy. Go lucky buddy buddy with Xaden. Not that they ever really were later later, during flight maneuver maneuvers, Ri looks at Xaden with her eyes narrowing and she explains that it's hard not to feel this way suspicious, worried, anxious, fearful, etc. Just to name a few. But she says that she is trying I'm going to give RE the most amazing amount of friend points here. I think she's handling this exceptionally well. I cannot say the same for how they will act in book four.
- [37:13]
Lexi
Exactly oh, it's time for another dream. And it's very similar to the dreams we got in Iron Flame. Violet is suspended in the air, an invisible hand around her throat. Lightning strikes in the distance. Ah, here's clue number one that this is not Violet's dream, it's Xaden. And I take that as Violet is off in the distance wielding her lightning. Though I suppose it could also be theophany. But I do think that it's Violet the Sage. Not a sage, but he actually is a sage tells Violet Zaden to quit fighting him, but he's supposed to be dead, which reassures Violet Zaden that this is only a nightmare.
- [37:50]
Nicole
I do think that in this moment, even though she doesn't know it's not her dream, she does know it's not a dream. But I don't think Xaden knows that it's a dream because she thinks, quote I repeat the phrase mentally when my lips refuse to form the words. We will learn later that she'll be able to meddle in dreams too. And I think that this is her trying to meddle and influence a thoughts while still thinking they're her own. But she hasn't had enough practice with it yet. Slash. She hasn't unlocked that level of power. So this is her unknowingly training her second signet.
- [38:19]
Lexi
That's so interesting. I never thought about that. Yeah, Violet Zaden falls to the ground and then Darna screams over by the ridgeline where the storm is. See, now we have focus on Andara, leading us readers to assume this must be Violet's dream. I Think that was even one of our big reasons that we thought that her second signet could not be dreamwalking. Because we did get things like this. This back in Iron Flame.
- [38:41]
Nicole
Exactly. Because there was focus on Taran and Indarna in the dreams last book, but now it just shows how in battle Zaden is paying close attention to where her dragons are. Oh, that's so cute.
- [38:54]
Lexi
Blue Fire is spreading up the hillside and burning fleeing civilians. As the fire heads toward the city walls of Dreys, we will later see.
- [39:01]
Nicole
Something very close, if not a one to one comparison. It's just. It's really close to this moment. Later in Imogen's chapter when Blue Fire engulfs Cure near the city, Wal calls. During the ending battle, the Sage comments.
- [39:14]
Lexi
On Violet Zaden's intense emotion, but quote, don't worry, it will fade in time. This calls back to what Jack has told us, but more so what Xaden has referenced to about the freedom to not feel any emotions when he channels Violet Xaden lunges forward but is shoved back to their knees by that invisible force. The Sage goes on. I'll allow you to help her this time. Just submit. Come to me. And if Violet Zaden doesn't, he has ways of bringing them to heal. Major clue number two that this is Zayden's with the Sage saying help her. However, the way this scene flows, it makes it seem like it's Andarna he's referencing to if he's talking to Violet. But the hurt is actually most likely Violet or even Sigail.
- [39:53]
Nicole
I'm actually assuming it's Segale because this seems, given how it's talking about Dreythus and the Blue Fire and all these connections to what we're going to see in the later battle, it seems like a premonition type dream. Which brings me to 40,000 more questions that I'm not even going to cover this episode. That is for next week's episode. But as as he says this, he pushes his robes up the length of his tanned arms. This is now the second time we get reference to tanned arms being the Sages. And this just is clue alarm going off in my brain like crazy. Back in Iron Flame, between the tanned arms, the eerily youthful face and the sweetness on his breath, I was freaking out of the similarities between who we now know as Berwin and and Zaden Sweetness. Because every single time Sweetness is referenced in Fourth Wing and Iron Flame. I won't say every time. It's like 95% of the time I think is the calculation I figured out. Sweetness is always being referred to around Zaden. If it weren't for the fact that we have confirmed that Fen was burned to death from Zaden watching himself, I would be freaking out that Fen might be Berwin. Like could Berwyn be a sibling of Fen's?
- [41:02]
Lexi
Maybe.
- [41:03]
Nicole
I'll get to that in a second. I don't think it's time traveling Xaden, but at this point who the fuck knows. Although I will say later in this stretch, Professor Kaori conjures a projection of a robed figure. Typically we see the robed figures on Berwyn or Sages or higher. And the next words out of his mouth are quote Professor Ryerson. And also the fact that Berwyn has a sort of Tyrandor in this dream. It makes it really hard not to see him as some form of Xaden no matter what. I truly believe that Berwin is somehow connected to Xaden in much more. More than him just being the Sage. We know that he's waited centuries for someone with Satan's power. This is something we learned from a dream last book. So he's old and therefore can't be like Naolin or his grandfather or his uncle or him or anything. Which does smush one of my favorite theories From Fantasy Book Nerd 4 on Instagram and that is that the sage is Naolin. And the reason that he can communicate in Xaden's dreams is because there's still that bond between Taryn and Sigale linking them all together. That's one reason it's super easy for him to tap into his mind. Honestly, I'm stumped with all these parallels. He's someone to Zaden. I just don't know.
- [42:16]
Lexi
I actually don't think he is someone to Zaden.
- [42:19]
Nicole
That's gonna be a fun bet to have vote.
- [42:22]
Lexi
That sure will be. Ah, but what's this? The sage draws a sword and rushes it toward Violet Zaden's chest. And not just any sword, it's the sword of Tirindor with the emerald adorned hilt.
- [42:34]
Nicole
It is interesting that here in this dream he has the sword of Tyrandor. He like takes it out of his robes. But the ending battle in Dreyfus, he does not have the sword of Tyrandor. But what's more is this quote. Wisps of silver hair blow in the breeze at the edge of my vision and the sword of Tyrandor rushes towards my chest. We hear silver hair and we think theophany. But I actually wonder if the silver hair here is to signify Violet and the sword of Tirindor is connected the two of them, because she is Tirindor's duchess, she's the protector at the very end, even though it is Berwin who's holding the sword.
- [43:09]
Lexi
So you think that's like dream symbolism?
- [43:11]
Nicole
That's kind of what I'm leaning towards because. Or else why would Berwyn have the sword of Tirandor Unless he's an ancestor of Zaden's and he was a duke or he was a leader of Tyrandor and that's how he's connected to Zaden.
- [43:23]
Lexi
I just understood it as a symbol that Zaden no longer has his sword of Tirndor and now it is being used against him him because he's falling.
- [43:31]
Nicole
Jolting awake from this dream, Violet reaches for the bond with Xaden and feels that his shields are down. But he's asleep and there's a stir down the bond. Oh my God. What good foreshadowing that we will come to learn later. No one can shield in their sleep. And of course that stirring down the bond is Zaden having a nightmare that.
- [43:50]
Lexi
She was just in reading this dream after reading the ending is like oh my God. Such major foreshadowing for the end. The attack on Dreyfus, Theophany the storm wielder and Violet the lightning wielder battling it out in the distance. And darn his return. The sage named Berwyn, as we'll find out, is encouraging Xaden to submit to him. And in Zayden's chapter pov he will be summoned to Berwyn, who is his sage. Which means they share a weird bond that we will discuss in another episode. Berwin even says he has ways to bring Zaden to heal. And even though he's about to kill him with the sword in the dream, in real life he will capture and threatens a gale. And that will be what brings Zaden to heel or does make him turn more venom when he has been resisting it so far. I was also thinking in regard to the sword, maybe it has a deeper meaning about using the sword against Venin. I don't know. But maybe the eerie way Berwin is communicating with Satan or Violet, as we're led to believe at this point in the story, brings up the question once again about Berwin's abilities as well as Violet's second sister Signet. It's widely believed that Berwyn is a dreamwalker as well, and that is how he is communicating with them. Here I can't help but float the idea of some kind of precognition. I just went through all the foreshadowing and it's so parallel that maybe it actually is its own form of dream precog. Just like Maren's dream with her family burning. I'm not saying dream precog is actually Violet's second signet, especially now that we know Auric signet is true precognition and that seems a little crowded in the precog area. Though we only know 10% of Violet's second signet right now and this is kind of a theme to keep an eye out for.
- [45:27]
Nicole
Wanting to shake off the dream, Violet looks over at the package that earlier Jsinia slipped to her, intercepting it so that Daddy Atos wouldn't open it like he does all of her mail. Imagine Daddy Atos's surprise if he had opened this and seen a Devarelli silk nightgown and a robe. Just that brings a little smile to my face. Remember back in Deverelli when Zaden caught Violet eyeing that particular silk shop? Then he and Dane went into that silk shop to get some insight on Nerelle Anselm. He also placed an order to have that silk shipped to a seamstress in Shantara to be made into a nightgown for violet. Book boyfriend. 10 out of 10 move. So good. Violet also realizes that it is the end of March, AKA it's Xaden's birthday. Knowing he has been brooding and pissy, Violet thinks that maybe it's time to try one of his own tests techniques. So she grabs a pen and paper and begins to write him letters. Oh, last book when Violet was brooding and she was closing herself off from Zaden, plus their alone time together was extremely limited, Xaden started writing her letters about his life and damn it worked. So just like Taryn mentioned for her to stop thinking like herself and start thinking like Ferris on Hedotes, it's time for her to start thinking like Satan. Also, quick side note, Brett and I have a tradition that before any big event we write each other letters and try to hide hide it for the other person so they don't notice until it's like go time. And let me tell you, it works every single time. You saw Brett wrote me a letter right before our first leaky con. That's right, live show. So it works. Let me tell you. Brava Zayden and Violet.
- [47:01]
Lexi
So you know how Venin channel from the earth and create a dead zone. So that means it's best for you and your dragon to be on the ground as little as possible in battle with a Venin. And when the Writer is on the ground, they have to make the most out of this tight window of being dismounted. Which means a new super difficult flight maneuver. Again we're seeing how the writer's tactics have to evolve with their new enemy. So here's how the new flight maneuver works. Dismount is a running landing, which is already a hard maneuver our second years learned in Iron Flame. Then wield your signet to defeat your opponent. Sure, no big deal. You know, just defeat your opponent and then take back to the sky in what Professor Kaori is calling a battle mount. Which is basically the dragon extending their leg so you jump onto their claw and then climb up to your seat.
- [47:45]
Nicole
Well, shit.
- [47:47]
Lexi
This is a little beyond Violet's athletic ability. But as she'll say to Ri, I'm never alright to do this. I just do it anyway. That's our girl.
