It goes without saying that THERE ARE MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD. If you haven’t read this chapter of Onyx Storm, please go read it first.
We’ve read the Prologue, and honestly, I’m impressed by how much has already been revealed. I’m very happy with the amount of information and the answers to some of our burning questions. However, one key question remains: What is Violet’s second signet?
Let’s dive into Chapter 1. The chapter begins with another addendum to The Book of Brennan. I would sell my soul for a copy of these books, to be honest. Maybe Rebecca Yarros could take this as a hint to release some of this amazing material in the future!
The first standout is the introduction of a new political term: Senarium. We’ve only ever read it once in Iron Flame, but without knowing fully how it works. We’re delving deeper into the politics and the inner workings of Navarre’s military and councils, which I think is fascinating.
From the Prologue, we learn that Navarre and Poromiel are attempting to find common ground for a deal. Honestly, if I were Poromiel, I’d walk away. Yet, given their current vulnerability, they desperately need Navarre’s protection. Still, I can’t shake the feeling that Navarre might fall short, but I guess we’ll see as the story unfolds.
Right on the first page, we’re treated to a conversation between Tairn and Violet. Tairn has always been my favorite dragon, but I can’t help feeling a bit disappointed with him here. He’s short-tempered, irritated, and frankly, quite rude to Violet. I think this shows that he’s in a serious moral pickle.
Another intriguing detail is the mention of wild weather patterns. Storms have grown fiercer since General Lilith Sorrengail is no longer around to regulate them. Interestingly, Rebecca Yarros mentioned in an interview that the rising temperatures in the Vale and Tyrendor are significant. Could she be using this as a subtle commentary on climate change, given the themes of power, corruption, and moral complexity? Or am I overthinking?
“And yet yours miraculously carry the burden of your ego.” Let’s be real—this is going straight into the Onyx Storm quotes collection. It’s an iconic line for sure.
The Ridoc and Aotrom argument threw me a little. Aotrom’s desire to return to Aretia makes sense, but why would their disagreement escalate so much that Aotrom doesn’t even notice Tairn?
Another point worth noting is Violet and Xaden’s refusal to use their bond. Violet explains that Xaden doesn’t trust himself to leave it open. Also, please take note of the bond. It is now chilled onyx. Not shimmering onyx.
Tairn even refers to Xaden as “The Dark One,” which I’m not a fan of. It feels overly dramatic and unoriginal. It’s clear Tairn neither likes nor trusts Xaden, which is bound to strain Violet and Xaden’s relationship. I predicted tension between them in one of my earlier theories, so this development tracks. I mean, I did sort of note in the past, in one of my theories that this will happen.
That said, despite their differences, Tairn makes it clear he’s training himself to carry Andarna as well and that his loyalty to Violet, Andarna, and his mate is unwavering. I’d love to know what’s going on with Sgaeyl, but I’ll remind myself—it’s only Chapter 1.
Easter Egg: “The Dark One didn’t cut it in the first place”. This is speculation, but I think Tairn’s nicknames will still end up being super important at some point. Violet is the silver one, Andarna is the golden one and now Xaden is the dark one. While a little unoriginal, I have this feeling that maybe there is more to him than just his loss of soul and inner darkness.
I initially thought the Arentian riders would head home immediately, but it’s clear Xaden wants Violet safe beyond the wards. Tairn suggests the real issue is keeping her safe from Xaden himself.
I was excited to see confirmation that Violet kept Lilith’s personal journals. I can’t wait for her to start reading them—I’m hoping for major discoveries.
Another Easter Egg here: “Maybe the god of death will curse me for keeping my mother’s personal journals, but it’s not like I wouldn’t have a few choice words for him should we meet, anyway.” I strongly believe in my Gods theory anyway. So I think eventually, Violet will meet Malek. And I do think there is something interesting about not burning for Malek.
I quite like the fact that Imogen called Violet’s little friend group: the fearsome foursome. That was adorable. Of course, we’re very curious about the upcoming plan Violet and Imogen are talking about, but I guess this is going to be discussed as we continue reading the book.
Easter Egg: “Every possible path”. This screams like Easter Egg to me. It is unclear to me why yet. (and I mean this honestly)
I feel as if I need to dig into this and form a theory about it.
The conversation between Violet and Imogen reveals some crucial details. Xaden has ALREADY lost control, though he hasn’t hurt Violet. There’s palpable fear for her safety, and Imogen, Bodhi, and Garrick suggest she sleep elsewhere.
From the conversation, I also love that the tables are turning. Violet will have to be the ones keeping secrets now. Clearly, she can’t tell Xaden everything about whatever it is they are planning. I quite like this.
Violet mentions scents (herbs and metal) and it’s interesting to read. I wonder if we’re going to dig deeper into the smells as per my previous theory.
Lastly, I have a new theory: Does Ridoc have feelings for Violet? His teasing comment, “Don’t worry, I’ll keep her safe,” leaves me wondering if there’s more to it. He might be serious but using humor to deflect.
Alright, let’s continue with Chapter 2! So far it’s such a strong start!
Read the Next Chapters:
- Onyx Storm Read Along: Prologue
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 1
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 2
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 3
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 4
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 5
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 6
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 7
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 8
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 9
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 10
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 11
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 12
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 13
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 14
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 15
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 16
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 17
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 18
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 19
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 20
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 21
- Onyx Storm Read Along – Chapter 22
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