Well, this series has defied tropes before, it's entirely possible that it'll surprise us again after this cliffhanger. Similarly possible it won't, though.
Sadly this looks like it is going to do exactly what I assumed it would. I get why to an extent, but it is frustrating to read.
And yet, if I’m completely honest... I can’t say I wouldn’t have it turn out in a similar way.
And the author has pretty much established the pattern going forward: each Amalreiks member has a tragic past they can’t escape, and doing so means a very likely death. No face turn without immediate consequence.
If the author does somehow defy that here, I’d honestly be (pleasantly) shocked.