Chapter Text
Hello, friends! KaleidoMirror is back!
I know it's been a while, but I finally found a quiet moment to update this story. This is essentially the first chapter, and I have a specific plan for the plot that will unfold. I hope you're as excited as I am about what's to come.
I would love to hear your opinions on this scenario. What do you think will happen next? Please leave your comments and theories!
It's a pleasure to draw inspiration from masterpieces like "Hazbin Hotel" and "Fate/Stay Night". I greatly appreciate the opportunity to share this work with you, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Are you ready?
Enjoy!
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- Von Eldrich Mansion -
(Personal Room)
Shirou stood silently, staring absentmindedly out the window. Outside, the cold rain showed no signs of stopping.
He thought about how strange this new reality was, but he had to accept it. He had no other choice after a week of learning everything under the guidance of Angra Mainyu, who explained all about Hell and what was happening within the Ring of Envy. This was the domain of the von Eldrich family, his current family, descendants of one of the bloodlines of the Prince of Hell, Leviathan.
There was little he could do but accept these changes, especially given how different he looked from his former self. Looking at his reflection in the glass, his new 'self' felt alien. His hair was dark with greenish hues, matching the tone of his skin, but this paled in comparison to his enigmatic dark eyes adorned with reptilian yellow irises.
He was in his ostentatious room, decorated with exquisite furniture and artworks hanging on the walls. In the center, a table was covered with piles of books, scrolls, substances, and some arcane engravings, all in complete disarray—evidence of his efforts during the etiquette and education lessons imparted by his new family. A shadow sat on the table, looking at him with boredom.
"Still feeling uncomfortable in that body?" the shadow asked suddenly, pulling him out of his thoughts.
Shirou frowned, visibly annoyed by his irritating companion's interruption.
"It's hard to say," he sighed, raising his dark, sharp right hand. A small ball of water began to form above his palm. "I'm a bit tired, but it's easier to control my strength with the training we've done. Even the aches from using the tentacles have stopped bothering me."
"Good to hear," Angra rolled his eyes, though he was pleased with the progress. His "parents" had been very worried about their son's sudden change, which led to an awkward and confusing conversation where they attributed the changes to puberty. "Because you need to perfect your role as the charming 'Seviathan' during the princess of Hell's tenth birthday."
"Are you serious?" Shirou made the ball of water disappear, feeling nervous. "Can't you somehow take control of our body for that?"
"You think I haven't tried?" Angra, still in his shadow form, moved smoothly around the room before merging with the 'true' shadow of the body. "It's a headache to explain in detail how you should behave if you really don't want to cause a bigger commotion, especially with our clingy sister."
"But... I just..."
"Look, hypocritical hero, we still don't know why we're stuck in this ridiculous situation. I know you're disgusted by the idea of sharing a body, but you need to understand that finding answers will have to wait. We have a lot to do if we want to stay unnoticed until we find a solution that benefits us both. Understand?"
"I know. I don't like being forced to spend all day with your irritating presence either," Shirou replied, standing up and gazing at the family portrait on the wall for a few seconds before sighing deeply. "It's just that I'm so frustrated and sick of actually living in Hell."
"Don't see everything so negatively. We may be here now, but you'll get used to it just like I did. I'll show you how to make the most of it when we have the chance later. Don't you see where we can go with all this?" The sarcastic and childish tone was evident, but it only made Shirou feel more powerless, because he shared the same thoughts as Angra.
At that point, he let himself fall onto the bed, staring at the chandelier on the ceiling in despair. The emotions he felt were hard to contain, feeling his breath quicken as something inside him began to change.
"Tell me something, Angra," he asked in a softer tone, "have you ever felt truly alone and different since waking up in Hell?"
Beside him, the figure appeared as a shadow, remaining silent for a moment before responding more seriously than usual.
"Not really. In my case, nothing has changed. I was once known as 'All the Evils of the World', but seeing what Hell truly is, at least the Abrahamic Hell, has disappointed me more times than I can count," Angra replied, expanding to a height of over two meters, with blue eyes and mouths smiling. "But maybe all that will change now that we're together, and that has to count for something, don't you think?"
Shirou looked at him confused, but eventually nodded slowly, narrowing his eyes to avoid falling into his new companion's usual traps. In the end, maybe, just maybe, he could find a way to coexist with someone as odious as Angra Mainyu. Meanwhile, Hell could be a place full of possibilities, despite the dangers he had been warned about and the complicated hierarchy among the nobility and native beings. He was ready to face them when the time came, though he partially doubted everything at this point.
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- Von Eldrich Mansion -
(Patriarch's Personal Room)
Shirou stood before his father, Frederick Von Eldrich, in the patriarch's personal room within the study. Glancing at the black marble walls, he felt a strange 'peace' under the light of the chandeliers, enchanted with a deep blue fire. Human-like maids with oceanic features added the final touches to his attire under his father's personal guidance. It was curious how the maids, with their bluish skin and long, flowing hair like seaweed, contrasted amusingly with the coral and pearl adornments they wore, creating a mystical and majestic atmosphere.
He felt nervous receiving so much attention, but thanks to Angra's teachings and advice, he had learned to maintain an impassive face. He could feel the irritating being mocking him from within his shadow at all the fuss.
Frederick, on his part, looked at his son with evident pride.
It was complicated to describe the amalgam of emotions he felt for Seviathan, who had achieved so much and shown an early interest in the family's naval projects. Additionally, his specific use of his 'royal lineage' and the immense potential he had demonstrated in his abilities had made him a worthy heir to his legacy.
