They surrender

Running, Teysa realized immediately, would do them no good here. Not only were they exhausted, but they were deep in the labyrinthine Basilica. No, their only chance was to yield. She threw up her arms.

"Please, oh great one! We meant no offense! We are new here! We are honored to serve Mother Lolth!" She thought hard. "**** to all driders!"

One of the guards snarled and hefted his spear butt over Teysa's head. "Silence, filth! Do not dare address the Empress!" The other guard raised his own spear and held it, point downward, inches from Teysa's throat. "Shall I slay them, your excellency? They pollute your Basilica with their presence!"

"No, do not execute them." The Empress waved a hand airily. "These two intrigue me. Deliver them to my sanctum." She turned on her heel and strode away.

"As you command," said the guard. He raised his spear, and then brought it down hard on Teysa's head. She went out like a light.