- [47:55]
Nicole
First up, Bode, who nails the running landing like it's part of his everyday workout. Then he runs towards the projection, swings his sword decapitating the fake venom. Then Bode breaks out into an all out sprint from the projection towards his green swordtail as Cure returns. Cure extends his foreleg long enough for Bode to leap onto the claw just as the dragon accelerates. Then Bode climbs onto his seat. Round of applause for the perfection that was that maneuver. Which reminds Violet. Remember earlier when they were listing off names of all the people who could have changed the tide at the Scineva attack? But you know who they forgot who would have been a really damn good defense. How about the dude who can counter signets? Yes, later we will learn that Bode's signet does not work against Theophany. So we assume that it doesn't work against Maven, maybe even Sages. But at this point in the story we don't know that. So yet again, Bode is a forgotten asset. Which I'm just gonna say this is some pretty damn good evidence pointing towards him being the Venon brother at the very end of this book. Remember Rebecca Yarrow said that it is quote someone who feels like whatever they were given is not enough. He's been given this incredible power and yet he's still forgotten about. This could absolutely leave him feeling like he's not good enough as a result, even with this incredible power he's given. Which brings me to a very ominous line from Zaden as by Violet is teasing him about huh, Maybe she fell for the Wrong cousin. Zaden says, quote, it would be a shame to kill my last living relative. If Bode is the brother and he ends up being full bad guy Venon, I think Zaden could kill him.
- [49:41]
Lexi
Let's jump to how Violet handles this maneuver, because Taran has a plan like always. I always love in writing when we're left just in the dark so we can see the plan play out on the page. Rebecca Yaros particularly does a good job of letting the reader in just about enough, but still makes us lean in with anticipation for what's about to happen. I want to break down how Violet and Taryn make this work for them because we have to celebrate how the right way isn't the only way. They're airborne and start diving toward the target. Violet unbuckles herself in her saddle and holding the belt for balance, stands on her seat.
- [50:14]
Nicole
I love when Zaden is like, what the fuck are you doing? And she replies back with quote, busy right now, love. I am Molten Molten for the nickname Love.
- [50:25]
Lexi
As they speed toward the target, Taryn is not level out like the other dragons for her to do the running landing. She lets go of her belt, runs for Taryn's shoulder and leaps off of him. Violet starts plummeting to the ground. Oh no. But she throws her arms out, locking every muscle in her body. Taryn's talons grab her shoulders to stop her fall and then releases her a few feet from the ground so she safely lands six feet in front of the target. Violet releases a crack of power, drawing her fingers downward to pull the energy from the sky. And Kachow. The lightning strike hits the dark wielder projection, leaving a scorch mark precisely where the target was. But we're not done with this crazy maneuver yet. Violet throws her arms up again, and Taran uses his talons to scoop her up around the midsection. Secured in his claw, Taryn and Violet fly off. Taryn then swings his body to a vertical position and throws Violet up out of his claws clutches. I really hope you're watching on YouTube right now for my demonstration here. So now Violet is rising up, up, up, up. And Taryn positions himself just beneath her, allowing her to be able to grab onto one of his spikes near his shoulder and navigate her way back to the saddle, buckling herself back in three huzzahs for Violet and Taryn. Huzzah, huzzah, huzzah.
- [51:45]
Nicole
With Violet having nailed her unorthodox approach, it is time. For the first year, Baelor only skins his knee on landing, Aveline fractures her Collarbone. Ouch. Sloane completes the exercise with a grace that is similar to her older brother Liam, which go Sloane. She was quite hopeless at the beginning of last book and look at her now. I'm so proud. But she doesn't even pretend to wield. But I still give her mad points. Lynx basically face plants in the mud and gets a broken nose. Poor Lynx. And then there's Auric who lands a good 20ft from the production without even breaking making a sweat. But instead of charging at the projection itself, he turns instead towards Kaori and Zayden and flings a palm sized ax towards them. And while Zaden just like watches it and doesn't even flinch, Kaori drops the projection as the ax lands a foot in front of him. To quote re I think he won and yes, yes he did. I love this insight into Auric's thinking. This maneuver shows point blank just how differently he thinks from everyone else. Instead of focusing on the issue at hand, he looks for the reason behind this attack and tries to cut it off at the knees. I know I've said this a million times, but here's a million and one. This is why he would be an amazing king. I do wonder next year if you know, before king he becomes squad leader. I'm going yes.
- [53:13]
Lexi
I still am so confused how Bestguy and classes and all of that are still gonna keep going going.
- [53:18]
Nicole
Well, I think that he'll be in Oracia. I think that's tearing or they're going to start peeling off where it is going to be back to Oration versus Navarrean cadets. But in Oracia he'll be a squad leader.
- [53:31]
Lexi
After class, Zaden and Violet hang back. Now that they're both back at Biscaya, he's Professor Ryerson again. However, there isn't the same intensity of watchful eyes to make sure they follow the codex because they're not allowed to have a relationship, right? Remember? But I suppose Daddy Atos has enough other things to focus on instead of setting people to watch over them like a hawk like he did earlier in this book. He's also going to make Zaden resign here very soon. So maybe he's just like whatever, I have bigger things to worry about right now. But all the same, Zaden is still brooding about how he's only going to get worse and Violet should run, but she is not backing down. Her love isn't fickle and she'll never run. She's being patient with him because she recognizes he does need to go with all of this emotional processing. And she's also reassuring him that she's right here and she loves him and he doesn't need to be brooding like this. At least he has a number in mind for when he will feel a sense of stability. More on all that later this episode. Zadie needs to give himself something tangible to work toward as a measurement of his trust in himself and his current state.
- [54:30]
Nicole
Violet tells the birthday boy to read the note later, but open the present now and he unwraps a black onyx wrist cuff with a flat piece of a rectangular stone on top, which we will learn is a piece of the broken turret from Ryerson House. Oh, so this is more than just a sick piece of jewelry. Violet hopes that when things get hard, when he goes on that ice, he can look down and imagine the two of them sitting on the roof of Ryerson House, holding hands and looking over the city. The gift giving this episode is exceptional, and Zaden thinks so too, because he kisses her tenderly and and thanks her oh my heart. But this wouldn't be an Empyrean gift if it didn't come with a few theories immediately. Reading this, I wondered if this would have something to do with the compass, like will it point to the cuff? Or if we get more Xaden POV chapters next book. Like I don't think it's going to be quite the same story structure as it has been, where it's predominantly violet and then a little one of Zaden. I think it's going to be more, I'll say 3070 next book. So are we going to see Xaden maybe being on the ice being in full asymm mode, which could be just completely unhinged. But then he looks down at the cuff and it's almost like it's a tether back to that vision and himself. In a Reddit article by environmental pop9590 they bring up a really good point. Zaden gave Violet daggers back and forth wing and what were on those daggers? Oh yeah, runes. So could Zaden's cuff also have runes? Violet's pretty terrible at runes class, so maybe, maybe not. But it also might be a tracking rune that the compass can only find. Or Brennan helped with this particular present, at least the roof part. So maybe he attached a rune to the bottom of the roof piece and then stuck it on top of the onyx cuff. So maybe he weaves some kind of special rune into it. He doesn't know about Satan yet, so it wouldn't be something to do with Veninism or anything like that. Environmental pop 9590 also brings back how last book we learned that super runed onyx stones are what live inside Wyvern. So here's where my really dark theory takes place.
- [56:38]
Lexi
Oh no.
- [56:40]
Nicole
If Xaden is completely lost to himself for the most part of next book, I don't think it'll be entirely. But for the most part. Oh God. What if at one point Violet takes down a wyvern and the wyvern like opens up and she sees the inside is Zaden's onyx cuff and that was one of his wyvern.
- [56:59]
Lexi
I hear that. I am going to say that won't happen because even if he's a maven, he will still love her and that'll be his little thing that he still has to hold on to for her. I love the idea that the compass could have something to do with it. I don't know again, like how that might work. But maybe. Maybe Brennan. But I could see it having something to do with it. Maybe. But. Oh, we get news from Arisha and it's not good. Folks, this is kind of a common theme here. Felix just arrived at Tuba Scythe and wastes no time sharing the latest on Orisha's words. Friendly reminder that Felix is one of the Orishan assembly members and became Violet's mentor in Iron Flame. He gave her the conduit and has taught her about the extent of her signet, how it's not just lightning, but rather power. And he's the one who taught her how to manipulate that power to be able to aim like what she accomplished for that recent flight maneuver. Felix may be a Dragon Rider who graduated from Bestgaeth2, but he's been in Oresha at least for the past six years as one of the leaders of the revolution. But back to his bad news, two more wyvern came through the wards yesterday and made it an hour before they fell, which is 10, 10 minutes further than wyverns made it last week. What? This has been happening multiple times recently with even Orisha's wards. The wyvern literally go across the borders and into the wards and they drop dead. And they're like kind of dead, but because they can't be resurrected. Because remember how in Iron Flame, Mira and Violet cut one open and it was still buzzing with that complex rune. So that is how that they knew that the oration wards are not actually fully up. But this is crazy that the wyvern are flying through the wards and making it a whole Hour? That's bad. It can only mean one the oration wards are weakening way faster than anticipated and our crew is running out of time before Orisha has no wards. Plus I'm pretty sure the Vinnin are sending the Wyvern to test the wards. They know that they're going to fall soon and the Vidin will be prepared for a coordinated attack when the wards completely fail. Felix is here at Misgaeth to train Violet because she needs to continue getting better with her signet putting all the more pressure on her that she's ultimately human, humanity's biggest hope. And no, he can't wait for her to come to Orisha next month. He doesn't know if the wars will even hold till then. Bad. This is bad. Friends. Violet, it is time to kick your butt into training mode. As if you weren't already in that mode. But now it's turned up.
- [59:14]
Nicole
Who's ready for a montage? 3 weeks of working out with Imogen. Anytime she's not in class or eating, she's training with Felix on the mountaintop, which it's going rather well with Felix. Her aim and numbers of strikes are increasing, but everything else is falling to shit. The Western line consistently is having to fall back as the Dark Wielders make money moves towards Dreythis, which is where Garak and Meera are. So hello, extra stress. Zayn is refusing to spend any alone time with Violet and then he is called out to Tirindor for 10 days, causing Taryn to go absolutely feral without his mate and he's impossible to be around.
- [59:53]
Lexi
And not the good kind of feral, not bad kinds, the good kind of.
