Snippet: The Change of Ages

The ages that have passed within the realms have been defined not only through the happenings within them, but those major events that see us move from one "age" to the next. Upheavals in the order of our world and those of the Gods are continual, but there are periods that define history to such a great extent that we consider that the future will be vastly different from past.

In dealing with these shifts of power, which are frequently defined as catastrophes or incredible boons depending upon the individual providing the account of events, we must be mindful of the ramifications that they present for the future. Just as history has been filled with cataclysms causing tremendous upheavals in the balance of power across Toril, we can expect that the future will hold comparable occurrences.

Knowing this, we must be cautious when we become involved in matters of significance, for it is not unheard of for actions to have consequences far beyond those that are initially foreseen. As the long-lived, elves have a duty to be more cautious than short-lived races, so as to prevent hasty decisions that could have catastrophic effects. This is our duty to ourselves and to all those upon Faerun.

This is the reason we must safeguard ourselves against any decline that might see us dwindle or leave this land. The exodus cannot continue indefinitely, for if trouble goes unchecked for long enough, it could threaten all of Toril, extending to safe havens many consider impregnable bastions. Though our relations with other races and nations are strained at times, we must strive to maintain them, for even the elves cannot stand alone against all the evils of the world.

- Excerpt from 'The Destiny of the Elves', by Alustriel Silverhand