The Lords’ Alliance, also known as the Council of Lords, was a partnership of merchant cities founded in the early 14th century DR. Its members arere from the Sword Coast, the North and Western Heartlands, including Waterdeep, Silverymoon, Baldur’s Gate, and Neverwinter, as well as other free cities and towns in the region, which make up the bulk of the organization. It was formed to oppose the growing influence of the Black Network in the North, the Shadow Thieves of Amn,[1][3][9] rampaging hordes of orcs, and Northlander raiders.

“For a century and a half, and more, the Lords’ Alliance has stood as the most important and influential group in the North. Its power has kept towns safe from the predations of larger powers, has kept the ambitions of Luskan in check, and has taught the rulers of many cities that it is better to cooperate, even for a time, than to merely shut one’s doors and allow the storms to rage outside.”
— Andew Cururen, a Lords’ Alliance agent of note