Empire of Storms is the sixth book chronologically in the eight-book Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas. Soon after the collapse of the Glass Palace in Queen of Shadows, Aelin Ashryver Galathynius has publicly announced her return to Adarlan. As the Adarlan Kingdom reels from the return of the long-lost heir to Terrasen, Aelin sets out to rally allies and gather the strength needed to reclaim her kingdom and challenge the dark forces threatening Erilea. However, her claim to the throne of Terrasen is met with resistance, forcing her to prove herself not just as a future queen, but as a strategic leader. Alongside her are her loyal court: Rowan Whitethorn, the powerful Fae warrior; Aedion Ashryver, her cousin and accomplished military general; Lysandra, a talented shape-shifter; and Evangeline, a fiercely loyal young ward. While they muster support for Aelin’s fledgling court, the Witches along with Erawan/Duke Perrington are preparing to launch an attack but fractures start to form within their ranks and Manon Blackbeak begins to question everything she was raised to believe. Unbeknownst to them all, a meek mortal girl is making her way to Aelin/Celaena with a vital weapon for the war. Elide Lochan, armed with cunning and courage, forges an unlikely alliance and braves countless dangers to deliver a tool and message that could change the fate of the realm. Aelin must outwit foes on every front while preparing for an epic war that could cost her everything.
Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn can be read in tandem alternating every few chapters for a richer and more immersive experience. Please go here for the Tandem Reading Guide.
NOTE: Major spoilers ahead for earlier installments and minor spoilers ahead for the current book.
Table of Contents
What is the world in Empire of Storms?
The Throne of Glass series takes place in Erilea, a land rich in history and magic. To the far east of Erilea and beyond the Great Ocean lies the continent Wendlyn and to the south the Southern Continent. Over time, Erilea has seen the rise and fall of powerful kingdoms alongside the ebb and flow of magic. Originally, the first inhabitants were the immortal Fae and they coexisted peacefully with lesser faeries and humans for centuries. However, ten years ago the King of Adarlan banned magic and all magical beings. In one fell swoop, magic disappeared from the continent. No one knows how, but folks whisper that the gods must have cursed them. The King began a campaign of destruction unlike anything the continent had ever seen, destroying and burning ancient texts, sacred sites, and anyone associated with magic, including magical beings and any mortals with magic in their blood. Many Fae and magical creatures fled the continent and went into hiding as the continent fell under the oppressive rule of the King of Adarlan. The fall of magic in Erilea was a catastrophic and devastating tragedy with the loss of countless lives and priceless knowledge.
Who are the main characters in Empire of Storms?
Aelin Ashryver Galathynius /Celaena Sardothien
Aelin Ashryver Galathynius, formerly known as the assassin Celaena Sardothien, is the long-lost heir and Queen of Terrasen, she travels across Erilea forging alliances and preparing for war against Erawan. As enemies close in, she must navigate political betrayal, confront ancient magical forces, and master the devastating power of her own fire.
Rowan Whitethorn
Rowan Whitethorn is a legendary warrior and the most powerful full-blooded Fae in the realm. He was once part of Queen Maeve’s Cadre but has now sworn allegiance to Aelin’s Court as her protector and carranam, magically bonded in a way that lets them share magic. He is also a prince of House Whitethorn, a noble house of Doranelle that possesses elemental wind and ice magic.
Aedion Ashryver
Aedion Ashryver is Aelin's loyal cousin and a brilliant military general. He is known as the Wolf of the North and his army is called the Bane, which are the remnants of the Terrasen army. He rallies the old lords to Aelin's cause but faces resistance from those unwilling to follow a Queen raised in exile. As tensions rise, he must balance his loyalty to Aelin with his growing doubts about her methods.
Manon Blackbeak
Manon Blackbeak is heir of the Blackbeak clan, leader of the Thirteen, and Wing Leader of the Ironteeth Witches. She begins to question the brutal code of the Witches and her place within them. Amidst the growing friction, she must decide where her true loyalties lie.
Dorian Havilliard
Dorian Havilliard is the new King of Adarlan following the death of his father. Freed at last from the Valg's control, he has reclaimed both his mind and his raw magic. Yet as war looms closer, he struggles to establish his rule and become the king his broken kingdom needs.
Lysandra
Lysandra, now a free woman after Aelin paid off her debts to Madama Clarisse, has fashioned herself as the Lady of Caraverre after Aelin also gifted her a plot of land in Terrasen. She uses her newly gained freedom and shapeshifting abilities to become a powerful force in battle.
Gavriel
Gavriel is a legendary Fae warrior and a member of Queen Maeve’s Cadre. Calm and disciplined, he has protection and healing magic and can shift into a massive lion, hence his nickname the Lion of Doranelle. He is one of Rowan's most trusted companions.
Fenrys Moonbeam
Fenrys Moonbeam is twin brother to Connall and a member of Queen Maeve's Cadre. As rare fae-born twins with strength and winnowing powers, they were coveted by Maeve. Bold and at times brash, he often comes across as arrogant, but is well intentioned. He is also able to turn into a massive white wolf.
Lorcan Salvaterre
Lorcan Salvaterre is the most powerful demi-Fae warrior in the realm, and wields dark magic of death and destruction. Though once the de facto commander of Maeve's Cadre, he has gone rogue in pursuit of the Wyrdkeys. Along the way, he meets a mortal woman, whose resilience and intelligence chips away at his long-standing beliefs.
