The ending of Onyx Storm delivered a wave of major revelations that reshaped the future of the Empyrean series — from Violet’s surprising ascension as Duchess of Aretia, to Xaden’s dramatic alignment with the venin, and, in perhaps the most jaw-dropping twist yet, the revelation that the two are actually married. While Violet and Xaden’s romance remains one of the driving forces behind the series’ popularity, their relationship is far from simple and comes with its own set of challenges.
One of the most common critiques of Fourth Wing is that Violet and Xaden’s relationship develops too quickly, with their dynamic often marred by communication breakdowns and immature arguments. Though the romance begins with the ever-popular “enemies-to-lovers” trope, many feel it resolves too soon, cutting short its dramatic potential. However, Onyx Storm’s ending offers a promising opportunity to rekindle that original tension. With Violet and Xaden now separated, the stage is set for the series to recapture its romantic roots in four compelling ways — reigniting emotional stakes and deepening their connection.
Onyx Storm’s Ending Sets the Stage for a Revival of Fourth Wing’s Enemies-to-Lovers Spark in the Next Book
Onyx Storm delivered yet another jaw-dropping twist from Rebecca Yarros — not only are Violet and Xaden secretly married, but Xaden has vanished alongside the venin, hinting that their relationship in the next installment may return to its fiery beginnings. The Empyrean series originally launched with an intense enemies-to-lovers arc between the two, but their romantic tension resolved rather quickly. Now, with Violet and Xaden seemingly on opposing sides of a looming war, the “enemies” dynamic is poised for a powerful resurgence.
As the Empyrean series moves into its fourth book, fans can anticipate a return to the high-stakes tension that defined Violet and Xaden’s relationship in Fourth Wing. Some of the most compelling moments in the first book stemmed from the slow-burning attraction between the two, built on their clashing loyalties and guarded emotions. Now, with Xaden’s humanity in question and his transformation as an Asim unfolding, that dynamic is set to evolve in unpredictable ways. Just how far he’ll be pushed — and whether his love for Violet can withstand his new identity — remains one of the series’ most intriguing questions.
Xaden and Violet’s Evolving Relationship Offers a Chance to Address the Toxic Elements of Onyx Storm’s Romance
Violet and Xaden’s intense devotion to each other has always been central to the series, but at times, their relationship borders on troubling—especially given Xaden’s willingness to sacrifice others if it means protecting Violet. Now that they’re once again positioned on opposing sides, this renewed “enemies” dynamic presents a valuable opportunity for Rebecca Yarros to confront some of the more toxic aspects of their romance, including their ongoing communication breakdowns and recurring conflicts. While their love likely remains unshaken, this shift in their relationship could pave the way for deeper emotional growth—particularly on Violet’s part.
The upcoming Fourth Wing sequel may put Violet’s loyalty—and her resolve—to the ultimate test. Near the end of Onyx Storm, Ridoc challenges Violet to set a boundary: if Xaden ever intentionally harms someone else or herself, it would be the line that proves he’s lost his humanity. This moment wasn’t included lightly; it strongly suggests that in the next book, Xaden may cross that line by hurting civilians or those Violet cares about. The true test will be whether Violet holds firm to her promise—or continues to believe she can save him, no matter the cost.
Xaden’s Absence Opens the Door for the Next Empyrean Sequel to Spotlight Violet’s Friendships
While people enjoyed Violet and Xaden’s relationship arc in Onyx Storm, the story often sidelined some of Violet’s closest friends—especially Rhi, Sawyer, and Jessinia. With Violet and Xaden now separated in the upcoming novel, there’s a strong chance her friendships will take center stage. Some of Rebecca Yarros’ richest character dynamics come from Violet’s bonds with her friends, and I’m excited to see the fourth Empyrean book explore these relationships in greater depth. This shift promises a more balanced narrative and meaningful character growth for Violet—something the first book truly benefited from.
While Violet and Xaden’s relationship remains captivating, her friendships are just as crucial to the story’s progression. Ridoc’s engaging presence throughout the book highlights this, and I’m excited to see how Yarros will further develop Violet’s connections with other friends like Rhi and Sawyer in the next installment. It’s clear that Onyx Storm was setting the stage for a deeper exploration of these bonds moving forward.
The Next Fourth Wing Book Promises Satisfying Romance Moments, Fueled by Fresh Challenges
Violet and Xaden’s relationship shines brightest in the first Fourth Wing novel, but some of the tension in Iron Flame feels somewhat forced, and Onyx Storm leans toward predictability. Now, with Violet and Xaden positioned on opposite sides of a war between the Continent and the venin, the stakes are significantly raised. This new conflict brings a deeper, more believable complexity to their dynamic—moving beyond petty miscommunications to confront far weightier challenges that will truly test their bond.
Their relationship, however, depends entirely on Xaden’s struggle to hold onto his humanity—a tension that adds compelling depth to their dynamic.
Any romance between Violet and Xaden in the Onyx Storm sequel is poised to feel far more satisfying, as they are not only physically apart but also positioned as opponents in a brewing conflict. While a face-to-face encounter seems unlikely in the next book, Yarros may keep their connection alive through Violet’s dream-walking signet ability, allowing her to enter Xaden’s mind and communicate despite the distance. Yet, the heart of their relationship depends on Xaden’s struggle to hold onto his humanity—an element that adds intriguing complexity and tension to their bond.
