Chapter 261

Picking Up Princess Annette
A week had passed since the Kiblinki Saltas arrived at my home.
During that time, they built a nest in the garden and fortified it to ensure no one could enter the house from there.
Though the garden now looked cluttered, my neighbors, already aware that I was a spider monster tamer, likely thought I was starting some eccentric project.
That’s a little lonely in its own way, though.

(Our preparations are complete. Aren’t you going to fetch this Annette girl?)

"Yeah, let’s go pick her up now."

We all boarded the Lumite Grand Wing and headed to Marquis Vardmoi’s estate.
After undergoing an inspection at the entrance, we were allowed inside.
Lately, the inspections at the entrance had become increasingly lax. When I asked why, they explained, "If you were to cause trouble, we wouldn’t stand a chance anyway."
I’m not sure that’s how guards should operate.

Inside the estate, we were led to the usual reception room to await Marquis Vardmoi.
Ah, the tea was delicious as always.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Lily."

"Thank you for having me, Marquis Vardmoi."

"Don’t worry about it. We’ve made some significant requests of you this time. So, what about Annette’s guards?"

"Four of the Kiblinki Saltas will serve as her constant escorts. Additionally, one will guard each of my shops, and 16 will handle city security."

"A total of 22? That’s a great help."

"They volunteered for this, so they’re happy to assist. But are you sure? Using spiders as guards?"

"No problem. The guard force has already been informed. Still, I only expected two or three to come, so we’ll need to revise our deployment plans."

"I’ll leave that to you. By the way, may I take Princess Annette with me now?"

"Of course. Follow me; I’ll take you to her."

The Marquis led us deeper into the mansion.
After turning many corners and passing through several rooms, we finally arrived at our destination.
Four guards stood watch outside the door, their presence lending an air of importance.
However, this hallway had no windows, lit only by magic lighting that cast a soft glow.

"It’s Vardmoi. I’ve come to escort Princess Annette."

"Thank goodness. We’ve been eagerly awaiting this."

"Apologies for the delay. Given the circumstances, I needed to ensure proper guard arrangements for her safety. Everything is ready now."

As the topic of the guards came up, the soldiers’ gazes shifted toward me—or rather, toward the spiders I had tamed.

"... Is it that girl?"

"Technically, it’s the spiders tamed by that girl. Their species is called Kiblinki Saltas. They specialize in defense and can use telepathy."

"Such a convenient species exists..."

(It may seem convenient from your perspective, but we do exist. While skepticism isn’t wrong, accepting what is before you requires a certain open-mindedness.)

"Whoa!? Where did that voice come from!?"

(I’m right in front of you, human.)

"This spider can use telepathy!?"

(Not just telepathy but also mind-reading. Don’t recklessly raise your spear out of fear.)

"Can you really read my thoughts?"

(I can. Right now, however, your thoughts are nearly blank. You’re poised to react to any movement, prepared for any scenario. Impressive readiness.)

Wow, they can even discern that much.
The soldier, realizing his thoughts had been laid bare by the Kiblinki Saltas, exchanged glances with the other three guards before stepping aside from the door.
It seems they accepted the situation.

"We’ve determined they are more than capable as guards. Please proceed inside."

"Good work."

Finally, it was time to meet Princess Annette.
I wonder how she’s doing.

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