Zilargo Allies With Breland

Diplomatic action

Zilargo, the nation of gnomes, was long neutral in the Last War due to its status as an autonomous principality of the Kingdom of Galifar, but formally aligned itself with Breland during the Last War in 962 YK. The gnomes' powerful intelligence network, skilled magewrights and unique arcane elemental-binding techniques were key strategic assets for the Brelish in the war's last years. The gnomes of Khorvaire had lived in the area known as Zilargo for thousands of years. Situated between the Howling Peaks and the Seawall Mountains, the gnomes thrived despite incursions by and conflicts with goblins, kobolds, and humans. They had always managed to maintain their independence, winning battles with words that they could never win with swords. After King Galifar I established his kingdom, he eventually set his sights on Zilargo. The gnomes met his military forces in the valley north of Dragonroost and immediately surrendered. During the negotiations, the gnomes became an independent province within the kingdom. King Galifar left in victory, and the gnomes secured a safe place in the new human empire—all without spilling a drop of blood. Relying on their innate wisdom and cunning, along with elemental-bound items and illusions, the gnomes of Khorvaire have always been surprisingly dangerous opponents. During the Last War, Zilargo spent most of the conflict as a neutral observer before aligning with Breland in 962 YK. From that point on, the gnomes provided intelligence and elemental-bound weapons and vehicles to Breland while avoiding most combat. As a result, Zilargo emerged from the Last War stronger than ever, and Breland owes the gnomes a great debt for the services they rendered—and the gnomes always collect on their debts.