The Strongest Farmer in Another World ~I'm a "Farmer", Not a Demon King! ~ - Chapter 448

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

Chapter 448   First speech

The completion ceremony for the city’s renovations… It’s not as grand as it sounds, but well, the day has arrived.

Up until today, while preparing gifts for Mother and casually conducting experiments on plant breeding using the usual methods, I’ve been feeling somewhat uneasy, unlike the usual calm. However, that too will come to an end today.

“I feel like there’s no need to dress up so formally in a place like this, full of criminals…”

Even if we’re going to hold a ceremony, it seems meaningless to dress up splendidly in a place where criminals gather, at least according to my words. But in response to my remarks, Edward, who came to check on the preparations, sighed and spoke.

“What are you talking about? Even in a town like this, a person’s appearance significantly influences their evaluation. As the king of this country, you need to show that you’re adorned, that you’re the lord of this place.”

“Some form of intimidation, huh?”

“Yes, indeed. By having a conspicuous appearance, it can be considered a form of intimidation. In fact, if you were to ask which one would you rather pick a fight with, a ragged pauper or a well-dressed noble, it would undoubtedly be the latter. Even if the actual abilities of the former surpass those of the latter, for instance.”Top of Form

Well, considering factors such as personal capabilities and connections, judging others based on appearance, including those considerations, is quite commonplace.

“Well, I’m just barely considered an adult. I understand that it’s necessary to present an appropriate appearance to avoid being underestimated. It’s just that it’s incredibly troublesome.”

“In usual circumstances, you don’t need to dress like this, but for now, please take it seriously. Black Sword also adorns himself similarly.”

For today’s completion ceremony of the city’s renovations, I’m dressed up like this, and Father and Mother are also dressed up for it. It’s not a wedding ceremony to celebrate their marriage, so Mother is wearing an elegant dress, not a wedding gown.

“By the way, is Father already prepared?”

“I wonder? They’ve assigned someone to him, but he’s an adult with quite a bit of age. He’ll probably manage on his own without doing everything.”

“Am I a child?”

“You, who hasn’t even lived half of my life, are more than enough to be considered a child.”

While expressing dissatisfaction, I was laughed off with a nose at my retort. Certainly, what he said is correct. Even if I combine my past life, he has more life experience as an adult, so from his perspective, I’m more than enough of a child.

“Besides, even if he fails, it won’t be a significant problem. He’ll just experience embarrassment, and today’s main focus is you.”

“Main focus, huh…? I feel like the main focus should be on Mother and Father.”

Perhaps sensing my thoughts, Edward gave me a sharp look for a moment.

“For you, the remarriage of your mother might be the main focus, but the purpose of today’s ceremony is the ‘completion of the town’s renovation.’ The news about those two is merely incidental, at least for the citizens.”

“Well, yeah, that makes sense. The marriage of a few individuals versus the celebration of a town-wide project. Clearly, the latter is more important for the residents.”

“Therefore, if you were to fail, it could potentially hinder future developments. That’s why I’ve come to confirm. Do you understand?”

“I’ve understood that from the beginning.”

Knowing it, however, doesn’t ease the dissatisfaction of not being able to focus solely on celebrating my parents.

After continuing the preparations, the time for the ceremony arrived.

“Well then, I don’t like it, but let’s get this done.”

Although I’ve been called a king, I’ve never really acted like one. I’ve dealt with affairs of state and defense, but when it comes to events like speeches or public appearances for the citizens, I’ve done nothing. Normally, becoming a king should come with at least one inauguration ceremony, but I never bothered.

So, this is the first time I’m presenting myself in such a manner. In a way, this could be considered my coronation ceremony.

Thinking about it adds to the nervousness, but I suppose I need to get used to this kind of tension.

“Residents of Karakas, thanks to your efforts, this town has transformed. Let us express our gratitude for your cooperation and celebrate its completion.”

Using a magical device to amplify my voice, hearing it resonate throughout the area makes me feel a bit… well, quite embarrassed. Nevertheless, I can’t stop here; I need to carry on with confidence.

“However, with this transformation, some may harbor concerns or discontent. The town has changed from what it used to be. What will happen to us in the future? Some may fear being expelled or punished.”

Even if it’s just one section of the town, with the changes, people’s lives will be different. But whenever there’s change, inevitably, some will feel anxious.

“Indeed, there will be changes. However, the essence of this town will remain unchanged. No action will be deemed a crime, and everything will be tolerated. This is a place of self-responsibility.”

Despite the town’s visual transformation, its core remains unchanged, and I have no intention of altering that. This is, after all, the ‘Criminal City Karakas.’

“This is a place for those who couldn’t fit into the world, abandoned by the world, a sanctuary for outsiders. As long as you desire this place, I won’t abandon you. It’s the world’s most dangerous and free place. Live as you wish.”

After delivering these words, there was no immediate cheer, but after a while, sporadic voices could be heard. It wasn’t a resounding response from the entire town, but scattered affirmations. Friends from the East District, those who worked on the renovation, acquaintances – a variety of voices expressing agreement with my words.

Feeling a bit pleased, I suppressed a smile and decided to transition to the next part – the main event for me.

“After this, there happens to be another celebration. Allow me to use this opportunity to announce the marriage of my parents.”

As I finished speaking, my adorned mother and father appeared from the balcony of the castle, revealing themselves to the citizens.

After the introduction of the two, who weren’t the main focus of this occasion, there shouldn’t have been anything else to say. However…

“From now on, my mother might be seen in the town. But those who lay hands on her, be prepared.”

I just had to say this. Even though it’s unlikely that anyone would dare to harm Black Sword’s woman, making it clear and driving the point home might help minimize any potential danger.

“Now, everyone in Karakas, please enjoy today’s celebration.”

With these words from Edward, the event concluded, and the rest would be a private celebration among family. Well, even if it’s called a ceremony, nobody would bother with long, formal proceedings. A quick announcement and then everyone can go have fun; that’s more than enough.