...and make a fateful decision

The tunnels grew less and less webbed as they passed further from the heart of the warren. Without warning, they crossed a threshold guarded by a single armored drider, and they were out. For the first time in months, they were out of the warren alone.

Aliara was setting a grueling pace. She scrambled over stalagtites and broke into a light jog in the few clear areas. Teysa, huffing and puffing, had to struggle to keep up. "Wait!" she called out as she fell behind for the third time. "Li, what's the rush?"

"I just can't wait to see the sun again!" Aliara was beaming. "Or eat a hot meal! Sorry, I'll slow down a bit. Aren't you excited?"

"Excited for--" Teysa's forehead scrunched up. "We're going to the city, aren't we? The drow city? Aliara, what are you talking about?"

"Teysa, what are you talking about?" Aliara's tone was incredulous, her eyes wide. "This was the plan, wasn't it? We get away! We're free again!"

Teysa shook her head. "Maybe. But think about all those women, Li. All those breeders over the years. That could have been our fate! We got lucky. Don't we have an obligation to them? This could work! If we succeed at this, they'll owe us!"

Aliara spoke slowly. "Obligation? Obligation? What about your obligation to me, Tey! What about your promise? You said you'd help me escape! Now is the time!" There were tears in the corners of her eyes, and she raised an accusing finger. "You can't save everyone, Teysa! But you can save me! The one you love, right? Didn't you say that?"

Teysa raised her hands defensively. "Of course I love you! But... Li, it's not as simple as that. It's not. Just because it's... it's personal."

"Oh, that's what this is? That's what I am? Personal? As opposed to what? You're crazy, Tey! They're monsters and slavers and you just want a pat on the head from them! I've been a ****. When you're a ****, you don't choose. Even when you think you're choosing, you're not. Is that the life you want? For us?" The tears were flowing freely now. "Is it? It is, isn't it? It's easier that way! You don't have to think for yourself when you're property!"