#Tairn appreciation post

[violentdelightshavevioletends]

Tairn taking care of Violet appreciation post:

Because "No rider has ever survived the loss of their dragon. I can’t imagine wanting to." & also "A dragon without its rider is a tragedy"… and Tairn knows; he is the only living being to come close to understanding what Violet is going through… because he lost his rider and that loss nearly killed him.

— It’s why he told her she must survive after her mother died. "You are alive. You will live today. You will wake tomorrow."

— It’s why he reminds her over and over; she is his last rider, this is their life, he won’t lose her to it, he will not live with that. "I chose you not as my next, but as my last, and should you fall, then I will follow."

— It’s why he forces her to breathe. "You will breathe." … He’s the only one that can… Tairn knows. Tairn exists. Tairn makes sure she is not alone, and you hear it in the following quotes… almost like a debate to her inner monologue… actually quite literally that; he is cancelling it out.

Violet is losing her vision: "The sky darkens, and the ground trembles. I look up into the black void, and my vision narrows in an ever-shrinking circle." — Violet sees him instead. "Not the sky. A wing." — Piercing through to her. "Stern, demanding golden eyes appear." — Demanding to be seen.

Violet cannot breathe without her: "It’s gone. A breath later, so is she. A roar vibrates my very bones, and my ears ring as the edges of my vision darken. My heart stutters, and my lungs cease their struggle. There's no air and no reason to seek it. I was infinite yet moored, and now I'm hollow and adrift in waters too vast to comprehend." Tairn uses his power, demands, controls her to breathe and live so this does not kill her: "You will breathe!" His deep, gravelly voice fills my head, and unyielding strength barrels down the pathway that connects us."

Violet is nothing: "I’m nothing." Tairn exists, so she exists, so she cannot be nothing: "He exists, therefore I must, because we are bound. Never alone. Always connected."

Violet says: "She left us. She left us. She left us. It's all I can think." — Tairn interjects, reminds, demands her to stay and remember that & that not everyone left: "We remain," Tairn orders, as if I have a choice not to."

"Andarna is gone. But I’m never alone." — he never lets her be alone. Not for one moment… It’s why it changes from “left” from that abandonment, and a vague “she” summary, to “Andarna” and “gone”, it now sounds less like everyone and a summary of every loss (even if this one hurts more than any).

"Tairn leaves our bond wide open, giving me unfettered access to him in a way l've never had. He's always been with me, but now I'm with him, too. I hear his side of the conversation when he tells the elders about Andarna's departure. I hear him bickering with Sgaeyl over what he calls her excessive hovering, and I'm privy to the lecture he gives Xaden about making sure I eat." — he lets her in like no one else or any dragon rule (I imagine at least) would allow. Even letting her see him coddling, scolding, caring, protecting; making sure she eats. Being whatever she needs to keep breathing… and she is breathing.

"I exist for Tairn, but I live for Xaden." — and he doesn’t care what it takes, even with his current disdain for Xaden; if it keeps her alive he doesn’t care. "The emptiness threatens to overwhelm me again, — he doesn’t let it overwhelm her, he lends her strength (and presumably enough power to also survive it) — but Tairn inundates the bond with a deluge of defiance and indignation. "Focus on now, on him if you have to." — and she does have them to focus on — I still have both of them: Tairn and Xaden."

[quietstormxr]

Green Dragon

My first post out to the Tumblr universe. Here’s some angst between you and Xaden.

Let me know what y’all think! And if there should be a part 2!

Part 2

The green dragon, but not your green dragon, have taken residence inside your heart and mind. Never before had you felt threatened in your relationship; however, something seemed to change the minute Violet Sorrengail entered the quadrant. Not only did your friends seem distracted by the girl, but you could feel him peeling away little by little.

As days and months wore on, it seemed that the interest that peaked in him as he withdrew from interest in you. At first, you figured it was the stress of the deal with her mother, then you realized that wasn’t it at all. He stopped visiting. He stopped paying attention to you. He stopped seemingly seeing you at all. To protect yourself, you began to pull away. You thought he would notice, but once threshing passed, it all seemed to be over. Xaden told you that he was just figuring things out due to the mating bond between Sgaeyl and Tairn and his life now being tethered to Violet’s, but it seemed there were more to things.

At that point, you had decided you’d pull back from everyone and see what changed. One night in December, you decided some fresh air was needed and that’s when your heart broke. There he was kissing her. His hands in her hair and pushing her up against a wall. You couldn’t believe the brokenness you felt. He couldn’t even come to you first and end things before moving on. The feelings of worthlessness and nothingness were enveloping you again. Watching the person that had driven those feelings from you drove the despair in deep and fast. The thought that the man you had picked you up from broken pieces could toss you aside so fast was the most heartbreaking thing you had ever experienced. From there on you knew that there was no going back, your relationship was done, and you were done pretending.

The next day, you couldn’t even look anyone in the eye. At breakfast Bodhi and Garrick both asked if you were ok, but you brushed them off and went to class. During class, Eya and Imogen tried to talk, but you just ignored them. Even though you weren’t a marked one, most all your friends were. You knew that since Xaden would never be abandoned, you would now be pushing them all away as well.

Being that Xaden seemed always busy with leadership, the revolution, and now Violet, it seemed you didn’t even have to have “the talk”. At least that is what you were hoping, until one day in January, he showed up at your door. You opened it a crack to see him standing there looking at you expectantly.

“I have nothing to say to you, Xaden.” You told him with a cold certainty.

He looked at you questioningly. You noticed the fight in his eyes, the only place he ever showed his emotions.

“I don’t want to fight with you about this, us, or whatever we were to each other. I know you’ve moved on and I would appreciate it if you would let me do the same.” You said. With that, you shut the door on him and slammed your face in your pillow.

‘It’s ok to protect your heart, Stormy One. I could always maim him in a place that would not anger Sgaeyl.' Cedri states.

‘Thanks for the offer, Cedri, but I’m not sure that would help.’

You were lucky that your dragon, though being a curmudgeon at times, always knew when to push you or comfort. Cedri was always there to bolster you in times of doubt and fear.

The next day, things seemed to change. Imogen, Eya, and even Soleil seemed to distance themselves from you. You didn’t mind, it seemed to make the process of moving on to pick up the pieces easier. It only seemed that they boys didn’t get the memo.

