S5 Ep8: S5 : Ep 8 - Onyx Storm : Favorite Moments

Summary

Flights of Fantasy Podcast Summary
Episode: S5 Ep8 - Onyx Storm: Favorite Moments
Release Date: March 18, 2025
Hosts: Christina, Kim, Anna

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Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of Flights of Fantasy, hosts Christina, Kim, and Anna delve into their favorite moments from Rebecca Yarros's Onyx Storm, the third installment in the Imperium series. Skipping the introductory Geico advertisement, the trio quickly immerses listeners into an engaging discussion filled with character analyses, memorable scenes, and heartfelt insights.

Favorite Characters and Their Development

Riddick: The Heartbeat of the Story

Anna and Christina highlight Riddick as a standout character who brings both energy and depth to the narrative.

• Anna ([03:46]): "Oh, he was such a joy in this book."
• Christina ([04:03]): "He just really brought the energy and carried it through."
• Anna ([04:22]): Discusses how Riddick adds levity to intense situations, yet reveals surprising depths, noting that Rebecca Yarros regarded his character arc as one of her favorites to write.

Violet: Leadership and Emotional Strength

Violet's evolution into a reluctant leader is a focal point, showcasing her ability to balance strength with vulnerability.

• Christina ([22:25]): "Violet."
  "You can choose to stand together and fight. We can't keep doing this."

Memorable Scenes and Insights

The Dynamic with Dragons

The interaction between characters and their dragons adds a rich layer to the story, emphasizing bonds and individual personalities.

• Anna ([04:45]): Explores different dynamics, such as Atrium and Riddick's playful interactions versus Taryn and Darna’s more traditional bond.
• Christina ([11:50]): "It’s like the dad who enjoys having his teenager there, but also is annoyed by it, but also is like, don't go away…"

Notable Quotes:

• Christina ([12:01]): "Go find a sheep and let the adults work."
  [11:50] Reflecting the humorous yet meaningful exchanges between Taryn and Darna.

Zaden’s Stand and Character Arc

Zaden's moments are celebrated for their blend of strength, vulnerability, and unwavering support for Violet.

• Anna ([23:06]): Discusses Zaden's confrontation with Halden over authority and his protective nature towards Violet.
• Christina ([25:20]): "I would never give away three years, much less one day with Violet."
  [27:07] Highlighting Zaden's commitment and passion in defending Violet against familial pressures.

Notable Quotes:

• Zaden ([26:36]): "I don’t give a fuck what they meant."
  "If you think I'm going to leave the only woman I've ever loved to contract marriage with a woman I do not get along with, then the lack of wisdom is yours, not mine."
  ([26:36] - [27:07])

Emotional and Action-Packed Moments

The Challenge at Basgaith

A pivotal scene where tensions escalate, showcasing the protagonists' resilience and strategic thinking.

• Anna ([17:44]): "We are stronger together."
  Emphasizing the theme of unity amidst conflict.

Notable Quotes:

• Violet ([21:18]): "But if you think, think I'm going to leave..." ([07:06] - [08:33])
• Anna ([18:38]): "I'm done. I'm done."
  ([18:44])

Sawyer’s Triumph Over Adversity

Sawyer's struggle and eventual success in taking his seat atop Slig exemplify themes of perseverance and innovation.

• Christina ([16:11]): "It's like I never left."
  Celebrating Sawyer's determination and the supportive reactions from the group.

Notable Quotes:

• Sawyer ([15:06]): "It would take a great deal more than a change of posture to dishonor me."
  ([15:06] - [16:11])

Zaden’s Sexy and Supportive Moments

The hosts gush over Zaden's blend of humor, protectiveness, and intimate moments that enhance his character's allure.

• Christina ([23:00]): "Don’t say jollies."
• Anna ([28:03]): "So good."
  Reflecting on Zaden’s protective gestures and tender interactions with Violet.

Notable Quotes:

• Anna ([28:43]): "Whatever he says must register because she gives a curt nod."
  ([28:43] - [29:48])

Final Thoughts and Conclusions

Christina and Anna express their deep appreciation for the rich storytelling and character development in Onyx Storm. They emphasize the importance of found family, the strength of their bonds, and the satisfying resolutions to various character arcs.

• Christina ([30:10]): "We absolutely adored all these moments."
• Anna ([30:14]): "We absolutely adored all these moments."

Call to Action

The episode concludes with a reminder for listeners to join their Patreon for exclusive content, including deep dives and bonus discussions. They encourage fans to rate and review the podcast to support the community.

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Notable Quotes Compilation:

• Christina ([07:06]): "Not long."
• Anna ([23:06]): "What authority do I hold here?"
• Christina ([15:08]): "and that's where Riddick says, all right, there it is."
• Anna ([27:18]): "Yeah. He's like, you weren't there when my father died."

