Edward announces that there is a traitor among them, and Kate and Emilico discover that it is Mary-Rose and her ‘face’ Rosemary who rebelled against the system in Shadows House. Mary-Rose reveals a horrifying truth about ‘integration’ that involves snuffing out a human life to give a Shadow a face, with the doll’s mind vanishing and the Shadow taking over. Determined to escape this fate, Kate and Emilico face punishment from Edward after a daring act of defiance.
As Volume 7 unfolds, Kate and Emilico must navigate carefully to avoid suspicion while trying to break the oppressive system. They encounter a hooded phantom, Anthony, a living doll who has been aiding others in rebellion. Anthony offers to teach Kate to lead the Children’s Building and oppose the Mansion, leaving them with more questions than answers.
The intricate and chilling gothic tale continues to captivate readers with Somato’s detailed artwork contrasting the noble Shadows with the living dolls. Kate’s intervention disrupts the brainwashing of the children, leading them to question their existence. Flashback chapters provide insight into past generations of Star Bearers and the integration process that changed everything.
Volume 7 is filled with revelations and tensions as Kate and Emilico strive to free the living dolls from Grandfather’s control. They must be cautious around Edward, who suspects their intentions. The upcoming Volume 8 will explore new territory beyond the anime adaptation, promising an engaging continuation of the story.
The translation by Taylor Engel and lettering by Lys Blakeslee enhance the reading experience, complemented by beautiful color pages and character profiles. The attractive production of the Yen Press edition aligns with the fairy tale and nineteenth-century ambiance of Shadows House, creating a visually appealing and immersive reading experience for fans.
Overall, Shadows House Volume 7 offers a compelling narrative that delves deeper into the mysteries of the mansion while setting the stage for future developments. Fans of the series will find this installment both captivating and thought-provoking as Kate and Emilico navigate the dangerous world of Shadows House.