Gnomes waging war is almost unheard of. They are said to be a very homebound race and not overly interested in acquiring power over foreign domains. To threaten their people and homes however, is a certain way to awake their ire. Attacking a gnome settlement can be a hazardous undertaking since gnomes often spend decades, or even centuries, laying traps and fortifying their domains. Gnome societies seldom sport large armies, but their vast knowledge and keen intellects can make for complex strategies. Their tactics often involve surprising maneuvers and unorthodox elements. The Frimblir gnomes have burrowed their city deep within the mountain to safeguard it. The elite of their army, as well as the royal guard, consist of dwarven mercenaries, while the bulk of the footmen are criminals sentenced to a period of military service. In direct confrontation they rely on the footmen to protect their priests and mages, buying them time to scourge the enemy. The Hirmfel gnomes, who have seen more conflict than their cousins, take a more active interest in the art of war. They have developed many warfare innovations such as strategic tunneling, and military engines that can hurl projectiles at advancing enemies. Their plateau is heavily fortified, and is only approachable through a maze of earthen walls designed to slow aggressors. Gnomes favor armor over arms, and they commonly use metal armor and shields. They commonly use one-handed axes, war hammers, maces, short swords and light crossbows.