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This episode serves as a comprehensive celebration of Onyx Storm, highlighting the intricate relationships, emotional depth, and thrilling moments that make the Imperium series a beloved journey for Romantasy enthusiasts. Whether you're new to the series or a long-time fan, Christina, Kim, and Anna provide insightful reflections that enrich your reading experience.

Transcript

[Christina]

Geico's motorcycle expertise gives me the coverage I need. Like 24.7claims, I'm on cloud nine.

[Kim]

Clouds are wholly unable to support the weight of an adult human.

[Christina]

What's happening?

[Kim]

Furthermore, clouds are not numbered. Even if you procured a jetpack and searched, you'd find no cloud numbered nine. However, at that altitude, you'd likely befriend a flock of migrating snow geese. Geese who'd encourage you to leave your 24.7geico motorcycle claims insurance behind, as they would take you in and even share their dinner of crickets and clovers with you. GEICO assumes no liability for any indigestion that may occur from a clover cricket dinner. GEICO expertise for your motorcycle.

[Christina]

Geico's motorcycle expertise means I'm covered by people who know bikes like I do. I'm happy as a clam.

[Kim]

No conclusive scientific research has shown clams can experience happiness.

[Christina]

It just meant that I feel really good about my coverage.

[Kim]

I mean, even if you took the clam out for the best day ever, visiting the zoo, taking a scenic ride, knowing you're insured by specialists, and sharing a strawberry ice cream cone together, the clam would not feel happy and your strawberry cone would taste sorta clammy.

[Christina]

Ew.

[Kim]

Geico's motorcycle specialists who know bikes like you do assume no liability for clammy ice cream cones. Geico expertise for your motorcycle.

[Christina]

Welcome to Flights of Fantasy, your Romantasy Podcast book club. I'm Christina, joined by my book besties Kim and Anna, and together we're diving into the characters, theories, lore and magic behind all your favorite fantasy romance books.

[Anna]

All right, listeners, we are so excited to be back bringing you another Onyx Storm episode. This one is going to be some of our favorite moments that happened in the book that we didn't have a chance to discuss yet. So if you feel like we missed something, it's probably because we dedicated quite a bit of time to it in our main feed episodes.

[Christina]

Exactly. Moments we didn't get to spend as much time on in our main feeds, but that needed some attention and we just, like, had to gush about them just a little more.

[Anna]

Absolutely.

[Christina]

We also, while we're here, want to give a big thank you to everyone who has already rated and reviewed the show. And if you haven't had a chance yet, please, please take a moment and do so on your preferred podcast platform. It really does make a huge difference in helping the show, and we're so, so appreciative. We also want to give a quick reminder of what we have going on over on Patreon right now, guys, we have over three and a half hours wild of bonus Onyx Storm content. We were like, yeah, we're gonna really go for the bonus Onyx Storm content. And then we just didn't cap ourselves and didn't stop ourselves. And there you go. We have so many chapter chats of us reading along and then we also have a one hour long Patreon Empyrean Q and A. So that is all on Patreon for you. And this month in our SJM series, which is exclusive for Tier 2, where we deep dive characters, couple scenes from all of Sarah J. Maas series. We are covering Celaena this month from Throne of Glass. We're deep diving our girl, starting that journey. So if you want to tune in for that, please do so join the party over on Patreon. And speaking of Patreon, Anna, do you have some lovely, very special people that we want to shout out?

[Anna]

Yes, I surely do. We would like to give a big shout out to Kristin Belfield, Allison Stumper, Ashley Everett, Aaron Carroll and Sarah Rogers. Thank you guys so much for being a part of our Bookbatches community over on Patreon. It means the world to us. Without you, this would not be possible and we could not do what we love. So thank you, thank you, thank you.

[Christina]

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You guys are incredible and we just love you so much.

[Anna]

Yes.

[Christina]

Okay, Anna, hit us with that spoiler warning.

[Anna]

Yes. All right, so consider this your spoiler warning for the entire Imperium series. That's Fourth Wing, Iron Flame and Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros. So if you haven't read the series, tune out now. Come back. Don't know why you're here.

[Christina]

Politely, please leave.

[Anna]

Politely come back. We'd love to have you once you've read the books.

[Christina]

Yes.

[Anna]

All righty. So, okay, we have to start with our boy Riddick.

[Christina]

Please, God.

[Anna]

Oh, he was such a joy in this book.

[Christina]

Truly. She gave us such a gift.

[Anna]

I know.

[Christina]

Oh, my gosh. We had so much fun reading this book and I think he was a big part of that. I think a lot of other characters were generally a little more joyful than Iron Flame, but he just really brought the energy and carried it through.

