The Shadows, known for their jet‑black hue and the tendency to exhale black ash when stirred, form a noble lineage that dwells in an immense estate high within the mountains, far removed from ordinary folk. Their isolation has bred a culture steeped in secrecy and ritual.
When a Shadow child nears adulthood, they receive a Living Doll who serves not only as their aide but also as the counterpart of the visage that would have been theirs had they not borne such darkness.
Emilico, a newly fashioned Doll with an upbeat disposition, attends to a quiet master named Kate. Though their temperaments differ, Emilico strives to meet every request of her charge.
Her cheerful nature often clashes with Kate's reserved demeanor, yet it fuels their bond. As she becomes more acquainted with her duties, Emilico encounters other Dolls and their masters, gradually uncovering the true intent behind her creation. Through these interactions, Emilico learns that the Dolls are not mere servants but integral pieces of a larger design.
Within the towering halls, whispers echo of ancient rites that bind the Shadows to their Dolls. Each Doll is said to embody a fragment of the family's lost lineage, granting them power and purpose beyond simple servitude. And this knowledge fuels Emilico's growing curiosity.
One of the commandments all Dolls must observe reads, "Do not worry about trivialities." Yet how can an endlessly inquisitive Emilico remain calm amid the profound mysteries that shroud the Shadows House?