- [59:55]
Nicole
Feral, the bad kind, like the raccoon kind of barrel. Then there's Andarna, who is still mourning the rejection from the Irids. She's been shutting Violet out of the bond, causing Violet to be unsure if she's pushing too hard or pushing too little. Then when doing the running, landing projection, flight maneuvers, and Darna does appear to watch for a second, but it's for just that one moment before she launches into the sky. Her scale's the same color as Terence, and Darna thought with all her might that she would be accepted back with her family. And with that rejection she is now really aimless, not feeling like she belongs anywhere. She can't carry her rider, so she doesn't belong in maneuvers. She is not a black dragon, but she can at least pretend to give her some sense of belonging with Taryn. This vacant hollow. Andarna is so different from what we're used to seeing from this optimistic fuck you teenager attitude of our favorite young dragon.
- [60:50]
Lexi
The fandom's favorite character is Back, Back, Llewelyn. Yay.
- [60:55]
Nicole
The person, not the place.
- [60:57]
Lexi
This time we will be talking about the place soon, but don't worry, I have it all clear for everybody. In case you need a refresher on who Llewellyn is. Llewellyn has been representing Tyrandor on Xaden's behalf in the Scenarium while he was on the Isles mission and when Xaden is unavailable. While teaching at Bisgaeth after the rebellion almost seven years ago, Llewellyn became the Duke of Tyrandor instead of House Renowned. He pretended to be loyal to Navarre and the Crown, but he has been secretly sympathetic to Arisha Zayden and the revolution. When this was revealed at the beginning of this book, Llewelyn was stripped of his dukeship and Zaden was reinstated as Duke of Tyrandor. But Llewellyn still serves as Zayden's proxy for many political matters. Because Zayden's a little busy, we're introduced to Llewellyn and the Duke of Caldir arguing. Surprisingly, here at Biscayth, instead of meeting in Caldir, where the scenario uses usually gets together, they're arguing over the big political debate whether to let Paromish refugees into Navarre. Llewellyn insists to let them in, otherwise these civilians will die in Poromil. As the Venin keep on attacking, they'll be safe within Navarre's wards. So it's the morally right thing to do to save them and let them in. The Duke of Caldir, however, pushes back that Tyrandor's desire to do this does not outweigh the good of the Kingdom. He believes that if the Peromish civilians are allowed entry to an Navarre, they don't have enough food resources to feed double the population, for instance. And Navarre has already tried to help Poromil, but to no avail. They've already weakened their outposts by sending Poromil as many alloy hilted daggers as they can spare. And they've sent riders. But look at what happened at Siniva. It's all for nothing. Navarre is drawing the line at letting civilians in, and by helping, they're already hurting themselves. And that is a big no no for this nationalist kingdom. Navarre and the Kingdom take care of double the population. Population. If you ask me, double the population means double the help to get more resources. I understand it's not that simple. These double edged sword situations never are. However, Caldir and the rest of Navarre are not willing to figure out other strategies. I think the promas are perfectly capable of gardening or fishing or hunting or whatever. They need to get more food supplies anyway. And you know what? Everybody can eat just a tiny bit less. But you know what?
- [63:06]
Nicole
What? I have a fantasy gripe. Learn to garden vegetables.
- [63:11]
Lexi
That is a fantasy. Potatoes, not petunias.
- [63:18]
Nicole
Shout out to our ACOTAR coverage for that one.
- [63:22]
Lexi
Yes, figuring out the food situation is not nothing, but they're also enforcing double conscript rates in the provinces which means they need more bodies to train for the school war. They're refusing to look at any of the pros of letting the promish in because there is such deeply ingrained prejudice and individualism Way of thinking. Take care of your own kingdom before anyone else. It's been Navarro's whole stance for 600 years.
- [63:48]
Nicole
I love that. As Xaden enters, Violet wonders if he's channeled again or if they're on day 66. Later, on this very 66th day, Zaden will leave for Tyrandor. What happens in chapter 66 of this book? Violet has lost all 12 hours of her memory and Xaden has channeled and he has left and is gone. Da. So good. This argument between Llewellyn and the Duke of Caldir continues with Zaden and now an appearing Halden. Tioridor is basically saying fuck you to the king's orders and opening up her borders to any promish refugees. After all, Zaden can do whatever he he wants with his province. Ooh, Princeling did not like that. Your province? It's my kingdom. I can't help but think about my boy, Tywin Lannister. Any man who must say I am the King is no true king. But guess what Halden? You're not the king right now. You're first in line. But there's another one who could take your place.
- [64:55]
Lexi
Oh, Xaden literally has the balls, the giant hanging balls to threaten this prince insane that Auric will suddenly find himself first in line for the throne if Holden actually follows through. I think this is foreshadowing in and of itself.
- [65:11]
Nicole
Oh, I think Halden's dying in battle. Next book 100%.
- [65:15]
Lexi
I really do wonder if Zaden is either going to kill him or it will be Violet who has to make that crazy decision. Because it's going to be her against Halden.
- [65:25]
Nicole
Anyway, Halden is threatening to bring his troops into Tirindor again. The foreshadowing for this being a battle. Next book. Absolutely.
- [65:33]
Lexi
See, I want to say it wouldn't happen because it's so counterproductive to this whole everyone uniting against the Venin together initiative. But in a matter of weeks Halden will indeed have troops stationed along the Caldeer border, just waiting for King Tari to declare war on Tyrandor for defying the Scenarium. So my logic is just more logical than Halden.
- [65:54]
Nicole
Really. Halden's so logical though.
- [65:58]
Lexi
This will lead Zaden to cut off shipments of Teladium, which stalls the War College's forage. If I remember correctly, this isn't resolved by the end of the book. So this major Navarre versus Tyrandor conflict will indeed carry into the next book. Then we have to wonder if Nevarr finds out what happened to Zane Zaden and the fallout of deaths and dragon eggs missing and then maybe they will condemn Xaden. I'm leaning toward this being an opening of book four political issue like how Navarre and poor meal having to ally was for Onyx Storm and Violet now as Duchess of Tyrandor will be a badass with the Scenarium and negotiate or straight up threaten Halden and he'll back down to her. We can't forget what Violet did in Devarelli and he dotis those were probably warm ups for how she's going to take charge and stand up for Tyrandor and all people including Promish sent citizens. But I also don't see her being ruthless enough to deprive the kingdom of forging weapons. So she'll come up with her own Violet esque solution.
- [66:54]
Nicole
Never forget that Rebecca Yarrow said that Violet's opening song is look what you made me do, but innocent people. I. I wouldn't put it past her.
- [67:05]
Lexi
Okay, so it's like this major differing of opinions between Tirindor and Navarre Bar will either be resolved very quickly and the plot will move on, or it will be a key theme of the story. And yeah, I'm leaning more and more toward it playing a big part. Especially with the state of our current political climate and how real life themes, values and cautionary tales are very openly woven into this story. As Rebecca likes to tell people, we.
- [67:31]
Nicole
Get an ice watch in this scene.
- [67:33]
Lexi
Ice Ice baby.
- [67:36]
Nicole
Zaden is very much on the ice during this conversation. Even having to do a double take when looking back at Violet, it's like he was so far on the ice that he didn't even recognize her at first. Remember, on the ice is Xaden tapping into that emotionless side of being a Venon. The person who doesn't worry about repercussions of killing, you know, I don't know, the Crown Prince, or at least threatening his life. So at least he didn't kill him. You know, he did threaten his life, though. Yeah, he deserved it. The whole exchange ends with quote. Halden's jaw flexes once, twice. Then he glares at Xaden. Quote, you've been warned and you've been informed.
- [68:15]
Lexi
Oh, snap.
- [68:17]
Nicole
Even though I do think this line.
- [68:19]
Lexi
Is a little cheesy.
- [68:20]
Nicole
I don't fucking care.
- [68:21]
Lexi
I love it. All right, well, we need to talk about how second squad's first year, Lynx starts manifesting shadows, which. What. What's supposed to be a once in a generation signet. And Sadie already has it. So now there are two shadow wielders within just a few years of each other. That's unheard of. Thankfully, Zaden is here as Lynx's signet manifests. So he coaches him through this terrifying first sign of his power as shadows envelop his hands. When Lynx thinks of himself in a place that he feels safe and happy and calm, the shadows recede and Zaden instructs Reed to take him to Professor Carr immediately.
- [68:57]
Nicole
I love the way that Zayn talks to Lynx in the scene. It sounds really similar to how he coaches Violet through shielding back and forthling, just without making out the space.
- [69:09]
Lexi
That would be a plot twist. I was just gonna think, like, wow, some shadow wielders together could really be an interesting bedroom experience. Anyway, see some shadows being used very.
- [69:21]
Nicole
Creatively later this stretch.
- [69:22]
Lexi
So the big question, why has someone else manifested this extremely rare scene signet? According to Zaden, magic knows, we've known since fourth wing that magic likes all things in balance. But what exactly does that mean? Well, to be honest, we don't really know. And we've got to lean into some higher power magic at work here, so we're not too literal. Okay. Friends signets may manifest based on a person's needs and who they are at their core, but the, I'll call it overarching magic of this world also plays a role. Role? Who knows, Maybe even it's the gods at work here. For instance, Violet and Zaden are this world's first lightning and shadow wielders at the same time since the Great War. Presumably these signets belong to two of the first six who helped vanquish the Venin. History is repeating itself. And that's no accident that they both manifested these powerful and complementary signets when their world is threatened by Venon again. Theophany will also tell us that Lilith manifested Stormyielding as an answer to her which I take as this overarching force of magic. Or the gods granted Lilith the signet as a way to combat the powerful Storm wielding Venom. So as Zaden understands it, Lynx is the balance to Zaden's Shadow. Wielding Lynx is manifesting Shadows as an answer to Zaden being Venon with no good outcome for Zaden staying on this side of the war. Because a shadow wielder on civilization's side is necessary to defeat the Venin. They need lightning and shadow wielders to have a chance like Kaori has said. So yeah, very worrying and ominous for Zayan's future because this is like the greater force in the world declaring he has been rep placed as well as a shadow wielder has to combat Xaden as the Venom's very powerful shadow wielder. I wonder if Lynx will die next book and this other shadow wielder is eliminated.
- [71:05]
Nicole
I read this 100% as Lynx's death sentence sadly.
- [71:08]
Lexi
Okay.
- [71:09]
Nicole
Which I think is going to be. I just really think Xaden's about to go through a villain era. I think he's going to be the one who does it.
