Maryrose
Maryrose Braids is a young woman who lives in the Shadows House. She is a member of the House's staff, and her job is to clean the floors and keep the house in order. Maryrose is a kind and hardworking person, but she is also very shy. She doesn't speak much, and she often hides in the shadows when she is feeling overwhelmed.
One day, Maryrose is cleaning the room of a young boy named Emilico. Emilico is a Shadow who has recently been brought to the House, and she is still adjusting to her new life. Maryrose takes pity on Emilico, and she begins to teach her about the House and its customs.
As Maryrose and Emilico spend more time together, they become friends. Maryrose helps Emilico to learn about the House, and Emilico helps Maryrose to come out of her shell. Maryrose eventually learns to speak up for herself, and she becomes a valuable member of the House staff.
One day, Maryrose is cleaning the room of a powerful Shadow named Lord Grell. Lord Grell is a cruel and sadistic man, and he takes pleasure in tormenting the House's staff. Maryrose is terrified of Lord Grell, but