Chapter 17: The Crows in the Canopy

In Chapter 17, Cornelius learns the shattering truth that Charlotte is Rose, the Queen of Death, leader of the assassins behind the invasion. The revelation drives him into grief and rage, convinced she killed Coral, until Charlotte insists Miss Charlie and the Church orchestrated everything to use him as a pawn. Torn between Rose’s cause and Charlotte’s love, Cornelius nearly kills her before breaking down, vowing he cannot follow Rose but will never abandon Charlotte herself. As tensions ignite, Charlotte unleashes her terrifying Sovereign Surge. The Roses prepare for battles against powerful opponents in multiple districts, setting the stage for war.