It was obvious that Xaden must have said something, as Garrick seemed to keep staring at you from the leadership table at breakfast. And it was on the way out from breakfast that Bodhi came up to you and asked if he could walk you to class. Due to the overwhelming exhaustion of your own feelings, you just said ok and let him walk you in silence. The most unusual part of the day came when Liam came up to you during dinner and asked if he could sit with you and your squad.

“Aren’t you supposed to be on guard duty, Mairi?” you asked with a look of pure confusion on your face.

“Well, yes. But I was hoping that maybe I could convince you to sit at our table.” He looked with a sheepish grin.

“Thanks, Liam. I think I’ll have to pass on that one.” How could he think that you would want to be anywhere near the girl that took your world away?

He walked away seemingly saddened by your answer, but you just stared back at him in disbelief.

It didn’t make sense that now they all seemed to be interested in what you were doing. You knew that Xaden would have told them what happened, well Garrick at least. Garrick would’ve informed the others.

The next few weeks passed by uneventfully enough. Your world seemed to find a new rhythm now that you had distanced yourself from your marked friends. You started spending more time with your three other squad mates and the change didn’t go unnoticed.

“Not that I’m complaining, but why have you started hanging out with us so much?” asked Nico pointing around the table between himself, Kai, and Iona.

You shrugged your shoulders and said, “Is that not ok?”

“Of course, its ok!” Nico said. “We are all glad you are, but just really wanted to check that everything was alright. You seem to be shutting your other friends out.”

You let out a huff of a laugh and slowly shake your head. “Yeah, that happens when you find out someone cheated on you and then don’t come to you about it.”

Nico looks at you with eyes wide in surprise. Everyone knew that you were in a relationship of sorts, but no one knew who it was with.

“Well if we need to bury a body, you just have to say the words.”

And with that you break out into fits of laughter, the first in months and you can feel four pairs of eyes on your back.

As the weeks passed, you started to get into a new rhythm. You found new sparring partners, friends, and even went on a few dates. You didn’t miss the glances from the boys when they thought you weren’t looking. But the thing that you couldn’t understand was why Xaden would ever be looking.

You were in the middle of studying in the commons with Kai and felt his eyes before even meeting his gaze. The thing that surprised you most was the flash of sadness and, was that jealousy, that crossed his face. You shook your head knowing that you must have dreamt those looks and went back to your books. But that didn’t help the thoughts from swirling.

Why would he be sad? He seemed to have a shiny, new obsession, why would he care what you were doing?

‘Maybe things aren’t really what they seem.’ Cedri states.

‘That may be true, but how would I know when no one has said anything otherwise.’ You retort.

The next few days seemed to drag, but you found yourself feeling lighter than you had in a while. You started getting up for morning runs in the past few days and that seemed to help your mood improve. That was until a week later; you saw Bodhi standing at the wall out of the citadel on your way there for a run.

“To what do I owe the pleasure of this morning visit Bodhi?” you question.

“I just wanted to see if we could talk, maybe hang out later? Things have been weird lately between you and everyone and I just wanted to see what was going on.” He explains.

“Did someone put you up to this?”

“No.” He says resolutely with a furrow in his brow. “I just miss hanging out with you and talking. We’ve been friends since we entered this hellhole and I just want to continue that.”

“Fine, we can talk later. Want to meet down by the river after classes today? I could use some fresh air away from the quadrant.”

“Sure, I’ll see you down there.” He says and walks back towards the academic building.

‘If he tries to hurt you, I will make sure Cuir does not have a good evening.’

‘I don’t think that’s Bodhi’s plan, but I know you’ll be there to make sure.’

‘Of course, you do not think I would leave you with those humans after the hurt they’ve inflicted recently.’

‘I would never expect anything less.’

You can hear your dragon ‘harumph’ in a sigh at your confidence.

[skyfallscotland]

It's been a long day 🥱 You may have a little snippet. Un petit bout if you will 💅😌

Tairn chuffs and I hastily lean down to unclip his vest, stroking along his spine in appreciation. “Thanks, buddy.” I scratch behind his ears. “Time off.” Instantly he’s padding over to Sgaeyl, dragging his side along hers. It makes my lip wobble.  “Fuck.” I mumble. I’m so tired I’m stumbling on my feet and crying at the drop of a hat. “Come here, Violence. Let’s get you to bed.” I look up at Xaden in exasperation, staring at him with glossy eyes.  “No.” I protest, probably an octave too high. “We still—” “We can talk in the morning.” He says gently, brushing a hand over my hair. “You’re exhausted—I’m exhausted. It will keep.”

A show of hands—who thinks they're actually going to wake up and have that conversation? And who thinks he's going to get his hands on her first? 🙋🏼‍♀️

Also, I feel I should inform you all that the next chapter is the final one. The chapter count is to account for the epilogue, which I will also post either at the same time or just after. Probably at the same time 🖤

PS. You're all incorrect, it's both and neither 😇

[justallihere]

I️ LOVE and ADORE Xaden going from “I️ don’t care about you or your feelings 🙄” to “Why wouldn’t I️ come for you and take you home? 🥺”

It really reminds me of this post where someone made the commentary about Xaden refusing to coddle and be nice to Violet, even downright being an asshole about it

To giving her his flight jacket because gods forbid Violet be cold for the 2-3 minutes they would’ve stood in formation!

Love love love that growth for him, like yes king! Tell us how much you love her through your actions! Give her that flight jacket and everything!

Chapter 35 was such a GIFT! I️ loved it so much! From Mira and Xaden shelving their dislike for each other for V’s sake and just mother henning her! Loved Xaden taking care of her and reaffirming that she can be upset at the threat against her hair and the autonomy she would have been robbed of, had Aetos actually cut it. I️ love how gentle he was, making sure she was okay, even arguing with Tairn about it on the flight home because their whole dynamic in canon is just over protective dragon meets over protective enemy to mutually assured destruction to lovers, and amari give us mercy that Violet gets injured around either one of them.

I️ was so shocked and legit almost cried at the confession because bby boy X was NOT letting her think that he didn’t love her! Really gives a whole “Aretia could burn and I️ wouldn’t care as long as I️ had you.” vibe to it and I️. Am. Not. Okay!!! I️ am not normal or sane about this love confession! V is getting some HONESTY out of this man without having to jump through 5 million hoops or questions about it. X really just said it with both tiddies and his full chest!!

