When it comes to the Villain genre, what comes to mind for everyone? Taking down the so-called protagonist? NTR? The villainous character who only appears in the background?
That's right, they're popular (and I love reading them xD) in mainstream storytelling, but I can't help but feel that they only satisfy certain base desires. After finishing such stories, all that remains is an indelible sense of emptiness.
The so-called rebellion against fate in some books is just a gimmick, a flimsy initial motivation that the anxious transmigrator forgets after a few chapters, overshadowed by the looming sword of Damocles. The story then devolves into a traditional isekai narrative and is eventually forgotten by readers. (no offence!)
These stories feel unreal, and they are boring because we all know that fate is not something easily defied. All my bravado about controlling my own destiny changes nothing. Defying fate requires day-to-day dedication, intense contemplation, and unwavering determination — just like what the protagonist, Ansel, does in this book (shameless me~).
Defying fate is a form of romanticism, but what is even more romantic than defying fate alone is when "I" invite "you" to defy fate together, as Ansel hopes for with Seraphina. Undeniably, speaking objectively, Ansel is not a good person. He tramples upon the dignity of others (poor Seri), resorts to any means necessary, disregards life, all for the sake of achieving his goals. However, his occasional vulnerability and struggles in front of Seriphina add a touch of humanity to him, while the burden of his destiny and the actions he undertakes give him the colors of a tragic hero.
I believe that such a villainous character should be charismatic! While creating this character, I unconsciously empathize with him, attempting to show the implied justifications behind his villainous acts (which aren't really that bad since he only persecutes villains and Seri LOL). It's like Sephiroth(from Final Fantasy).
After deciding on this permeating sense of loneliness, I added a romantic element to the story. If you put yourself in Ansel's shoes, you would long for a companion to share secrets with, someone like the character played by Seraphina (yes me shameless again~).
Regarding the portrayal of Seraphina, how should I put it? In this type of story, I think she should be a rare character who maintains her dignity and significance as a protagonist xDDD. The first part of the story revolves around her growth. The hardships and misfortunes she experiences are directed by Ansel, but they are also the malice of fate. Everything Ansel does is to inform her of the truth and make her his ally in the fight against fate.
Their relationship elevates the essence of the story, and in turn, the essence of the story etches their bond.
A confession more profound than "I love you" is inviting you to join me in defying the destiny of this world. What's more romantic than one person defying fate is the two of us defying fate together.