- [71:16]
Lexi
Well didn't Rebecca say in one of the interviews I can't remember which one. It wasn't with us that he is her favorite villain in book 4? I don't remember that. But I have seen several people say that. So I don't have the source or the video but I've seen that floating on the interwebs. Let's just have some fun with other theories though. Maybe Lynx will be expected to face off Zaden with everyone assuming Zaden is full bad guy now. Like what's expected of Violet with Theophany? Does this mean Lynx and Violet will become closer next book and he'll play a more prominent role than background first character. I don't mean closer in a romantic way but working as a team because Lightning and Shadow are complementary where maybe Violet will help him as much as she can can knowing what she knows about Zaden's powers. And it'll almost be like this internal conflict for her because she's. It's almost like she's sharing Zaden's secrets about shadow wielding with somebody else. But then her heart would still be holding out hope for Xaden's good influence in all of this and that he won't actually be bad. I could see a lot of internal conflict for Violet around All of that, no matter what. I don't think Lynx's shadow wielding will be nearly as strong as Zaden's. Full stop. Just because it's been noted so many times how powerful Zaden 6 it is. All of this to say Link's manifesting Shadows and this being a symbol that magic likes all things in balance does not bode well for Zaden. This is definitely not helping her already brooding Jon Snow. To him, this is a blatant reminder that he is on a ticking clock. In fact, Zaden insists he has to go. I think like even right now. For one, Atos asked him to resign his professorship because of his extended absences as Duke of Tirandor. And for once they're in agreement. So long. Farewell, Professor Zaddy. It was fun while it lasted.
- [72:51]
Nicole
A single tear drops down my cheek.
- [72:55]
Lexi
Because he really does have to go to Llewellyn, a city in Tirandor. Remember, it's a place and a person. And Melgren demanded they double their teladium output for Alloy and it's straining the miners. Plus there's unrest after the announcement about doubling conscripts. Yep, I think you're right, Nicole. This unrest is going to be an underlying plot in the next book that Violet has to deal with. But let's be honest, that's not the only reason he says he has to go. All that talk of stabilizing and a glimmer of hope. Hope is dashed after seeing Lynx manifest those shadows. And Satan can't just stay here anymore. Control is prolonging the inevitable. He has work to do before he's not able to do it anymore. And he's pulling back from Violet.
- [73:33]
Nicole
Seeing the hope leaving Xaden's eyes, it causes Violet to start panicking. So she is giving him everything she has in her tool belt. If he won't fight for himself, fight for her, fight for Sigail and Taryn who might not survive him leaving. Fight for the future she sees so clearly. And at the very least, fight for the possibility of what might happen if he fully gives up. Is she gonna have to turn in order to keep the three of them alive? Remember, if he leaves, what's the Gale gonna do? Is she gonna go with him and then put a lot of tension between her and Taryn? Is she gonna stay and then hurt Xaden and her bond? It's like there's no winning there. So as Violet is saying all of this down the bond in desperation, a thousand emotions go through Zaden's face and then they're all gone. And he is on the ice again. We learned in Devarelli that one of Xaden's biggest pull towards going more and more on the ice is because when he channels, he doesn't feel anything. Those big, intense emotions get to go away. Huzzah. And while he might not be channeling right now, he is choosing the lack of emotion versus the heavy, intense feelings he needs to experience in order to fight. Like Violet is saying. So when Llewellyn, the person, not the place, tells him that Xaden is needed in a meeting with the Duke of Lucerys, Xaden walks away, leaving Violet in shock because Llewellyn walked in on the conversation he believes is all about Violet feeling like Xaden is choosing Tyrandor over her and their relationship, which is just laughable considering what's really going on. Llewellyn gives her some advice. Zayden and Tyrandor are now the same thing, just like Llewellyn and Llewellyn are the same thing. And you can't put xenophobia, Zaden, or your relationship over the province. It's too tumultuous of a time. And Violet, your purpose right now is to be what Tirandor needs. This is so beautifully ironic, given that she will be his duchess in a matter of weeks. Anyway. There's that interesting line, though, that Llewellyn says, quote, I've seen how hard it can be to love someone in power. I want to talk about this for a second because I have a crack theory. Theory.
- [75:40]
Lexi
Oh, boy.
- [75:41]
Nicole
Was Llewellyn the person, not the place, in love with Fen? And were they secretly together because Fen needed to produce an heir? So he entered a loveless marriage contract with Talia, and him and Llewellyn either had an affair or they had to stop seeing each other. But then when Fen was killed after the rebellion, it was one of the reasons that Llewellyn continued fighting for Orisha in secret to preserve Fen's vision. Vision. And one of the reasons he helped raise Xaden. So I think that Fen and Llewellyn were an item.
- [76:13]
Lexi
I like that.
- [76:14]
Nicole
I do too.
- [76:15]
Lexi
I like that.
- [76:17]
Nicole
That's a fun theory, but not.
- [76:18]
Lexi
That's an actual fun theory.
- [76:19]
Nicole
Yes.
- [76:21]
Lexi
Earlier in the stretch of chapters, Re and Sawyer were arguing, and the fact that he isn't willing to fly yet came up. He fired back that he can't, not with this prosthetic, because it's not ready. And as Sawyer said, quote, slieg isn't Taran, and I'm not about to ask him to make exceptions for me. Not when he risked bonding a repeat in the first place. Ah, there it is. Sawyer has always been self conscious that he's a repeat. No dragon wanted to bond with him his actual first year, so he had to do it over again. But guess what? Now he is bonded and he's a dragon rider. And while that is amazing and wonderful, he still carries this sense of shame that he really wasn't good enough at one time point. And he wants to prove to his dragon, who did take a chance on a previously unbonded, that he is worthy of him. Now that he can't ride like a normal rider, that shame really weighs on him. He needs accommodations and it's been debilitating since he lost his leg because he thinks that his dragon deserves better. Sawyer's always worried about being less than because at one point he was less than as a unbonded. And that sticks with him. I think that how Violet eventually responds to this statement helps Sawyer see things in a different light. Light to where he's at least willing to try. And why he brings Violet with him out on the flight field for that first attempt to fly again. As Violet says, flying differently is worth it. Sawyer has been working toward the run and making adjustments to the prosthetic for the climb, but it's not quite right yet for him to truly hope. While I do believe what he is saying is true, I also think this is largely him being hesitant of trying and then failing. And he wants to aim for perfection first, especially when he says that they live in an environment that produces perfection and uniformity. In other words, he can't fail and he doesn't want to try until he feels confident that he won't fail, which he's wondered if that may never be. Remember that if people fail, they usually die in the biscuit. Yes, exactly. But luckily that's not the case, because here he and Violet are again. I love how he gravitates toward Violet for helping him navigate navigate this very vulnerable step. She can understand it more than anyone because of her own physical limitations. So now here the two of them are, along with our dragons, several weeks later in the flight field at 4:30am, a.k.a. a time no one else will be in the flight field to witness this. He's made himself a prosthetic and he needed to figure out the more practical side of its usage for mounting his dragon, because he does think he'll be okay once he's up in the seat. It's just getting up there that's the problem. Sleek is all for helping Sawyer, but Sawyer doesn't want to dishonor his dragon by making him help him climb up to get to his seat. Because, after all, it's ingrained in these cadets that dragons bow to no one. And these writers either need to figure out how to get on and stay on a dragon, or they're not worthy of being a writer in the first place. But it's not that black and white, as we know from Violet and Taryn.
- [79:12]
Nicole
And it's just showing how much closer these two are getting. And it does worry me a little, because next book he's at Oratia and she's at Buzg Gaieth. But I'm gonna save my speculation for how they'll rectify that for later, while watching Sawyer attempt to overcome this particularly difficult part of mounting. And Darna pipes up, after weeks of eerily sad silence, wondering if it would be helpful for her to use her tail to give him a little boost. The words are music to Violet's inner ears, though her little one has always been so optimistic, believing in herself and her abilities just as much as she believes in Violet and her abilities. And having that absent for a few weeks was torturous, to say the least, for Violet. But hearing that Andarna is tapping back into that side of her again, even if the offer is not accepted by Sawyer. But it's the opening that Violet needed to talk to Andarna.
- [80:02]
Lexi
Seeing this opportunity to be there for Andarna and for her to maybe open up to accepting support, Violet repeats Andarna's words back to her that she told Violet at the beginning of this book when Violet compartmentalized her grief for her mother. Quote, you can grieve and Violet will be here when and if she's ready to talk about it. Ah, but Violet, you didn't let yourself grieve. And Tar doesn't let himself grieve. These two that Andarna looks up to and cares about so much compartmentalize their own grief, because that's what you're supposed to do as Dragon and Rider. Going back to our whole conversation about Sawyer just now, it's so sweet how.
- [80:36]
Nicole
Much Andarna emulates the habits of those she wants to belong with. Like, it just breaks my heart. Heart. Also, the whole Tarn doesn't let himself grieve. I bet you anything that's for Naolin.
- [80:47]
Lexi
Yes, absolutely.
- [80:48]
Nicole
Yeah.
- [80:49]
Lexi
Biscayth is so brutal because there's no time to grieve on battlefields. The quadrant Sharpens these cadets into weapons where emotion needs to take a major backseat. And Taran is the second largest dragon on the continent, a known battle general, and not the most emotional. So yes, Andarna has a point. And yes, yes, Violet recognizes that and takes accountability. They're allowed to feel their feelings, and she is trying as hard as it is to balance being a human with emotions and a hardened warrior who needs to push through. I just love their relationship and how these two communicate so much. Last thing for this scene. I am cheering Sawyer on so much now that he is in his seat. No, it does not matter how you got there. You are a writer. You deserve to be there and he knows it. He needed that self assurance and I'm so excited for Sawyer and just so proud of him. All right, time to say goodbye to Buzgaeth for the rest of this book. We're not gonna see Bizgayath again for the rest of Onyx Storm. That's crazy.
- [81:46]
Nicole
I don't think we're gonna see it again until multiple chapters into the next book because. And it'll be like a scenario meeting where Violet walks in and she's like, what's up, bitches?
- [81:56]
Lexi
Remember that cadets rotate to Orisha for runes intensives, where they learn under Professor Trissa before returning back to Basgae for the regular schedule. The leadership accompanying second squad's rotation are Kaori, Felix, and Panchak. Okay, Felix definitely makes sense. He lives in Orisha and has only been in Biscaya to train Violet. With Violet now going to Orisha, of course he's going back. Kaori is wanting to come with a group in hopes of seeing Andarna. He's fascinated with her being an Irid and wants to learn more. However, she is not having it. In fact, Andarna will snap at him when he walks a little too close to her. When they do land in a reaction, Orisha and Violet will have to shut Kaori down for wanting to study her. But Kaori will admit that he's also wanting to travel to Orisha because he wants to see how this Empyrean functions. Orisha has its own hatching grounds. And while we don't know much, we do know that they have their own elders here. I'm so curious if this is foreshadowing for the dragon politics of these two Empyreans, especially based off our earlier conversation about Navarre versus Tyrandor. And it'll be like these two Empyreans pitted against each other. Other. But what about Pancheck? Do you think he's coming so he can help the Venin with their upcoming invasion of Dreyfus? Yes, yes, yes. Or maybe he's being tasked with keeping an eye on Violet.
