Title: Fans Are Convinced This Character Is Xaden's Secret Venin Brother!

Warning: this article contains major spoilers for Onyx Storm. Fly—or read—at your own risk.

A dragon without its rider is a tragedy—and a book without answers leaves fans wanting more.

Readers who have completed Rebecca Yarros’ third book in the Empyrean series, Onyx Storm, might find that the resolution wasn’t as smooth as they expected, and instead, they’re left dangling with unanswered questions. For instance, who is Xaden Riorson’s new venin brother?

It’s great to know that BookTok has been diligently immersed in the text, searching carefully for overlooked details, and scrutinizing various hypotheses to identify strong candidates as potential authors of the book’s concluding chapters.

Initially, let’s revisit the hints from the book regarding the identity of the new venin: he is a man who personally observed Xaden’s transformation into venin for the first time. It’s also important to note that, as per Rebecca’s latest findings, this individual has gone missing by the book’s conclusion.

Considering these details, it appears that Bodhi Durran, Xaden’s cousin and the last known Riorson family member, is the prime candidate who might have become a venin – individuals who taint their spirits by drawing magic from the earth.

A significant clue suggesting Bodhi’s identity may also provide an answer to a second crucial question: why Violet and Xaden choose to secretly wed. In the novel “Onyx Storm“, Xaden emphasizes that Bodhi, who is extremely unwilling to become his heir, will have to assume control over the province of Tyrrendor once Xaden reaches a critical stage in his transformation into venin.

If Bodhi is alive, healthy, and not venomous by the end of the book when Xaden arrives at that particular point, one might wonder why Violet still requires a legally enforced bond for ruling Tyrrendor. Since neither Bodhi nor Xaden can claim the throne through the Tyrrendor lineage anymore, with Violet as his wife, it seems that Xaden has effectively handed over control of the province to her—for the time being.

In the novel, Bodhi often feels overlooked because of his position in the succession line of Tyrrendor, which repeatedly hinders him from joining Xaden in battle. He thinks that he’s destined to fight alongside Xaden, partly due to his unique ability to counter the abilities of others (represented by his signet) that could prove useful against Theophanie and other enemies known as venin.

If he transforms into a poison himself, it’s logical that his seal – which proved ineffective against poisons – could change too, potentially making it useful against those who wield darkness instead, thereby turning Bodhi into a viable tool for combating them.

However, although the evidence seems unfavorable towards Bodhi, there’s another jockey with a revolutionary artifact who spectators find nearly equally intriguing: Garrick Tavis.

In the captivating narrative of “Onyx Storm,” I found myself closely following the journey of Xaden, a character whose trials I witnessed throughout. Interestingly, it was his dear friend Garrick who was almost always by his side, providing support and care, even during times when the Duke of Tyrrendor had to step away from campus, leaving Xaden behind. As a lifestyle expert, I can’t stress enough the importance of friendship in times of adversity – a lesson beautifully illustrated in this tale.

Not only does it become clear that Garrick, who possesses a distance-wielding second signet, appears exhausted towards the end of the book, but it was also suggested by Rebecca during a recent gathering that his transformation into venom could be due to not receiving sufficient power.

This statement leads us to Garrick’s remark at the end of “Onyx Storm“. During his conversation with Imogen amidst the fight, he expresses his concerns about the cost of using his power so extensively, stating, “I am now wheelchair-bound. If I somehow reached Aretia, I wouldn’t regain my strength to return. Therefore, it’s time for me to discover a way to contribute in some capacity.

However, although Bodhi and Garrick, who was among the few unnamed missing riders in the closing of the book, had the most compelling arguments, it’s necessary to examine another character: Violet’s brother, Brennan Sorrengail.

Firstly, it’s worth noting that Xaden discovered earlier than Violet that Brennan was aware of his transformation, since Brennan had been trying to cure Xaden of his poisonous ailment – in other words, he had observed Xaden’s tribulations.

Additionally, notice how Xaden phrases things. Although the word “brother” might apply to either Bodhi or Garrick, it’s possible that he uses the term literally – in this case, referring to Violet’s biological brother and potentially a future brother-in-law of Xaden.

Lastly, as Sloane, the siphon, assists Brennan in rescuing Mira, Violet observes that there is no scar on Sloane’s hand following the removal of it. This small detail strikes her, reminding her of a time when Brennan received a scar after Naolin used his siphoning power and subsequently passed away while saving Brennan.

As I delve deeper into the enigmatic world of Sorrengail, I can’t help but notice the intriguing aura that surrounds its oldest resident, Brennan. While Violet’s observations may not directly point to Brennan being venomous, the mysteries that swirl around him are only growing more intense.

As you eagerly anticipate the release of book four, here are some other books to help satisfy your thirst for adventure and fantasy until then, as you ponder your beloved theories anew.

In the meantime, before book four drops, delve into these alternative reads that will keep your imagination ablaze with magic and wonder, as you reconsider your cherished hypotheses.

