Journal Entry One
"Curious First Day"
Upon my arrival to the surface, I was greeted by a variety of new sensations. The "forests" described in books were much different than their true appearance. My kindred's hatred of the surfacers was more than likely the cause of the skewed description. The beauty of such wonders rivaled that of the greatest crystal caverns of the Deep. It can also be said that it is no less dangerous.
I made my way through the "forests", only to come across a fortress. After eavesdropping a couple speaking Elvish, a language I am fortunately versed in, I now know the fortress as "Fort Vehl", A small fort referenced in old maps left in the academy libraries I hid in years ago. After gaining my bearings, and gathering a few supplies discreetly with out bringing to much attention to my self, I finally set off across the surface.
Even with my lack of knowledge of the surface world, I know a mercenary when I see one. I almost chuckled at how similar they were, always quarreling amongst each other as how to split their loot. Anyways, after a very brief encounter, I have made it my vendetta to deal with them, as such insolence can not be tolerated, especially for one as lowly as a mercenary. I have also made note that I should not travel near the "towers of stone". Shaggy, white beasts charged me not to long after entering the valley between these "towers of stone", and almost lead to my demise. I have made note of this on my maps.
I managed to find a small haven west of the fort. It would not be wise for me to stay long, for the surroundings look well used by the small tavern located in the "forest". I used my bow to catch fish and begin prepping for my journey, for there was no guarantee that I would find more places to easily gather food. I curiously noted that the fish of the surface didn't have sharp teeth, nor where they vicious. It was much easier fishing on the surface. Finally ready to leave, I continued down the small road, keeping close, but off. It was later that a great horned beast attacked me, startling me into a run. I ran down the road, soon to come upon yet another fort. I still got wounded from the initial attack, but manages to slip away close to the fort walls. Using my bow, I stood on the opposite side of the pond, took aim, and struck the beast down. I was surprised at how delicious the meat was after a long cook...
The meal distracted me, and so it lead to my discovery. I knew I should have left immediately, but secluded corner of the fortress wall and foliage led me to let down my guard. Someone approached me speaking to me in their tongue. I bolted for the "forest", in fear that a larger party might be sent after me, for I am but one Elf. I know my kindred's reputation, and I know that even I can't trust my own kind. I reached the "forest", but not having recovered from my wounds, fell face first into the ground. Eventually the stranger caught up to me, and as he approached, I knew I was done. For what surfacer would have mercy upon one such as me? The feeling of wounds being closed and healing over was unsettling, yet not unfamiliar. I was startled that this stranger would show pity upon me in my weakened state. I stood up, and turned to face, what was not a him, but a her. She began to speak in her tongue as she thrust bottles of a sickly green liquid in my hands. I simply stared. Unsure of what to do, I began to back away, and ran back through the woods. stopping behind a tree to catch my breath, she pasted, in pursuit of me it seemed, but with a different purpose in her stride. I was unsure if she knew I was here and simply left, but I got away.
I was confused. Upon further inspection, the bottles contained a curative formula, just like the ones the raiding parties took with them before their raids to the surface. Why would I be given a gift as such by a complete stranger, and nonetheless, a surfacer. Did she not fear me for what I am? I would have to reflect upon this later. There is much to learn about these odd surfacers.
~Sion