Episode Title: Onyx Storm – Chapters 34–49

Description: In this thrilling installment of Romanty Roundtable, the hosts dive into chapters 34–49 of Onyx Storm, where the emotional stakes rise and the fantastical elements intensify. From poisoned dinner parties and dragon diplomacy to mysterious signets and kitten gifts, this section of the book offers rich plot development, complex character arcs, and laugh-out-loud moments. The team brings their signature humor and heartfelt analysis to every twist and turn.

Special thanks to The Literary Lifestyle for their incredible chapter summaries that helped guide this week’s discussion!

• Dinner with Zaden’s Mom – Violet and the crew confront family drama and political pressure over cauliflower-laden meals, while contract marriages and stepbrothers emerge from the shadows.
• Wisdom Trials and Poison Plots – The group faces a philosophical challenge with the Triumvirate, leading to a dinner laced with double poison. Violet’s brilliance shines as she negotiates freedom and survival.
• Double Poison Reveal – Violet flips the script with a surprise double-cross, leveraging Andarna’s stealth for dramatic blackmail, and establishing a hard-earned alliance.
• The Luck Trial Turns Deadly – A mystical card game gifts everything from tunics to kittens… and ends in tragedy. Trager’s death is swift and heartbreaking, marking a powerful narrative shift.
• Dragon Diplomacy and Andarna’s Origin – Feather-tailed Irid dragons arrive, revealing complex moral codes and judging Violet’s use of Andarna. Andarna’s past as the “criterion” sparks questions of ethics and purpose.
• Riddick’s Rise – The fan-favorite continues to shine with wit, loyalty, and emotional depth, navigating Violet’s secrets and confronting Zaden’s growing darkness.
• Violet’s Second Signet Hints – Dream-based power theories and cryptic warnings suggest Violet may have the ability to enter others’ dreams or minds, raising tantalizing questions about her true potential.
• Zaden’s Inner Turmoil – The shadow wielder’s red-eyed secrets and potential fall into darkness are revealed to Riddick, sparking a moral debate that tests squad loyalty.
• Military Briefings and Magical Balances – The team returns to Basgiath to discover massive destruction, traitor speculation, and a second shadow wielder—hinting at cosmic balances and double signets.
• Broccoli the Kitten & Birthday Gifts – Light-hearted moments shine through grief with the introduction of Broccoli the kitten and a heartfelt birthday scene between Violet and Zaden.

Join the Romanty Roundtable as they unpack this emotionally intense and philosophically rich section of Onyx Storm. From epic dragon lore to witty banter, this episode has it all. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts about Broccoli, signets, and soup!