Elide Lochan
Elide Lochan is a mortal woman with a trace of Witch blood. She is the rightful heir to Perranth and recently escaped from Morath with the Witches. She searches for Aelin Galathynius and Celaena Sardothien to deliver a powerful tool. Along the way, she must outwit enemies and navigate uneasy alliances to survive the journey.
Who are the main characters in Tower of Dawn?
Chaol Westfall
Chaol Westfall is the newly appointed Hand to the King of Adarlan and on his way to the Southern Continent to heal from a back injury that has left him partially paralyzed. He also acts as Terrasen’s ambassador, working to secure an alliance with the Great Khagan in preparation for the war.
Yrene Towers
Yrene Towers is a gifted healer from Fenharrow who is studying at the Torre Cesme. She wishes to return to Erilea but must delay her return when she is asked to heal Chaol. A difficult ask, since she must overcome her hatred of all he represents from the Adarlan Kingdom if she is to be successful.
Prince Sartaq
Prince Sartaq is the second-eldest child of Khagan Urus and a Prince of the Khaganate, he is also the commander of the Rukhin, an aerial army of archers who fly on enormous eagle-like birds called Ruks. He often feels closer to the Rukhin clans than to his blood siblings.
Nesryn Faliq
Nesryn Faliq is the newly appointed Captain of the Adarlan Guard and accompanies Chaol on his healing journey to the Southern Continent. She is also returning to her ancestral homeland and is able to provide Chaol with vital cultural context and insights into the world of the Khaganate.
Who are the minor characters in Empire of Storms?
Ren Allsbrook
Ren Allsbrook is the heir of the Allsbrook House, a noble Terrasen family. He is also a rebellious young leader in the resistance against Adarlan. Haunted by the deaths of his parents and sisters, he wishes to see Terrasen liberated. He is a bit cautious of Aelin Galathynius' return.
Murtaugh Allsbrook
Murtaugh Allsbrook is the patriarch of the Allsbrook House and Ren's grandfather. He is deeply devoted to Terrasen and has been instrumental in organizing the rebellion against Adarlan. He has been more receptive to Aelin Galathynius' return than the other old guards of Terrasen.
Weylan Darrow
Weylan Darrow is the current steward of Terrasen and a very wealthy noble. He helped steer Orynth in the aftermath of the Adarlan attack. He was also King Orlon Galathynius' lover and does his best to protect Terrasen. He holds much sway with the surviving nobility, who are wary of Aelin Galathynius' return.
Lord Sloan
Lord Sloan is Head of House Sloan, one of the few remaining noble families in Terrasen. He fought Adarlan’s forces during the Conquest of Terrasen.
Lord Ironwood
Lord Ironwood is the Head of House Ironwood, one of the few remaining noble families in Terrasen. He helped defend his homeland during the Conquest of Terrasen.
Lord Gunnar
Lord Gunnar is Head of House Gunnar, one of the few remaining noble families in Terrasen. He also fought alongside Terrasen’s forces during the battle against Adarlan.
Sam Cortland
Sam Cortland was a skilled assassin and Aelin’s first love. They both worked for Arobynn Hamel but when they sought to leave, Arobynn conspired with Rourke Farran to have Sam killed in order to punish and control Aelin.
Wesley
Wesley was Arobynn Hamel's personal bodyguard. He was also Sam Cortland's best friend and avenged his death by killing Rourke Farran. For his disobedience, he was killed by Arobynn. Lysandra loved him dearly.
Rourke Farran
Rourke Farran was a sadistic crime lord from Aelin’s past, he served as Ioan Jayne’s second-in-command and gained notoriety for his brutal torture methods. He plotted with Arobynn Hamel to murder Sam Cortland and in turn, was killed by Sam's best friend Wesley.
Arobynn Hamel
Arobynn Hamel was King of the Assassins, he was ambitious and willing to take advantage of every situation. He found Aelin near death on the banks of a frozen river and trained her as an assassin; he also found Lysandra on the streets and sold her to a brothel. He was eventually killed by Lysandra.
Ioan Jayne
Ioan Jayne was at one time the biggest crime lord in Rifthold. He was immensely wealthy and well connected with a vast network of spies. His second-in-command, Rourke Farran, coveted his role and plotted with Arobynn Hamel to use Aelin to murder him.
Captain of the Wind-Singer
The Captain of the Wind-Singer is a seasoned naval officer based in Ilium. He can see the tides of war rising on the horizon and grows uneasy.
The Late King of Adarlan
The Late King of Adarlan was known for his ban on magic and his expansionist regime that conquered Erilea. He was seen as a tyrant but in reality, his body was being controlled by a Valg prince working in service to Erawan.
Prince Hollin Havilliard
Prince Hollin is Dorian’s younger, spoiled brother. Dorian sent Hollin and his mother to the royal family’s mountain residence in Ararat for their protection.
Queen Georgina Havilliard
Queen Georgina is refined and image-conscious, though she holds little political power. Dorian sent his younger brother and mother to the royal family’s mountain residence in Ararat for their protection.
Nehemia Ytger
Nehemia Ytger was the Princess of Eyllwe and one of Aelin's closest friends in Rifthold. She was known for her deep commitment to her people but always had a secret agenda. She allowed herself to be sacrificed to catalyze Aelin into taking action.
Evangeline
Evangeline is a young girl once owned by Madame Clarisse DuVency’s brothel. Assigned to be Lysandra’s acolyte, she was saved from a life of prostitution when Lysandra scarred her face. Aelin paid off her debts and freed her from the brothel.
Fleetfoot
Fleetfoot is Aelin’s loyal and protective dog, who provides comfort and companionship. Dorian gifted her to Aelin as a Yulemas present.