Release Date: Jan. 7

In this captivating novel written as a memoir, renowned author Cate Kay – much like Elena Ferrante – has chosen to keep her true identity concealed. However, the veil is lifted in this book, revealing the truth about her life. The narrative delves into her past, tracing back to the teenage incident that had a profound impact on the course of her life.

Release Date: Jan. 14

Prepare yourself for another thrilling journey penned by the author of His & Hers. A year following the enigmatic disappearance of his wife, whose deserted vehicle and phone were found atop a cliff’s edge, Grady seeks solace on a remote Scottish isle to find answers. However, this tranquility is short-lived as he encounters a woman who eerily resembles his missing spouse. In true Feeney fashion, nothing is ever what it seems, and for Grady, this is just the beginning of a dizzying descent into mystery.

Release Date: Jan. 14

Lange has demonstrated her skills in narrating touching and optimistic tales involving intricate family relationships. Her latest work is no exception, as Kyle McCray, two years after an unexpected departure from his hometown, returns for a short stay following his father’s stroke. Upon arrival, he encounters everyone he had left behind, including his wife Casey, whom he needs to reconcile with if he wishes to stay.

Release Date: Jan. 14

In a chilling turn of events, the author of “Final Girl Support Group” returns with another spine-tingling tale, this time set in the 1970s. Pregnant at just 15, Fern finds herself in a home for unwed mothers. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a book on the occult and delves into its mystical practices. However, this newfound magic doesn’t come without consequences, and sometimes, these costs can be almost unbearable.

Release Date: Jan. 21

Two books prior, Violet Sorrengail faced her greatest challenge: navigating a lethally dangerous barrier as she embarked on her journey to become a Dragon Rider. However, after the happenings in “Fourth Wing” and “Iron Flame”, her mother has perished, her beloved has selflessly given up his life using magic that’ll taint his soul, and the battle for Navarre’s survival has started. The much-loved romantic fantasy series is back with its third installment out of five, offering a moment of respite… until anticipation for book four kicks in.

Release Date: Feb. 4

Over the past 10 years, Madison has significantly contributed to cultural critique, starting at MTV News and BuzzFeed, and now through his podcast Keep It. Currently, he shares insights from his life experiences in a collection of essays, reflecting on influential pop culture moments of recent decades that have not only impacted him personally but also society as a whole.

Release Date: Feb. 11

In the touching narrative by Tyler, it’s mentioned that weddings are typically joyful events. However, this isn’t the case for Gail, the mother of the bride. She’s finding it challenging to get along with the mother of the groom and has even reconnected with her ex-husband for the occasion. To make matters more complex, Gail and her daughter discover a surprising truth about the groom, which could potentially disrupt the entire wedding ceremony.

Release Date: Feb. 11

In this heartfelt tale, the main character Lila finds herself at a pivotal juncture, grappling with both professional challenges and personal upheavals. Her marriage is on the rocks, a new complication arises when her recently widowed stepfather moves in, and to make matters even more complex, her long-lost biological father reappears after 35 years.

Release date: Feb. 25

Despite the cold season, this chilling novel unfolds amidst a sweltering heatwave. Child psychologist Mina embarks on an unusual journey when she accepts her first client, 13-year-old Alice, who claims to be tormented by a witch. While Alice’s tale might initially seem implausible, her circumstances grow increasingly enigmatic, particularly as her quaint English village – with its dark history of witchcraft – starts displaying signs of secrecy and Mina becomes determined to uncover the truth, no matter the consequences.

Release Date: March 4

In this heartwarming, humorous romantic film, we encounter two characters stuck in a rut. Lenny, mourning the loss of her dearest friend, is attempting to tackle a bucket list she created to aid her healing process. Miles, Ainsley’s uncle and new babysitting charge for Lenny, is trying to bridge a complex relationship with Ainsley’s mother while seeking connection with her. As they navigate their individual grief, they unexpectedly find solace in each other. Before long, sparks ignite between them.

Release Date: March 4

In the latest book by a Pulitzer Prize finalist, we’re transported to an alternate universe where a Risk Assessment Administration can forecast criminal activity. Upon arriving at LAX, Sara is told that this system has predicted she will soon murder her husband, leading her to be placed in a facility with other women who have been given similar warnings about their future violent crimes. They all wait for their uncertain futures—until a new arrival disrupts the status quo. This captivating tale delves into the unsettling bond between technology and its consequences, highlighting the price society pays for each advancement.

Release Date: March 11

Finding acceptance within the ideal circle of mothers can prove challenging – more so when your 10-year-old boy stands accused as the missing classmate’s potential culprit. This situation unfolds humorously and suspensefully for Florence Grimes in this captivating mystery novel.

2025-02-22 17:17

Title: Fans Are Convinced This Character Is Xaden’s Secret Venin Brother!

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