The Strongest Farmer in Another World ~I'm a "Farmer", Not a Demon King! ~ - Chapter 311

The Strongest Farmer in Another World ~I’m a “Farmer”, Not a Demon King! ~

Chapter 311   Crown Prince: Looking forward

“―For now, it seems things have settled.”

Having returned to my quarters, I found myself alone as the two guards were assigned separate guest rooms. Taking advantage of the solitude and the absence of anyone to object, I remained in my room without bothering to change out of the formal attire, lying down on the bed.

“John, come out for a moment.”

However, this moment of respite was short-lived. Quickly rising from the bed, I called out to an empty space.

Emerging from somewhere, a man dressed in the uniform of the royal guard appeared.

“Good to see you’re holding up.”

“Well, if you ask whether I’m doing well, it’s a delicate matter, but managing, I suppose.”

This man was John, a member of the ‘Shadow Clan’ assigned to me. We were the same age, and our physical stature was similar, leading to his role as a sort of companion and friend, at least in the initial intentions of the assignment. However, as time passed, our relationship evolved into a genuine friendship.

“Before that, I’m sorry, but there’s something I’d like to ask.”

“Hmm? What is it?”

While our reunion was a welcome one, I cut to the chase and spoke up.

“Do you know that a male child has been born to the second queen, destined to be the second prince?”

“…You mean the one who was supposed to be the second prince but had a miscarriage?”

John’s expression shifted with skepticism as he asked, and I nodded in confirmation.

“Yes, that one. But is there a possibility that he’s alive?”

“Alive? The prince who was supposed to be dead?”

“That’s right. In fact, there was no miscarriage, but there’s a chance he was reported as deceased. And if that’s possible, who could be involved? Any ideas?”

I intended to investigate, and calling on the ‘Shadows,’ who might have some information, seemed like the logical first step. After all, if I were to conduct an inquiry, I would inevitably need their assistance, so there was no need to hesitate in asking them here.

“…First, it’s His Majesty the King. Then, a few of the Royal Guards around the King, including the ‘Sword Saint.’ Some knights from the Royal Guards. Similar ‘Weeds’ like us, serving His Majesty. The Prime Minister and some ministers. The chief physician assigned to this matter would undoubtedly know as well.”

“What about the Queen?”

“The Second Queen, the mother of the mentioned prince, is a bit uncertain. But among the others, probably not. If anyone knew about it, there would be more conspicuous movements.”

John’s response to my question matched what I had in mind.

So, they are likely to be the ones who know…

“And? What’s the reason for asking about that? It’s not just a random thought, right?”

“…The Demon King was my younger brother.”

I hesitated for a moment, debating whether to reveal this information. However, I realized that withholding it would hinder our progress and accurate information gathering. Besides, if I intended to investigate, I might as well be straightforward.

“…Huh?”

The incredulous voice that echoed back was understandable. I felt the same way when I first learned about it.

“At least, the one claiming to be my brother seemed to have credibility in his story. Please look into the truth of it.”

While it wasn’t confirmed yet, I was leaning heavily towards the possibility that he was indeed my brother.

“Well, I get that, but… if that story turns out to be true, then what? What are you planning?”

“Yeah… There are many things that need to change.”

“Change? …Hey. Are you serious?”

Though I spoke with hesitation, John seemed to grasp my true intentions and widened his eyes in surprise.

“I’m serious, and I’m in my right mind. There have been various things bothering me for a while. I guess now is as good a time as any, don’t you think?”

My father, the current king, is said to not resemble the previous kings in various aspects—hair color, eye color, facial features, personality, and abilities. This lack of resemblance is not unique to him; even my grandfather, the king before him, had a different aura compared to the kings before him.

Looking at portraits, one could notice a difference in the family’s atmosphere. This has led to rumors about our grandfather having illegitimate children, and even now, questions about the legitimacy linger.

The current king, my father, is mindful of this perception, making him hesitant to assert himself strongly against other ministers and high-ranking officials. While there are occasions, like the recent war, where he acts decisively, such instances are rare. Consequently, the upper echelons often act independently, leading to a perception that the country is becoming ‘corrupt.’

I had been thinking about addressing this issue for a while. Therefore, the current situation presented an opportune moment for a change in leadership.

“…Well, if that’s what you’ve decided, we’ll follow your lead, but don’t do anything reckless.”

With that, John accepted my request and utilized other members of the ‘Shadows’ to investigate. After a few days, the report came in, confirming that the story was indeed true.

“I’m sorry, but I’ll leave this place in your hands for a while.”

“Leave it to us… Are you going somewhere? Weren’t you supposed to be in seclusion?”

“Yeah. I thought I’d visit that person’s hometown for a bit.”

In my current state of seclusion, it actually works to my advantage. Being in a situation where I can’t meet anyone allows me more freedom of movement.

“Will going there change anything?”

“It might not change anything. However, showing a willingness to engage and confirming the facts can have its significance. It’s not meaningless.”

Even though the investigation is already complete, the act of going there serves as a meaningful confirmation.

“It might be a burden, but I’m counting on you.”

As John said this, he lowered his head. When he lifted his head again, his face had changed, presenting a completely different appearance from the previous John. In fact, what was now in front of me was my own face.

“Don’t worry; it’s nothing new, right? You should go.”

The tone and attire of the ‘me’ that spoke were just like mine. However, this wasn’t unusual—it was the usual scenario.

A body double. That was the original role of John’s ‘shadow.’

“Thank you. Expecting some interesting stories, so I’ll do my best to bring back a good souvenir.”

“More than that, I hope you return safely this time too.”

“Yeah, that’s crucial. I’m expecting that myself. With the reinforcement of the divine soldier, I think it should be okay, but you never know what life might throw at you.”

In these past few days, it seems the divine soldier who survived has returned and contacted me. However, he didn’t return directly to the castle but secured lodging in the town below, delivering his message through a letter.

It appears he, too, has questions about the current king’s methods and has decided to support my activities. In the current uncertain circumstances, his assistance is greatly appreciated.

“Well then, I’ll be on my way.”

“We’ll be eagerly awaiting your swift return.”

And with that, I quietly headed towards the Aldonov domain.