Lyria
Lyria was Rowan’s former wife, she was a Fae commoner and flower seller from Doranelle. She died while pregnant with their first child and he carries deep shame and guilt over not being able to protect them.
Galan Ashryver
Galan Ashryver is the beloved Crown Prince of Wendlyn and cousin to both Aelin and Aedion. He opposes the King of Adarlan, but his kingdom did not come to Terrasen's aid during the Conquest of Terrasen.
The Little Folk
The Little Folk are mysterious and ancient Fae, who dwell deep in the forests, watching from the shadows and guarding their secrets.
Molly
Molly is the ring leader of a traveling caravan, she manages a group of performers and is pragmatic if not a bit self-serving.
Ombriel
Ombriel is Molly’s beautiful niece and the money handler of the caravan, she is more rational and open-minded than her aunt.
Nik
Nik is a member of Molly’s traveling caravan, he often provides security while they are on the road.
Captain Rolfe
Captain Rolfe is the Pirate Lord and leader of Skull’s Bay and the Dead Islands. He is famous for the tattooed map on his hands that can locate treasure, enemy ships, and more. As a pirate, he has done many questionable things.
Rolfe's First Mate
Rolfe's First Mate is his right-hand man who helps maintain order aboard the ship. He ensures the captain's commands are carried out and keeps the crew disciplined during both calm seas and battle.
Rolfe's Quartermaster
Rolfe's Quartermaster is one of the most experienced sailors in the fleet. Fiercely loyal to his captain, he keeps the crew united and the ship running smoothly, no matter how dangerous the voyage.
Rolfe's Barmaid
Rolfe's Barmaid at his personal tavern and headquarters, the Sea Dragon, is busy running the tavern as well as other small errands for Rolfe.
Rolfe's Sister
Rolfe loved his Sister dearly and he use to save all his money for his sister and mother.
Rolfe's Mother
Rolfe also loved his Mother dearly and he saved every penny he could for his family.
The Mute Master
The Mute Master is a renowned assassin and head of the Silent Assassins, an elite oath-bound order based in the Red Desert, known for their deadly skill and vow of silence.
Ilias
Ilias is a Silent Assassin and the son of the Mute Master. Aelin saved him from a stab wound that would have killed him.
Ansel of Briarcliff
Ansel of Briarcliff is a former Silent Assassin and a complicated friend from Aelin’s past, she is now the Queen of the Western Wastes.
Sorscha
Sorscha was a quiet and skilled healer in the Glass Palace. She and Dorian loved each other but she was executed by the King of Adarlan for sending information to the rebels.
Kasida
Kasida was an Asterion mare stolen by Aelin from a lord in Xandria. Aelin later sold Kasida to pay off Sam Cortland's debts to Arobynn Hamel.
Hisli
Hisli was an Asterion mare stolen by Ansel of Briarcliff from the same lord in Xandria. Asterion mares are incredibly valuable and Ansel still has Hisli.
Endymion Whitethorn
Endymion (Enda) Whitethorn is Rowan’s closest cousin and a Prince of House Whitethorn, they grew up together after the death of Rowan’s parents.
Sellene Whitethorn
Sellene Whitethorn is Rowan’s youngest cousin and a Princess of Doranelle. She has cunning eyes and a coy smile.
Ellys Whitethorn
Ellys Whitethorn is Endymion’s father and Rowan’s uncle. He is the Head of House Whitethorn and is a cautious and wise leader.
Varik
Varik is a Fae soldier serving in Maeve's armada. A disciplined and capable warrior, he is one of many soldiers who carry out the Queen's commands.
Heiron
Heiron is a Fae soldier in Maeve's armada. As one of the queen's warriors, he serves under her command and takes part in her military campaigns.
Quinn
Quinn was the Captain of the Terrasen Royal Guard under King Orlon Galathynius. He was always kind to Aelin and Aedion.
Marion Lochan
Marion Lochan was the late Lady of Perranth and mother to Elide. She began life as a laundress in the Terrasen palace before marrying Cal Lochan. She was close friends to Evalin Ashryver and sacrificed her life to save young Aelin Galathynius during the Conquest of Terrasen.
Cal Lochan
Cal Lochan was the late Lord of Perranth and father to Elide. He was Head of House Lochan, one of the noble houses of Terrasen. He entrusted Elide into the care of his brother Vernon Lochan, before his death in the aftermath of the Conquest of Terrasen.
Finnula
Finnula was Elide’s childhood nursemaid, she cared deeply for Elide and taught her to always have her wits about her. She believed that Anneith, the goddess of wise things, had blessed Elide with skills to flatter and charm people.
Orlon Galathynius
Orlon Galathynius was the former King of Terrasen and Aelin's great-uncle. He was murdered in his sleep and his empire was conquered by the King of Adarlan. His lover was Weylan Darrow and the two of them had no children.
Evalin Ashryver
Evalin Ashryver was Aelin’s mother. Originally a Princess of Wendlyn, she later became the Princess of Terrasen when she married Rhoe Galathynius. Queen Maeve opposed the mixing of Ashryver and Galathynius bloodlines, forcing Evalin to elope with Rhoe. Her nickname for her daughter was Fireheart.
Rhoe Galathynius
Rhoe Galathynius was Aelin’s father and former Crown Prince of Terrasen. He did not want his daughter to live such a highly sheltered life, but his wife Evalin Ashryver feared Queen Maeve’s retribution. He was known to have a fiery temper, which Aelin inherited.