I️ also really loved the display of Rhi and Xaden’s conversation. He knows how much Rhi means to Violet, and having her best friend with her is the best thing for her! I’m so nervous and excited to see if you include a convo with the rest of the squad about her torture sessions and just showing how much they all love her! Cam was right! Everyone who knows Violet Sorrengail is a little bit in love with her!!

I’m curious if Violet is gonna think about how she basically begged for her mom to come with them to Aretia, when she was freed and I️ wonder what Xaden would have done if Lilith had actually planned to go with her daughter… thoughts and theories I️ suppose!!

God Alli, there are so many little things about this chapter that I️ adored and so little time to write about it! I LOVE this fic so much that I️ always am ready to read the next chapter immediately! So ready!! I️ hope this doesn’t pressure you too much but I️ did want to say that I️ adore this fic so much!! 10/10 would highly recommend!!

Also I️ hope my sleep-deprived ramblings made sense lol! Thank you for such a wonderful story and I️ cant wait for the next chapter 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻

Xaden’s growth has been so fun to write. Just the little moments of his growing respect for Violet, realizing he actually likes her, falling in love—it’s been one of my favorite things about this fic

Thank you! I had a great time with the two contrasting sides of Xaden in this chapter: the version of him who loves Violet and will wipe her tears and do anything for her, and the version that is just an absolute asshole to anyone who isn’t her 😂 if your name isn’t Violet Sorrengail he really doesn’t give a fuck

There’s some squad bonding next chapter 🫶🏻

Violet will definitely be reckoning with that conversation with her mom at some point—Lilith said she’d come, but will she really? Xaden would let it happen for Violet, of course, but it wouldn’t be an easy adjustment lol

Thank you so much for reading and for this ask, I appreciate you 🩷🩷🩷

[oh-no-its-dragons]

Road Trip!

Written for the Rider's Quadrant dabble challenge. Because I never do anything in the correct order, this is set in a modern, no-powers AU I'm working on but haven't posted yet. All you need to know is Violet and the squad work at a college town Barnes and Noble and the in-universe equivalent of Fourth Wing is about Sgaeyl and Tairn.

--

"You named your car Thunder?" Ridoc laughs. Of course he figured if out first, he has an encyclopedic store of knowledge that only comes in useful when it's funny.

"She named her car after the hero from the Hidden Vale books," Rhiannon grinned. "So really it's appropriate that Tairn is giving us a ride to the bookstore."

"Tairn's the only option big enough for all of us, and I can still leave your ass here to take the bus, Ridoc." Violet smirks. It had taken her a while to get used to the way her coworkers teased and threatened, but she felt like she belonged here now. "Everybody buckled in?" 

Without waiting for an answer she turned the key and Tairn roared to life, as loud as Xaden's Harley. 

Rhiannon, the only one of her coworkers who'd been in the truck before just smirked at the startled look on Ridoc's face. 

"You don't seem like the type to drive a beast like this. I'm impressed," Sawyer said. 

"I inherited it." Violet left it at that and Rhiannon turned around from the front passenger seat, giving the boys in the back a stare that made it clear they weren't asking any more questions. Ridoc held up his hands in mock innocence while Sawyer turned to watch the truck bed as they pulled out of the parking lot, confirming for himself that none of the boxes were moving from where he'd tied them down.

"I can't believe you were willing to give up your day off to do this, Vi, I really appreciate it," Rhiannon said as they headed for the highway. 

Ridoc rolled his eyes. "I can't believe they shipped all these copies of Storm in Onyx to our store instead of the one having the release party."

"At least this way I don't have to pay for gas to drive across town to work that zoo," Sawyer said.

"I was going to the party anyway, and this way I get paid to do it," Violet smiled. "Besides, you guys have had my back plenty of times since I started at the store. It's the least I can do to thank you."

Rhiannon crossed her arms. "Nope, I've told you, making sure you have necessary accommodations for your disability is not something you need to thank us for."

"I'm going to appreciate you anyway, Rhi, whether you like it or not," Violet laughed. 

[blurrypetals]

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros - blurrypetals review

originally posted jan. 3, 2023 - ★★★★★

It's a new year, a new Audible subscription for the first time since 2021, and we're kicking the year off with the sequel to one of the biggest books of the moment because why not! I'm feeling extra adventurous and romantic for 2024 with my wedding approaching in 2024 and I think this set the tone nicely!

As I mentioned in my review for Fourth Wing, dragons are usually not For Me, but this series borrows so much from other books I love that it doesn't really matter that this one thing isn't specifically for Sara because almost everything else might as well have my name all over it.

I did forget to mention in my review for the previous book, by the way, how much I appreciate that the series everyone is talking about right now has a disabled main character! One with a significant mobility aid, to boot (meaning the saddle she uses to be able to ride Tairn). As someone with a somewhat comparable disability to Violet's (fibromyalgia) it is such a breath of fresh air to have good disability rep for a character who doesn't need curing, doesn't need changing, just has EDS (probably) and needs extra wraps and a saddle to help her kick ass.

As with book one, Yarros does an excellent job at wrapping the reader up in the world, making us feel for Violet and her friends and understand what they are facing and going through with very little effort on her part. Things slide into place very well and I never found myself lost or confused with any of the higher fantasy elements, which is something I oft struggle with.

This all said, I know what book has made it to the top of my anticipated reads among the next Shadowhunter Chronicles installments. I absolutely believe the hype. Until next time!

[feysandfeels]

I'd love to know how Xaden justifies staying up guarding Violet while she recovers form *checks notes* poisoning Jack with Oranges... which like, btw, go off bestie, excellent tactic. 10/10 KILL THAT MOTHERFUCKER

oh wait no, he survived.

Just so we are on the same page I am against all the violence this school allows except when it comes to Violet killing Jack. In that case I will literally turn a blind eye and hand my girl the gun. Do what you must babygirl.

And now he is training her, which we all know is PEAK slut behaviour.

Bro you even gave her a collection of knives, my man you are so whipped! Like bffr.

Okayy so Dain is being a cunt... get a fucking grip dude.

