A Villain's Way of Taming Heroines

"What do you mean? Don't tell me it's worth more. I couldn't have been mistaken. That counterfeit couldn't fetch more than a hundred gold coins, it wouldn't deceive anyone with a modicum of knowledge."

"Damn it, I thought I'd make a fortune when I returned to that sham jewelry store this morning, only to overhear that its production cost was one hundred and ninety gold coins! They planned to sell it in the market for four hundred a piece! And to think, even you can be mistaken!"

Diplopod had never considered the possibility of his own fallibility. As the outer market's most esteemed fence, countless artifacts and jewels had passed through his hands. For a fence, keen eyesight was paramount; many who came to offload their goods were unaware of their true value, and it was his acumen and eloquence that determined the profit.

In his estimation, the replica of the Deep Blue Tear was worth no more than a hundred gold coins… how could it be that its production cost was nearly double that?!

He had thought himself to have doubled his earnings, only to become the butt of ridicule.

The thought of that silver-haired maiden's graceful assertion "worth the price" ignited a fire of indignation within him.

As a second-stage extraordinary being, his fencing activities in the city were driven not only by financial gain but also by pleasure. Duping the foolish and matching wits with the knowledgeable were equally delightful pursuits. Yet, having not erred in so long, the sting of being outmaneuvered was all the more bitter.

Nevertheless, he had no thoughts of retribution. The black market's rules were clear, and besides… with a paramour possessing such discernment, the supposed easy mark was anything but.

Why bother with the charade? Business was business, after all, better make it a win-win!

"After that wretch Duke Luminaris died, Hyena would soon be a dead dog... If only I could introduce a significant client to the boss, our sources of supply could vastly expand!"

With this thought, Diplopod promptly set out, leveraging his extensive network within the black market to locate the three conspicuous individuals masquerading as sheep but were, in fact, wolves in sheep's clothing.

They had entered the inner market, having just dined at the most expensive restaurant in the black market, . Even for someone as affluent as Diplopod, a visit there was a painful expenditure. The head chef, once of the , had sought refuge there after a scandal, and even the simplest fruit carving from his hand could cost hundreds of gold coins.

Diplopod was resolute in his belief that the "Mr. Easy Prey" who navigated the establishment with such ease and composure was no newcomer. He must seize an opportunity to make an acquaintance!

The black market was on the cusp of a major upheaval, with the various factions vying for control.

Hyena, backed by the Luminaris family, had nearly monopolized the market; his own superior, Vulture, was supported by three venerable marquis families from the imperial capital, wielding considerable influence; the enigmatic Rodent King, seldom seen, commanded an unknown but formidable power, even Hyena dared not encroach upon his territory; and the DappleSpider… a former slave who rose to prominence during the black market's last purge, had carved a bloody path to power.

Though lacking in backing, her cooperation with the Rodent King allowed her to hold her ground as the weakest contender.

With the fall of Luminaris, Vulture's ambitions surged. He sought to swiftly dispose of Hyena, now desperately seeking a new patron, and was wary of the mysterious Rodent King… If he could introduce a powerful ally to his boss, his already comfortable life could soar to new heights!

Pondering this, Diplopod cautiously followed them… until he saw them enter a resplendent and lavishly decorated shop.

"Damn it," he cursed under his breath, watching them enter the storefront, "could my luck be any worse?"

The shop appeared to be a mere purveyor of extraordinary artifacts, but in reality, it was the largest "sheep pen" overseen by Hyena. While most patrons were wealthy yet unremarkable individuals, many had powerful connections, and the quality of some "sheep" were so high that even extraordinary beings and high-ranking nobles would patronize.

With Hyena occupied in securing a new patron, it was likely he would court the influential figures frequenting his establishment. The noble young lord behind the plain black mask remained an enigma, but he was undoubtedly no simple character… If Hyena succeeded in recruiting him, his boss's chances would diminish, and Diplopod's carefree life in the outer market would be jeopardized.

After much deliberation, Diplopod, though aligned with Vulture, considered his role as a fence to be somewhat independent… With Hyena distracted by his own troubles, it was unlikely he would target Diplopod, who, for his part, would welcome Hyena's downfall. That bastard had previously disrupted his supply chain, both overtly and covertly. With this in mind...

The man steeled himself and stepped into the edifice built upon the foundation of sin.

*

Thanks to the shopkeeper's proof and recommendation, Ansel and his companions smoothly infiltrated the subterranean confines of the building, a clandestine venue for the slave trade. brought-to-you-by-MvLeMpYr

"Ansel," Seraphina whispered into his ear, "Should we not care about that guy who has been tailing us?"

"No need," Ansel responded in a hushed tone, "We have more pressing matters to attend to, don't we?" He added, "Even if you lose control of your emotions, it's alright. I will ensure Marli's safety."

"I won't lose control that easily," Seraphina retorted, "An… Master, don't underestimate me!" Ravenna's words had left a profound impact on her. She was now hyper-aware of her emotional fluctuations. Despite Ansel's repeated reassurances, she couldn't let go.

After all, Ravenna's words, while seemingly alarmist, had a basis in reality.

"Sir, may I know your name?" A attendent approached Ansel as he entered the underground hall, greeting him with a respectful smile.

"Faust.".

Seraphina continued to casually observe their surroundings, while Marlina's expression subtly changed beneath her mask upon hearing the name.

Due to her work, she had some knowledge about adventurers, and the name Faust...

A mysterious adventurer who left legends in the western countries... was that also Mr. Ansel?

-->