"Shinigami-sama opened the school," Stein said, then realized that wasn't exactly a full explanation. His lips twisted. "He and the teachers practically raised me. I was an orphan, and had nowhere to go. He trained me to fight, taught me about souls."

He sobered. "I know my own desires are more important, but not necessarily all important. The leash... well, it was what they figured I needed, I guess. Spirit was the only one who could keep me distracted so I didn't hurt the other students. Except him, of course."

The change in subject prompted a soft chuckle. "I cut the skin and peeled it off my skull as part of the surgery to give me this." He tapped the bolt with a fingertip.