[Anna]

He brought the energy, but he also added levity to the situations. But then there were scenes where Riddick really surprised you and he really showcased a different side. I think he hasn't been allowed to show that side of himself yet. And Rebecca was. I mean, she said when we saw her in New York, she was like, his character arc was one of her favorites to write during this.

[Christina]

And I think that's what it is. I think he was always this person and this levity in the other two books. She just gave us more of him in this book. Exactly. And it was really fun to see him.

[Anna]

Exactly. Okay, So I loved seeing all of the characters bonds with their dragons because everything is so different. You forget about it. You know, Taryn and Darna bond with Violet is so very different from, like, Atrium and Riddick's. And Atrium just makes me laugh so much.

[Christina]

This was so fun. Yes.

[Anna]

So fun. So it just says, atrium skids to a halt 10ft from Riddick, driving his snout into the shallows and creating a wave that rushes up the beach and over Riddick's shins. Why are you such a dick? Riddick flings his arms out sideways. I brought one pair of boots. And then Atrium continues to, like, suck water into his snout and, like, blow it at him. And he's, like, getting sweet, and he's like, are you serious? Like, what are you doing?

[Christina]

It's so good.

[Anna]

And he's not, like, actually mad. He walks back up to the beach next to Violet, and she's like, you guys are so weird.

[Christina]

Oh, my gosh. Just so fun.

[Anna]

I know. It's so much fun. And I just. I don't know. I just love that whole. It was also very surprising. You didn't expect. You didn't know what was happening when he started spraying, I was like, what? Is he trying to tell him something? Like, what's the big, serious thing that's about to happen? No, he's just playing a prank on Riddick. Not even playing a prank. He's just getting back on him. He's just spraying him with water.

[Christina]

Well, and again, the levity. You know, like, we. We are used to our dragons being serious and if silly. A little silly. Not this level of silly. It's so fun to see.

[Anna]

Okay, But a couple chapters later, it's after the era dragons have left and have said there is no cure for Vennanism. And this is also when Riddick finds out that Zaden is Venin and he is pissed. Not happy and rightfully so. Right. Because they're the big bad guys. Right? They fought them at the end of Iron Flame, Jack. Like, it's. They're awful. And Riddick is confused and pissed, and.

[Christina]

He'S like, we just did this. Where you kept a secret from us for too long. We just did it. And it was Also with Satan. So, like, can we not repeat this again?

[Anna]

I think it's. Riddick is like, y'all are, like, real toxic.

[Christina]

Like, I see the sexual tension and it's hot.

[Anna]

But, like, also, also, everybody needs a Riddick. Yeah, Just to keep you in check. But also totally supports your decisions 100%. So I do love this part. So Riddick pulls Violet aside and he's like, we gotta talk. And he basically questions Zaden. And he's like, you know, how can you trust him? And Violet's like, well, I know him. And Riddick says, alright. Riddick nods excessively. I'll play along. Let's say he's still 80% Zaden. 90, I counter. Eh. He shrugs. There are four ranks to dark wielders, and your man's already channeled three times. I think 80% is mathematically generous. But sure, we'll live in your delusion. For the purpose of the hypothetical. How long do we have until he's an asim? Until he's physically unable to deny the call of a sage?

[Christina]

Not long.

[Anna]

Not long. Violet says, well, if he doesn't channel, they always channel. Ice forms at his fingertips. Just because I like to crack jokes doesn't mean I'm not serious about reading the same shit you do. There are no accounts of initiates just walking away from the power. Which is such a good point, Riddick. Then he continues, because they argue a little bit more. And he says, you can still love someone after you let them go, but you have to tell me there's a line where you will let him go. Because if there isn't one, it's not just him are going to lose Vi. And then he says, if it makes it easier, then pick a line where I can turn him in. Tell me now when you think there's no chance it will ever happen. So if he ever gets there, the decision isn't on your shoulders.

[Christina]

I love this. I love this. Honestly, such a good best friend move. It makes sense. It's also not her damning him. It's also not her having to say, okay, at this point, I will turn him in, because, like, she would never. But this gives him what he needs. And also it's safety for everyone.

[Anna]

You know, like you said, he's taking that pressure off of her. He's taking the onus on himself. Fine, tell me what the line is. And it's interesting, because what she says foreshadows the ending. Zaden doesn't hurt anybody at the end, right? Except the bad guys. And what she says is Hypothetically, he'd have to kill another Rider without cause. Or hurt civilians, hurt my friends, my dragons, hurt me. If he hurts me, then he's not him anymore. And that's when Riddick says, all right, there it is. That's the line.

[Christina]

And that's the line. And at the end, he doesn't do that.

[Anna]

He doesn't.

[Christina]

I think that's also a really good reminder of Riddick being like, look, again, I am not just comedic relief.