Brannon Galathynius
Brannon Galathynius was a Fae King and progenitor of House Galathynius. He was father to Elena Galathynius and established the Kingdom of Terrasen over 2,000 years ago. He was also a mighty warrior with powerful fire magic.
Elena Galathynius Havilliard
Elena Galathynius Havilliard was a Demi-Fae Princess of Terrasen. She was the daughter of King Brannon and played a vital role in banishing the dark forces of the past. She was Gavin Havilliard's mate and became the first Queen of Adarlan.
Gavin Havilliard
Gavin Havilliard was a mortal King and founder of the Kingdom of Adarlan and progenitor of House Havilliard. He was Elena Galathynius' mate and a legendary warrior, famed for defeating the Dark Lord Erawan from long ago. However, in truth he and Elena had merely locked Erawan up.
Athril
Athril was a legendary Fae warrior from long ago. A close friend of Brannon Galathynius, he fought alongside him in the First Valg War. At one point, he was also Queen Maeve's beloved, but after discovering her true motives, Maeve killed him.
Brannon's Oracle
Brannon's Oracle could see into the unknown, providing invaluable knowledge of future events and their enemies. Her guidance helped shape their military tactics.
Holdren
Holdren was a mighty warrior and loyal friend to Gavin Havilliard. He led their army against Erawan's dark forces in Gavin's stead.
The Lord of the North
The Lord of the North is the spirit of Terrasen, often depicted as a white sun stag with flames between its antlers, it lives in the Oakwald Forest. Sun stags were sacred to Mala Fire-Bringer and were later brought to Terrasen by Brannon Galathynius. The name also refers to a stag constellation that always points toward Terrasen.
Mort
Mort is the sarcastic, talking door knocker to Elena Galathynius’ tomb, he offers cryptic wisdom with a sharp tongue. He is made from ancient magic, and was thus unaffected by the King of Adarlan’s recent magical ban.
The Sea Dragons
The legendary Sea Dragons use to be allies with the Mycenians, a coastal pirate people. However, after the Mycenians were exiled from their hometown of Ilium, the sea dragons also disappeared. They have not been seen in centuries and are thought to be extinct.
The Kingsflame
The Kingsflame is a small flame-like flower that symbolizes Brannon Galathynius and Terrasen. It is said to only bloom when the realm is at peace and under the reign of a good king. When Orlon Galathynius became king, a single kingsflame bloomed, which he plucked and preserved in crystal.
Who are the Cadre in Empire of Storms?
The Cadre are an elite group of legendary Fae warriors who swore a blood oath to serve and protect Queen Maeve of Doranelle, who often coerced and emotionally manipulated them into taking the oath and binding them into her service. The blood oath is an ancient form of magic and intended to last for eternity, however, the upper party may release the lower party, which is seen as a sign of great shame and dishonor. Many of the members have fought alongside each other for centuries and developed a close brotherhood, but despite centuries of shared history, some still remain at odds with one another.
Connall Moonbeam
Connall Moonbeam is twin brother to Fenrys. As rare fae-born twins with incredible strength and winnowing powers, they were coveted by Queen Maeve. Quieter and more reserved than Fenrys, he was often overshadowed by his brother. He is also able to turn into a massive black wolf.
Vaughan
Vaughan is the most mysterious member of the Cadre, he commands wind magic and can shift into a massive osprey. A solitary soul, he distances himself from the chaos of the courts.
Cairn
Cairn is a brutal and sadistic warrior with no elemental magic. His sheer physical strength and relentless cruelty make him one of the most feared members of Maeve’s Cadre despite him not having an animal form.
Who are the Witches in Empire of Storms?
The Ironteeth and Crochan Witches are two rival witch clans with a deep history of betrayal and bloodshed. The Ironteeth Witches—made up of the Blackbeak, Yellowlegs, and Blueblood clans—are belligerent and fearsome warriors with retractable iron claws and teeth. In contrast, the Crochans are a more peace-loving and gentle community with connections to healing and nature magic. Despite their differences they belong to the same race and are more similar than they realize, with all witches having blue blood. They were once united and had lived together in the Western Wastes but that peace was broken when the Ironteeth Witches betrayed the Crochans in a devastating civil war 500 years ago. In her dying breath, Queen Rhiannon Crochan cursed the land: “Blood to blood and soul to soul, together this was done, and only together can it be undone. Be the bridge, be the light. When iron melts, when flowers spring from fields of blood—let the land be witness, and return home.”Since then the Ironteeth have struggled, their cattle shrivel up and die, the wild game have fled, their witchlings are stillborn, and the rivers have turned poisonous. The curse left the Witch Kingdom in the Western Wastes desolate and barren, and it is said that only a united witch heir can break the curse. The Ironteeth Witches hunt the Crochan Witches to this day looking for the one who can break the curse and restore the land.
The Blackbeak Matron
The Blackbeak Matron is the brutal and tyrannical leader of the Blackbeak Clan, ruling through fear and merciless discipline. She is Manon’s grandmother and raised her to be a weapon of war and values obedience over all else, even at great personal cost.
Cresseida Blueblood
Cresseida Blueblood is the fierce yet reasonable leader of the Blueblood Clan. Her clan devotes less time to fighting and more time to spiritual worship and honoring the Three-Faced Goddess. Like her daughter Petrah, she is noted for her calm and steadfast personality.
The Yellowlegs Matron
The Yellowlegs Matron is a supposed half sister of the late Baba Yellowlegs, she became the Yellowlegs Matron after Baba's mysterious death. Like the rest of her clan, she is vicious and known for keeping her iron teeth and nails on permanent display. She often indulges and bats a blind eye to Iskra’s antics.