Xaden kisses like a man on death row. Like that kiss when the gryffins are attacking? MMMMM YES !!! ABSOFUCKINGLUTELY.

oh and they can speak mind to mind... I'm sorry but like... the jokes are writing themselves at this point jajajajaja

Tairn is such a babygirl to give her a saddle... I honestly thought they were all riding with a saddle which is why I was like ???? why is she falling ????? and to be fair riding bareback is not that hard... you just need stronger legs and abs (lol I almost wrote lebs)

XADEN MADE IT FOR HER??? AND HE ALSO GAVE HER KNIVES?????? FUCK ME THAT'S PEAK ROMANCE!!!

tbf Dain actually has made it abundantly clear he only cares about Violet safety.

Oh I swear to god if Jack kills Liam I will END A MOTHERFUCKER IN A WAY THERE WILL BE BALLADS WRITTEN ABOUT MY RAGE.

Oh shit she's using her time stopping power. daaaaaaaaaaaaaamn DO IT!!! SAVE LIAM!!!!!! I mean everyone will notice but like who gives a fuck it's Liam's live!

SHE FRIED HIM!!!! *SCREAMS* WITH LIGHTING *SCREAMS MORE*

FEMINISM IS ALIVE AND WELL AND GO OFF BABYGIRL. YOU ARE NOT A KILLER BECAUSE HE WAS NOT A MAN.

but the fact that she is lighting is very Mare Barrow coded.... she feels very Mare Barrow and partly Feyre coded... like with a Bella Swan base flavour.

Dain getting upset that Violet revealed his dragon power... READ THE ROOM I AM FUCKING BEGGING SHE IS HAVING A PANIC ATTACK BECAUSE SHE JUST KILLED A PIG!!!!

PEAK ROMANCE IS COMFORTING THE GIRL AFTER SHE JUST HAD HER FIRST KILL AND SHE DOESN'T WANT TO BE SEEN AS A WEAPON AND SHE DIDN'T WANT TO KILL, WHILE ALSO REMINDING HER THAT SHE IS HER OWN PERSON AND SHE DECIDES HOW THIS WILL BUILD HER. (if you truly do not see the parallels with other characters.. like you are truly just turning a blind eye)

Will give it to the book but i gotta love how you can tell Xaden is a child of conflict.

You are the weapon (romantically)

Honestly Xaden is such a no bs character like he is very "own up to your own shit" and yes.

If Violet were my friend she would not be wallowing so much in her guilt...like babygirl we are opening a bottle of champagne

Xaden is in her room to check up and her and I hope they fuck :)

Do y'all remember in Inside Out the machine of imaginary boyfriends that creatd boyfriends that said stuff like "I would die for Riley"? Xaden is like that except for YA/New Adult Post Rhysand book boyfriends.

AYYYYYY HE SAID IT HE SAID IT, HE JUST SAID "I CAN'T SEEM TO STAY AWAY" BINGO

Not to be unsympathetic but I think if Violet fucked Xaden she wouldn't be so upset about the whole J*ck thing. Looooool there she goes saying "gods i want him to touch me to wash this day away." Girl just do it.

yesss he is close enough that she can feel his heat. YAAAAAAAAASSSSSS GET CLOSER!!! FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK

Hitting you, Xaden, is the last WE want to do. FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCCCCCCKKKKKKKKKKKKK

okay they are kissing :) please fuck :)

UFFFFF he just did the jealousy "fuck no" when she suggested someone else. THIS IS THE GOOD STUFF!!! when I say that I appreciate a bit of jealousy this is what I mean. Fuck yeah

"Because I only want you Xaden" YES GIRL WE KNOW.

He is a certified ass man. Oh what a day to be alive.

"he is mine or maybe I'm his" and me just scooching here, making myself comfy.

Ohhhhhhhhh he did the "does this feel like I don't want you." He is going through the "I can barely think when you are around". When I say what a feast I mean this scene. Homegirl really went through the classics of book boyfriends, and made him say every single sentence... and it is a win for me!

I too want to hear Xaden say my name.

dudeeee she did the "so kiss me"

I need a few moments to compose myself.

Once again i think irl men need to start reading more to be better at dirty talk. Like I think with a bit of critical thought they can find some gems in these books.

men who say "you're going to be the death of me" while in the throes will see the pearly gates.

well okay now... fucking against the window... even with the curtains close... that is dangerous. So shift, back to the wall, to the bed, on the desk, we're good.

ohhhhhh they are power fucking.

****y so good he lost control. If he could his roar would have brought a mountain down... or you know whatever happens when Rhys fucks.

107 lashes?! nooooo nooooooooooooooooooooooooooo... did he receive the lashes so they wouldn't? FUCK NO. I'm going to cry. He chose the chance of death over the certainty.. just so he could try save them?

(to be fair I still think if the current government would have wanted a better thing or themselves they would have straight up killed them all otherwise they will always be looking over their shoulders because one day these kids will have dragons and a vengeance...and honestly.. go off kids)

Xaden when he makes his relationship public with Violet be like

I am not immune to Xaden saying that he thought Violet could channel lighting from their first kiss. I am not immune to that and I am in fact giggling.

Honestly I too would be hesitant to work with the teacher that straight up killed a mind reading student.

ohhhhh her father left her a cryptic note ohhhhhhhhhh. In the book of corrupt powers ooooooohhhh what could it beeeeee???

Xaden saying "don't fall for me" is like... bestie how can you say that when YOU YOURSELF XADEN are already in love??? I see your lies

Yeah no, I'm with Violet, he is already in as deep as she is.

Honestly good for her for standing her ground against his fuckboy ways (even though I know know know he is already in deep and must be doing this to protect her)

Xaden chokes on his food because he was taunting Violet and then she taunted back. YEAH TWO CAN PLAY THIS GAME, WE WOMEN ARE EVEN BETTER AT THIS GAME.

I do wonder what is the point of this book, beyond Violet's first year, because I'm already 20 days away from graduation... and I still have like 8 hours to go and I'm like ??? okay but ??????

BRENNAN IN MY HEART OF HEARTS YOU ARE NOT DEAD.

oh lol they are "using the sparring practices to relieve some tension" yes... because that's not... like... that's a recipe for disaster.. trust me this is coming from someone that used her rehearsals to let out all tension and explorations with her costar... like we did that and it..like hmmm.. better decisions could have been made.

