Protector Spider

Even on my darkest days, my dearest Rosie is always there to ground me and assist through whatever episode I have in that moment. I feel a sense of warmth and strength envelop me whenever we interact. She may be a giant spider, but Rosie provides a newfound safety net to help me navigate this world that I never had before.

— Statement of an owner who uses this spider for support and safety.

Not all spiders are deadly hunters...or small. These Underdark natives are a common pet amongst the underground citizens. Their natural friendly disposition allows people to breed them into loyal and assistive companions. Many are used as working and service animals to those who need it.

Diet

In the wild, protector spiders prefer to feed on carrion and other scavenged resources. They have an aversion to violence and will avoid actual hunting whenever possible. Scientists observed some individuals tending to small patches of local mushrooms for nutrients.
Pet spiders are easy to keep fed. Owners can purchase food paste made from a blend of known favorite food sources. If any dead critters are discovered in the home, the spider will gladly dispose of it for its companion.

Habitat

Protector spiders are only found throughout the cavernous Underdark. Their eyes are sensitive to natural sunlight and feel safe among the dark tunnels. Small groups settle in singular caves where they protect their eggs and oversee the small mushroom gardens. Pet owners can delight their spider by providing them fungi to care for during their free time.

Appearance

This arachnid looks similar to a tarantula. Their body is thick and the spider's entire surface is covered in a soft, shimmery hair reminiscent of actual fur. Each leg is sturdy, with sharp and nimble tips that allow for easy travel along rocky surfaces. These spiders come in pastel shades of blue, purple, and grey.

Caring Companions

Underdark citizens prefer to keep protector spiders as pets over the standard surface mammal. They are easy to care for, trainable, rarely aggressive, and loyal. Their trainability and disposition make for the perfect service animal for those who wish to use one. Once bonded with their primary owner, the spider will do whatever it takes to keep them safe and happy. They are still friendly towards others, but the spider's partner always comes first.

Protector spiders are large enough to serve as guide animals. Visually impaired folk are able to traverse the underground tunnels and settlements with ease. The spider is intelligent enough to learn common routes their handler may use. Wheelchair users or others with varying mobility needs can train them to help with everyday tasks as well.

These creatures also have positive effects on mental and emotional health. Some individuals use them to feel safer, helping with anxiety, especially in relation to leaving the home or living alone. Many say they felt soothed after a cuddle session. They appear to give off a mild healing aura of sorts that affects the mind.

Type

Large arachnid

Location

Underdark

Lifespan

10 to 14 years

Size

Varies; comparable to large dog breeds

Uses

The production of a magical silk that has various purposes.
Emotional support animal.
Disability, service and guide animal.

Plot Hooks

The party encounters a frantic protector spider that came up to them. It's wearing a service harness and does its best to get the group to follow it to its owner in need of help.
A magic shop owner tasks the party with bringing them several bundles of the spider's silk. If they manage to aquire more than initially asked, the reward increases.