Baba Yellowlegs
Baba Yellowlegs was a formidable Ironteeth Witch and former Matron of the Yellowlegs Clan. She acted as a fortune teller to gather information and had an unfortunate run in with Aelin. Like her clan’s namesake, she had distinctly saffron-colored ankles.
Petrah Blueblood
Petrah Blueblood is heir to the Blueblood Clan, she is a calm, intelligent leader, who stands apart for her fairness and restraint. Unlike many of her kin, she shows respect to others and becomes an unexpected contrast to the brutality exhibited by the other clans.
Iskra Yellowlegs
Iskra Yellowlegs is the heir to the Yellowlegs Clan, she is a brutal and aggressive witch with erratic behavior. Her cruelty and thirst for power put her in direct conflict with Manon and her leadership.
The Young Witch
Little is known about the dark-haired beauty who is warming the Blackbeak Matron's bed, other than she is important enough to accompany the Blackbeak Matron to Morath.
The Mute Blacksmith
The Blacksmith at Morath works tirelessly in his forge day and night to create weapons for the army and customized items for the Witches. His tongue was cut out to prevent him from sharing trade secrets.
Zelta Yellowlegs
Zelta Yellowlegs is a fierce and aggressive Yellowlegs Witch and part of Iskra's personal coven, she serves alongside the other witches during the war efforts.
Lothian Blackbeak
Lothian Blackbeak was the daughter of the Blackbeak Matron and Manon's mother. Sadly, she died in childbirth and never got the chance to tell Manon about her heritage.
Rhiannon Crochan I
Rhiannon Crochan I was the last Crochan Queen, she was known for her deep compassion and belief in uniting the Ironteeth and Crochan clans. Betrayed and murdered by those she sought to bring together, she cursed the Ironteeth Witches and their ancestral homeland.
The Crochan Witch
An unnamed Crochan Witch was captured and killed by the Ironteeth Witches earlier in the Ferian Gap. She pitied the Ironteeth Witches for their militaristic and brutal culture that made them into monsters.
Keelie
Keelie was a large female Wyvern that showed compassion to her fellow Wyverns. She was ridden by Petrah Blueblood before being killed by Iskra's Wyvern during the War Games.
Abraxos
Abraxos is Manon’s Wyvern, despite his small size, his intelligence and tenacity prove invaluable. He was named after the primordial serpent that held the world within its coils at the command of the Three-Faced Goddess.
Narene
Narene is a highly intelligent and friendly female Wyvern ridden by Asterin. She was specifically bred to be a natural pale blue color so she could be a daylight patrol Wyvern and blend into the blue sky.
Who are the Thirteen in Empire of Storms?
The Thirteen are an elite and tight-knit band of Blackbeak Witches under Manon Blackbeak’s leadership. They are thought to be the fiercest and most disciplined of all the Ironteeth Witches and have fought alongside each other for over a hundred years.
Asterin
Asterin is Manon’s fiercely loyal second-in-command and cousin, she is known for her fiery spirit and unshakable devotion to the Thirteen. Although she is Manon’s staunch supporter in public, she often challenges Manon in private, revealing a deep conscience beneath her ruthless exterior.
Sorrel
Sorrel is Manon’s third-in-command and a fierce and loyal member of the Thirteen. She is often referred to as the stone to Manon’s ice and Asterin’s fire, she helps keep her two superiors grounded.
Vesta
Vesta is Manon’s unofficial fourth-in-command, she is a powerful yet also light hearted witch, who is a shameless flirt that toys with the men they encounter.
Faline
Faline, along with her twin Fallon, are known as the Green Eyed Demon Twins for their ruthlessness and often thought to be more demon than witch. They particularly enjoy knife throwing training.
Lin (Linnea)
Lin is a particularly violent witch, who is prone to lashing out at those who call her by her full name.
Fallon
Fallon, along with her twin Faline, are known as the Green Eyed Demon Twins for their ruthlessness and often thought to be more demon than witch. They particularly enjoy knife throwing training.
Edda
Edda is cousin to Briar, both are known to rarely speak and act as Manon’s Shadows, gathering intelligence. They were trained from infancy to blend into darkness and love sneaking up on people, but they do not dare sneak up on Manon.
Ghislaine
Ghislaine is the eldest and cleverest of the Thirteen, she is noted for her incredible intelligence because her mother had sent her to Terrasen to study. She is a great source of knowledge for Manon.
Briar
Briar is cousin to Edda, both are known to rarely speak and act as Manon’s Shadows, gathering intelligence. They were trained from infancy to blend into darkness and love sneaking up on people, but they do not dare sneak up on Manon.
Kaya
Kaya is a loyal member of the Thirteen and in a relationship with Thea.
Thea
Thea is a fierce member of the Thirteen and in a relationship with Kaya.
Imogen
Imogen is a more reserved member of the Thirteen, who keeps to herself most of the time and never smiles.
Who are the gods and goddesses in Empire of Storms?
“Beings of a higher, different existence. For whom time was fluid, and bodies were things to be shifted and molded. Who could exist in multiple places, spread themselves wide like nets being thrown. They were as mighty and vast and eternal as a human was to a mayfly. They had not been born in this world.” – Elena Galathynius in Empire of Storms
Deanna
Deanna is Goddess of the Moon and sister to Mala Fire-Bringer, she is associated with hunting, maidenhood, and protection of the young. She is one of the main deities of Erilea and the later Fae Queen Mab was syncretized into Deanna.
