The Damn Family Is Back Again

248. Designation of Sponsors (1)

Count Ptoah prides himself on having an eye for people.

His current position as a vassal of the Duke of Bagland is a testament to that.

Count Ptoah was originally the son of a fallen noble family.

Once, his family name may have spread throughout the Empire, but the name of a fallen house no longer graced the lips of the people.

Yet, with a single-minded determination to reintegrate into noble society, he started a business and found success along the way.

The reason was that he possessed excellent insight.

He ventured into businesses he had previously avoided, paving the way as a pioneer. He quickly judged which direction to take in the business process.

As a result, the barren field of the steel industry reached success.

In noble society, the Ptoah family began to receive attention once more.

Later, having directly received the authority of the head of the family from his parents, he became a count and distinguished clearly between those who would benefit him and those who would harm him, using his keen insight.

Insight.

That was Count Ptoah’s weapon.

And then.

—The steel business, huh? Would you not join our family?

As he entered the service of the Duke of Bagland and secured a position among the retainers, it marked a significant achievement not only for his family but also for himself.

However, there were whispers that his judgment had missed the mark regarding one individual.

– “You. No matter how you look at it, isn’t it a stretch to support Lord Karsein?”

– “The reviews aren’t very favorable. He’s known as the blemish of Bagland… Is that really the case?”

– “My dear. I respect your opinion, but this time… I’m not so sure.”

Even his old friend, who had been with him since the start of their business.

The family, which was in a relationship of mutual support and assistance.

And even his wife, who had been a wonderful partner since their hundred-year vow.

All had expressed doubts about the opinion of Count Ptoah, who declared his support for Karsein.

Nevertheless, Count Ptoah’s gaze remained steadfastly on Karsein.

No matter how much he was scorned among the retainers of Bagland.

Even if he was labeled a problem child, embroiled in all sorts of scandals within the noble society.

Even if he was a foundling, not even a legitimate child, receiving no proper treatment within the Duke’s household.

He did not waver in his support for Karsein.

And in the end, the man he supported spread his wings properly.

He shattered the Duke’s schemes, clearing his name.

He revived the worst fief, known as Rusmaier.

At the symposium, he showcased an unprecedented performance, elevating the already high status of the Duke of Bagland several notches further.

Indeed!

From the moment I first saw him, there was a strange aura about him.

My choice, in the end, was not wrong.

When everyone else marked Arina and Claire as the heirs of Bagland, I had no regrets in casting my vote for Karsein.

Count Ptoah then sought a way to approach Karsein.

– “Sir Radiel. Is there no way you could convey my intentions to Prince Karsein?”

He eagerly awaited the reply that would come back to him.

A few days later.

The day before the Huanglong Martial Arts Tournament began.

“Count!”

“…!”

“A, a letter. From Prince Karsein…”

Finally. It has arrived.

“Bring it here!”

The quick-witted Count Ptoah gulped and meticulously scanned the contents of the letter.

And then…

– Gurgle!

“That’s enough…!”

Once again, I could confirm that his judgment was not mistaken.

***

At first glance, Chapter 3 might seem quite simple.

Having acquired two territories and gained the strength to prepare for independence, it would appear that once I clear the Another Plan, I could leave this house when I’ve saved enough money.

But it can’t be that easy.

If you take this game lightly, you’ll end up facing a bad ending.

‘In the end, I have no choice but to gather information again.’

Last night, while completing an episode, I noticed something slightly off from the usual developments.

I had often encountered sub-episodes that aimed to disrupt the Another Plan.

Whether it was Flora’s study time stealing my hours, outsiders causing trouble in the territory that needed sorting out, or the increasing paperwork I had to handle as a lord, there were various ways this could happen.

However, what I confirmed yesterday was a distortion related to the development of the Hwangryong Martial Arts Tournament.

I’m not sure if this is a system interference or if it’s due to the drastically changed outcomes from Chapter 2… but such variables are certainly not good.

Especially since it’s a main episode, it’s a matter of concern.

So I had to find a way to gather information, even if it meant boldly crashing the family dinner.

“Milady, Lord Karsein has arrived.”

As Heron reported this into the dining room, the sound of clattering dishes echoed from within, and soon the door opened.

“Welcome, Karsein.”

Isabella greeted me with a bright smile.

I replied succinctly while glancing around.

Flora looked oddly sullen.

Claire was unusually composed.

As for Arina, well, there was nothing new to see there.

The only other thing worth noting was Isabella’s demeanor.

As I observed the situation, I wanted to sit as far away as possible, but… if I did that, I might miss out on important information.

Reluctantly, I chose the most comfortable spot to sit.

As I walked over and took a seat next to Claire, the sulky little one suddenly stood up and shouted.

“Why, why are you sitting there!”

“What’s wrong with sitting here?”

“You could just come sit next to me!”

Seriously. Would you want to go if you were me?

I ignored him and asked the maid to bring the dishes.

There was a brief commotion, but at Isabella’s suggestion that it would look better if we sat in pairs, Flora quieted down.

The meal resumed.

With one more person joining, the topic began to shift in this direction.

Isabella asked me in a soft voice.

“Carsein. Who do you want your sponsor to be?”

“My mother. Shouldn’t we start with an explanation?”

“Right. I see. Carsein might not know this well, so… where should I start explaining?”

I guess we start from here.

The Huanglong Martial Arts Tournament.

One of the major episodes that occupies Chapter 3, and for Carsein, it could be an opportunity.

However, this tournament has some unique characteristics.

First, to check if there’s any additional information, I decided to remain silent and pretend I didn’t know.

Arina stepped in, saying she would explain in my place.

“The Huanglong Martial Arts Tournament is a competition where participants showcase their various skills, but it’s not just that.”