[Anna]

It's a parallel to that scene when he has that line about, you know, I'm not just the funny guy. And he's doing. He's showing Violet again, like, this is why I'm here. This is why you need me with you. Because I will call you on your shit, but I will be there to support you. I'm your friend.

[Christina]

Yes. You know, and it's so well done, because then he is this, like, check in space that she needs. She really does. She needs someone to be like, hey, I am on your side here, and we need to talk about what this means for you. I know you love him, but you need to also think about yourself. Um, and I think Zaden knows that. I think Zaden appreciates it. You know, that she has this.

[Anna]

Yeah, you're so right. I think Zaden appreciates it, and I love that. Riddick, when he walks away, he's like, stop keeping shit to yourself. The four of us are stronger together. Don't fuck with that. Not even for Zaden.

[Christina]

Exactly. Didn't we learn this lesson last year? Yes, but then. Okay, but right after. This is really.

[Anna]

Right after. This is when Zaden. So in that moment, though, when they were getting upset, of course, lightning strikes a tree, and it falls down. So they start to leave, and he's got his arm around her, and Zaden's, you know, casually leaning up against a tree, as sexy as shadows. Addie does. And Riddick is like, well, if I move my arm, it looks like I was doing something guilty, but I wasn't, so I'm just gonna take my hand off. And then he goes. Just so we're clear, that strike up there wasn't, you know, us. And he flinches. I mean, it was us because I pissed her off, but it wasn't us us, if you know what I'm saying. And Zaden's, like, well aware it wasn't big enough.

[Christina]

I love it.

[Anna]

Riddick.

[Christina]

Just like.

[Anna]

He goes, nope, you and I are not back to dick jokes yet. Not that we ever were there. I'm still pissed. This is what he says, I've never been happier to be single. You two have some serious issues.

[Christina]

I love this. I love that reply from Zaden. Because you also feel like Zayden is like, this is hysterical. I'm just going to let him keep going. And then he's like, first of all, I trust Violet. Second of all, like, you wish. You wish, you know.

[Anna]

Oh, my God, it's so funny.

[Christina]

God, it's good. And, like, it's just. It's a perfect example. He's our funny ridic. Who is like, good thing I fuck like, a third. And then the next scene, he is like, guys, my humor doesn't mean I'm not a good fighter. Like, it's just such a great juxtaposition in this book. It's so good.

[Anna]

We love it. We love a man with layers. Oh, God, he's amazing. Okay, Christina, will you discuss some of our favorite moments with our dragons?

[Christina]

I would love to. Guys. The dragons in every book, but especially this book, were such a joy. Specifically Taryn and Andarna. The fun dynamic she gave us with them. She leaned into it and it just read so effectively of him being, like, grumpy dad of a teenager. I loved it. There's this moment where she's mimicking him, they're flying, and he's like, then practice evenly dispersing enough magic to keep all your extremities warm during flight, because your wings won't hold the weight of this ice. Taran growls in the falling snow. Your wings won't hold the weight of this ice. And Darna blatantly mocks him. And yet yours miraculously carry the burden of your ego. And then he just responds with, go find a sheep and let the adults work.

[Anna]

Go find a sheep.

[Christina]

It's so funny. I loved that. And I just. I love their back and forth. I love how she is blatantly teenager Andarna in this, and it also, like, doesn't really bother him. Yeah. So unfazed by it.

[Anna]

It's like the dad who enjoys having his teenager there, but also is, like, annoyed by it, but also is like, don't. Don't go away, because I know one day you'll leave the mist.

[Christina]

Yeah, it's so sweet.

[Anna]

And then she does.

[Christina]

Oh, well. Well, that's sad. But there's this whole thing also. Remember the tortoise eating part?

[Anna]

Oh, my God.

[Christina]

Okay, so they land in Cordon to visit Tokaris, and she's, you know, being all sassy, and she's like, oh, you're such a centenarian Perhaps my kind will not be such killjoys. Perhaps they will feast as they see fit. Perhaps they will. Oh, what is that? And then he responds, and he goes, a mammoth. Red horned tortoise. And absolutely not. That shell will be embedded within your teeth, and I will not carry you at a festering tortoise shell. You get back here.

[Anna]

I love it so much. I love how she calls him a centurion.

[Christina]

Like, it's almost like us being like, okay, Boomer.

[Anna]

Yeah, right? Yeah. She's like, okay, old dude.

[Christina]

Oh, God, they're just so funny in this. Okay. And then, speaking of water, this is just such a parent conversation. And Darna goes flashing into the water, and Taryn goes, do not go any deeper than your claws. He lectures, his tail nearly taking out a tree. When he pivots to go, watch her, he goes, I swear, if you get in over your head, I will let you drown.

