Rebecca Yarros has always used humor in herEmpyreanseries, especially via the beloved joker and Quest Squad member Ridoc. InOnyx Storm,there is a marked shift in the humor that suggests the romantasy author is poking a bit of light fun at herself andOnyx Storm’s central romance being problematic, which isn’t an uncommon issue in the romantasy genre, but was used to great effect here.
A remark from Ridoc, one of thebest quotes fromOnyx Storm, about aninevitable romance complaint aboutFourth Wing’s Xaden and Violetreflects a wider self-referential tone ofOnyx Storm,reflected by comments from Violet herself regarding conflict with Xaden.Much of their conflict stems from miscommunication, which has been a running theme sinceFourth Wing.
Onyx Storm Hilariously Poked Fun At Violet & Xaden’s Miscommunication Problems
This Quote From Ridoc Felt Like One Of A Few Winks From Yarros
Rebecca Yarros shows she knows how to poke a bit of fun at herself inOnyx Storm.On p.111, Ridoc points out therepetitive nature of Violet and Xaden’s argumentsthroughout their passionate relationship:
“And it’s always the same fight.” He lifts his hand to his chest. “I’ll trust you if you stop keeping secrets!” He drops the hand and scowls. “It’s my secretive nature that attracted you, and why can’t you stay out of harm’s way for five minutes?”
This perfect impression of Violet and Xaden not only highlights that Ridoc is on top form,but shows that Yarros is aware of how grating Violet and Xaden can be for readers. This particular type of humor also shows how fond Yarros is of Ridoc as a character, and why readers respond so well to him. She takes Ridoc in anunexpected direction inOnyx Stormby making him more than the comic relief. Even so, his cutting humor is also a direct challenge to Violet - as seen later in the novel, he is not afraid to criticize her.
The Miscommunication Trope Is One That Plagues The First Two Empyrean Series Books
Violet And Xaden’s Relationship Faces A Key Obstacle
Onyx Stormis not the first readers have seen of the miscommunication trope in theEmpyreanseries - this recurring theme in Violet and Xaden’s relationship plagued the first two books. While it isnecessary for character development for them to learn how to better communicatewith each other while thrust into life and death situations and leadership responsibilities, the repetitive conversations can be a drag at times. Nowhere is this more prominent than inViolet’s grudge inIron Flame,which means they repeatedly had the same argument about trust and secrets.
While annoying, it does help to convey that Violet is someone who needs to know the whole truth of a situation…
While annoying, it does help to convey that Violet is someone who needs to know the whole truth of a situation to feel like she is in control. This plays out in her relationship with Xaden, but it also relates to her bookishness - she recites Navarran history to calm herself down in frightening situations, but the reader learns alongside Violet that much of this is propaganda. Understandably, Violet flounders when she has to question what the truth of her reality is.
At least byOnyx Storm,they are making some progress and see the humor. On other occasions in the book, Violet pokes fun at Xaden by saying he is“brooding”, and sends thoughts down the bond such as“this argument isn’t over”. While they still have work to do on their communication issues, overall they are more aligned, despite Xaden grappling with his venin transition.
Ridoc’s Criticism Is Indicative Of A Larger Romantasy Problem
Miscommunication Is A Delicate Trope In Romantasy
In the case of theEmpyreanseries, part of the problem is that Violet and Xaden got together very early in the series, inFourth Wing.Because of this,Yarros had to reintroduce tensionvia repetitive miscommunication.The payofffrom Xaden’s statement of love, which even impressed Dain, was arguably worth it, as wasXaden’s line that gave me hope, but it doesn’t make it anyless frustrating to read. This problem is not isolated toEmpyreanalone - it is a common trope in the romantasy genre and is very difficult to do well.
To a certain extent, it is a useful device and makes relationships more realistic, as everybody has their communication issues. However, when it becomes a central conflict, that’s when it begins to get dull. This is more from a lack of communication than miscommunication. This is a shame, because miscommunication and misunderstanding have been key to some of the best romances in history, includingPride and Prejudice.Sadly, it is rarely done with the same finesse as Austen, but it is encouraging to see Yarros incorporating humor inOnyx Stormas a nod and a wink to her readers.
