**Beyond the Moonstone Lanterns**

As Faeryl descended into the city's depths, the soft glow of the moonstone lanterns grew dimmer, replaced by the flickering light of luminescent fungi that lined the walls. The air grew thick with the scent of damp earth and the distant tang of sulfur, a reminder of the fiery depths that lay beneath her feet. She navigated the narrow tunnels and passageways with ease, her eyes adjusting to the dim light as she made her way towards the city's outskirts. The streets grew increasingly deserted as she walked, the only sound being the soft echo of her footsteps off the cold stone walls. Faeryl felt a sense of liberation wash over her, as if she was shedding the weight of her old life with each step. She thought of the familiar rhythms of her life in Shobalar, the prayers and rituals that had once brought her such comfort, and wondered if she would ever find a new sense of purpose. As she approached the city's edge, Faeryl caught sight of a group of figures huddled in the shadows. They were a rough-looking bunch, dressed in tattered leather armor and armed to the teeth. Faeryl's instincts told her to be cautious, but as she drew closer, she saw that they were a group of travelers, preparing to set out into the unknown. One of them, a grizzled old Drow with a scar above his eyebrow, looked up and caught Faeryl's eye. He nodded in her direction, and Faeryl felt a sense of curiosity. Who were these travelers, and where were they headed? "Greetings, priestess," the old Drow said, his voice low and gravelly. "I am Kaelith Sunshadow, and these are my companions. We are bound for the surface world, seeking adventure and fortune." Faeryl's heart skipped a beat as she heard the words. The surface world? Could it be that she had stumbled upon a group of travelers who were headed in the same direction she was? "I am Faeryl Telenna," she said, her voice steady. "A priestess of Eilistraee. I, too, am bound for the surface world, seeking a new purpose in the service of my goddess." Kaelith's eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing. "A priestess, you say? We could use a healer on our journey. Are you skilled in the art of medicine?" Faeryl nodded, her mind racing with the possibilities. "I have studied the ancient lore of my goddess. I am skilled in the healing arts, and I am willing to help those in need." Kaelith nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Then you are welcome to join us, priestess. We could use your skills on our journey. But be warned, the surface world is not for the faint of heart. We will face dangers and uncertainties that you may not be accustomed to." Faeryl's heart pounded in her chest as she considered the offer. She thought of the vial of shimmering liquid that Lyraea had given her, and the sense of determination that had driven her to leave Shobalar. She knew that she was ready for whatever lay ahead. "I am willing to take that risk," she said, her voice firm. "I will join you on your journey, and I will do my best to help those in need." Kaelith nodded, and with a wave of his hand, he invited Faeryl to join the group. Together, they set out into the unknown, leaving the soft glow of the moonstone lanterns behind. The darkness of the Underdark swallowed them whole, but Faeryl felt a sense of excitement and trepidation. She was ready to face whatever lay ahead, armed with nothing but her faith and her determination.