A Villain's Way of Taming Heroines

The young Hydral glanced at the wardrobe and continued in a gentle tone, "That is precisely why, Seraphina, Marlina implores you to rein them in."

"Ordinary people lack the vision and the capability to control themselves in the face of such ascension."

"Therefore, they require guidance, they necessitate restraint. The goodwill you harbor, the blessings you bring, the revolutions you instigate, may not culminate in the vistas you envisage. Without oversight, they may ultimately lead to the… very disasters you wish to avert."

Ansel's words seemed to carry an underlying message, but of course, Seraphina could not discern such implications. She clutched Ansel's garment anxiously, "What - what should I do then? I do not wish for everyone to become detestable nobility... How can one... How can one oppress others after living a better life!"

The thought of her dearest family, elders, and friends—who had been her closest companions for over a decade—potentially becoming the very oppressors she loathed, caused Seraphina's heart to clench, even nauseating her.

"It's alright, just heed Marlina's advice."

Ansel patted Seraphina's back tenderly, "The reason she did not elucidate earlier was to spare you from this distress. See, her considerations are always meticulous, aren't they?"

Just as Seraphina placed absolute trust in Marlina, Ansel's trust in Marlina was nearly equivalent.

On one hand, given the girl's formidable capacity for growth, she had already mastered these affairs and with another month or two of study, managing an entire large territory would be well within Marlina's grasp.

On the other hand, Marlina... would indeed never betray Ansel. Her advice to Seraphina was primarily as Ansel had stated, but it also included the hope that Seraphina would cause less trouble for Ansel.

Due to particular circumstances during their taming, Marlina's loyalty to Ansel had surpassed her sisterly affection for Seraphina, let alone... her emotional ties to the villagers.

If the development of the village and its inhabitants were entrusted to Marlina for management and restraint, any actions that could trouble Ansel or even slightly tarnish his reputation would be eradicated at the root by Marlina… without the hesitation or concern for feelings that Seraphina exhibited.

"Should, should I then leave everything to Marlina then?" Seraphina still hesitated, "Would that be alright? It feels as if I'm pushing her to be the villain..."

Ansel couldn't help but laugh, "Marlina has spoken to you, which means she intends for you to leave it to her. Do you really think, Seraphina, that Marlina expects you to handle these matters well?"

Seraphina paused for a moment, realizing the truth in his words, but then felt a surge of annoyance, followed by acceptance that… Marlina's intentions were indeed without fault.

Despite this, she puffed up with indignation and playfully struck Ansel, "You mustn't speak so! Marli... Marli... Humph! In any case, I am the fool, and both of you tease me."

"Aww!" She bit Ansel's hand, displaying mock anger, yet feeling a profound sense of security within.

No matter the issue, Ansel and Marlina would always resolve it for her, sparing her from the distasteful, chaotic thoughts she disliked. Now, she needn't bother with such considerations, living each day with clarity and ease. This, indeed, is the sensation of bliss!

The feeling of being cared for by Ansel was truly delightful! Ah, but no, I, I am capable of contributing, it's just not the right time yet!

The vexation that had clouded Seraphina's heart due to the earlier conversation dissipated like smoke in the wind, and she returned to her usual cheerful and jovial demeanor. Lying atop Ansel's legs, she wriggled about, first glancing over at the coffee table before sitting up to survey every corner of the bedroom with a curious gaze, her intentions a mystery.

Ansel, who was well aware of what Seraphina was searching for, couldn't help but chuckle and said, "What are you peering at? A little mouse hiding away in secrecy?"

"It's not that! You know exactly what it is, Ansel!"

Seraphina retorted, her cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and annoyance as she playfully nipped at his neck. "My gift, Ansel! You promised you'd give it to me tonight!"

Although the surprises and activities Ansel had arranged for the day had already filled Seraphina with joy to the point of disorientation, the mysterious gift he had been so secretive about still tickled her curiosity, and she considered it the highlight of the evening.

On her way back, Seraphina's mind was abuzz with predictions about the gift's possibilities—she had even whimsically imagined that Ansel himself might be the present. The thought of the ensuing absurd scenarios sent a thrilling weakness through her body, her cheeks blooming with excitement.

Ansel, supporting Seraphina's slender and firm waist with one hand, whispered in her ear, "Please, take a seat."

The young girl shivered at his words, instinctively crossing her legs. Her dark crimson eyes, once fierce, now shimmered with unshed tears. Biting her lip in a mix of nervousness and anticipation, she faced Ansel and sat on his lap, her arms naturally wrapping around his neck as her breathing quickened.

"Ansel, I, I...,"

Seraphina began, her voice tender and soft, endearing as a puppy's call, "I've been truly happy today... I've never experienced such a wonderful birthday. No matter… no matter what gift you have for me, I will cherish it, even if, even if..."

Her voice trailed off to a whisper, "Even if you plan to use, use tentacle..."

"Where has your mind wandered off to?" Ansel asked with an amused smile, gently tapping Seraphina's forehead. "I'm celebrating your birthday, how did it suddenly become about me?"

"You... it's just like you to be so mysterious," Seraphina murmured softly, her voice a tender murmur. "Given your character, it's exactly the kind of thing I'd expect..."

"I wonder what kind of image I have in your eyes..."

The young Hydral mused, shaking his head with a smile. "Well, it's not about that, but I'll remember what you just said... and I won't give you a chance to back out in the future."

Before Seraphina could respond, Ansel cradled her cheeks in his hands and softly instructed, "Now, close your eyes."

His gentle voice, caressing as a touch upon her skin, made Seraphina's heart flutter. She obediently closed her eyes, her long lashes quivering slightly, betraying her nervousness.

What…what could Ansel possibly be giving me? Asking me to close my eyes… Is he going to kiss me? Is that the gift? Hmm... Although-although it seems a bit casual, if it's filled with love, I wouldn't mind accepting it—

… Eh?

My neck, feeling cool, why is Ansel removing my collar?

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