The Free Cities of Genabackis

Free Cities Mercantile alliance of city-states in northern Genabackis, all but one of which has since been conquered by the Malazan Empire.

GotM, Glossary

"...In the eighth year the Free Cities of Genabackis established contracts with a number of mercenary armies to oppose the Imperium's advance; prominent among them were the Crimson Guard, under the command of Prince K'azz D'Avore (see Volumes III & V); and the Tiste Andii regiments of Moon's Spawn, under the command of Caladan Brood and others."

GotM, UK mmpb p.10

"His uncle told him that the Council still frantically proclaimed neutrality, desperate in their efforts to separate themselves from the now destroyed Free Cities alliance."

- Crokus
GotM, US HC, p.142

"He turned back to the map on the table and studied the eleven once Free Cities that now bore the Empire flag. Only Darujhistan remained, the twelfth and last marked by a flag that was not burgundy and gray."

GotM, US HC, p.158

"They had a mission ahead of them, one that would take them right into the heart of Darujhistan. The city was the next on the Empire's list, the last Free City, the continent's lone gem worthy enough to covet."

GotM, US HC, p.122

"With the coming of the Moranth
the tide turned.
And like ships in a harbour
the Free Cities were swept under
Imperial seas.
The war entered its twelfth year,
the Year of the Shattered Moon
and its sudden spawn
of deathly rain and
black-winged promise.
Two cities remained to contest
the Malazan onslaught.
One stalwart, proud banners
beneath Dark’s powerful wing.
The other divided –
– without an army,
bereft of allies –
The strong city fell first.

Call to Shadow
Felisin (b.1146)
GotM, UK Trade p.39, UK mmpb p.51