- [83:08]
Nicole
Yes, yes, that too.
- [83:10]
Lexi
Kaori thinks he's coming to check out the Empyrean here too, but he's totally got to be coming for info to pass along to the venom.
- [83:17]
Nicole
Well, especially if the wards are slowly, not so slowly, failing. He's also probably to report on the status of the current Wardstone.
- [83:25]
Lexi
You are so right there. Oh my gosh. I remember even when reading this part it was like, well he's kind of a random person to come to Orisha. But then I didn't think anything else of it. So I am going to be keeping a close eye on anything else he might be coordinating behind the scenes. Once when we are in Orisha, it.
- [83:42]
Nicole
Is time for our, I think final travel math. We know that it is 18 hours to fly from Orisha to Bazgaya to last book, but that was with an all dragon riot. And here we have Griffins included in the formation. So knowing that an all Dragon Riot travels 42.6 miles per hour and they flew for 18 hours, we can calculate the distance was 766.8 miles or 1234 kilometers, or basically just shy of the length of Texas or Italy for our Europeans friends. But with a Griffin riot they're going not 42.6 miles per hour, they're instead going 31.2 miles per hour, aka the bane of my existence. So this would instead of taking them 18 hours, it would take them 24.1 hours. For reference, it takes an average car 16 hours to drive. End to end in Texas.
- [84:38]
Lexi
Back in her and Zaden's room at Orisha, Brennan comes a knockin'and. Once they're safely within the sound shields of the warded bedroom, Brennan has some tough news. He can't mend Xaden. After Xaden left Misgaeth, when Lynx manifested shadows, he did spend some time in Orisha before actually going to Llewellyn or when he was between the two tier cities. I'm not exactly sure. And yep, he told Brennan he is turning Venon in hopes he could help ment him. Not unlike what Nolan did and sort of try, at least tried to do with all last book with Jack.
- [85:08]
Nicole
Zayden and Brennan have been working to get that Venin out of him. They've tried silent offerings at every local temple. Local is doing a hell of a lot of work here because do they have a temple devoted to each and every single God? We only know about Dune, Amari and Zinal around Oratia, so who knows? They've tried pushing magic back into the earth. I just imagine like earthbending from Avatar, which is like, you know, they've tried sitting with eggs in the hatching ground, which. I can only imagine all of this as a training montage. And it brings me so much joy to imagine montages. Zaden sitting and meditating with eggs in the hatching grounds, or him kind of.
- [85:45]
Lexi
Sitting there being like, I don't think this is working.
- [85:49]
Nicole
I feel like Brennan would be really into it, though. Like, he'd be like, just close your eyes. But this also means that they were led into the hatching grounds, which is a big fucking deal. It also means that Xaden would know exactly where the eggs and the hatching grounds are, and I don't like that.
- [86:09]
Lexi
Oh, that's a sobering thought.
- [86:11]
Nicole
Yeah. But anyway, Brennan was about to say that Zaden sent a letter from Llewellyn. The place, not the person yesterday that had a weird. And then he's cut off by Violet. Had a weird what? Brennan. I'm assuming it's because what we learned from Zaden later, he was beyond the wards and he kept his control. So maybe it had a weird hope to it because he thinks that he can resist the pole indefinitely, but he doesn't want to get too hopeful until he hits day 76.
- [86:40]
Lexi
I think that he was going to say a weird idea or something along those lines and proceed to what Brennan will follow up with.
- [86:47]
Nicole
Okay, well, because that brings me to my next one. There's one thing that they haven't tried yet, and that is mending the spot where Xaden turned Venin at best Gaieth. But sadly, they don't get around to it. But anyway, I'm once again going to point out the connection of mending and the cure, though, because the more and more I think about the idea of mending the soul is basically a way to resurrect it. Remember, this is what we talked about last episode with the Irids, and I just can't help but cling to that possibility. Violet does do some clinging of her own. She clings to hope after days of fearing for Xaden, thinking he'd fully given up and accepted his Veninism. These offhanded trials that Brennan is sharing tells her one thing. Zayden has not given up, and he's still fighting it. That emotionless side of him who was on the ice when she begged him to fight for her. Their dragons, their future. He's gone for now. And in his place is the old Xaden, who does want to do whatever it takes to save himself and therefore his lady. I guess. Ladies and Taryn, before Xaden comes into this episode and this really, truly turns Rated R. Sorry, Hayden. We must discuss something that. That is just gonna keep me up at night until book four. As Violet is reading a book from Tokha, my brows rise at the next passage I read, and I go over it once more to be sure I've caught onto a pattern. That makes three. What does this mean, three?
- [88:11]
Lexi
What?
- [88:12]
Nicole
We know from chapter 15 that Tocharis has sent Violet tomes on dark wielders, but we don't know what the names of those tomes are. Exactly. I can't help but think about the epigraph to this. Chapter 49 is a chapter from one of those books.
- [88:26]
Lexi
Yes. Yes.
- [88:27]
Nicole
The autograph goes as follows. QUOTE 472au Wilhaven Breivik. With the exception of one house, the village was desiccated overnight by a single Venin, estimated to be a sage. The only adult amongst the three survivors described her as, quote, astonishingly ageless, hair as black as the day we married. But in place of the age lines I'd expected were bulging scarlet veins branching outward from her red ringed eyes. This is from the resurgence of a timeline by Pearson Halliwell.
- [88:59]
Lexi
Yes, that absolutely seems like a book she would have gotten from Dakarys. You're absolutely right. I love it.
- [89:04]
Nicole
So this epigraph is the telling of a story of an adult who survived a Sage attack. The only survivor of a sage attack. Who the sage happened to be this person's wife, but I'm assuming it's years later.
- [89:16]
Lexi
Yes. So based on the line hair as black as the day we married, I think the sage left this one house in the village standing because it was her family's. The adult was her spouse, and the other two were her children. And you're right, she must have left a while ago and would have started aging, but she hasn't. But I also assume that the other two are not adult yet, because it did say only one of them was an adult.
- [89:39]
Nicole
So is there something in this book about a person's partner turning Venice? Because remember, this all boils down to Violet's saying there's a pattern that makes three. But then this pattern could be. This is the third time she's seen a person associated with a Venin. But the Venin no matter what level they are, knew who the person was.
- [90:01]
Lexi
Exactly. I think the three in the pattern is a Venin's interaction with loved ones. Yes.
- [90:07]
Nicole
By the way, leaving them alive. But I think it's leaving them alive.
- [90:09]
Lexi
Exactly, exactly. Pivoting a little. Another idea. Even though. So I definitely think that is absolutely it. Another idea is that this makes three who are tied to agelessness.
- [90:20]
Nicole
This would make sense because we've seen Berwyn, who we know is centuries old and yet is, quote, eerily youthful. We have Theophany, who isn't ever technically described as young, but it is heavily implied given how Violet is surprised when Theophany mentions mortal memory, which causes Violet to start spiraling, thinking she's immortal, mortal. But we also have another, quote, young Venin, who Violet thought it was weird that he looked so young back at the end of Iron Flame. So technically would actually be four. And also this little Easter egg feels so much bigger than just someone looking young.
- [90:53]
Lexi
I absolutely agree. Yeah.
- [90:54]
Nicole
So I'm with you. I 100% think that this is a pattern of a Venin who has come across a loved one. And the fact that this is a sage means that they're a high level Venin and they came across a loved one and didn't hurt them. This would obviously make sense that her partner is the one who is saying that like hair is black as the day we married, all of this stuff. And then her children are the other two because that is the one house that is still standing. This would also make Violet certain in her belief that Zaden won't hurt her. And what is she about to do? She's about to go all feral with him in the chair scene. And she's about to say those exact words. You won't hurt me. You won't hurt me. So this is just cementing that certainty. But adding this to the list of questions that I want to ask Rebecca Yarhose.
- [91:37]
Lexi
She wouldn't answer that. One of ours. I wouldn't.
- [91:40]
Nicole
We would. What percentage?
- [91:46]
Lexi
Okay, friends, who's ready for some glittering onyx to tap, tap, tap on our shields and say, how you doing? Zaden hasn't been seen in Orisha since Violet arrived for her two week run class intensives. As he's been handling provincial issues like we've been talking about. He was in the city Llewellyn to handle the issues the order for double the Teladium has had on the miners. Then he was supposed to go to Trevane, where Lindell rules and where Zaden and Liam fostered and trained for the writers quadrant, but Zaden ended up here in Orisha, at home with Violet instead. He admits that he was skating the ice in the city Llewellyn and not in the fun ice skating way that we like it, but he held his together instead of punching person Llewellyn and Lindell, who are again the two men who raised him after his dad died. But gold star for you Zaden. Gold medal for not skating anymore. You kept your control beyond the wards. I'm guessing the city Llewellyn is not within Orishan or Navarre wards. It is pretty far away from where Arisha is. They're in Tirndur. They're kind of on opposite it ends. Or maybe he ventured beyond the wards with the person Llewellyn and Lindell. Anyway, Zaden kept it together because he knew pulling from the source would take him back to day zero and he is shooting for that magic number to be intimate with Violet again.
- [93:04]
Nicole
Zaden is clearly conflicted because as he's knocking on her door, it's only day 73 and it's three days before his goal of being very nearby Violet when she asks him what the hell this magical number is that he has in mind. Mind xaden shares quote 76 it's twice Barlow's longest stretch without draining after his first significant channeling.
- [93:26]
Lexi
Aha.
- [93:27]
Nicole
Because Barlow is the only other initiate they've known slash observed. Even though yes, Barlow is technically an ASM now, it does make sense that Xaden is taking that data and now doubling it. Because if he can last twice that long, then maybe, just maybe, that means he's able to be stable and hopefully, hopefully stall the progression. This also got me thinking about the number 76 and why it was chosen. In spirituality, the angel number 76 means harmony, balance and partnership within love and relationships. It also could be the combining of two numbers that regularly show up in the story. 7 and 6.