Mala Fire-Bringer
Mala Fire-Bringer or Light-Bringer is Goddess of the Sun and sister to Deanna, she is associated with the sun, light, learning, and fire. She is one of the main deities of Erilea and had favored the Fae Warrior King Brannon Galathynius.
Mab
Mab was the youngest of the legendary trio of Fae sister-queens, along with Mora and Maeve. She could transform into a white swan and was progenitor of the Ashryver family and Kingdom of Wendlyn. She gave up her immortality to be with a mortal and was later syncretized into the goddess Deanna.
Anneith
Anneith, Lady of Wise Things, is the Goddess of Knowledge and Slow Deaths. At times benevolent and other times stony-hearted, she guides Elide through difficult times. She reveals hard truths only to those with the strength to bear them. She is also consort to Hellas.
Hellas
Hellas is the God of Darkness and Violent Deaths, ruler of the underworld, and consort of Anneith. Feared by mortals and revered by those who deal in death, he judges the souls of those claimed by bloodshed. The Demi-Fae warrior Lorcan is a direct descendant of Hellas.
The Three-Faced Goddess
The Three-Faced Goddess rules witchcraft and magic and is the patron goddess of the Ironteeth Witches. She is said to have three physical manifestations: the maiden, the mother, and the crone. Each of her faces is said to represent one of the three Ironteeth Witch Covens.
Temis
Temis is the Goddess of Wild Things and protector of caged animals. She is said to hear the cries of every creature denied its freedom. Hunters and animal keepers alike leave offerings in her honor, hoping to earn her favor and avoid her wrath. Lysandra often prays to her.
The God of Truth
The God of Truth is also known as the Sin-Eater and the All-Seeing One. He is an obscure god, whose followers erected a temple made up almost entirely of human bones under the Shadow Market in Rifthold, so that vendors and thieves would stay honest.
The Sea God
The Sea God is at once both tempestuous and calm. He is as unpredictable as the tides and as relentless as the fiercest storm. Revered and feared in equal measure, his power can bring calm waters and safe passage—or unleash devastating waves upon those who earn his wrath.
Who are the antagonists in Empire of Storms?
Erawan
Erawan is an ancient and ruthless Valg King who was long thought to have been banished by King Gavin, but in actuality, was merely trapped. The King of Adarlan and Duke Perrington accidentally released him in their youth, upon which he occupied Duke Perrington's body for many years. Now he has his own body and seeks to conquer Erilea once again.
The Valg
The Valg are ancient demons from another realm drawn to Erilea by a hunger for power. There were two Valg wars at the dawn of time. They were first defeated by Queen Maeve and Brannon Galathynius, and later a second time by Elena Galathynius and Gavin Havilliard. They have returned to Erilea.
Queen Maeve
Queen Maeve is one of the three Fae sister-queens, along with Mora and Mab, and the only one who did not give up her immortality and remains Queen of Doranelle. She helped banish the dark forces millennia ago and is powerful and manipulative. She is also a distant aunt of Aelin Ashryver Galathynius.
General Narrok
General Narrok was a high ranking general in the Adarlan army and a devout follower of the King of Adarlan. He was possessed by a Valg Prince and sent to Mistward to find suitable Demi-Fae hosts for the Valg and to also capture Aelin Galathynius but was destroyed by her newly awakened wildfire.
The Valg Princes
The Valg Princes occupied the bodies of three beautiful men. They hunted the Demi-Fae in Wendlyn in search for more suitable hosts for their brethren and left the victims as dry husks. They nearly defeated Aelin Galathynius but were defeated by her wildfire.
Vernon Lochan
Vernon Lochan is Elide’s cruel and opportunistic uncle, after the Conquest of Terrasen he aligned himself with the King of Adarlan and Erawan/Duke Perrington for his personal gain. He usurped Elide's birthright and became the Lord of Perranth himself, while keeping Elide locked in a tower for most of her life.
Roland Havilliard
Second cousin to Prince Dorian and Prince Hollin, Roland was a charming and notorious womanizer with little care for court politics. He was sent to Morath to work under Erawan/Duke Perrington and put under Valg control. Manon gave him a mercy killing.
Duke Perrington
Duke Perrington was cousin to the King of Adarlan and a powerful nobleman from Morath, he spent most of his adult life being controlled by the Valg King Erawan. Now Erawan has shed his human body but still operates under Duke Perrington's name as he unleashes war across Erilea.
Archer Finn
Archer Finn was a well-known courtesan and a former acquaintance of Aelin from her time in the Assassin’s Keep. He became entangled in rebel affairs and in his lust for power, he orchestrated Nehemia's death, which fueled Aelin to kill him in retribution.
The Lord of Meah
The Lord of Meah is Roland Havilliard's Father and one of the most powerful lords of Adarlan. Much like his son, he is haughty and arrogant. He does not believe Aelin Galathynius is as powerful as she claims to be.
Kaltain Rompier
Kaltain Rompier was once a woman of status with her eyes set on Prince Dorian, but she fell from grace and was sent to Morath to be enslaved and experimented on by Erawan/Duke Perrington. She was able to fight off the Valg inside her mind and blew up a third of Morath with shadowfire.
The Chief Overseer
The Chief Overseer at Endovier was a cruel and wicked man who enjoyed torturing and abusing the prisoners in his vicinity. He especially reveled in punishing Aelin and once threw her into a pitch black pit for weeks on end.
The Sea-Wyverns
The Sea-Wyverns are aquatic Valg serpents that lurk beneath the waves, serving as deadly predators. Their immense size, speed, and razor-sharp teeth make them a terrifying threat to anyone unfortunate enough to cross their path.
