Kays Translations
Just another Isekai Lover~
Chapter 161: The Prince is Deeply in Love
“…Lord Clover. Rest Clover certainly does meticulous work.”
“Indeed, he seems to be an exceptional talent, a rare find.”
After Rest left the tent, Andrew and Liranda began their conversation. On the table lay the sketch of the central plains’ terrain that Rest had created. While it lacked the finesse of an artist, the drawing clearly marked the elevations, wetlands, and potential monster nests.
“He likely used magic to get a bird’s-eye view for the sketch… but yes, it’s quite easy to understand.”
“That being said… Your Highness, what was your intention in including Yuri Catreya in the central plains’ exploration?”
As Andrew examined the map Rest had brought, Liranda suddenly inquired.
“I understand Lord Lubase’s inclusion, as well as Isis. Sir Argyle and Priest Rail are also logical choices. But why Yuri, the daughter of Marquis Catreya, and head of the Imperial Knights? What was the aim of assigning her to such a dangerous task?”
Yuri Catreya was the daughter of the Marquis Catreya, commander of the knights, and—though only a select few knew—she was a cherished and highly protected young woman. Including her in the expedition could provoke the Marquis’s anger if anything went wrong.
“Well… one reason is that she personally volunteered.”
Andrew raised his head from the table, giving a sheepish smile.
“It seems she has taken a liking to Lord Clover. She requested to join the expedition to be of help to him. Naturally, I asked about her family, but she was adamant that her father had nothing to do with her decision. Apparently, it’s a rather complicated household.”
“A runaway, perhaps?”
“Most likely. Her motivation to join stems from her interest in Lord Clover, so I entrusted her to him. Yuri participated in the suppression of the civil war, and her skills are well-proven. I judged that she wouldn’t be a burden.”
“…”
Andrew’s reasoning made sense on the surface. However, Liranda, who had known him for many years, could see there was something more. She gave him a scrutinizing look, and finally, Andrew raised his hands in surrender.
“…Alright, alright. Stop looking at me like that. I can’t keep secrets from you, can I?”
“Your Highness…”
“The truth is, I wanted to keep Yuri away. Whether it’s Lord Clover or someone else, I hoped she’d eventually find someone to marry. That’s my true intention.”
Andrew sighed, twirling a pen between his fingers.
“Once again, the palace is talking about arranging a fiancée for me. Now that I’m about to open vast new lands with this plains development, they think it’s time I settle down. And one of the candidates is none other than Yuri.”
“A prince stepping down from royalty and the daughter of a marquis. The status matches, but…”
“Status only. We don’t connect at all.”
Andrew tossed the pen onto the table, his expression unusually angry.
“After getting the Rosemary Marquis sisters engaged and steering Celestine towards Clover… I thought I’d be safe for a while. But now they’re pushing Yuri! It’s exhausting. I’ve got no interest!”
“…”
“You know full well, don’t you? I have only one person I love. I refuse to marry anyone else!”
“A royal’s duty is a political marriage, though. You could take a wife as His Majesty wishes and keep a lover on the side.”
“No way!”
Andrew clicked his tongue in disgust.
“I’m not the type to love more than one person at once. You know that better than anyone!”
Liranda averted her gaze slightly. She understood Andrew’s feelings, all too well. But she also knew that his true love would never be acknowledged by the king.
“Let’s leave it at that for today. I’ll be going now.”
“Hm? Oh, thank you. Rest well.”
“Yes, goodnight…”
As Liranda bowed and exited, she almost bumped into a man entering—Eusgos, the student council secretary.
“Oops, my bad.”
“Sorry, Eusgos.”
“Heading out already, Liranda?”
“Yes, it’s late. Goodnight.”
“Goodnight.”
They exchanged quick farewells, and Eusgos stepped into Andrew’s tent.
“I’ve returned, Your Highness.”
“Ah, my dearest! I’ve been waiting for you!”
Andrew stood from his chair, grinning, and embraced Eusgos warmly.
“That was sudden, Your Highness.”
“I couldn’t help it. I’ve been waiting so long… Don’t worry, I’ve made sure no one will disturb us.”
“Your Highness…”
“Yuu…”
Andrew’s love will never be acknowledged by his father or brother.
Only a few people, including Liranda, knew why.