Podcast Summary: Fantasy Fangirls – "Goodbye Onyx Storm LIVE Q&A"

Episode Details:

• Title: Goodbye Onyx Storm LIVE Q&A
• Release Date: April 28, 2025
• Series Covered: Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (Entire Empyrean Series Spoilers)

Overview: In this heartfelt and comprehensive live Q&A session, hosts Nicole and Lexi bid farewell to their coverage of Rebecca Yarros' Onyx Storm, concluding with Episode 12. This episode delves deep into fan questions, exploring intricate theories, character developments, and pivotal plot points of the Empyrean series. As they wrap up their extensive journey through the books, Nicole and Lexi offer valuable insights and engage with their audience's burning questions, ensuring both long-time fans and newcomers gain a thorough understanding of the series' complexities.

Key Discussions and Insights

Endgame Relationships: Violet and Zaden

One of the most frequently discussed topics was the relationship between Violet and Zaden. Fans speculated whether they are destined to be together till the end of the series.

• Lexi (05:20): "I think Onyx Storm solidified more than anything that they are endgame... these two just love each other so deeply and will go to the ends of the earth for one another."

• Nicole (05:56): "I think that matter what it is going to be, they are together together. If anything, the marriage at the end really, really solidified it."

The hosts agree that Violet and Zaden’s bond is unbreakable, emphasizing the profound love that Rebecca Yarros has crafted between them.

The Pattern of Three and Symbolism

Nicole revisits the recurring theme of threes in the series, linking it to the lore and character motivations.

• Nicole (07:52): "The pattern of three... a Venin sage desiccated an entire city with the exception of her husband and two children. Violet is understanding that Venon will protect those they love."

This pattern underscores the protective instincts of key characters, especially in the face of conflict.

Character Theories and Future Plot Points

The sisters tackle numerous fan theories about upcoming books, particularly focusing on Book Four and Five.

• Questions on Empyrean Dragons:

  • Are All Empyrean Dragons the Big Bad?
    Lexi (22:49): "I don't think anything is so black and white with good versus bad. It's going to be a balance with different perspectives of dragons."

  • Will there be a Dragon Book?
    Nicole (24:55): "I think book four is gonna be the big Empyrean book to set up for the war in book five."

The hosts discuss the complexity of dragon characters, suggesting that they won't fit neatly into categories of good or evil, adding depth to the narrative.

• Speculations on Key Deaths:
  • Nicole (48:58): "I think it's gonna be Taryn. There's so much buildup about if Violet dies, Taryn dies."
  • Lexi (50:20): "I'm worried about Riddick. Mina or Brennan might be at risk."

They anticipate significant character losses to propel the story forward, with Taryn being a likely candidate due to narrative buildup.

The Gods and Dedications

The role of deities within the series was another prominent topic.

• Discussion on Dedications:
  • Nicole (64:14): "I don't think they're sentient, but they could inspire visions or dreams, similar to Dumbledore in Harry Potter."
  • Lexi (64:24): "I think Violet could be fully dedicated to Dune, enhancing her abilities and tying deeper into the lore."

The hosts explore the mystical aspects of the series, pondering how gods influence events and character actions without being directly involved.

Bonds and Memory Manipulation

A critical plot point involves the breaking of bonds between characters, with implications for memory and power dynamics.

• Nicole (30:09): "I think Segal broke the bond with Zaden... potentially, Taryn is exhausted from the bond."
• Lexi (31:44): "Maybe Taryn and Sigal were fighting to help the elders instead of killing them."

They discuss the complexities of magical bonds and their impact on relationships and character development.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Nicole (00:00): "When you refresh how you see things, the world can be a more vibrant place."
  (Note: This is part of the ad segment and not included in content summary)

• Lexi (05:20): "These two just love each other so deeply and will go to the ends of the earth for one another."
  (Discussing Violet and Zaden's relationship)

• Nicole (07:52): "The pattern of three... Venon will protect those they love."
  (Symbolism in the series)

• Lexi (22:49): "I don't think anything is so black and white with good versus bad."
  (Discussing dragons' moral complexities)

• Nicole (24:55): "Book four is gonna be the big Empyrean book to set up for the war in book five."
  (Future plot directions)

• Nicole (48:58): "I think it's gonna be Taryn. There's so much buildup about if Violet dies, Taryn dies."
  (Speculating character deaths)

• Lexi (64:24): "I think Violet could be fully dedicated to Dune, enhancing her abilities."
  (Discussing gods' influence)

Concluding Thoughts

Nicole and Lexi wrap up the Q&A by expressing both excitement and nostalgia as they conclude their deep dive into Onyx Storm. They hint at upcoming series transitions, such as the Kinder's Curse saga, and share tidbits about future interviews and fan club updates. The episode closes with warm acknowledgments to their team and listeners, reinforcing the community spirit that defines the Fantasy Fangirls podcast.

Final Takeaway: This live Q&A episode serves as a fitting end to the Fantasy Fangirls' extensive exploration of Onyx Storm. By addressing fan theories, dissecting character arcs, and pondering future developments, Nicole and Lexi provide a thorough and engaging summary that enriches the listener's understanding and appreciation of the Empyrean series.