The Wyrdhounds
The Wyrdhounds are monstrous Valg creatures used by the King of Adarlan as hunters and guardians. Eight of these beasts were stationed atop the Clock Tower in Rifthold, disguised as stone gargoyles until awoken to attack and hunt.
The Ilken
The Ilken are monstrous, winged creatures bred by Erawan from twisted Valg magic and used as his personal strike force. They are nearly unstoppable in battle and represent the terrifying scope of Morath’s experimentation.
The Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is the result of one of Erawan's unnatural experiments at Morath, bred through dark magic to relentlessly pursue its prey. It is vaguely humanoid and may have been a human woman before.
Where does Empire of Storms take place?
The Kingdom of Adarlan
Adarlan is the dominant empire on the continent of Erilea. It is a militaristic and expansionist kingdom ruled by House Havilliard. Over the last 10 years, the King of Adarlan embarked on an aggressive conquest to take over the other kingdoms on the continent.
Rifthold
Rifthold is the glittering capital of Adarlan, it was built on the banks of the Avery River and has a large harbor opening into the Great Ocean to the east. Despite its beauty, the city is a center of oppression.
The Ferian Gap
The Ferian Gap is the treacherous mountain home of the witches. Carved between the Ruhnn and White Fang Mountains, it is used by the Ironteeth Witches as a training ground and base.
The Ruhnn Mountains
The Ruhnn Mountains are a foreboding and austere mountain range near the Ferian Gap and are supposedly home to very large spiders and other deadly creatures.
The Omega
The Omega is the last peak of the Ruhnn Mountains and base of operations for the Ironteeth Witches. It is connected to the Northern Fang, the final peak of the White Fang Mountains. Within the Omega are numerous carved stone hallways and chambers for the witches.
The White Fang Mountains
The White Fang Mountains are a cold and snowy mountain range south of the Ruhnn Mountains. Like their namesake, their snow-covered peaks resemble white fangs and they are home to the Wild Men, who have a penchant for violence.
Morath
Morath is a dark fortress city located in Adarlan and ruled by Duke Perrington. It is a grim and hellish place, where the mountains occasionally spew out noxious gases and dark smoke, blocking out the sunlight.
The Witches' Armory
The Thirteen have a private armory for themselves where they store their weapons, equipment, and other accessories. All the residents of Morath give it a wide berth.
The War Camp
The War Camp is alive at all hours with the relentless clang of hammer on anvil as the fortress smithy tirelessly forges swords, armor, arrowheads, and siege equipment for Morath's armies.
The Clock Tower
The Clock Tower was made of black stone, likely obsidian, with eight gargoyles around the top perimeter. The King of Adarlan had it erected shortly after Prince Dorian’s birth. It use to make a wretchedly loud booming noise before being destroyed.
The Glass Palace
The Glass Palace was a dazzling, magical structure rising atop the original stone castle in Rifthold. Made of tempered glass and crystalline spires, it was home to House Havilliard and had 600 rooms, three gardens, a wildlife game park, and two stables.
The Glass Wall
After Dorian and Aelin destroyed the Glass Palace, a massive wall of molten glass remained—the fused remnants of the shattered castle that Aelin melted to shield the city of Rifthold from a deadly rain of falling glass.
The Dead Island
The Dead Islands are an archipelago off the eastern coast of Erilea. They are a lawless group of islands that act as safe havens for various pirates, slavers, and criminals. The main city and port is Skull’s Bay, ruled by Captain Rolfe.
Skull's Bay
Skull's Bay is a lawless pirate haven located in the Dead Islands archipelago, ruled by Captain Rolfe. The streets are lined with prostitutes, orphans, pirates, and ram shackled wooden buildings.
The Sea Dragon Tavern
The Sea Dragon is Captain Rolfe’s personal tavern and headquarters, which he named after his prized ship. The tavern serves as his base of operations, frequented by pirates, mercenaries, and travelers alike.
Ship-Breaker
Ship-Breaker is the powerful defense mechanism located in Skull’s Bay that is made up of a gigantic chain that hangs across the entrance to the bay, it prevents ships from entering or exiting without permission.
The Ocean Rose
The Ocean Rose is the finest inn in Skull's Bay, renowned for its comfortable rooms, hearty seafood meals, and warm hospitality despite the rough-and-tumble nature of the port.
Ilium
Ilium is an ancient port town in Terrasen, once home to the legendary Mycenians, who were pirate lords noted for their powerful naval fleet. They refused to fight for Terrasen against Adarlan and were banished.
The Temple of Stone
The Temple of Stone or Brannon’s Temple, is a holy site in Terrasen that draws in enough pilgrims every year to support the town of Ilium.
Brannon's Rock
Brannon's Rock is claimed to be the very rock that Brannon Galathynius stepped upon when he first landed on the continent of Erilea thousands of years ago.
The Temple Archives
The Temple Archives used to house numerous ancient artifacts and scrolls related to Brannon Galathynius but much of it has been put away.
The Priestesses' Residence
The Priestesses' Residence was reserved for the sect of priestesses that worshipped at Brannon's Temple and maintained the fires.
Brannon's Flame
Within the Temple are vats of eternally-burning fires to remind all visiting pilgrims of Brannon Galathynius' god-given gift of flame.
Temple Mosaics
Along the floor of Brannon's Temple are beautifully decorated mosaics of ancient sea creatures and aquatic life.
