The Lost Tribe

Hidden in plain sight, the ancient Gnomes watch over Gielinor's secrets.

In the expansive lore of Gielinor, 'The Lost Tribe' refers primarily to the reclusive and enigmatic Gnome people who withdrew from mainstream history centuries ago. While often discussed in broader RuneScape narrative contexts involving their mysterious origins, within Old School RuneScape this designation highlights their sudden emergence into the world's consciousness through ancient strongholds hidden beneath the earth or high in the mountains.

Quick Facts

Subject: The Gnome People
Affiliation: Ardougne; Gielinor History
Status: Reclusive but Active
Key location: Gnome Stronghold, Falador

Lore & Background

Their lore suggests a past where they acted as guardians of balance, utilizing magic and machinery to maintain the stability of the land. Though they interact with humans through figures like King Roald in Ardougne, they remain wary of outsiders. Their history is intertwined with the rise of magic and the ancient wars that shaped the continent, making them a crucial but often overlooked piece of Gielinor's timeline.

Reader's Guide

The narrative arc begins when an adventurer seeks entry into the Gnome Stronghold, often guided by the King or his advisors in Ardougne. Players must navigate a series of complex puzzles and traps designed to test intelligence rather than strength, reflecting the Gnomes' preference for wit over brute force. Upon gaining access, the story reveals the Gnomes' isolationist policies and their hidden technology, including teleportation devices and gliders. The impact on the timeline is significant, as it opens up new areas of the map and establishes a diplomatic link between humans and this ancient race.