"I suppose I'm going to be stuck in a pool forever, then," Terenia says glumly, "I don't know how to prove to Efaen that I don't mean her harm. I suppose part of the problem is that harm is kind of in the job description. You don't become Visser Three's punching bag without bruising, and she blames me for that. Rightfully so, I suppose. Can't say I'm particularly proud of the decisions I've made, but I couldn't see another way. Still can't. I'm real good at backing myself into a corner, it seems," Terenia pauses, suddenly realizing how she must sound, "I'm not asking for your pity, man. I don't know why, but this place...ever since I landed here I've been blurting out my life story for everyone to hear."
---
Efaen stands perfectly still on the ship for a long time, grateful for the company of Claxter and Ossanlin, but uncomfortable with their silence. She tries to sort the situation out in her head, but only becomes more uncomfortable as she does so. She tries to tap into her hatred of Yeerks to help guide her decision, but the fight has gone out of her. She notes that it is likely a reaction to the drugs, but this knowledge does not help her much.
<Claxter...> she says, finally unable to bear it any further. She sounds slightly embarrassed as she speaks, <I wanted to thank you for your assistance since I arrived here. You could have left me, but you put your life at risk to grant me freedom. That was very brave of you.>