Chapter 261 - Darkmtl
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Chapter 261

-Clank, clank.

Fingers lightly tapped on the table as I found myself deep in contemplation for hours now.

Since that window popped up, I had been staring blankly for hours.

The original plan was significantly delayed, and the plan was already messed up, making today’s events unfold in a completely different way than intended.

But it was worth it.

This morning, when I checked my status window, the message about Arina’s affinity dropping was enough to prioritize this over everything else.

“I’m sure nothing happened yesterday. There were no signs at all.”

Just as the words suggest, Arina smoothly concluded the second day of the martial arts tournament.

There was no conversation connecting us, and I didn’t do anything to upset her.

Yet, the moment the third day started, a variable appeared…

From here on, the cause was likely me.

This game’s immutable law: if you follow the exact same route and show identical actions, the predetermined story will continue.

However, if you deviate even slightly from the storyline, other elements will intervene.

In other words, a variable entered my actions.

The game’s results led to an outcome that allowed the variable to intrude.

With this, I could make one guess.

“…The result of the martial arts tournament.”

My current performance and recognition are quite different from the situation in the game.

Chapter 3, with Another Plan, has more freedom than previous chapters. Achieving more progress will earn me Noblesse Points, so my goal is accomplished. However…

If we look at it differently, the story got twisted because I didn’t follow the familiar storyline in the game.

Focusing on this element, I could pinpoint the cause.

“The rumors are flying around that you might become the successor of the Bargrand family due to your outstanding performance in this martial arts tournament.”

“Harnier hit the nail on the head.”

A rumor that surfaced while going through the second day of the Yellow Dragon Martial Arts Tournament.

Yes. That’s why.

“Rumors spread among the nobles would inevitably reach the ears of the Bargrand family, and if hearing this caused her affinity to drop…”

There’s a reasonable causal relationship.

It might seem odd, but the Bargrand family was always meant for Arina to inherit.

She always fulfilled her duties as the eldest daughter,

and when the family was shaken by Isabella’s mental illness, she stood as a pillar, holding the family together.

Moreover, she took over Isabella’s responsibilities early on, providing a solid foundation for her younger sisters until they grew up. These stories were widely reported in newspapers, and articles predicting Arina as the next head of the family were common.

“But what if someone says I could take that position?”

Of course.

It’s like a thief stealing something.

To compete against someone who isn’t even blood-related and comes from the slums.

Unwilling to admit it, but from her perspective, this could be very unpleasant.

“Still, there’s a surprisingly simple solution.”

After hours of contemplation, the problem seemed solved.

Yes. It must be because of those rumors.

“Camila.”

“Yes, Young Master.”

“Prepare the carriage.”

Simply stating that I have no interest in succession should suffice.

Fortunately, the circumstances within the episode are perfect for this.

***

“Young Master, the carriage is ready.”

“Alright.”

Dressed appropriately, I stepped out upon hearing Camila’s voice outside.

First, I need to ask.

“Did you investigate as I instructed?”

“I apologize. It seems even Mother doesn’t know. But don’t worry, I wasn’t expecting much.”

Of course.

I instructed Camila earlier.

To check if Arina’s mood was affected.

If any unusual signs appeared today.

To ask even the smallest details.

With her good rapport with the maids and wide network, I thought she could get more information about Arina, but it seems that didn’t work out.

‘Well, this game wouldn’t fall apart with just that.’

Chapter 3 often features scenarios where the Another Plan interferes with the player’s objectives. While I tried to intervene internally, these shallow moves won’t cut it.

So now, my only option left is…

-Ding!

▶A missing story has been discovered.◀

▶You must complete the essential Main Episode!◀

▶The content of the ongoing Episode III is changing.◀

▶Episode III. Arina’s birthday is happening.◀

Facing Arina’s birthday directly, which is an intervention point. Clearing the Main Episode and restoring her affinity should solve this crisis.

Arina’s birthday party location was as written on the invitation card.

Before getting into the carriage, I put the invitation card away and checked my appearance once more.

Clothing should be neat, not flashy.

But fitting for a noble and the dignity of the Bargrand family.

The key is to look dignified without appearing extravagant.

Oddly enough, in the game, this alone could slightly increase Arina’s affinity.

If the outfit is pleasing and the behavior is not rushed,

this could also be a plus.

After checking, I got into the carriage.

At that moment, Camila cautiously asked me.

“Young Master, shouldn’t you go with Lady Harnier? Wouldn’t that be better?”

“Harnier?”

“Yes. I’m a bit worried.”

Attending Arina’s birthday party with Harnier. I can guess what she’s thinking.

‘The moment I appear at a gathering full of nobles, trouble is bound to happen. Having an ally present would make a huge difference.’

And that ally is her fiancée.

Even if I cause trouble, I can’t confront them in front of her fiancée.

In the worst-case scenario, and in the best-case scenario.

And generally, having a fiancée visit.

It naturally looks seamless from every angle.

In short, it’s insurance.

Camila’s advice was quite reasonable.

But.

“My fiancée must be busy right now. I can’t afford to waste time.”

This was entirely my fault.

The source of the rumors was me, and not noticing them was also my fault.

I caused the issue and now want to ask someone else to be a shield.

Not to mention, using someone pure-hearted as a shield just to discard them later is not something I’d do to Harnier.

