Rebecca Yarros is giving fans a peek at the next book in her Empyrean series. The Fourth Wing author has been sharing quotes from Instagram, letting readers guess which dragon speaks them. Each day, she reveals who the quote belongs to, slowly unveiling the characters of her upcoming novella Threshing Day.
The book comes out Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, and features stories from 13 characters mentioned in the Fourth Wing books. Yarros only announced the novella a few months before release, so the reveal is a welcome look at who gets a story.
Threshing Day and the Bonding Ritual
At Basgiath War College, first-year cadets face threshing. That is the day they must bond with a dragon. Fail, and they either repeat the year or die. Pass, and they get a companion for life.
The ritual is nerve-wracking. Many cadets panic and fail. Those who succeed become riders. In the earlier books, Violet bonded with Tairn and Andarna during threshing.
Now, readers will see how it went for other characters.
The Dragons Speak Their Lines
Yarros has confirmed four new characters through their dragons’ voices. Each quote points to a rider and their mount:
- “You have yet to earn a first name while your last overpowers it.” — Marbh, Brennan’s dragon
- “Do you give allegiance to the codex while you ride the edge of Malek’s doorstep?” — Cath, Dain’s dragon
- “I will not attach myself to another rider who cannot adapt to loss.” — Sliseag, Sawyer’s dragon
- “Would you like me to fly over and slice that sexual tension for you?” — Glane, Imogen’s dragon
“If I am five, then you are four.”
Fans in the comments believe Aotrom said this to Ridoc, as these characters are known for providing comic relief in the series. Readers will know for sure when the book launches.
Xaden and Sgaeyl Get a Story Too
Xaden and Sgaeyl’s chapter was revealed alongside the book’s announcement post on Jul. 15. Yarros notes that, as usual, Xaden’s POV will be available on her website for free. It is unclear whether he counts as one of the 13 character stories in the book or if it is part of a bonus scene like in previous books.
The Comedic Relief Pair
Aotrom and Ridoc are known for providing comic relief in the series. Fans are discussing the quote online, and the fourth quote’s tone is a matter of debate.
The Full Cast Remains Hidden
The book’s full cast remains partially hidden until launch. For now, the confirmed four dragons and their riders give a strong hint at what to expect. The series has built a rich world of dragons and riders, and Threshing Day looks set to add another layer to it.
Fans will have to wait until Sept. 29 to see how the rest of the 13 stories unfold.
Source material: “'Fourth Wing' Author Officially Reveals Four New Characters from Her Next Book,” Polygon.
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