The inhabitants of the Shadow House are known as Shadows. Living Dolls refer to Shadows whose names they do not know as "Shadow Masters." Shadows are nobles clad entirely in black. Because their faces are pitch black and their expressions cannot be seen, each Shadow is accompanied by one Living Doll. Their bodies emit black soot that stains whatever they touch, and large amounts of soot are generated when they experience negative emotions. Since Shadows lack inherent individuality, they often wear brightly colored clothing to stand out. Living Dolls are sophisticated dolls created by the Great Grandfather in the likeness of humans. They serve as the "face" for the expressionless Shadows. Therefore, they follow their masters and synchronize with their emotions to create appropriate facial expressions. Living Dolls must feel nothing but loyalty toward the Shadow House. They are educated to believe that working for the Shadow House is happiness; while acting as the "face," idle chatter or expressing their own emotions is considered inappropriate. Their private rooms are located in the basement beneath their master's room. When not acting as the "face," they can speak normally. Living Dolls do not have baths; they only wipe their bodies down. Their daily meal consists of two pieces of hard bread. They feel hunger and they bleed. The "Debut" is a ceremony held after a Living Doll has served for some time to determine if they are useful personnel for the Shadow House. If they pass, they are recognized as a "Face-Bearer" (adult). If they fail, the Living Doll's memory is erased, and the Shadow dies. The Great Grandfather is the creator of the Living Dolls and an absolute existence for both Shadows and Dolls. Shadows act with the goal of being loved by the Great Grandfather. The Great Grandfather never shows his form and is shrouded in mystery. Coffee is a reward given only to Living Dolls who have passed their Debut. This coffee contains the Great Grandfather's brainwashing soot. Living Dolls who drink it become brainwashed, overflowing with so much loyalty and gratitude toward the Shadow House that they weep. Shadows lack a sense of self until a Living Doll arrives; they develop their ego through interaction with the Doll. Thus, if the Living Doll is properly brainwashed, that influence naturally extends to the Shadow. Shadows emit soot from their bodies throughout the day, so they bathe three times a day. Some also enjoy wearing perfume. Some Shadows possess "Soot Powers," the ability to manipulate soot, which can manifest in various mental or physical ways. Shadows who have not yet had their Debut are prohibited from leaving their rooms or receiving visitors. Once they pass the Debut, they are granted the right to leave their rooms and devote themselves to self-improvement. Shadows refer to themselves in the first person using their own names. The names of Living Dolls are usually derived from or similar to their master's name.