About

In the gothic Shadow House, the "Shadows" reign as faceless nobles and masters of the mansion. Their bodies are pitch-black from head to toe, making them indistinguishable except for their clothing. They treat the "Living Dolls" who serve them as their own "faces," using them to express their emotions and expressions. A Living Doll is a Shadow's loyal alter ego and must never disobey their master's orders. Once they pass their "Debut," Shadows are recognized as members of the family and are free to leave their rooms. However, failure means disposal. The Debut is essentially an exam where Shadows are left in a labyrinthine area; they must find their Shadow and reach a designated room together. Living Dolls interact with each other, but Shadows rarely do (though they can meet if they wish since they can go outside). Failure to be useful to the "Grandfather" and the "Great Masters" results in disposal for both Shadow and Doll. These high-ranking figures reside in the Adult Wing. Absolute loyalty to the Great Grandfather at the top of the mansion and the Great Masters is mandatory; defiance is not permitted. Shadows Called "Masters" or "Mistresses" by the Living Dolls, Shadows are a noble class made of soot, appearing as faceless, pitch-black silhouettes. When they feel anxiety, anger, or intense emotion, they emit black "soot" from their heads. This soot possesses special powers, such as moving objects or manipulating human minds (there are classes led by the "Star Bearers" to train these soot powers). Shadows do not participate in cleaning. They are ruled by the Great Masters and the Great Grandfather at the top of the mansion, whom the Shadows worship as absolute gods. Star Bearers The four highest authorities and elites who lead the child Shadows living in the "Children's Wing." They act as educators and administrators to ensure the mansion's rules are followed. They monitor the children, keep a watchful eye for rule-breakers, and denounce or handle any problems that arise. They lead squads, such as the Cleaning Squad that handles the mansion's soot and the Relief Squad that treats the injured. All Star Bearer Shadows possess exceptionally high soot abilities. Star Bearers are easily identified by a ribbon on their chest: a light blue tassel with a star ornament in the center of a midnight blue base. There is an Adult Wing which, once entered, can never be left. Adults are strictly forbidden from entering the Children's Wing without permission. A high volume of soot leads to a better evaluation and makes one harder to dispose of (Barbara produces six times the amount of a normal Shadow). Soot Icicles These appear only in those with an immense volume of soot. Rules The Goodnight Kiss. No speaking while in formal attire (Living Dolls only). Do not make your master anxious. Do not worry about trivial matters. Faceless Dolls Numerous servants of the Shadow House. They do not speak, and their faces and skin are never seen. There are 8 Star Bearers in total, counting both Shadows and Living Dolls. Shadow: Benjamin Living Doll: Ben Role: Secretary and physical fitness improvement. A combat specialist whose daily routine is muscle training. Has the ability to boost the morale of Living Dolls. Shadow: Susanna Living Doll: Susie Role: Leader of the Relief Squad. Caretaker. In charge of special soot ability classes. Also manages the "Coffee" used for "Invitations" (the permission to become an adult and move to the Adult Wing). Shadow: Oliver Living Doll: Olly Role: Leader of the Research Squad. Both are self-proclaimed genius inventors. They conduct various experiments and create strange inventions.