- [94:05]
Lexi
7. 7. Zaden wants to prove to himself that he is stable enough and he's not at this number yet. That makes this measure measurement tangible. But at the same time he passed a test of sorts by being able to keep control beyond the wards. And if he can do that when it is oh so tempting, then surely he can keep himself under control when he is with Violet. Sure, he's not ignoring his fate, he is a realist. But the cloud of Jon Snow brooding is clearing and he feels pulled to enjoy what life he has left, especially as he feels good about overcoming that temptation and feeling the sense of Stalling the proclaim progression as he says, quote, this might be as good as it gets. And I want every second we. And then he sees her Devarelli silk nightgown.
- [94:49]
Nicole
Yeah, he does. This is a very different kind of ice watch. But throughout this entire conversation, Zaden is soaking wet from the rain. And given their proximity to each other, it's making Violet wet, too, in the.
- [95:02]
Lexi
Literal sense and multiple ways.
- [95:05]
Nicole
The literal sense, but you know what we mean.
- [95:07]
Lexi
He's dripping actual raindrops onto her.
- [95:13]
Nicole
I can't help but think of the Hilary Duff song like Let the Rain Fall down, but the fact that literally, icy cold water is between them this whole time. Covering, covering them while they are having this conversation about him possibly starting, oh.
- [95:28]
Lexi
My God, the Empress splooge all over her. And oh, my God, my brain is so in the gutter right now. I need to stop talking, talking.
- [95:36]
Nicole
Oh, I can't wait to do this next part. Then the icy cold water between them the whole time covering them while they're having this conversation about him stalling the progression. It's like the icy lake that he's been skating on is literally looming over them this entire conversation, right before he's about to fully dive into that lake. If they're going to do this, though, Xaden needs one thing from her. He needs her to give him full control, even though that's the one thing she loves to watch him lose. And considering she has the power to dismantle all of his control with a single touch, he needs her to agree to let him take that away from her. So bands of shadows wrap her hands together and anchor them over her head above the wall, which, gotta agree with Violet, disturbingly hot indeed. Which leads Violet to blurt out the question, what else do you need, Zaden? Because, quote, if you don't actually start touching me soon, I'm going to do it myself and make you watch. To which Zaden says, we should have done that months ago. When I tell you, I was wondering this entire book, why the fuck they weren't doing that months ago. And I didn't want to voice it out loud because I was sitting on a couch at the middle of the night next to my sister.
- [96:49]
Lexi
But yeah, I agree.
- [96:51]
Nicole
Very missed opportunity. Hold on.
- [96:54]
Lexi
Out of all of the things we talk about on this podcast for thousands.
- [96:59]
Nicole
And thousands and thousands of people to.
- [97:01]
Lexi
Hear, that was something you were uncomfy with in just the privacy of our. It was just the two of us.
- [97:08]
Nicole
No, you have a point. I was wondering the entire time I was like why don't they just mutually masturbate? What's wrong with them? We've.
- [97:14]
Lexi
We just finished covering silver flames. Of course, that was on our mind. But just because Zaden is here and feels stable after not reaching for power beyond the wards, he's still wary. The last thing he wants to do is hurt Violet. So he can't help but think about every possible way to mitigate the threat that he really is so they can be together. He lays out what helps make him comfortable to move forward for her sake and for her safety. To lessen the risk that this is. He needs Violet to give him control. Like Nicole was saying, no matter how much she loves breaking it. He also ensures there is serum in the room in case she needs to shove it down his throat, that that will nullify his powers. So it's important to have the serum nearby in case he does lose control. And as a last resort. Damn it, Nicole. Sorry. And as a last resort, he requests Violet to keep the four ally hilted daggers they have between them on the bookcase next to them. He's doing his due diligence to make sure Violet can save herself. If he does become out of control, she can't reach the serum, whatever that might be, because if she needs to, she needs to be able to kill him. So he's like, okay, make sure the daggers are right there. Good. We're good. Okay, let's do this, babe.
- [98:29]
Nicole
Zaden asks her his version of are you sure? He says, quote scared. Yet earlier this book he uttered those same two words. And Violet's immediate answer was no. But it was from a place of her completely denying Xaden's state and the possibility of progressing. But now those same two words are asked and she replies with the same no, but it's for completely different reasons. She's accepted that their relationship now does look different. She's accepted that Zayden will forever struggle with this unless she is able to cure him. And she's accepted. Accepted Venin him. She says, quote I choose you. I choose whatever risk this brings. I see every part of you, Zaden. The good, the bad, the unforgivable. That's what you promised. And that's what I want. All of you. I can handle myself, even against you if I have to. So with this acceptance, these two collide and Zaden moves her so she's between him and a high backed armchair. Here we go in K. Chase, you were a little confused by the choreography of the scene. Let's all get on the same page and I would like to reiterate something that I have not reiterated in a while, like many episodes, and that is if our parents are listening.
- [99:40]
Lexi
Please stop.
- [99:42]
Nicole
This is an episode I need you to accept. You won't finish. Unlike Xaden and Violet, Zaden moves to sit on the chair and lifts Violet into his lap where her knees are bracketing his hips on the cushion so he is sitting in the chair like normal. She is straddling him. Just as Violet is about to lower herself onto him, he lifts both of her knees onto the pads of the armchair. I just want to point out that if this armchair is wide enough for his hips to be there and both of her knees to be straddling him and then he lifts both of her knees onto the armchair like chair armchair arms. Like that is like.
- [100:21]
Lexi
That's some splits right there.
- [100:24]
Nicole
So she is facing the back of the chair with both of her knees on the armchair arms and he moves her shadows to the top of the back of the chair and then slides down so his back is on the chair cushion like where your butt normally goes.
- [100:40]
Lexi
He's looking up at his favorite site.
- [100:45]
Nicole
In the whole wide world. Flower blooming. And then he goes to town on her from downtown down there. Once lightning flashes, you catch my meaning, he slips out from under her. So he like gets fully out of the chair and moves one of her legs down from the chair arms. Only one is propped up now. And then he props his knee behind hers that's on the chair. So with her hands still bound and she's still facing the back of the chair, he takes her from behind until lightning takes out the desk in the room. Then Zaden flips them so that he's now sitting in the chair normally again and she's straddling him again, which leaves her wrists now unbound and she's cupping his face with what? Lexi?
- [101:32]
Lexi
Two hands.
- [101:33]
Nicole
With two hands. But Zaden is clearly struggling, hence the shift in position so that he can now grab onto the edge of the dress her above the chair rather than grabbing onto a power humming Violet, Violet tells him she knows he will never hurt her again. Maybe a callback to that earlier epigraph. She says quote my body, my soul, my power is all here. Let go, Zaden. And he does just that. There. There was your verbal walkthrough of the chair scene. I hope that clears it up. One more thing that Zane Zaden wants cleared up though. When shadows plunge the room into darkness and Xaden did exactly as Violet said. Let go. He needs to make sure the Wood from the dresser is free of any channeling and it's spotless.
- [102:19]
Lexi
Huzzah, Zaden.
- [102:21]
Nicole
Violet looks at him and smiles and says two words, you're stable. We know that Rebecca Yarrows plots her books in a W. And right now we're in the fourth part of the W, which is basically called False Hope. Humans of the Internet, I give you false hope.
- [102:37]
Lexi
I remember when we were reading this for the first time and not don't give me that look. Like once it ended, we were looked at each other. It's like, oh, that felt like a goodbye. Yes, yes, that was a goodbye.
- [102:51]
Nicole
Yeah.
- [102:52]
Lexi
Not like they know it, but a goodbye for us readers. At least for the foreseeable future.
- [102:57]
Nicole
It's the false hope section. So now you know, Hugh Humans, whenever you get to like a good 80%, 80, 90% of a book and you get that false hope, that means everything's about to go to shit.
- [103:07]
Lexi
In this signet power segment of the episode, let's move to the power of precognition by turning our full attention to other important foreshadowing moments for the rest of this book, as well as speculations for books four and five. I'll go ahead and kick us off here. Drake has been sent back to Cordon, which Rebecca has confirmed for us is where Broccoli safely is. By the end of this book, knowing that Broccoli makes it out of the series alive, Broccoli is the only character Rebecca was willing to confirm is safe for the whole series. And for all the foreshadowing we get about Cordon eventually falling, I assume Drake will be leaving with Broccoli before the fall, or they'll both survive in the battle when it eventually happens. Assuming it does, because I also don't see Drake leading Corden. I just picture Broccoli chilling in Drake's backpack while he rides as Griffin. And it's an epic battle here, hero, and he's like doing all of his crazy fighting and then there's just Broccoli just right there.
- [103:56]
Nicole
What I could see is Drake leaves and he can't find Broccoli. And then Cordon is taken and we get like a false Broccoli death. And then Broccoli comes back into the picture later with all this talk about.
- [104:07]
Lexi
How much of poor meal has fallen. It guts me to think of all the culture, architecture, and of course generations of people who are being decimated in this war. I will be so curious to see how replaced Rebecca approaches the assumable rebuilding of this kingdom or however the borders will look. By the end of the series, imagining how many lives and all the culture and history lost in this war, it's just so catastrophic.
- [104:29]
Nicole
Violet reflects on how she can't go up against a Maven because she's not experienced enough. And while, yes, that is true, Violet will wield the one weapon that Theophany does not see coming, the Wrath of Dune.
- [104:44]
Lexi
We get perhaps the first confirmed Precog moment, at least from Violet's POV with Auric, when he, quote, tilts his head, then pauses just before the door, bringing the squad to an awkward stop. Then he, quote, throws his arm across Lynx's chest and drags him back moments before the door bursts open and the Duke of Caldeer flies through to land on his ass. When I first read this, I thought Arik just heard what was happening in the other room and reacted to it, but he's actually getting a vision, or however his signet works when he tilts his head. And then that's why he reacts to save his friend. Violet asks Taryn, but you never had to lower yourself before me, did you? Not for Naolin or and he cuts her off by interjecting, we do not speak of the one who came before. We've heard variations of this response from Taran throughout the series. The way that Taran refuses to even hear Naolin's name, and especially not talk about him, really makes me and us think that there is more to the story than Naolin dying and Taryn is mourning his loss. I feel like there's bitterness, deep regret, and other underlying emotions that, among other clues, lead us to believe Naolin may be Venin and Taryn had to break the bond with him. But also, what the heck else was Violet about to say before Taryn interrupted? Rebecca always does this to us. Something important about to be said and then cut off. It almost sounds like Violet's about to say another writer, like the one who.
- [106:06]
Nicole
Came before refers to the one who came before Naolin.
- [106:10]
Lexi
He has said the one who came before in direct reference to Naolin.
- [106:14]
Nicole
Previously true, but he says we do not speak of the one who came before. So it could be referenced to Naolin. That is what I'm leaning towards. But it also could be referenced to the one who came before Naolin. And that was the writer she was.
