The Dark Side of Dragonkind: Empyrean Series Theories & Lore
Welcome to Dear Dragon Reader, a special series from Dear Fantasy Reader podcast! Hosted by Karly, each episode dives deep into a specific topic from Rebecca Yarros’ Empyrean Series.
In this episode, Karly dives deep into the mysterious lore of the Empyrean Dragons, particularly theorizing on their connection to the Venin and Wyvern, the significance of hatching grounds, and the Riorson family's historical ties to dragonkind. She also explores the overarching themes of control in the relationship between dragons and their riders, questioning whether the dragons might be even more villainous and self-serving than we’ve been led to believe.
Finally, Karly sets the stage for future explorations of related topics—like the fascinating Feathertails!
So book up, Dragon Readers, and get ready for thoughtful analysis, exciting theories, and plenty of dragon-sized insights!
*All episodes include spoilers for the entirety of Fourth Wing and Iron Flame*
Want more from Dear Fantasy Reader?
The DFRP chapters so far:
• Season 1: Fourth Wing Deep Dive Through the Lens of Iron Flame
• Season 2: Onyx Storm Prep
• Season 3: Onyx Storm Deep Dive
• Season 4: Dear Fantasy Author — our ongoing author interview series featuring your favorite romantasy writers!
• Follow us on Instagram @dearfantasyreaderpod to see who we’re interviewing next!
• Season 5: The Overflowing TBR — our ongoing collection of bonus book chats, reactions, wild theories, and anything that doesn’t fit into a formal season but absolutely deserve their moment.
• & MORE TO COME!
Visit the Dear Fantasy Reader website for more info: https://www.dearfantasyreader.com
00:00 Intro
00:28 Are Dragons The Real Villians?
04:07 The Connection Between The Hatching Grounds & The Venin
08:25 The Riorson Family’s Ties to The Hatching Grounds
09:44 Theory That Xaden’s Grandfather Is Venin
11:20 Themes of Control in Dragonkind
Want more? Check out our Season 1: Fourth Wing Deep Dive Through The Lens of Iron Flame, Season 2: Onyx Storm Prep, & our current Season 3: Onyx Storm Deep Dive, here on Dear Fantasy Reader Podcast!
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ARCHIVES:
Rebecca Yarros Author Talk in Columbus Ohio (Garrick Island Question) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=Mu7LVjUhU_8
PREORDER ONYX STORM - https://amzn.to/40I2R6D
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Email us your favorite Empyrean theories & insights: dearfantasyreaderpod@gmail.com
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New episodes on Thursdays (Wednesday early access on Patreon)!