Demonic nobility had high expectations, so it was no surprise when he was finally recognized unanimously by the other branch of Leviathan. At this point, Seviathan had not only met but exceeded many challenges, cementing a significant influence largely due to the news that Prince Leviathan himself was pleased and had personally blessed his son, bringing great joy and satisfaction to the Von Eldrich branch.
"Seviathan, come here," Frederick called with his deep, authoritative voice befitting a patriarch.
The young man approached, and the maids around him understood the message, leaving them space to talk comfortably.
"Father, what do you wish to discuss with me?" Shirou asked, maintaining an upright posture.
Frederick smiled slightly, a rarity on his generally stern face.
"As you know, today is an important day. We are celebrating a party in honor of the princess of Hell's tenth birthday, making it a highly significant event. Personalities from all seven rings will be present. It's the perfect opportunity for you to demonstrate the dignity of our legacy and clarify why you have been personally blessed by the Prince."
"I will do my best to live up to it, Father. I won't disappoint you," Shirou nodded, fully feeling the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. He could feel Angra gloating again but decided to ignore it... at least for now.
At that moment, one of the maids, named Nerissa, approached with a bow.
"My lord, we have finished the preparations for the Morningstar heiress's gift. We have placed it in the main hall as you ordered. Would you like to review the details?"
Frederick nodded affirmatively and then turned to Seviathan.
"Come with me, my son. I want you to personally offer our congratulations to Princess Morningstar," he said, glancing around, creating an atmosphere of magnificence, "Additionally, you will have the chance to speak with other future heirs of royal houses during this event. Consider this part of your training."
As they walked down the hallway, Frederick shared important details to keep in mind. Upon reaching the hall, they observed the meticulously crafted work for the occasion. The enormous piano at the center was decorated with a marine theme, with shining shells and monochromatic keys creating a perfect contrast. The maids moved efficiently, adjusting the final details to wrap and deliver it.
"Nerissa, the final arrangements are truly magnificent. You have done an excellent job," Frederick commented from the entrance.
"Your words are my pleasure, my lord. It is an honor to serve the esteemed Von Eldrich family," the maid replied with a bow.
Shirou observed everything attentively, recording every detail and the advice his father had previously mentioned about the most respected figures of the seven infernal rings. He also communicated with Angra to finalize his own preparations because they both understood he couldn't afford to make mistakes.
"Father, do you think Prince Leviathan will be pleased with what we have prepared?" he asked, seeking signs of approval in his father's eyes.
"I have no doubt, Seviathan. But remember, more important than the details of the gift is how you conduct yourself during the party. The guests will watch your every move. This is your opportunity to prove your worth."
As they continued their walk, they were interrupted by the arrival of a messenger, a marine-looking demon with tentacles.
"My lord Frederick, Prince Leviathan's entourage is about to arrive. He has also expressed his enthusiasm for the personal participation of Young Seviathan at the landing," the messenger reported, bowing.
Frederick nodded, proud that their ancestor personally showed such interest in Seviathan.
"Let's go, my son. It's time to greet our guest."
They headed towards the castle's main entrance leading to the harbor, accompanied by their personal servants. At this point, Shirou felt a mix of nervousness and excitement because it was the 'first time' he would be in front of the Prince of Envy, and he hoped that the preparations they had made would be sufficient for this crucial test, not only for him and what it meant but for the entire Von Eldrich family.
It was brief, but Angra remained firm in his words about demonstrating his rightful place within the demonic nobility and continuing the legacy of having the blood of 'Leviathan.' Therefore, it was crucial to leave a deep impression just as he had done years ago.
"Remember, Shirou Emiya. Now you are Seviathan von Eldrich. Keep your head high and show greatness unless you want to cause a problem of infernal dimensions that a former hero of justice can hardly resolve," the avenger reminded him from his shadow.
Shirou nodded with determination, watching his shadow walk with the same composure as him.
"I know, and as much as I hate this entire situation, we are completely ready now."
The boat's doors opened, and both the former human and the former avenger awaited the great figure beginning to descend, looking at them with a broad smile. They hoped the Morningstar heiress's party would go smoothly, but fate had other plans. Neither of them was prepared for the chaos that awaited in the hall.
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This marks the end of our first chapter, and I hope you've enjoyed this update. In the next chapter, I plan to make up for the shorter length of this one and provide a more extensive read, so stay tuned. You might have noticed that "Talk to the Patriarch" feels a bit different from my usual work. That's intentional, as it represents a turning point in the story, and I've included many intriguing details for you to ponder.
Additionally, it's gratifying to see that we've received a total of 8 reviews, along with the support of 132 favorites and 178 followers. Thank you all so much for your support!
Before I go, I'd like to address some comments received about the prologue.
I appreciate the feedback from Esmereilda, SilverQuill, rogue1Bois, Dasgun (as always, immensely grateful for your support), Drewbear89, BushidoWookie, and Grant-walker-581 for your words. To be honest, this first chapter is only half of what I had planned, as I am currently finishing the update for "A Sword Lost Among Cobwebs," which has progressed significantly.
In short, this new path will significantly impact the plot, especially from Shirou and Angra's perspective on Hell. It will also incorporate elements from the Hazbin Hotel universe and certain characteristics of Helluva Boss. So, stay tuned.
I want to express my sincerest gratitude for your words and reviews. Your support has been crucial to me, and I am truly thankful. For now, I bid you farewell as KaleidoMirror, but I eagerly look forward to our next meeting in the upcoming update. See you soon!