- [106:26]
Lexi
About to say maybe. Well, so we know that Kaori has stated explicitly that Naolin was Taryn's only previous writer, and we've seen nothing that makes us think it might be otherwise, including from Violet's pov. Like you would think that Taryn would have mentioned having a different writer if it wasn't just Naolin. However, we know Kaori's records aren't accurate. As we've learned from Zaden and Rebecca on tour. Taran is such a well known dragon that I do figure he's exactly who he says he is. But could there be more previous writers or what was Violet about to say here? I don't know.
- [107:01]
Nicole
Add that to the list of things I'd like to ask Rebecca Yarros. When looking in her and Zaden's room for the first time, Violet sees the box of nothingness. But now the box has somethingness. The emerald hilted blade of Orisha. However, it is now missing a single stone near the top. Alarm, alarm, alarm. Yes, the stone is missing because Zad has already taken it out and gone to design her wedding ring. Oh, while we're on this box, we did receive a DM from someone and I'm so sorry. I tried to find your name but I could not find it. But this person had a theory that in Violet's dreams and like in dreams that she dream walks in the box will reappear, but it contains something however, only in dreams.
- [107:45]
Lexi
Ooh, I like that. Going off of this all the foreshadowing from their conversation about running from Zayn, fighting and how even when he's not entirely himself, all he wants is Violet. But then he says that he's quote entirely incapable of running from you, which he kind of does run from her question mark next to that though, because we don't know the exact circumstances and he does say you know that he's left and don't come looking for him. But the only thing he wants is Violet. So I do think that is set up for book four when he's Venin and of course he still wants wants her.
- [108:17]
Nicole
When they're having their scared yet conversation, Violet notices again that scar above Xaden's heart. We know that these three inch scars are a tearish custom where one takes responsibility for another. And Xaden has 108 of them, 107 on his back for all the marked ones and one over his heart for Violet. I wonder if there's more to this than just a cut. Like is there some kind of connection or ritual to the gods? And they come into play with it because especially now that gods are such a much bigger part of our story. Story. So I wonder if it's. I'm going to call it loyal. Oh maybe for it.
- [108:50]
Lexi
Interesting. Maybe we've donned Our signets. So now let's tap into our mind of a scribe and examine the meaning of key epigraphs from this stretch of chapters. Chapter 44 has probably one of the densest epigraphs that is laden with humor. This is unsent drafted correspondence of Colonel Agatha Mayfair, Royal archivist. Quote your Majesty, unfortunately I can find no law that supersedes the unification scrolls. The provincial commitment under Queen alandra the bold. 207.1. Consolidating the province's armies under the Queen's standard for the Paramish conflict expired with the second Orisha accord and control of all forces should strike through must return to the provinces from which they hail. I recommend demanding strikethrough asking for a new provincial commitment covering our current conflict. The provinces will never agree after the rise in conscription rates. My advice, do not anger tyrant duke who now commands the largest portion of our army. Screw this. I hate my job. Strike all of that.
- [109:48]
Nicole
Okay, if you're like me and you read this and you're like, let me have fantasy fangirls walk us through it then. Here you go. Let's walk through this. First and foremost, a short timeline. In 207, Queen Alandra the Bold put together the provincial commitment which states how each province's armies in Navarre belong fully to the reigning monster monarch for the war they've been waging for 400 years against the Promish. But now it is 634. They have signed the second Oratia Accord which states that Tirish army falls to the reigning House AKA Zayden, along with the control for other armies and it all must have returned to their original province. Basically the provincial agreement is nullified since they're not uniting against the common enemy of Ormiel now. But given how how this is phrased, it sounds like King Tari is not happy about the other forces and how they're going back to the original provinces now. So basically, like Lucerys army who was all under the reigning monarch in Navarre's control, they are now going back to the control of the Duke of Lucerys. So what Agatha Mayfair is saying is that in order to get an army under King Tower's control again, you must ask for a new provincial agreement covering the Venon colonial conflict. But what's crossed out is that there's no way in hell this will happen because everyone's pissed off about the doubling of conscription numbers that King Tari commanded. So her advice is basically don't piss off Satan who's now in control of the Largest portion of the Nevarian army. Well, King Tauri, or rather Halden, will indeed piss off Xaden. More. As we will learn in chapter 55, Halden has troops on the Caldir Tirish border ready to swarm in once King Tauri gives the word. And as a result, Zaden stops all shipments of Teladium to Nevar. But he'll happily restart them again once King Tauri confirms that the Teish Nevarian alliance is still standing, even with the provincial commitment being null and void. Bringing this all the way back to why Agatha Mayfair is writing this letter about her hating her job in the first place. Tari is looking for any law that will go above the unification agreement, meaning he is either looking for any law that gives him the green light to march his booty into Tirandor and wage war, or any law that will give him back Zaden's control of their army. So a few things here. Number one, again, just more instances on how this internal war is going to be a huge plot point in book four. And number two, I want to shake King Tari, dude, this is not what's important right now. And he's like, I want control over Tyrandor's army. And Zayden's like, I'm going to stop giving you things that will give you alloy.
- [112:33]
Lexi
Well, the root of the problem is that Zaden is going against the Scenarium and letting refugees in. And that is what King Tari is so pissed off about. And Halden, and most likely King Tari, they are like, you can't just disobey orders. Like, we're all under one kingdom here and you answer to us. And Xaden's like, hell no, I'm doing my own thing. And so they're like, well, there is going to be some repercussions for that. And to their repercussions, Zaden's like, okay, great. Well, here are my repercussions. And now they're at a literal standoff.
- [113:03]
Nicole
They're like, hey, you can't do that. But when they think about ways that they could retaliate, like march their troops into Tyrandor, Zaden has the largest army in all of of Navarre, and he's in control of them. And now Violet's in control of them at the end of the book.
- [113:17]
Lexi
So, ah, we already talked about Chapter 48's epigraph, so let's skip ahead to Chapter 49's which we've already been referring to and will continue to refer to throughout this deep dive. While most deities allow temple attendants to choose their timeline of service, only two require a lifetime of dedication. Dune and Loial. For both war and love change so souls irrevocably. This is from Major Rorley's Guide to Appeasing the Gods, 2nd Edition. Oh boy, where do we begin? I'll actually keep this somewhat high level just because we have already talked about this epigraph so much and we'll keep doing so, especially as we get to all the Dune stuff. Zooming out. This gives us some insight into how dedication to a God works and on the continent, or at least in Oratia. Those Zel kilt dun don't go through the same process as those who dedicated dedicate themselves to Dune on the Isle of Umbriel. How do we know this? Because the high priestess at the Temple of Dune in Orisha asks Violet if she also dyes her hair with lye and the juice of the manwassa flower to make it silver. In other words, these dedicated attendants don't have silver hair from the dedication itself like those on Umbriel and Violet. Which brings us back to a different epigraph from chapter 31 stating that guardians are no longer permitted to dedicate children and service to their favored deity. My best guess is that Umbriel dedicates attendance in the truest sense of the word. There is some kind of magical process, part of it that at minimum turns your hair silver. But in Navarre, dedication is allowed after one is the age of majority. However, dedication in Navarre is not the same magical process as the one on Umbriel. It's more symbolic for adults here. But back to this upper graph. Because both war and love changes souls irrevocably, War feels pretty y'all.
- [114:59]
Nicole
You have no idea how big of.
- [115:00]
Lexi
A deal it is for me to be saying this word right now. Oh my God. Only nine episodes and I finally got it. War feels pretty self explanatory. But what about love? Especially with this being the epigraph for Zading and Violet's final sex scene for the foreseeable future. I genuinely believe there is a reason we did not visit the Isle Lois where they worship the goddess of love, because I think that it has a piece of the puzzle there to curing Zaden. Largely assumed because of this epigraph there are variations of theories that Zaden is dedicating himself to Loial because Violet owns his soul and maybe somehow this will help cure him. His love for Violet is the only thing that can ground him and pull him out of the icy Darkness that is being a Venon. She's the only clarity for him when he is on the ice. And he frequently references worshiping Violet as if the woman he loves is his goddess. And all this mention of souls and how that is what the Venin lose. I don't have a concrete theory yet, but I'm waving my hands around here being like, there's something here. This is just like you were with.
- [116:00]
Nicole
Papa Sor and Gail's research in the second Crovlin uprising. You said something's here, Something's here. Now let us step into the archives where each episode Lexi educates us all on a world building topic to help us better understand this world and the magic or the conflict within it.