GIRL WHAT ARE YOU DOING AGAIN IN THAT FUCKING BRIDGE OF DEAD, GET YOUR ASS BACK DOWN NOW!

of course he wanted her from the second he saw her

"I don't deserve you but I think I'm going to keep you all the same" God he ate with that one, why lie.

so to Rhysand's bringing down mountains we have Violet's thunder storm LOOOOOOOL yeah girl you're going to have to get that under control... like are they going to sleep like that? oh wait no, they are going to keep at it... go ahead. As you were.

Every single time there is "don't worry about me I'll be safe" scene in the middle of a we're being attacked, with a quick passionate kiss, followed by a "you'll be the death of me"? Like? what am I to do? not like it? not fall harder for the dude?? nooo

Rihannon enough, we're being attacked, stop it! yes she is wearing his jacket, we're being attacked. Enough. Bye.

oh wait they are not being attacked, it is war games? Ohhhhh for this shit they stopped Violet and Xaden? If it were me I would murder everyone.

Wait.. why are they saying goodbye? like isn't he going with the squads to play this little game?? like isn't this a mock attack so like wing leaders should be there??

oop she got girlfriend privileges jajajajajajajaja and is being taken beyond the wars just because Xaden wants to be with her. LOL

Ayyy there he goes Dain with his "she's safer with me" like dude, let it go. They want to fuck. My dude get on with the times. You have been left behind, my good fella.

These two are fighting like

Oh nooooooooow he realised that they are fucking. Hopefully he will let it go and now can be friends and he can stop being an asshole

I do think my girl went from crush to love hella fast.. like boo, take a second, let things develop organically.

"I've been yours for longer than you imagine" I MEAN DUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUH. WE'VE BEEN KNEW.

ohhh they interrupted them again....

ohhhhhhhh I fear this is when Violet finds out that Xaden has been working with the gryffins or smth

I KNEEEEEEEEEEW IT I FUCKING KNEW HE WAS WORKING WITH THEM I KNEW HE HAD ULTERIOR MOTIVES (not in approaching Violet but like in life) I KNEWWWWW IT! THE SUS VIBES NEVER LIE

But also lets be real, like how can a Gryffin stand against a warrior, like bffr. Stand aside or you will be burnt!

Ngl this isn’t a good look for Xaden rn, because yes I know morally he is probably right in siding with Gryffins and it will be revealed that the Dragon king is bad or smth… but like optics wise? My dude it does in fact look like your are romancing the general’s daughter to sway her to your side and leverage her position against her mother AND SISTER!

JAJAJAJAJAJA THIS HAS TO BE THE WORST ATTEMPT TO INFO DUMP I HAVE EVER SEEN JAJAJAJAJAJAJAJA (Her explaining what this magic wilding people are)

To be fair Dain would dead ass rat Xaden out... like he is so Chaol coded he is 100% blindly following his leadership. BESTIE WAKE UP, ROUGH HOURS ARE NOW!

Once again Violence as a nickname does not slap how this author think it does.

But Violet, my girl, all the clues are there... for you to at least believe him

Omg she believed him!! gotta give it to her that she is able to separate the "you lied to me about our relationship" (which he didn't but lets be real, the optics of this reveal are not in his romantic favour) and the "what you lied about is actually true". Look at one keep of comparmentalisation.

The Dragons not telling her is nasty as hell. Violet stand behind me. I will defend you.

The fact that his dad knew about it... hmmm are we starting to believe his wife killed him.

I mean my gal you gave him everything but lets be realistic... this was just starting you cannot expect someone who has been through what he has been through to trust you from the get go.

omg they sent all the branded to the outpost to attack them an end them and.

AND DAIN TOUCHED HER AND HE KNEW HE KNEW!!

DAIN WAS SAYING GOODBYE TO HER. HE IS SO LIMP DICK THAT HE DEADSASS SENT THE WOMAN HE "LOVES" TO HER DEATH BECAUSE SHE WAS SLEEPING WITH A GUY WHO, UNBEKNOWNST TO HER AT THAT POINT, HAD A THING FOR A TRAITOR!!!!! WHEN I CATCH YOU DAIN ATTOS!!!

Wait, what if he is in kahoots with her sister and this is a bigger plan to save the kingdom because their current leadership is weak af???

Yeah you've been sent here to die. Oh boo this is not... this is not ideal.

I AM RAGING! RAGING!!! SOMEONE HOLD ME I'M ABOUT TO THROW FISTS.

Of course they are going to stay, that's what anyone with a good fucking heart would.

Liam saying "we're friend Violet" just as he is very clearly about to die. GOD SOMEONE HOLD ME I AM ABOUT TO BURN THE WORLD FOR HIM.

I find it so fucking unfair that if a dragon dies the rider dies too.Like no. Not fair.

Him asking her to take care of his sister. Oh fuck this shit. Fuck this shit and fuck everyone who had anything to do with this.

oh Liam using his last moments to be wing man for Xaden lol that's a real one right there.

Xaden losing his brother in Liam... oh it's just nasty business, nasty business all around. I'm suing for this.

Dain COUNT YOUR MOTHERFUCKING DAYS YOU ARE DEAD TO ME AND I WILL HAVE YOUR 🫵🏼 HEAD 🫵🏼 FOR THIS

Omg look at that he did not die!! He came really close but then the power of friendship saved him. DID YOU SEE THAT? LIAM DID NOT DIE IN MY BOOK. Stay safe y'all.

trying v hard to care about Violet's apparent amazing hidden power.. when Liam's almost death happened

If you see me being delusional or in deep denial, please mind your business.

And there she goes ... as she dies (??? ) saying one last time that Xaden is hot. Gotta give it to her my girl is committed.

lol it is hilarious that Tairn is yelling at Xaden for not telling her.

Omg she lost her memories... this is not ... ugh... oh my god... this is annoying. Nope she did not. Thank god.

"she exists and I get turned on" well and they say that romance is dead.

HE IS ALIVE I FUCKING KNEWWWWW IT I FUCKING KNEW IT I FUCKING KNEW IT JSNJSFSJNVKHZVD.SVHJSDACOSDVBOHSVJSB

I HAVE NEVER NOT ONCE MADE A MISTAKE IN MY LIFE!!!! GO BRENNAN SORRENGAIL NATION, THE TIME IS NOW!