[Anna]

I mean, how many times have I been at the beach or the pool? And it's like, don't run. Do you have your floaties on? Where are your goggles? Come here.

[Christina]

Exactly. Don't go any deeper than your claws. That just killed me.

[Anna]

It killed me funny. Oh, my gosh.

[Christina]

Their dynamic in this is beautiful, and it just makes the ending even more tragic. But she did come back.

[Anna]

She does come back.

[Christina]

I just. I love their dynamic in this. It was so fun to see and fun to get to see Taryn in that role. Yeah, he was in the last book, but not like this.

[Anna]

Not like this, you know?

[Christina]

Okay.

[Anna]

Also, speaking of dragons, I want to talk about Sawyer when he learns how to take his seat again on top of Slig.

[Christina]

This was one of the most beautiful moments in the book. All three of us cried. This was so well done.

[Anna]

Okay, so Sawyer has invited Violet to watch and to help because he knows.

[Christina]

That she gets it.

[Anna]

She gets it. She can't climb up tern the traditional way a rider does. And so here is Sawyer with his prosthetic leg, and ingeniously, he has come up with, like, a lever that he can pull, and a hook pops out of the toe that allows him to climb up the scales. Like, it hooks onto the scales and it doesn't hurt. Sleek, apparently, but he can't successfully do it. He keeps sliding down. It's still an extremely steep incline. And he starts to argue with Sleeg a little bit on and off throughout this scene. And it's hard because you don't get the other side of the conversation. We only get to hear what Sawyer says out Loud. And he says, because it's not the same. Sawyer argues, frustration rumbling through his tone, and I know he isn't talking to me. You're the one who took a risk on me, and I won't ask you to Dishonor. He falls quiet. I think he falls quiet. I wonder, because he realizes that by using the term dishonor, it might offend Violet, because that's how she has to get up.

[Christina]

Totally.

[Anna]

And Violet turns to Taryn and she says, is that how you feel when you dip your shoulder for me? I asked Taryn. Dishonored. I love Taryn. He goes, I am the second largest dragon on the continent and a revered warrior. My tales are legendary. My mate unparalleled. My feet's unmatched. And she goes, it doesn't change my question. I cut him off before he starts to list his accolades. And then he just goes, it would take a great deal more than a change of posture to dishonor me.

[Christina]

He replies, beautiful, Tarn.

[Anna]

Such a sweet moment. So sweet. Sawyer keeps falling. He keeps trying to argue with Slig, and eventually he comes to this realization. You know, he's arguing again. He says, because my leg was and still is worth your life. I think Slig feels maybe some sort of guilt that Sawyer lost his leg trying to save his life. And Sawyer feels like Taryn knew what he was getting himself into with Violet. She is physically weaker than every other writer. But you chose me because I'm strong, and I can't do this one thing that I'm supposed to do. And so, he says, because my leg was and still is worth your life. Sawyer snaps when he can't reach the joint. On the next scale, of course, you're allowed to feel the same. His hand slides back to his previous hold. Oh. And then Slig huffs. And I think he realizes, oh, you also feel responsible, like it's a shared burden. And that's when Slig extends his left leg, sliding his claw through the mud. Slowly it lowers to a walkable degree of incline. And that's when Sawyer just walks up and, like, pulls himself up and he takes his seat, and he's like, it's like I never left.

[Christina]

So good.

[Anna]

It's this beautiful moment.

[Christina]

It's so beautiful. And something that makes it even more beautiful is everyone's reaction to it.

[Anna]

Yes.

[Christina]

It's incredible. Oh, my God.

[Anna]

Rhiannon is so happy.

[Christina]

Riddick's so excited, and everyone's running, and it's like, nice to see you up where you belong, Henrik. Oh, my God.

[Anna]

So great. I love it. It's such a beautiful moment, and I love seeing the dragons again. There was a lot of growth in this book with the dragons and getting to see their POVs, whether it's Imogen or Rhiannon's POV at the end, but also seeing this. The dragons, I think, are always so stoic and distant in a way, because we don't get their POVs, but also just by the nature of them being dragons. And to see Slig love Sawyer enough to lower his leg, which dragons don't do. And I love seeing this kind of humanity, this. This softer side of the dragon.

[Christina]

Agreed. Agreed. I loved it. The whole thing felt, like, warm and fuzzy, you know, because everyone's walking out and seeing him up there. And Dane is, like, looking good, Sawyer. And then. And Riddick's like, look at him. All is bright in the world. It's so great.

[Anna]

I love it.

[Christina]

Everyone's hugging. It's just. It's so cute. It's so sweet. And it is this reminder that they are all still this found family unit in a book where they're separated a lot. I think we needed it, that it was this kind of cozy feeling that at the end of the day, we're all going to come back home together, even when we're island hopping and in war and, you know, separated.