‘How could I use someone with pure intentions as a shield?’

‘Besides, I’ve almost figured out a solution.’

It’s not about calling Harnier, but solving the issue and returning.

“Unless there’s a specific reason to bring Harnier, did you receive any other messages?”

“…No, nothing like that arrived.”

“Is that so? Then it’s fine.”

As I expressed my refusal and got into the carriage, Camila replied briefly.

“Take care, Young Master.”

Nodding lightly, I closed the door.

-Ding!

▶Episode III. Arina’s birthday is happening.◀

▶Moving to Arina’s birthday party.◀

▶You cannot return to your lodgings. Do you wish to proceed now?◀

[1. Proceed now.]

[2. Prepare a little longer before proceeding.]

There’s nothing else to see.

Preparations were made, and the issue was understood.

What was needed now was to quickly show that I had no interest in succession and restore our affinity.

Without a word, I waited, and automatically selected option 1. The carriage started moving with a brief sound.

“By the way, July 1st…”

What a coincidence.

Arina’s birthday and her firstborn’s birthday were on the same day.

Suddenly, my mouth felt dry.

That day…

“Tsk. Why am I thinking about such things.”

Shaking my head, I erased the unnecessary thoughts.

***

“What? You’ve already left?”

Harnier, who was choosing a dress, suddenly turned her head at Mina’s news.

“Yes. Just to be safe, I asked Camila… It seems he’s already left.”

Harnier, looking bewildered, grabbed the hem of her pajamas.

‘Crap. That shouldn’t have happened.’

Immediately, Harnier pouted.

Carsein’s schedule for going out was already predicted.

Today was none other than the first princess of the Bargrand family, Arina Bargrand’s birthday. Despite their poor relationship, he hated unnecessary gossip, so it was obvious he’d show up on his birthday.

But his schedule was moved too early.

Yesterday, they were trying to find clothes that fit him properly since he hadn’t prepared anything, but if he leaves so soon, there’s no way to give them to him.

Mina, with a mischievous smile, asked Harnier.

“What should we do? We finally made plans to spend time together.”

“What are you talking about…!”

“That’s right, Miss. We were planning to show off the dress you designed, help you put it on, and have a romantic date.”

“Ugh…!”

Her face turning red instantly.

That was true.

But it wasn’t just that.

“Mina, can you help me put on this dress?”

“Suddenly?”

“Yes, we need to hurry.”

In case of accidents, it’s better to follow and stay close.

Harnier’s family relationships weren’t great either.

According to hearsay, she avoided attending Claire’s coming-of-age ceremony and even hurt herself during Flora’s birthday.

That’s why she wanted to go together.

In front of her fiancée, she could handle any problems that arose.

For instance, if someone framed him, having an ally present would provide strong support as a witness.

If he caused trouble, she could create an escape route to avoid criticism from her family.

And if he got into a fight or suffered invisible injuries, she could comfort him directly.

“Mina, can you hurry a little?”

“Hold on, let me finish this. This accessory needs to be just right…”

“Enough of that, hurry! What?!”

“Wait! This piece is essential!”

“There’s no time for that!”

I don’t want to see my loved one suffer from unseen wounds.

Therefore, it’s time to protect him as quickly as possible.

***

▶Episode III. Arina’s birthday is happening.◀

▶Arrived at the venue for Arina’s birthday party.◀

▶Entered a restricted field. Be cautious with your actions.◀

‘Restricted field.’

After attending Claire’s coming-of-age ceremony and Flora’s birthday, this was my third time attending a family member’s birthday.

But today was different from the previous two occasions.

Unlike the times I had to take risks or lacked time and resources.

This time, a clear solution was in place, and I had ample time to prepare, ensuring no issues would arise that could lower affinity.

“Young Master, we’ve arrived!”

The carriage stopped at the coachman’s announcement.

Given the timing, managing affinity meticulously is crucial. I gave extra money to the coachman and headed toward the entrance.

‘This was the moment I expected.’

After taking a breather, stepping into the entrance, my status window immediately opened.

-Ding!

▶A conflict with a noble has occurred!◀

▶Choose your response.◀

Ah, I was hoping for this.

Similar incidents happened at other family birthdays, so why should Arina’s birthday be any different?

Wherever Carsein is, trouble finds him.

Considering Chapter 3’s Another Plan, the interference factors will be broader and more threatening.

But as mentioned earlier, I was prepared.

“Oh…! Please wait a moment. The wheel got stuck…!”

“What kind of pauper kid rides in this carriage!? Who owns it?!”

A poorly built carriage blocked the entrance when a noble from behind shouted.

“Riding in this shabby carriage. Hmph, probably some nobody from the outskirts!”

How kind of you.

I was waiting for this line.

The options aren’t ideal, so I’ll have to twist them a bit.

[1. Sorry, but I was the one riding in that carriage.]


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Damn Family

Damn Family

I Have A Damn Family Again, The Damn Family Is Back Again, 빌어먹을 가족들이 다시 생겼다
Score 8.6
Status: Ongoing Type: Author: Released: 2023 Native Language: Korean
The torment was over. I thought my ties to them had been severed by escaping from the place where nothing belonged to me. Yet, the game I had started with the intention of seeing the ending to the bitter end, ended up dragging me into hell. The hell of a house full of damn family.

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