Before I wrap this up I want to extend a formal apology to Chaol Westfall, baby I'm so sorry I ever compared Dain to you. Even at your worst, Chaol you were still honorable. Dain can eat dust!

LUISA READS FOURTH WING :)

Right fam, time for some dragon riding (non sexual… from what I have been able to gather)

Ngl, but reading (listening) the "a dragon without its rider is a tragedy, a rider without its dragon is dead" after seeing so many tiktoks about it and them being all epic, has me giddy, has me excited. Here we go.

So far we have a cunty yet caring elder sister, a dead dad, a rude as fuck mum, a dead brother (who apparently was beloved above all) and a girl severely lacking in calcium.

"you won't get any special treatment just for being my daughter" my sister in christ, what special treatment? so far you have been nothing like an ass.

I cannot judge Violet for wanting to take her books with her....but babygirl from what I have seen you truly have no strength.. so like..sugar.. either develop some muscle or like let it go.

What's so wrong about being a scribe? like what do you all have against academia?

Okay no wait... what are they prepping her for? What the fuck is this subscription day? isn't it like just first day of uni?? Is she fighting? is it a race? to like the first dragon they can find? the first tunnel of their respective career?

aaaaaaaand here comes the childhood friend with soft brown eyes that laughs with his whole body.

Seems like extremely poor parenting to send your extremly untrained daughter into such a challenge... like she has to climb some rocks... and like run a lot, there's going to be wind. Like no. And for what? for the glory of your name? SHE CAN'T EVEN LIFT HER OWN BOOKS!

Gotta love a "This isn't America's TOP BEST FRIEND" moment.

I'm sorry but how is conscribing (?) all children from the traitors to the best school in the kingdom/republic/empire/country and give them a solid ass chance of becoming riders, and therefore climb to the top of the social and military pyramid a fitting punishment? They should have ended their respective bloodlines. You rebel you and your entire bloodline die.

Colombian brain translating Xaden to Xavier.

I should have asked... can dragons talk in this world?

What is the parapit?? Is that how it is written?

Mira (?) is a badass. Queen behaviour.

Mira being like "don't die Violet, I'd hate to be an only child." And having seen her mother? Honestly same. Like no. Hard Pass.

Wait is the blonde guy she is befriending the one with the scar from the betrayal?? Dylan? yes? no?

Oh and they get to marry after graduating. Why do I feel I am walking straight into another early 20s marriage.

Most riders are legacies... good to see nepotism is alive and well. Neporiders.

Oh so Xaden has tattoos from his wrist up to his jaw.. okay, okay.

AND HIS FATHER KILLED HER OLDER BROTHER. AND THEY WERE ROOMATES!

My girl really went "He is #SoTall and #HandsomeAsHell"

I don't get what this challenge is about and apparently Dylan is not making it, he liked slipped or smth and is like hanging...

yeah no he fell to his death. RIP Dylan.

My girl is like screaming history facts to distract herself while she [insert the challenge.... I think it's walking a very slippery bridge]

Okay so Jack is an asshole... it's giving Cato.

Kinda want to bet that he will try to eventually fight Violet and Xaden will defend her.

Got confirmation, it is in fact a bridge.

Rihannon made it. Which is a personal win because she seems sweet.

Oh my god Jack focus on your own thing, you are being and asshole, no one cares. Fuck off, fall to your death, shut up. Like why are you so pressed about this random ass calcium lacking girl. GET A JOB. STAY AWAY FROM HER.

Not her reciting the codex lol it is giving Elizabeth Swann citing The Pirate Code to Captain Barbossa. Babygirl, bless you, but he clearly does not give a fuck.

Violet truly made that crossing out of delulu energy and history facts and honestly? respect.

Wait, hold the fuck on... this audiobook is 21h long? what on god's green earth is going to happen in this book? oh my god this thread is going to be huge. Apologies to all.

omg Jack why are you still talking? either shut up or jump infront of a dragon and die. LIKE WHY ARE YOU SO OBSESSED WITH HER? He is giving blonde guy energy (but not the one you gave Dylan. RIP Dylan. You will never be forgotten)

aaaaaahhh there we go Jack threatened her and when he makes the move to kill her Xaden will be like "the fuck bro" and kill him instead.

Here comes the childhood best friend. I feel he is hot. Dane? Dane Atos?? Kinda hot of him. Wait he is Squad Leader? that's hot.

[skyfallscotland]

Things I loved about Onyx Storm, in no particular order 🖤⚡️

This is an addendum to my overall review post—there’s also one about the things that I didn’t like here.

I do love ride or die riorgail, even if their characters didn't feel quite right to me (dare I say fanon-esque?). In any case, threatening people for the one they love? 10/10, would eat it up every time.

The dragons being every rider's first love? It won't be a surprise to you if you've read BRV but I adore this take so much.

She was the first to choose me, to elevate me above all others, the first to see every ugly side of me and accept it all, and every single person in this fucking canyon will die before they remove a single one of her scales.

Ok then!

And Violet?

“You see, that’s my little one.”

I'm crying!!

Tairn and Andarna? Like that's her father!!!

“Do not go any deeper than your claws!” Tairn lectures, his tail nearly taking out a tree when he pivots to watch her go. “I swear, if you get in over your head, I’ll let you drown.”

Their every interaction made me:

Except for this one, which had me tearing up!

Tairn cranes his neck forward and growls. “You will not raise your voice to her.” Andarna turns her head and narrows her eyes at Tairn. “Do not ruin this for me.” Hurt stabs through the bond and Tairn recoils, his head drawing back to cover Ridoc and me.

Then there's Sgaeyl—mother!!!

“You are an inconvenience for which there is no adequate measurement.”

She wasn't talking to Xaden all book (v upsetti spaghetti) but she still would defend him with her life because she's mum!!

“Tell her the truth. He loathes her,” Tairn suggests. “As does Sgaeyl. The life-giver is lucky she wasn’t scorched this morning, though I do believe Sgaeyl is still contemplating her options.”

