The Real Reason for Visiting Vardmoi
"… Hmm, so mass-producing it as armor undergarments is easier than mass-producing dresses."
"Yes. If we prepare multiple templates of predetermined sizes, all that's left is to prepare the fabric, making it simpler than dresses. Dresses inherently require more components."
"I see."
After the matter of Princess Rodenlight’s dress was resolved, Lord Sharon consulted me about the possibility of mass-producing armor undergarments made from Ogre Spider Silk.
As for the result, it is feasible to mass-produce them, but the challenge lies in securing enough fabric.
"However, the issue arises as to how we gather the fabric. Since Ogre Spider Silk can't be made unless Talat consumes magic stones, a substantial quantity of magic stones will be necessary for mass production. Considering individuals can't purchase magic stones, mass production will be difficult."
"Hmm. The cloth used for Princess Rodenlight's dress order this time came from fabric you sold earlier, right? Can't we manage by working with that?"
"Recently, I’ve had fewer opportunities to gather magic stones. Apparently, I'm now considered a target, so I’m not allowed to go out freely. Prioritizing Princess Rodenlight's dress moving forward means the armor undergarments' delivery will be significantly delayed."
"… If we’re to weigh Princess Rodenlight's dress against the equipment for knights and soldiers, Princess Rodenlight's dress should indeed take precedence. Please prioritize it accordingly."
"Understood."
With that, the matter of the dress and armor undergarments seems settled.
Now, I just need to consider the design of the dress, which is tricky.
It can’t be too similar to other patterns, yet too extravagant is also out of the question.
Ah, difficult indeed.
As I sketched a few design drafts for Plum to review, Princess Rodenlight, Rumaja, Marquis Vardmoi, and Duke McFarlane returned from the adjacent room.
All of them had stern expressions.
I wonder what happened.
"… Lily. If you’re truly willing, would you consider listening to our request?"
Rumaja, with a deeply troubled look, broached the topic.
I wonder what they’re about to ask.
"Could you take in Princess Annette as one of your relatives?"
"What?!"
"I understand your surprise. However, this is the safest option for Princess Annette."
As they explained further, it became clear: the newly founded McFarlane Duchy will be ruled by Duke McFarlane as the Grand Duke.
The Crown Prince will be Lord Sharon, as he is to marry Princess Rodenlight.
This brings us to the concern regarding the other princess, Princess Annette.
If Princess Annette were to marry elsewhere, the influence of her new household would undoubtedly grow, potentially resulting in the country being divided once more.
Yet, keeping Princess Annette confined within the McFarlane household is deemed dangerous.
Other royal families might invade, citing her confinement as justification, or a noble might attempt to abduct her.
Thus, it was concluded that Princess Annette should officially be declared "deceased" and lead a life entirely disconnected from noble society.
The reason they approached me is simply because my household has exceptionally strong defenses.
There’s Plum, Rumaja’s mentor, the combat-capable maids of Plum, the members of the Wildcat’s Claws, and Talat.
They believe it would be challenging for anyone to infiltrate and abduct Princess Annette from such a fortified household.
However, there’s no real benefit for me in this.
It would only increase the reasons people might target me, without offering any advantages.
Though I feel sympathy for Princess Annette, this isn’t something I can act upon based on fleeting emotions.
So, what should I do?
What do you think about this chapter?