- [116:15]
Lexi
Today's archives topic is the State of the War. It seems like a good time for a check in on all the moving pieces now that our Quest Squad is back from their mission and we're about to head into the final stretch of the book. Right. With the alliance between Navar and Poro secured, even if it's a little shaky, the biggest priority of the war is to strengthen forces and alliances. Which was why Quest Squad went on its mission to the Idol kingdoms. Now there is heightened conflict between between Navarre and Tyrandor as the Dark wielders invade more and more of the Paramish provinces. And Navarre continues to refuse to open its borders. Specifically, conflict between the Cenarium and the representatives of Tirindor Zaden and his proxy Llewellyn, the person Tyrandor wants to allow Paromish citizens into their province. Which makes sense because Tirandor is the Nevarian province that borders the southwest part of Krovla, where many Promish people are fleeing to as Venin invade so much shelves of Poromil. Some of the invaded cities and villages include Siniva, Valia, Newhall, Pavis, Inca, Ressin and Zolia, where Cliffsbane Academy was. This means most of Breivik and half of Krovla have been invaded by the Venin. As far as we know, Cygnisen, the northernmost Paramish province and the smallest one, has not had recent attacks. We can wonder if this is because the regions worth attacking nowadays are more south or as Nicole shaking her head, there's something something sus about Cygnisan. While the Dark Wielders have moved closer and closer, Cordan has yet to fall. Queen Maria was killed in the Siniva attack along with 25,000 civilians, the most casualties in a modern battle. This means Viscount Tokarys, who resides in Cordan, is now King Tokarys of poor meal. And now our cat, Catriona Cordella is second in line for the throne after her older sister. They are Tokarys nieces. Draithys. One of the last remaining big cities in Poromil and close to the Madaro Pass that borders Tirandor and Krovla is becoming overrun with all the refugees. And based on the Venin's movement, the Venin are getting closer to Dreyfus. It's only a matter of weeks before they attack this overcrowded city where so many promish citizens are flocking to. But like I said, Navarre is not allowing Tyrandor to open its borders because Tirandor is part of Navarre and should listen to their king's orders. Navarre claims they do not have the resources to feed double the population. And allowing promish citizens entry will be the fall of Navarre. They can't let everyone starve. And while it's not said, they don't trust letting anyone in through the wards because that's a major security risk. As they combat the Venin, Navarre claims it's already doing enough for Boromil. They're sending them shipments of alloy hilted daggers which are pulled from their outposts and leaving behind only the necessary amount to keep powering the wards. But while the wards are still powered, they're weakened. And this is making Navarre a little more vulnerable than they'd ever like to be. Navarre is also sending dragons and riders to Poromil, but unfortunately some of them are getting killed by the Venin in these attacks. Specifically Siniva. And losing one rider is the equivalent of losing a whole company of infantry. And over the past year, a lot of riders have been dying. So they need every last rider in this war. This means that Nevarian outposts are currently struggling, both with lack of riders and lack of alloy that have left many of the outposts stretched to thin. But these Navarian efforts to help poor Emil does not change the fact that they're still keeping their borders closed and therefore choosing to let these civilians die at the hands of the Venin. Zaden does not listen to Halden, his father's orders and is opening the Tirish borders to allow any Proma citizens who need refuge. Like Zaden states. Tyrandor may be a part of Navarre, but he rules his province. And Tyrandor will welcome any civilians who are willing to cross the Madaro Pass. That's the pass that the riders and flyers and the Grand Griffins had to hike up in Iron Flame. The Orion wards may be failing quickly but at least this protection in Tyrandor is better than nothing. As the Venin keep moving southwest, Halden threatens to release troops on Tyrandor if Zaden follows through with this disobeying of orders. But since Halden is only a prince, not the king, and approximately one third of Nevarian troops are part of the oration riot, the threats don't make Zayden blink an eye. The fact of the matter is, without Tyrandor, Nevarr would suffer a major loss in cost conscripts. Especially now that they are calling for double the normal conscription rate. Which, by the way, this new announcement has created unrest in the province that Zaden is also having to deal with. And Tyrandor has a very valuable resource, Teladium, which is a key ingredient for alloy that is mined right now. Melgren is demanding they double the output of Teladium. This pressure for doubling the output is putting too much strain on the miners, and Zaden also has to sort that out. But guess what? Soon enough, Zaden will cut Navarre off from receiving Teladium in response to Halden stationing Nevarian forces on the border of Caldir and Tirandor because they border each other right in the north. Halden's ready to follow through on his threat and declare war against Tirindor for defying the Scenarium and letting the Promis citizens within Navarre's borders. But his father hasn't given the order yet, so they are at a standoff. As we've been talking about. And according to Captain Fitzgibbon's book about Tyr's history, losing access to Teladium would quote doom Navar. The Bisgaeth Forge will practically come to a halt without Teladium. And the kingdom and continent need weapons now more than ever before. Let's shift gears to the Isles and recap where things are left with them after the mission. Devarelli chose to remain neutral, but historically have been known to help be a broker for weaponry or troops if it's beneficial to them. Like they did during the second Corovel uprising. The King has stated he is willing to trade Zaden and Violet services for weaponry, but they end up making a deal that allows for diplomatic access to the Isle as a whole home base for their Irid search. Umbriel has also decided to remain neutral. But if Navarre brings them 12 dragon eggs, two of each breed, they're willing to send their army to the continent. They, like the other Isles, want dragons. Specifically hatchlings. Our crew said absolutely no to that. So as of now the only alliance with Umbriel is like the one with Devarelli being allowed to stop at the Isle along their travels.
- [121:59]
Nicole
Oh boy.
- [121:59]
Lexi
Hodotus was threatened by Violet into an alliance of sorts, kind of rooted in the bloodline between Talia, wife of a Triumvirate member, and Zaden Ryerson, Duke of Arisha and Tyrandor. Oh, I don't know how well that went out, but at least it was proposed. Assuming this major air quotes alliance is indeed in place, or when Violet poisoned them it got completely nullified. They are not willing to work with Navarre and would have gladly killed Quest Squad if given the chance. But in any case Hejo just has no army, they're afraid of the Wall water and they wouldn't help anyway, so it's not really a major hit or loss at this time. We don't care about their alliance on Zelna. After each member of Quest Squad selected a gift from Zanal, the Queen underwent negotiations with Auric that surprisingly favored Navarre. This resulted in them getting 40,000 troops to aid in the war. Zelna will send an advance party within these next couple of months and the rest of their troops will arrive on the continent whenever they're ready for them. This will enable our side to man thousands of Cross crossbolts and drive Wyvern to the ground for awaiting infantry, increased patrols, etc. Etc. And last but not least, the Irids. They're just not willing to help as we talked about extensively last episode. And there you have it, that is the state of the war at this time.
- [123:14]
Nicole
Now let us close out this episode with Taking Flight with our favorite moments when they are in Debrief's post Quest Squad mission, Daddy Atos accidentally let slip that he's annoyed with King Tari that they're not getting punished. I love that Daddy Atos thinks that he's just this big old mastermind, but he's so bad at his job and keeping anything secretive, it's just delicious.
- [123:37]
Lexi
I don't think a lot of these historical fact drops that we specifically get in this stretch will be relevant as Easter eggs, but I still love them. So much for world building. Rebecca majored in history, so she loves exploring history and giving it the depth that it deserves, but she also balances it nicely where it's not overwhelming in an info dump for the reader. Like how Breivik absorbed Cygnisa under Prom I, who I assume is the first monarch of Poor Meal and who the.
- [124:00]
Nicole
Kingdom is named after during Battle Brief when Devera tells Arryk's guards. Quote Please make yourselves as uncomfortable as possible. I just love that she's still standing up for Arryk, even when he's now bordered by two royal guards. Riddick's approach to the flight Maneuver exercise. He somersaults off of Iotrom, shoots ice towards the project connection and bows. Iconic.
- [124:24]
Lexi
We get another glimpse into other dragon and rider relationships. Sleek and Sawyer from their whole conversation on the flight field with how the dragon bears his teeth and Sawyer bears his right back, and then how Sawyer asks if he can get a word in and the answer is clearly no. I've always wondered. Everyone else seems to frequently speak out loud to their dragons instead of the humans mind speaking with their dragons like Violet is always doing. It happens enough for us to know it's possible, but I wonder if there's more to it or we readers just need to hear at least one side of the conversation. So Rebecca does this more for the reader versus what would be more realistic within the world?
- [125:03]
Nicole
I love the moment where Bode tips his head back in Oratia as if he's greeting an old friend, right before he tells Violet that the reason he's here is because this is the best squad. It's such a wholesome moment and I just want Bod to be happy. Speaking of favorite Bodhi moments when Violet doesn't know which room to go to because things have been weird with Zaden, Bode says, quote we're home. Vi act like it. I love that it's we're home because he truly does view Violet as family. Yes, I still think he likes her a little bit and Slash or he's jealous of what her and Zaden have, but I don't know. I just I have to pull out any any happy bony moments because I have a feeling things are going downhill for him from here. When Maren happily claps because she gets to see her brothers, Violet notices a long scar on the back of her hand. Ah, could this be the scar I was looking for that was a result of her escaping cliffsbane from the dream that we saw. There's a moment where she runs into a large mirror in the dream and glass rains down on her. I'm going with yes, because how brilliant would it be that we see this just chapters before Violet learns her second signet?
- [126:11]
Lexi
I found it funny how RI says that whoever wants to go to her house has to shower first otherwise her mom will kick them out of the house. I just love this little bit of.
- [126:19]
Nicole
Normalcy and family dynamic when Violet is going through her and Zaden's room. She goes into the armoire and finds her old things along with their uniform and his blanket from Talia. Oh my God, look how far they've come again. Long gone are the days where she's afraid to look too closely at their literal and metaphorical closets. I love that Violet wonders if the person knocking on her door is Brennan looking for a partner to raid the kitchens. Like this is such a sibling thing. I love that so much.
- [126:49]
Lexi
All right friends, thank you so much for listening to this Episode nine of our Onyx Storm Deep Dive. We'll be honest, we did not expect it to be this long because not a whole lot happens, but here we are and we also had a lot of tech issues earlier today and so.
- [127:02]
Nicole
We'Re a little loopy. We will see you again next Monday for episode 10 where we are covering chapters 50 through 55, Violet, second signet and Darna leaving. Oh my gosh, so much happens. So there you go. In case you missed it, the next series we are covering after Onyx storm is the Kindred's curse saga by Pen Cole, starting with book one spark of the Everflame in May 2025. That is just weeks away. I'm so excited. Link to get this marvelous series are in the Show Notes.
- [127:36]
Lexi
We would love to give the biggest warm welcome, welcome, welcome to our newest RN Squad members.
- [127:42]
Nicole
Thank you so much for joining Amanda, Tony, Cammie, Danielle G, Christina C, Ariana M, Jen, Grace W, Christine V, Nicole E, Katie J, Courtney H and Christine.
- [127:55]
Lexi
S. Welcome, welcome, welcome welcome. We appreciate you so so much. Thank you for supporting the show. It means everything to us and we really appreciate you. And if you're like, hey, I want my name shouted out on the podcast and to be showered with all the love and attention too, be sure to check out fan club@Fantasy Fangirls.com Fan Club Link is also in the show Notes.
- [128:16]
Nicole
Thank you as always to our Resident Scribe, Curator AKA our Content researcher Brooke and of course our Executive Producer AKA Hayden. You have a lot of dirt on.
- [128:26]
Lexi
Us for this episode.
- [128:28]
Nicole
I hope you enjoy editing.
- [128:31]
Lexi
We are very active on social media so please be sure to follow us on Instagram and Slash or TikTok at Fantasy Fangirls Pod. And if you're watching this on YouTube it would make our day if you hit that subscribe button to keep following along.
- [128:43]
Nicole
Also, while you're hitting buttons, please rate and review the podcast. It is one of the best things that you can do not just for this podcast but for any podcast that you listen to hit that five star button, write a little love note, the review section. It truly means the world to us. And last but not least, if you and your friends could not figure out the chair scene. Here you go. Here's a perfect episode to send to them so that you can all be on the same page together, shadow bondage style.
- [129:13]
Lexi
All right, that is our cue to leave. Goodbye, everybody. Sorry, my tummy ate a lot of Mac and cheese, and I could feel it all in my tummy. Tell you, Hayden, I'm so sorry in advance.
- [129:30]
Nicole
And as a result, Hayden has stopped all shipments of teladium to Navarre.
- [129:33]
Lexi
Hayden.
- [129:34]
Nicole
Sorry. Oh, my God.
- [129:36]
Lexi
For both war and love change souls irrevocably. There. You did it. I said it. I said it.