An Unlikely Refuge

Faeryl took a deep breath and continued her story, her words spilling out in a rush. "We were traveling from our home of Shobalar, seeking to explore the surface world and forge new alliances. We had no idea that we were walking into the midst of a raid. The Menzoberranzan Drow attacked us without warning, and... and I was forced to flee for my life." The surface Drow exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and concern. The woman with piercing green eyes stepped forward, her hand on the hilt of her sword. "You are a long way from Shobalar," she said, her voice measured. "What is it like, living in the underdark?" Faeryl hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. But there was something about the woman's gentle tone that put her at ease. "It's... complicated," she said finally. "Shobalar is a city of refugees, a place where those who have fled the wars and strife of the underdark can find safety. But it's not without its dangers. There are those who would seek to exploit the vulnerable, and... and sometimes, the city is attacked by those who seek to claim its resources for themselves." The surface Drow nodded, their faces somber. "I see," said the woman. "And you, surface-walker, are the only survivor of this... raid?" Faeryl nodded, feeling a pang of grief. "Yes. My companions... they were all killed. Kaelith, my friend and ally... he was struck down in front of me. I couldn't save him." The surface Drow murmured softly, a sound of sympathy and understanding. The woman with green eyes reached out and placed a hand on Faeryl's shoulder. "You are safe now," she said. "You are among friends. We will help you, if we can." Faeryl felt a surge of gratitude towards the woman, and towards the surface Drow who stood around her. She had expected hostility, or at the very least, suspicion. But instead, she found herself being offered kindness and compassion. "Thank you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I... I don't know what I would do without your help." The woman smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "You don't have to do anything alone," she said. "Not here, not among us. My name is Eira, by the way. And you are...?" Faeryl smiled back, feeling a sense of hope that she hadn't felt in a long time. "I am Faeryl," she said. "And I think I'm going to be here for a while."