This is the final chapter the comic promises as we’re introduced to ruins, looming and dark beneath a full moon. The rooks the only trace of life left. It could almost be peaceful if not for the bleed of red onto the page. Harding’s eye for colour is as striking as it is exquisite and every subsequent invasion of colour into this monochrome world only illustrates this more perfectly than the last. And I include white for the way certain characters seem to be lit from within at times. 

It goes without saying that the atmosphere is impeccable. A Parliament of Rooks is deeply, lovingly gothic from Darius Ravenscar’s lonely manor and his burgeoning transformation to its narrative framework. Unfortunately this also extends to its depiction of its Romani coded character which errs to tired stereotypes. 

Nonetheless I found this issue enthralling. I mentioned the narrative framework. Darius’ relationship with the Seraphina is introduced towards the end of her life. This is a reminiscence. And it gives their relationship more texture than it otherwise would have. Darius’ transformation is delightfully grotesque and the portentous dream that preceded it fascinates me.