The first rule of the Huanglong Martial Arts Tournament.

Participants must designate a sponsor to receive support.

That was the gist of it.

“The designated sponsor will assist the tournament participant until the end, and during this process, the sponsor’s name will be revealed. They can use that to advertise or promote products or brand names, and showcase new items or local specialties.”

And the second rule.

Since various events are held, sponsors must provide assistance to participants in multiple ways.

This is what makes it stand out as a tournament where participants designate their sponsors, rather than just a simple competition.

“According to the participant’s ranking, the sponsor will receive attention accordingly. It will all be revealed how excellent the equipment provided was and how the items helped the participant.”

The rankings of the participants in the competition naturally affect the sponsors as well.

Depending on their rank, the sponsors gain more attention from the public, and since it’s not just the nobility participating, the effect is magnified.

There may be a basic prize money awarded to the sponsors in the competition, but that is actually a secondary aspect; the most significant factor is the enormous revenue that comes from their name being recognized.

Thus, this competition can be seen as a collaboration between the participants and the sponsors.

And, if I leave out one more detail, it would be a shame.

“Lastly, the spectators also determine the winner through simple betting. In this process of identifying the winner, you can gauge how sharp their analytical skills are. Through predictions of the outcome or score, for instance.”

Well… it’s a kind of entertainment.

Since only small amounts are allowed, it’s said to have a low risk of gambling.

Anyway.

Having listened to Arina’s explanation up to this point, not much has changed.

It was all information I already knew.

“The sponsors can be chosen as you wish. If the vassals of the Duke of Bagland are not suitable, I will find another family to support you.”

– Ding!

▶ You can designate a sponsor. Would you like to do so? ◀

With Isabella’s suggestion, a system message popped up.

If I were to choose a sponsor, I could do so immediately, but…

[ 2. Do not designate. ]☑

“I’ll think about that a bit more.”

Not yet.

If there are no variables in the rules of the martial arts competition, there’s a high possibility that variables will arise on the sponsor’s side. Such matters need to be considered carefully.

“Hmm. Right. It would be better to think it over a bit more. Since we have an agenda today, would you like to join me?”

An agenda, you say…

‘Oh dear. So that’s the route we’re taking.’

I lamented inwardly.

It felt like the development had taken a slight turn.

I don’t know what the issue is, but taking this route would force me to confront the nobility.

…It’s obvious that friction will arise in this process.

From that perspective, this route carries considerable risk.

‘But, it doesn’t have to be that way.’

Today is just one day before the martial arts competition begins.

So, this is the time when most people gather at the competition venue.

There’s probably no other time when the interactions between families are as lively. This is not just an opportunity for the competition but also a chance to meet many people.

That was the letter I received not long ago from Count Ptoah. It allowed me to hasten my response time.

There are risks involved, but there are returns to match.

Let’s go with high risk, high return.

“Then, I’ll prepare first.”

A time to get to know each other through acquaintances and meet face to face.

At this exchange meeting, I plan to move my plans a bit forward.

***

– Ding!

▶ This field has a limited risk level. ◀

▶ Please act with caution. Your actions may affect your Noblesse Points. ◀

As the carriage of the Duke of Bagland crossed the castle gate, a system message appeared immediately.

Having soon reached my destination, I got off the carriage and started thinking.

‘They said to act with caution, but they didn’t say to follow Isabella?’

That means I might find some unknown free action time.

Just as I got off the carriage, I threw a straight ball at Isabella, who was chatting with her daughters.

“If you’re going into that party hall, I’ll decline.”

With that one sentence, the gazes of the Bagland family turned towards me.

The first to speak was Arina.

“Carsein. Didn’t you say you remembered last year’s incident?”

– Ding!

▶ Arina mentioned last year’s martial arts competition. How will you respond?

And as always, the choice options appeared.

It’s a routine I’ve become quite accustomed to.

It would have been nice if a memorial popped up, but there was none. Therefore, if I were to draw from the information given, it would mean that the incident I caused in the past began around this time.

Then the answer isn’t difficult.

I just need to create a justification.

[ 1. Didn’t you say to look for a sponsor? ] ☑

“Didn’t you say to look for a sponsor here? I’m about to go look for one now, is there a problem?”

“Ha, Karsein. You—”

Arina let out a breath, ready to retort fiercely.

But her rebuttal was cut short by Isabella’s firm hand.

“Arina.”

“…I’m sorry, Mother.”

Under Isabella’s sharp admonition, Arina reluctantly stepped back.

“Searching for it yourself and selecting carefully wouldn’t be a bad idea. Go ahead.”

In contrast, Isabella readily permitted my solo venture.

“Are you going out alone again? You could just go together!”

“F-Flora. Karsein is doing this because of the sponsor.”

“Can’t you just find it together?”

“No. There’s value in choosing things for yourself.”

Flora whined about why I was going alone again, and Claire gently reassured the little one before signaling me to hurry along.

‘What a situation. She’s helping me out so much.’

Meanwhile, Arina continued to glare at me.

As if to say she wouldn’t let me off easily if I caused any trouble.

And since words wouldn’t suffice, she sent a warning with her lips.

‘If you lie about looking for a sponsor and cause trouble, I won’t let it slide.’

Seizing the opportunity, I offered a casual farewell before leaving.

Sorry, but that’s not a lie, Arina.

Looking for a sponsor is the truth.

I headed to the meeting place and walked into a room where one curtain was flipped inside out.

Before even grabbing the doorknob, the intimacy box came into view.

Not a gray box, but a white one.

“You’ve kept me waiting.”

“Haha, not at all! Young Master Karsein!”

He sprang up from his seat, beaming brightly.

[ Count Ptoah ]

[ Intimacy: 21% ]

[ This character currently trusts you. ]

**