The Free City of Arkesh is one of the largest and most cosmopolitan cities on Oerth. Due to its strategic location at the junction of the western and eastern Dresium Road, Arkesh is also one of the richest cities.

Arkesh is famous for its independent spirit. Ruled by a rotating council of merchants and mercenary armies, it prides itself on having never been conquered by a foreign power. Its open air markets are renowned throughout Oerth for the variety of goods besides dresium, such as fabrics and spice.