[Anna]

Like Riddick says, we are stronger together.

[Christina]

Exactly. Riddick. Speaking of Riddick the Wise.

[Anna]

Riddick the Wise. I love it.

[Christina]

Okay. One of the scenes we didn't really have time in our coverage to deep dive was the scene with Ara at the challenge at Basgaith. So pretty much Ara and her people have challenged a young flyer because they hate the flyers. They don't want them to be there. They don't trust them, which is a big part of the beginning of the book. So Violet and crew hear this is happening, and so they run out there to the courtyard, and it's not good.

[Anna]

No.

[Christina]

Everyone's battling. Everyone's screaming. Dane's like, but the Codex. And Ara's like, article two, section one. And he's like, article four, section one. So ridiculous.

[Anna]

I was like, okay.

[Christina]

And at some point, Iris Drew, who's the leader of First Wing, says, first Wing stands strong, stands loyal to Navarre. And, like, people cheer. And then Riddick just goes, not sure I'd brag about being in the wing that produced Jack Barlow.

[Anna]

I love it. And then Regis goes, riddick.

[Christina]

And he's like, I'm done. I'm done. Okay, I'm done.

[Anna]

I'm done.

[Christina]

I'm Done. I love it so much. And so then Dane gets up, and he's trying to, like, speak to the people, you know, and he's like, yes, we left, but we also returned, and we did it for truth. And at some point in this, there's this moment where Arc is nodding along and nodding along, and he just leans over to Violet, and he goes, I think our boy is losing this one.

[Anna]

Which is so true for, like, the rest of the book, too. Like, every time Dane tries to get up and talk, Arik's like, all right, so I can't. Let me do this.

[Christina]

I'll let you go for a minute, and then I'll help.

[Anna]

You're embarrassing yourself.

[Christina]

So he leans over, he goes. He's good, but he's no Ryerson. So good. Because I also love the history here of Auric and Violet and Dain, like, grew up together. So Arryk saying to Violet, like, I think our boy is losing the swim. Like, all right, what do we do? But, yeah. So then Dain's like, I won't fight you. And she says, oh, really? Well, okay, well, I'm fighting you. So that's where we're at.

[Anna]

That's fine. Stand there.

[Christina]

And then she. She says, I'm fighting you. Or have you really turned coward? Just another rebel who needs to be marked as such. And this whole time in her head, and Darna has been yelling, dain isn't the strongest. Because the person who challenges should be the strongest. Like, that's how challenges work 100%. And Violet said, dain isn't the strongest. And Darna repeats, and this time, I get the point. I am. Ara whips off her glove and flares her fire hand, and Violet just throws her dagger, and it hits her glove. And Ara gasps, and she's like, soren, Gail. And Dain's like, violet, no. Don't do it. No, Violet, no. I can do this with my words. And so sorry, but. So this. This is the line, though, from Violet to Ara. She says, rebel is so outdated. We prefer the term revolutionary. I inform Ara, taking a measured step in her direction and welcoming the crackle of sizzling power in my fingertips. And if you're going to wield, then it's me you'll be dealing with. You see, Dane's too honorable to wield in a challenge. But you'll find that my sense of morality has learned to waver. You lift your hand against him again, and the next one goes through it. Her dagger. He's the reason you're alive. The reason you're all alive. Power thrums through me, buzzing, lith readiness. And I slip my left hand into the pocke of my flight jacket and remove the conduit. And Rhy's like, violet. Then Riddick just goes, shh. It's more fun when she blows shit up.

[Anna]

I love it.

[Christina]

God, it's. This is a perfect example, this scene. And Anna's gonna keep taking us through it, but this scene is a perfect example of really amazing badass stuff. We're moving the plot forward. It's action, heavy with levity.

[Anna]

Yes.

[Christina]

Just. This is a perfect example of how she does it all in this book.

[Anna]

Totally. I completely agree. Okay. So it continues. You know, she's accepted the challenge from Ara and somebody. I don't actually think it's R that says this, but they're like, how can we trust the flyers? Because they've grown up distrusting poor Emile. That's been ingrained in them. That's what they've been taught. Because they've been at war with poor Emile. And so she's like, how this other writer is like, how can we trust them? And Violet just says, you have to. I answer, pushing against the heat that flushes my skin as power gathers within me again. But more importantly, you can. They fought by our side for months, even after we've spent centuries condemning their people to death because we are unwilling to share the one resource that could have saved them. We don't have to like each other, but we do have to trust each other. And we can't keep doing this. Can't keep accepting needless casualties in the quadrant in the name of strengthening the wing, not when every single one of us is needed in this war. The riders who came before us failed to protect the innocent just because they were on the wrong side of the border. They lied and hid. They were the cowards. But we don't have to be. We can choose to stand together and fight.

