Araven

A former city-state, once considered the economic capital of the world before it was conquered by the Rosans. Its position on the point where the Lionflow River joins the Crystalglow River allowed it to dominate trade up and down the mainland, into the Kalim Desert, and out to the sea beyond. When it was captured, it was for a time made the capital of the Rosa Empire and prospered, before the founding of Flowegrande. The ruling merchant class of Araven has long been angered by the snub of losing its right as the capital of the world, as well as the heavy taxes they are forced to pay on their trade.

When the war began, Araven used its wealth and influence to purchase the loyalty of as many freelancers and mercenaries as they could reach. They then declared Araven the capital of the Empire once again and sent their purchased army out to prove that point.

Houses of Araven
Araven was largely controlled by four long-established merchant houses. Elven Secrets received word that one of the Houses was collaborating with the Black Deck. It's unclear whether that referred to House Falladren, some of whose servants fell under the sway of the Queen of Diamonds.

House Avanel
House Avanel was in the business of banking and moneylending. Its members were mostly humans.

House Falladren
House Falladren specialized in enchantments. They formerly were an elven house, but later became predominantly half-elven.

Known Members

 * Raina

House Hardagem
House Hardagem was in the business of mining. Its members were mostly dwarves.

Known Members

 * Bellith Hardagem
 * Lorgo Hardagem
 * Vagren Hardagem
 * Waxel (deceased)

House Porratiel
House Porratiel was in several different businesses, with no particular one focus. Its members were mostly humans.

Known Members

 * Lyle and Laila Porratiel

Businesses

 * Manticore Club
 * Mimmim's
 * Dorian & Dot's

People

 * Melian Amarak
 * Gilliam Gatt