Speaking of mothers, I both hated and loved the Hedotis chapters. I really enjoyed them, I thought they were fun, Violet channeled the twin she doesn't know she has (lol iykyk) which was in my opinion out of character for her (threatening someone's kids???) but despite the lack of character growth to get there, I still really enjoyed this sequence for all its emotional aspects.

“How does she”—he points to the door—“ deserve my ten minutes when she fed me chocolate cake on my tenth birthday and vanished later that night? I am the fulfillment of a contract for her. Nothing more. I don’t give a shit how she looks at me, or whatever bullshit she undoubtedly spewed at you. The only reason we’re in her house is because she’s married to one of the triumvirate, and I have no problem using that to get what we need.”

I don't know how chocolate cake is still his favourite food because that would ruin me. (It just did).

Violet's protectiveness in this sequence was everything though! 😭 Fuck you, Talia!

“What I need is for Xaden to be all right. If that means setting this house on fire and leaving without accomplishing anything else on this isle, then I’ll hand him a torch.”

Onto other characters, Ridoc is still hilarious and honestly his humour and one-liners saved my reading experience from being downright terrible, same with Cam—sorry CamLAEN! (lol)

Once again, I really thought she might kill Ridoc for a second there (this is very much a flipped Iron Flame re-write in some aspects lmao) but thankfully for everyone involved, she didn't.

"Violet was out of control. She kicked a queen’s ass and poisoned Xaden’s mom and all three Hedotic heads of state, but secured us an army.”

“Oh, and just so we’re clear, that strike up there wasn’t”—he gestures between us—“ you know. Us.” 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.”

Confirmation everyone knows about the lightning storms.

The representation—as someone living through Australian summer, I really appreciated that POTS was represented more thoroughly in the hot climate of the Isles, though it was still never actually touched on (I think there could have been a line in there explaining why it was relevant/what was happening in her body and that she wasn't just tired) but still, happy to see it there and (don't take this the wrong way but) maybe to see Violet struggle more, just a little.

Then there's Dain.

Dain! My boy, my baby. He was 110% done with everyone and I'm so here for it. He was going through it!

“Was that a compliment? What the fuck is going on?” Dain asks, his gaze flying to mine. “Did you give him something?”

Dain puts both hands up, palms outward at his chest. “How in all that’s holy am I to blame for this?”

“Love wasting my time,” Dain mutters, then shoves the small booklet I recognize as the language compendium for Unnbriel into the chest pocket of his flight jacket.

Aaric sighs from beside Xaden, then proceeds to speak like he was freaking born here. Dain looks ready to murder him.

I also got my wish for him and Sloane, which was unexpected but appreciated! (I created tags for not one but TWO of the ships in this book and I am so stoked about it!). It also makes Rebecca's TS song choice of The Prophecy for him make a lot more sense.

“What the fuck are you doing here?” Xaden calls up at Dain as he dismounts, but my focus firmly locks over Brennan’s shoulder. “Following her ass,” Dain replies.

“I don’t coddle first-years anymore, so train. Your. Signet.” “Asshole,” she whispers, and the flush in her cheeks deepens.

I love them, your honour. I would read whole books about them.

Speaking of—

“What the fuck are we going to do with that thing for the rest of the trip?” “Her name is Broccoli, not that,” he mutters.

These two (three?) are iconic and I want more of them. I want Mira recovering from her injuries and Drake coming to check on her and dumping a kitten on her chest, and Mira pretending she doesn't like Broccoli but secretly finding her comforting and letting her stay (and him, too, because it's love).

Professor Riorson. God this was ridiculous and I hated it, but it made me laugh.

The normally sweet drink tastes bitter in my throat.

Absolutely fan service but I'm positive it made us all groan aloud at the same time, which was amusing.

“Agreed,” Ridoc says. “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 just stay out of harm’s way for five fucking minutes?”

“You could hyphenate,” Garrick suggests. “Or combine? Riorgail? Sorrenson?”

Also, fan service, which, did I like it? No, but I laughed at (because otherwise I'd cry so).

And then there were lines like this, that made me absolutely tear up and hit me in the feels:

But something is broken between here”—he taps the side of his head—“ and here”—he repeats the motion above his heart. “And I can’t control it.

He cups the back of my neck and pulls me within inches of his face—close enough to kiss. “I could reach the rank of Maven, lead armies of dark wielders against everyone we care for, and watch every vein in my body turn red as I channel all the power in the Continent, and I would still love you. What I did doesn’t change that. I’m not sure anything can.”

So yeah, even if my overall experience was messy and chaotic, and perhaps not the best it could be, I did still love parts of it and find some of it enjoyable. I'm trying to change my mindset for a re-read, but I think it's best if I have some space before I try again.

In the meantime, what was your favourite thing? 🖤

[violentdelightshavevioletends]

Processing through Fourth Wing's Ending thoughts with me Part 4 with SPOILERS!!! (& other 3 post summaries + some Iron Flame theories)

So:

I think Xaden is gonna have a long journey in winning Violet back (as he should, she deserves to be fought for & respected in boundaries). Though it’s also a little hard to watch knowing where this all comes from & it’s a little mixed up/misdirected.

Speaking of misdirection Dain Aetos has some explaining to do, unless I read that wrong; if he intentionally sent Violet & Liam off to their deaths thanks to his betrayal… nope. No.

I am utterly destroyed over Liam & dreading the aftershocks of it… meeting his sister is going to make me cry & I will protect that baby with my life.

Brennan also has some explaining to do, backstory to give, etc.

So mostly I’m ruined and this book is gonna ruin me even more and then it’ll be time to cry with Onyx Storm… so… yeahhh

I am dying to know what the deal is with Lilith Sorrengail… she can’t truly have meant to get her children killed can she? Is she a part of the rebellion somehow? And what was the deal with Violet’s dad? Plus a lesser but still prominent question: what does Mira know? I get the feeling it’s not much… but I am curious all things considered how many more secrets that family holds.

Violet included in the latter as I wonder if the poison affected her memory, powers, etc. it seemed to be a different situation (to the level I was worried she’d turn Venin or something). Have her powers changed with Andarna growing? — WHY DID ANDARNA GROW? How long was she asleep for? What does that make the powers now? … also morbid question I don’t want the answer to but have a fear of learning: if Tairn dies could Andarna keep Violet alive?.. I just have a bad feeling about one of her dragons all things considered. — I’m just scared of who’s going to die next book since clearly they are not afraid to kill the ones I love.