[Christina]

Yes. Violet.

[Anna]

This is the first instance we see her in this book. Really kind of step into the role of being leader, that reluctant leader that we love to read about.

[Christina]

Always the best ones.

[Anna]

Always the best ones.

[Christina]

I loved this. And you're right. It's the first time we see her acknowledge that she can do it. And everyone looking to her to be this voice of reason.

[Anna]

It's so well done. I love it. It really sets up what I think we're going to see more of. I hope more of this Violet in book four.

[Christina]

Yeah.

[Anna]

You know, agreed. This plus her fuck the patriarchy speech that she does To Verish later.

[Christina]

Absolutely. Okay. Oh, let's talk about some Zaden moments.

[Anna]

Let's talk about Zaddy.

[Christina]

I'm so excited for Anna to walk us through this because this was one of my favorite Zaden moments. Tell us about it.

[Anna]

This is so fun. Okay, so this is when they get to Corden and Violet is weary. She is barely holding on. She's been flying for like an ungodly amount of hours. She can barely stand up. This is also after Zaden was made professor. And so, you know, Violet and Zaden can't be together because against the Codex to fraternize with professors, whatever. And Halden is there. So we have jealous Vedenzaddy who can't get his jollies off with his girlfriend because.

[Christina]

Don't say jollies.

[Anna]

Don't say jollies.

[Christina]

Oh God, I couldn't think of another word what's just like, anything sexier.

[Anna]

Okay, so we have jealous Ven and Zaddy Zayden, who's also a professor, who has not been able to like, you know, have sexy time with Violet because of the professor codex rules and the channeling situation. So they land. Violet's barely able to stand up. And this is the scene that we get with Zaden, because also remember, Zaden is also a duke. Okay? So he says, what authority do I hold here? Let's ask our prince. What do you say, your royal highness? He levels a look that could wither a fucking tree at Halden. Well, obviously you're a fucking duke. Halden snaps. Llewellyn made shirt of it, didn't he? The second most powerful title in the gods damn kingdom goes to a ryerson of all bloodlines. So I'm not here with the authority of a professor? Zaden clarifies. You have no authority. Halden seethes, color infusing his cheeks as he steps toward Zaden, his boots nearly reaching mine. I am the ranking officer here. So not a professor. Zaden's eyes narrow. No. Halden shouts, echoes down the hallway. Not a fucking professor. And then Zaden interrupts him. Just wanted to clear that up. We'll see you once we're arrested. And then he throws Violet over his shoulder and like stalks down the hall to share a room with her. And Halden's like, what? What just happened?

[Christina]

This was incredible. I was obsessed with this because also the professor thing up until this point has been so annoying to the reader. We've been like, oh my God, the damn Codex. Like, this is so annoying, they can't even talk. And that moment, as the reader, you understand what he's doing is chef's kiss. I was obsessed with it because also, as the reader, you want them to be together. And he's like, well, thank you. We will be going. Off to my room now.

[Anna]

Yeah.

[Christina]

See you tomorrow.

[Anna]

See you tomorrow.

[Christina]

Fucking loved it.

[Anna]

I also want you to do the dinner table scene in Hedonis.

[Christina]

Okay, guys. Also excellent Zaden moment.

[Anna]

Very sexy.

[Christina]

Oh, God, it's so good. Okay, they're at the dinner table at Hidotus, and his mother, Talia, is confused that Cat and Zaden aren't still together. She's like, I did set up this lifetime alliance, so this is troubling. This doesn't seem like it's still on the table.

[Anna]

When I abandoned you at 10 years old, I thought you would still follow Mommy's rules.

[Christina]

This is what was supposed to happen. And Cat gives this really great speech where she's like, oh, good Lord. I said yes. He said no, but he's with Violet now, and actually, they're the best writers in the world, and so it makes sense. And I'm with someone else, so. So everything's fine.

[Anna]

Everything's fine.

[Christina]

He's about to die, but it's fine. So they are like, but surely we could reform this alliance just long enough to make an heir, just for a few years. And Zaden, yeah, sure, sure. Drop the contract. And Feyre's like, great. What an excellent decision. Shall we go with three years or four years? And then Zayan just goes, lifetime. Anything less is unacceptable. Zaden slides his hand to the back of my neck. And her full name for the papers is Violet Sorrengail. Two Rs. Two Rs. Killed me.

[Anna]

Two Rs. Okay.

[Christina]

And then he looks at her and he goes, my last name is tied to the title, but we could take yours. Zaden offers. And then Garrick suggests, you could hyphenate or combine Ryrgale Sorensen.

[Anna]

Sorensen.

