Fantasy Fangirls Podcast Episode Summary
Episode Title: Everything You Need To Know Before Onyx Storm
Release Date: January 13, 2025
Podcast: Fantasy Fangirls | QCODE
Current Series: Empyrean Series by Rebecca Yarros
Books Recapped: Fourth Wing and Iron Flame
Upcoming Book: Onyx Storm
Introduction
In the episode titled "Everything You Need To Know Before Onyx Storm," hosts Nicole and Lexi from the Fantasy Fangirls podcast provide an extensive refresher on the first two books of the Empyrean series—Fourth Wing and Iron Flame. This episode serves as an essential guide for listeners gearing up for the third installment, Onyx Storm. The sisters delve deep into character arcs, plot developments, and set the stage for upcoming events in the series.
Inner Circle Debrief: Book Summaries
Nicole kicks off the recap with a detailed summary of Fourth Wing. She outlines Violet Sorrengale's induction into the Deadly Dragon Riders quadrant at Bestgaeth War College on Conscription Day. Highlighting key moments, Nicole narrates Violet's sorting into the North Wing under the shadowy leader, Zaden Ryerson, and the ensuing intense training regimen. She vividly recounts the Threshing ceremony, where cadets bond with dragons, leading to Violet's pivotal encounter with Liam Mari, her loyal bodyguard.
Moving to Iron Flame, Nicole summarizes the aftermath of the Battle of Bezgaeth, introducing new characters like Burton Veresh, the Vice Commandant with a notorious reputation. She describes the strained relationship between Violet and Zaden as they navigate their roles amidst escalating threats from the Venin. The recap continues with major plot twists, including the revelation of Zaden's betrayal, the tragic deaths of key characters like Liam Mari, and Violet's harrowing journey to Oratia where she reunites with her resurrected brother, Brennan.
Notable Quote:
Nicole shares her excitement:
"It would not be the ultimate empyrean recap episode without one of Nicole's classic battle briefs." [06:32]
Step Into The Cauldron: Insights, Foreshadowing, and Theories
Lexi transitions the discussion into deeper analysis, exploring the intricate relationships and power dynamics within the series. She speculates on Zaden's motivations and his transformation into a Venin, pondering the implications for his relationship with Violet. The sisters theorize about the mysterious Daddy Atos, suspecting his involvement with the Venin due to his strategic manipulations and connections to key events.
Nicole delves into the significance of the Wardstones, the magical barriers protecting Navarre, and the emerging threats posed by the Venin's infiltration. They discuss the potential resurgence of ancient lore, particularly focusing on the first six Dragon Rite Fighters and the enigmatic seventh den represented by Andarna. The hosts hypothesize about the forthcoming conflicts and alliances, emphasizing the critical role of Violet's second signet, which remains shrouded in mystery.
Notable Quotes:
Nicole on Zaden's betrayal:
"But wait, there's a little sus that Zaden and co got sent to this exact location where the Venon are coming, right?" [11:04]
Lexi on Daddy Atos:
"I am definitely in agreement that Daddy Atos maybe, maybe in league with the Venin, but isn't one himself." [40:21]
Sip Tea With The Suriel: Lore Exploration
The sisters take a moment to explore the deeper lore of the Empyrean universe. They discuss the historical context of the second Crovaland Uprising, as uncovered by Papa Sorrengale's research, and its connections to the current events in Bestgaeth. The importance of Feather Tales and their role in activating the Wardstones is examined, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between dragons and their riders.
Nicole and Lexi also delve into the origins and significance of the Empyrean government, pondering its influence on the ongoing Venin invasion. They touch upon the ancient journals of Warwick and Lira, seeking to understand the hidden truths that propel the narrative forward. The exploration of the seventh Dragon Den and its pivotal role in combating the Venin underscores the escalating stakes as the series progresses.
Notable Quote:
Lexi emphasizes the importance of lore:
"We cannot talk about the First Six and not give a tldr on the wards that protect Navarre." [47:12]
Character Updates and Theories
Nicole and Lexi provide updates on key characters and their current statuses:
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Violet Sorrengale: Grieving her mother's death and grappling with her second signet, Violet maintains her trust in Zaden despite his Venin transformation.
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Zaden Ryerson: Now a Venin, Zaden struggles with his new identity, fearing he may cause Violet's suffering. His complex relationship with Violet remains a focal point.
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Xaden Ryerson: Believed to have killed General Venin, Xaden is in a precarious position, suspecting that the Venin might not be truly vanquished. His connection to the Venin and potential motives are hot topics for discussion.
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Daddy Atos: Suspected to be in league with the Venin, Daddy Atos's mysterious actions and strategic moves raise red flags about his true allegiance.
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Brennan Sorrengale: Resurrected after being mended, Brennan's return adds layers to the family dynamics and the overarching conflict with the Venin.
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Sloane Mari: As the only First Year in the Second Squad with a manifested siphon signet, Sloane's growth and relationship with Violet are key points of interest.
Notable Quote:
Nicole reflects on character alliances:
"We are positive that we're going to get some kind of like, surprise. This character you've known all along is Venin." [40:12]
Theorizing the Future: Anticipations for Onyx Storm
Looking ahead to Onyx Storm, Nicole and Lexi outline several burning questions and theories:
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Venin Infiltration: With Jack Barlow's revelation that Venin are among the Navarian wards, the sisters predict increased paranoia and distrust within Bestgaeth.
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Violet's Second Signet: The manifestation of Violet's second signet remains enigmatic. The hosts speculate it could relate to her core traits—information seeking and protection of loved ones—possibly categorizing her as an Intensic.
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Warder Failures: The fading wards and the challenges of maintaining them signal impending crises, potentially leading to large-scale conflicts.
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Empyrean Leadership: The divided leadership within the Empyrean points to possible power struggles and shifting alliances as the battle against the Venin intensifies.
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Ancient Prophecies: The secrets held within the first six riders' journals and Papa Sorrengale's unfinished research hint at ancient prophecies or lost knowledge that could turn the tide of war.
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Character Resurrections and Traumas: The resurrection of Brennan and the traumas endured by other characters set the stage for psychological and emotional battles in the upcoming book.
Notable Quote:
Lexi on future conflicts:
"Navarre is kind of an asshole around that, so I don't think so. I really think the Promish have gotten the shittiest end of the stick for 600 years." [50:12]
Wrapping Up
As the episode concludes, Nicole and Lexi express their excitement for the upcoming Onyx Storm release, inviting listeners to join their Fantasy Fan Club for exclusive content and community engagement. They also announce the next book series to be covered post-Onyx Storm—the Kindred's Curse Saga by Pen Cole—ensuring fans have something to look forward to after the Empyrean series.
Notable Quote:
Nicole wraps up enthusiastically:
"Thank you also so much to our content researcher Brooke, who helped us put this episode together, and. And of course, our executive producer, AKA our sanity manager, Hayden. We literally do not know what we would do without you." [58:57]
Conclusion
"Everything You Need To Know Before Onyx Storm" is a comprehensive and engaging episode that not only recaps the critical events of the first two Empyrean books but also delves into intricate theories and character analyses. Nicole and Lexi adeptly balance detailed summaries with insightful discussions, making this episode a valuable resource for both new readers and longtime fans gearing up for the next adventure in the series.