Lilith understood that feeling. Entire civilizations had vanished during the Cataclysm. Even among elves, history from before that era remained frustratingly incomplete. Finding an untouched society from that age was nothing short of miraculous.
Lyria looked toward the two rulers.
"I imagine you're wondering why we never attempted to leave."
Atheline nodded.
"The thought crossed my mind." She smiled. "We did, long ago. Our ancestors tested the Veil many times. They discovered something unexpected."
She gestured toward the surrounding forest.
"The Veil was designed to keep danger out, but after the world changed... It also prevented us from finding our way back. The outside became unfamiliar and the pathways no longer aligned. So eventually..."
She looked toward the peaceful village.
"...our people accepted this place as home."
There was no bitterness lingering in her voice.