The Kingdom of Eyllwe
Eyllwe is a kingdom in the southeast corner of Erilea and is Nehemia’s homeland. It is a wealthy kingdom with many waterways and trade routes. It is famous for its luscious Grasslands and Stone Marshes, a relic from a bygone civilization.
Banjali
Banjali, the capital of Eyllwe, is a vibrant and prosperous city renowned for its thriving economy and elegant architecture. It is also Princess Nehemia's hometown, where she was raised in a magnificent river palace filled with lotus blossoms.
The Stone Marshes
Located in Eyllwe, the Stone Marshes are the remnants of an ancient culture. Once home to a great civilization, a cataclysmic event created a crater that sunk the earth for miles around and allowed surrounding water to pool in until it became a swamp.
Melisande
Melisande is the smallest kingdom within Erilea and known for its craftsmen and tinkerers, who are famous for their clever little hands that make clever little knick knacks such as instruments, clocks, and toys.
Oakwald Forest
Oakwald Forest is a beautiful and mighty ancient forest that runs through much of the eastern half of Erilea, it is also known as Brannon Galathynius’ forest. It was once home to many species of Fae before the King of Adarlan’s banishment of magic.
The Witch Kingdom
The Witch Kingdom located in the Western Wastes is the ancestral home of all the witches. After the Ironteeth Witches started the Witch Civil War, the land was cursed by Queen Rhiannon Crochan I. The Ironteeth left and have been wanderers ever since.
Fenharrow
Fenharrow is the kingdom directly south of Adarlan and is a quieter, more rural region known for its beautiful plains and farms. It is home to many small hamlets and settlements. It borders the Great Ocean to the east and its capital is the wealthy port city of Bellhaven.
Bellhaven
Bellhaven is the capital of Fenharrow and is located on the eastern coast of the pastoral kingdom. It is a wealthy port city, home to many thriving merchants that foster much maritime trade.
Anielle
Nestled between the White Fang Mountains and the Oakwald Forest, Anielle sits by the Silver Lake and is a harsh and inhospitable city ruled by Lord Westfall, Chaol’s father. The weather is perpetually cold and gray, allowing little to grow.
Wendlyn
Wendlyn is a vast continent east of Erilea, untouched by Adarlan's rule and one of the few places where magic continues to flourish. It is home to powerful magical beings and creatures of nightmares.
Varese
Varese is the capital city of Wendlyn, it is clean, full of opportunity, and marked by fairness and kindness among its people. Unlike Rifthold, it has honest officials, a more equal distribution of wealth, and a safer, more welcoming atmosphere.
Doranelle
Doranelle is a magnificent and ancient Fae city built in a river basin surrounded by several tributary rivers, it is nicknamed the City of Rivers. It is a place of both wonder and danger, where only select beings, mainly pure-blooded Fae, are allowed to live. Mortals and Demi-Fae may visit.
The Southern Continent
South of Erilea lies the Southern Continent, a vast and arid landmass dominated by sandy deserts under a scorching sun. It is ruled by the Khaganate, a 300-year old empire currently led by the Great Khagan Urus, whose reign has brought in an era of peace and prosperity to its people. The continent's customs and traditions differ greatly from those of Erilea.
Antica
Antica is the largest city on the Southern Continent, a vibrant metropolis with a pantheon of 36 gods and known as Milas Agia or "god-city," it is rumored to have been built by the gods. Renowned for the Torre Cesme, a prestigious healing academy, Antica thrives as a cultural and architectural mosaic, with diverse peoples and traditions coexisting peacefully.
The Torre Cesme
The Torre Cesme or "Tower of Dawn" in the Halha language, is an ancient structure in Antica that is home to the most gifted healers. It was constructed over 1,200 years ago by an ancient Queen who was grateful to the healers for saving her child’s life. As various empires have risen and fallen on the Southern Continent, the Torre Cesme has always been left in peace.
Perranth
Perranth is the second largest city in Terrasen after Orynth and is the traditional seat of House Lochan. It is a dark-stoned, walled city nestled between a vast lake and the Perranth Mountains.
Caraverre
Caraverre is a new territory in Terrasen that was once held by the Allsbrooks before being abandoned due to its population of ghost leopards. Aelin recently gifted the land to Lysandra, making her its first Lady and symbolizing her newfound freedom and independence.
The Staghorns
The Staghorn Mountains are the principal mountain range of Terrasen, forming a towering wall along the kingdom's northern border and overlooking each of its major cities. Named for their branching ridgelines and antler-like peaks.
Terrasen
Terrasen was once a powerful and noble kingdom in the north of Erilea founded by Brannon Galathynius. It was overthrown by the King of Adarlan, but its people remain proud and resilient. It was famous as a center of magic and learning.
The Plains of Theralis
The Plains of Theralis are the great grasslands before the city of Orynth. They are best remembered as the site of Terrasen's final battle during Adarlan's conquest, where the kingdom made its last stand against the invading empire.
Orynth
Orynth was the capital of Terrasen and once home to House Galathynius. It was a thriving city but fell into decline after the royal family was overthrown, it is now a symbol of hope for the people of Terrasen. There use to be a famous library filled with books on magic, but that was destroyed during the Adarlan conquest.
Does Empire of Storms have any bonus chapters?
Yes, there is 1 bonus chapter intended to be read before Empire of Storms.
After a long journey, Aelin returns to Terrasen only to find it scarred by Adarlan’s destruction. As her court travels through Oakwald Forest to Orynth, they remain hidden but are forced to risk entering a devastated village for supplies. What they find there is far more valuable than they expected. Read the Aelin and Company Bonus Chapter.
Where to Buy Empire of Storms
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