A sweetFourth Wingtheory could help explain the book’s most uncomfortable moment while also adding more depth to two major supporting characters. The Empyrean Series' sharp worldbuilding and plot are made stronger byViolet and Xaden’s story, with their complex dynamic enriching the narrative as well as their individual character arcs. However, their love story is given a swift push due to the mating bond between their dragons Tairn and Sgaeyl, when the riders and the dragons are deeply psychologically entwined.

Both dragons, throughoutFourth WingandIron Flame,seem to be mostly annoyed at the more complicated parts of Violet and Xaden’s romanceand their road to figuring out how their relationship will work. Otherwise, the two dragons seem ambivalent, wanting the riders to focus more on the tasks at hand. Yet one smallReddittheory points to all of that possibly being a ruse, as it suggests Tairn and Sgaeyl may have had different motives, surprisingly adding some sweetness to their actions throughout the series.

Fourth Wing book cover with dragons in the background

This Sweet Fourth Wing Theory Suggests Tairn & Sgaeyl Played Matchmaker

The Reddit Theory Posits That They Helped Violet & Xaden’s Romance Blossom Faster

This Reddit theory suggests that Tairn and Sgaeyl were playing matchmaker during the events ofFourth Wingwhich, if true, adds to their overall characterizations in a new, sweet way.According to the theory, Sgaeyl may have noticed Xaden’s initial attraction to Violet and decided to help themdespite the humans' mutual stubbornness. Considering Sgaeyl’s appraisal of Violet early in the book and the fact that Violet bonded with her mate, it is possible that Sgaeyl may have wanted Xaden to find the same happiness she did with Tairn, conscripting him to help.

Fourth Wing’s Main Romance Is The Perfect Replacement For This 12-Year-Old Book Ship

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This would add some great depth to their characterizations inFourth Wing,as the two appear to be mostly gruff and austere. Tairn and Sgaeyl are among themost powerful dragons inFourth Wing,who choose their riders based on their inner strength and ruthlessness, respectively. Having them try to get the two leads together due to feeling their attraction softens them somewhat and makes those bonds even more compelling. It would also explain one of the first book’s more uncomfortable moments as, according to the theory, the two decide to give their riders a more direct push.

A custom image of the cover of Fourth Wing with hearts and the cover of Shadow & Bone in the background.

This Fourth Wing Theory Explains The First Book’s Most Uncomfortable Moment

Tairn & Sgaeyl May Have Not Shielded On Purpose

If this proposal happens to be true, then it would add some perspective toFourth Wing’s most uncomfortable moment. The biggest piece of evidence for this theory comes from the middle of the book, right after Tairn begins channeling into Violet. During that chapter, Violet and Xaden find themselves being flooded with Tairn and Sgaeyl’s more amorous feelings, leading to Violet learning to shield — and their first kiss. However,the two dragons may not be blocking their riders out during this time on purpose, as they have this ability as the riders do.

This scene takes place in Chapter 22 ofFourth Wing.

While this still raises the issue of consent,thisFourth Wingtheory could help explain why Tairn chose that moment to start channeling to Violet. Tairn’s power is immense, but he is also a 500-year-old dragon who has had riders before. He would know how powerful those feelings are, yet he did not shield Violet against them. This scene lends credence to the theory and is supported by many moments afterward, such as Tairn helping Xaden build Violet’s saddle. It also points to many potential instances of meddling inOnyx Storm,elaborating upon these relationships further.

Tairn & Sgaeyl’s Meddling Will Likely Continue Into Onyx Storm And Other Sequels

Sgaeyl Could Comfort Xaden About His Insecurities

Tairn and Sgaeyl’s desire to meddle in Violet and Xaden’s relationship will likely continue inOnyx Stormand additionalFourth Wingsequels, showcasing more of their seldom-seen softer sides. The ending ofIron Flamewill likely cause several issues forViolet and Xaden inOnyx Storm,asXaden’s transformation into a Venin could make him believe he is no longer able to be with Violet.Sgaeyl could, in her way, comfort him and help him conquer his doubts when it comes to Violet, mending their bond after it was emotionally fractured inIron Flame.

Tairn could also comfort Violet as she may feel locked out of Xaden’s heart again due to his fear, giving her the strength to confront him and find a resolution.

Custom image of the special edition Fourth Wing book with a silhouetted dragon and fire in the background.

Tairn could also help Xaden and Violet when it comes to their romantic relationship, with Tairn reminding Xaden that Violet chose him and continues to fight for him. Tairn could also comfort Violet as she may feel locked out of Xaden’s heart again due to his fear, giving her the strength to confront him and find a resolution. This would not only giveOnyx Stormand other sequels toFourth Winga few sweet moments between rider and dragon but also show more of how under those gruff exteriors is a mated pair of romantics, much like their riders.

The covers of Fourth Wing, Onyx Storm, and Iron Flame in front of a fiery background

Fourth Wing Book Cover