[Christina]

Oh, God. Okay. But then she whispers, that is not what they meant. And then he responds at full volume, I don't give a fuck what they meant. And he puts his hands up and down the back of her neck as he faces the Triumvirate. You may question our knowledge, test our honor or dedication as writers and flyers, serve up riddles, fake scenarios, chess games, for all I care. But if you think, think I'm going to leave the only woman I've ever loved to contract marriage with a woman I do not get along with, then the lack of wisdom is yours, not mine. Bam.

[Anna]

Oh, so Good.

[Christina]

And then his mother is like, it's only three years. Surely that's worth it to you to sacrifice that time for Tyrandor. And then he just swipes. He's like, you have no idea what I've sacrificed for Tyrandor.

[Anna]

Yeah. He's like, you weren't there when my father died.

[Christina]

I watched him die. Oh, God, it's so good. And then he's like, I would never give away three years, much less one day with Violet. And you would know that if you had stayed around and you knew me at all.

[Anna]

Yeah.

[Christina]

It's so good.

[Anna]

Fucking love them. Love them.

[Christina]

Fucking love them. Oh, it's so good. It's hot and sweet and just what Zaden does best, defending her in a sexy way while also empowering her at the same time.

[Anna]

He's so good at that. God damn it.

[Christina]

Right? It's a special skill.

[Anna]

It's a really special skill.

[Christina]

You know who else was, like, sneaky sexy in this book that we all can't stop talking about? Dane. Dane.

[Anna]

Dane Atos. Like, seriously.

[Christina]

Yeah.

[Anna]

Okay. There is this little scene, a really small little moment, and I just don't know why this hit me in such a sexy way.

[Christina]

Okay. Okay.

[Anna]

So they're in Oratia. This is when they're deciding the battle strategy and how to save Mira. Okay. And how to also get the people out of Dreythus out safely. So tensions are real high in the room.

[Christina]

Yeah.

[Anna]

Okay. And this is obviously Violet's pov. It says a smart ass captain snaps something back at Cat that I can't hear over the din. And Sloan charges. I nearly jump over the table, but Dane gets there first, hooking his arm around her waist and hauling her back as she swings. The second he sets her on her feet, those fists are aimed in his direction and I wince as he lets two make contact before trapping her wrists and leaning in low. Whatever he says must register because she gives a curt nod.

[Christina]

Oh, my God.

[Anna]

The way that he wraps his arm around her, it just reminds me of the scenes where the main female character in one of my contemporary romance, like, goes to bat for somebody and lunges forward. But then the dark mafia, Dawn King, Prince, whatever, like, grabs her back and he whispers in her ear, like my little firecracker.

[Christina]

He's like, breathe. I got you.

[Anna]

Yeah.

[Christina]

It's so hot.

[Anna]

I don't know why, but it is. And I'm like, what did he whisper?

[Christina]

I really need to know what he whispered. I need to know these little moments. I'm just. I'm dying for them, with them.

[Anna]

So good.

[Christina]

And you're so right, this is a great one of him that he could calm her down and that he goes to get her.

[Anna]

Yes. And it's mirrors later, when she's nervous and he talks her down, he knows what to do. Gives her the confidence to keep going. Like, I trust you. It's going to hurt. Gods, don't I know it.

[Christina]

Gods, don't I know it. God, there's so many little moments of them. I know we kind of talk about it in our other deep Dive episodes, but the first moment that we see the blushing from Sloney is so good because that's also the moment where he's like, train your signet. And she's like, oh, you wouldn't want to see another Moriari die, or whatever. And he's like, I will carry his death with me for every day. I will. Yeah, go.

[Anna]

It's so good. And Violet notes the blushing and she's like, well, that's interesting.

[Christina]

And there's a little word play there. There's a little wordplay that Rebecca put in. So in Violet's pov, she says, I lift my brows at the look she shoots him. Mostly because I can't tell if she wants to stab him in his seat or Fuck. Garrick mutters, we see you, Rebecca. We see you.

[Anna]

Good little play on words.

[Christina]

Garrick cutting her off. Fuck. Garrick mutters and all of our heads turn.

[Anna]

I love it.

[Christina]

I loved it.

[Anna]

Oh, guys, this was so much fun. We absolutely adored all these moments.

[Christina]

Oh, my gosh. I mean, this was such an amazing book and we have absolutely loved covering it. Head over to our Patreon to see much, much, much more content of us deep diving into this book as we read it and right after we finished over on Patreon. Yeah, we love you guys. Bye.

[Garrick]

Well, friends, that wraps up another episode of Flights of Fantasy podcast. Don't forget to join our book club community on Instagram and TikTok at Flights of Fantasy Podcast where you can share your thoughts, theories, and favorite moments with us and fellow listeners. We'd love to hear from you. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform. Your support support helps us spread the magic of Romantasy to even more book lovers. Until next time, keep dreaming, keep reading, and remember, every good story deserves to take flight.