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Ilas: From Conspirator To Essential General
- Ilas rose from conspirator to Zeno's indispensable general and was rewarded with high office and the consulship.
- Despite assassination attempts and court intrigue, Ilas' Isorian troops repeatedly saved Zeno during rebellions.
Night Rescue Ends Marcian's Coup
- Marcian seized popular support and briefly took the palace while Zeno narrowly escaped capture.
- Ilas crossed the Bosphorus by night and surprised the rebels, ending the coup and prompting Zeno's clemency toward Marcian.
Regional Loyalty Over Civic Support
- Zeno leaned on Isorian loyalty because native Constantinople elites and citizens often turned against him.
- Shared regional identity with Ilas helped bridge distrust between emperor and his troops.