The City-State of Faren exists in a rare space. They were the first to escape the grip of the Citadel fully, and their king, Trynam (sometimes referred to by several other names from his accomplishments, including Everbright, Sword of the Dusk, and The Immortal) has reigned for longer than any ruler in the world.
In the 200 years since Farenian independence was won, trade with the areas outside Imperial control has kept Faren wealthy. The capital, known simply as Faren City now, was once the heart of an Elven nation. Its full name was lost to time, and eventually it became known simply as Faren. The groves and other magically manipulated elements remain in places, while the rest has been built over by the modern Faren City. This has resulted in a highly defensible city and country. The groves growing outside Faren City, and extending to the borders, are dense with magical energy of an unknown origin, long thought to be connected to an Elven branch of magical practice simply forgotten over the ages.
The people of Faren are generally a friendly sort. They’ve had the luxury of living in relative peace since the end of the war, save occasional brushes with the horrors lurking in the southern parts of the Farenian Sea. You should expect ample opportunities for trade, and should your house wish to operate in the area, you will be backed by Arridem itself.
The loss of Arridem to the Empire has only strengthened Trynam's resolve. His alliance with the Marauder and the Arridem rebels is strong, and he has begun building a new fleet for the alliance using wood from the Farenian forests. He hopes the ancient elven magic within will make for hardier ships.