Not important, probably fine, but how’s Rhi? I miss my bestie girl… where is she? What’s up babe? Will I get my crew back? Please tell me she and Riddoc did no betraying.😅😅

And of course between characters and secrets and the final chapter being Xaden’s perspective: what are the many stories he has yet to tell? What’s the deal with his mom? What’s all those one line mentions of things to catch Violet up on?.. please tell me we resume in time so it’s not 5 chapter of brief references & 0 explanations?

I have a bad feeling the robed Venin are someone we know or a bigger deal… also probably Dain’s dad being evil… and some big horrible betrayal upcoming and hurting my babies so not looking forward to that.

Mostly it’ll be fun to see what another year looks like… especially when Xaden graduates… and is tethered to Violet who is going to probably hate him & fill the book with angst… so I’m gonna have to strap in for a bump ride I suppose. We shall see! And no spoilers please these questions are rhetorical/hypothetical😂 though if anything happens to Liam’s little sister give me a heads up please🙃

Finally, in review of the first book:

I love Violet. Her heart is her first power, I love the brave fierce way she loves, and has a true compass for goodness… the way she didn’t blink at rebellion if it was right; she processed that extraordinarily fast & it says a lot as to her as a character. I love her wit, which is honestly awe striking and a superpower in itself and we just LOVE a smart heroine. She is also an awesome representation for the EDS/Chronic Illness community and FMC’s in general, which I greatly appreciated (especially for how relatable she managed to be not only for the disability community, but young identifying women who get called “crazy” or “not believed”, kids who are bullied (though this book is not for kids😅😂) and just generally speaking esp. for being fantasy fiction… she’s funny, she’s a mood, and her POV was great).

On the note of representation: I also loved the way they did adaptations (such as the saddle for example: because she did the work, and it’s just not accessible, so why not make it functional? The debate she has of using it or not resembles conversations I’ve had with many people when it comes to mobility aids, they worry about people seeing, about people thinking them less capable, about the mentality of “power through it” when really it makes more sense just to use the help you have when you need it… it’s not an act of weakness or lesser). The way Rhi even tries to compliment it, to encourage her, and the agency it still gives Tairn & even Andarna, who’s a friggin time-stopping dragon (she’s certainly not weak even if she is not as “strong”—not the word I’m looking for as the other dragons, she’s still a dragon) and she too uses the help!

And the dynamics they have within chronic illness relationships… from the over-protective: I CAN DO IT ON MY OWN many people end up with in siblings & previous caregivers. To the truth that there are some things you cannot do on your own and that’s okay even if your never okay with it. To the way Xaden not once thinks less of Violet for it or gives her special treatment; he is fair to each of them (well as fair as Xaden can be amid murder school). Or the way Dain’s comfort quickly turns into a stinging degradation even if it’s well-meaning & frankly valid (she may very well get herself killed there, he’s not wrong; but he also could, and she could die just as easily getting sent back) it’s her choice, and she does a damn good job honestly. And they try to give agency to Violet in that where they can and I appreciated that.

I love Tairn a lot, especially in character dynamics like his humor & protective affection for Violet in reminding her she is worthy & also please don’t die. He loves a lot, especially for such a “scary, tough” dragon. There’s a strength to that sort of love. And of course Andarna who is a fierce, brave, loving, joyous, other half to Violet’s soul… how could you not love her?

Xaden managed to avoid some very frequent and infuriating YA love interest tropes that I appreciated and while I won’t claim him to be “perfect” (because I know all YA novels have a problem if we’re gonna make it real world) but for the sake of character I actually found him to be not only attractive, intriguing, and entertaining as the classic “rebellious, bad boy, enemies to lovers, angsty brooding burdened softy” but also empowering, fiercely loving, protective but not stifling, and some strong standing points that are needed such as consent, or the why as to how he cares for people. He’s got good reasoning. He’s not needlessly cruel. He also has a cause he is a rebel with a cause, and not some nonsensical brooding, no he has reason. Generally I found him interesting & entertaining without being infuriating. And while he has his issues he’s a very young guy kinda issues? Idk the right way to put it. But I do think him and Violet with trust, and no “forced bodyguard” situations have the potential to be a really awesome couple. I mean he’s pretty much a shadow boi… like it’s fairly simple😂 and she’s the sunny & stormy trope. So, of course I’m an absolute idiot for him and find them sweet.

Also thanks for making the best friend bi! And if I’m correct some non-binary characters too! This book did a good job at trying to give some more representation. And managed to go beyond the basics of YA novels.

Overall it made me laugh it made me cry, I’m not calling it the perfect book but minus killing off one of my favorite characters it was a lot of fun and I look forward to the next one and think this will definitely be a favorite series of all time. And while I’ll process for fuller reviews (not that this isn’t already obnoxiously long). I really enjoyed this one a LOT!

So, off to Iron Flame with our theories, feels, and thoughts we go! Wish me luck! And we’re almost to Onyx Storm so yay for all you long-term fans!

(Should I read slow to avoid waiting a few days inbetween? I’m worried for a cliff-hanger😂)

Oh, and because he deserves to be in here: Yes, Liam was a favorite from day one. He always will be. He was just genuinely good, easy to like, funny, entertaining in his conversations to everyone, depth to the feelings it brought he added layers to many stories, he was kind and loyal… so loyal… somehow even to Violet, even with the lies, he was a good friend and he loved them all a lot. And more than just brawn (though also he was described to be a total heartthrob) he was also smart! And he learned sign language which I always love as someone who grew up speaking ASL for my sisters… he was the best of his class, and frankly just deserved a lot more. Watch Deigh & then him die broke me and I really thought they’d find a way out of it because he just loved his friends so much.😭 And I hate that this is gonna be the pain of the next book… it’s a little too personal for me right now in my own real life with holiday grief & stuff so I totally bawled like a baby… and the fact he said he just wanted to be alive, and see his sister… yeah-not-okay-enough to write this. I shall miss our sweet bb blonde wood carver boi.

Okay, time to go be basic: fall for the shadow guy, root for the FMC & project my life onto her, feel all the ship angst, cry for the fictional sweetheart, & totally fall for whatever the writes me to like/hate & guiltily forgive/hold onto…