Where to go with a spare character depends on what sort of gameplay you're looking for.
FEI is in the middle of an island-wide war between two massive factions - the Arcaean Empire and the Free Realms. Basically, the whole central part of the island is a running battlefield. Some realms are being clobbered harder than others, but taken as a whole the faction vs faction war is fairly even and moving at an enjoyable pace. If you want to play in the Empire, join Arcaea, Coralynth, Zonasa, or Sorraine. If you want to play for the Free Realms, join Kindara, Cathay, Greater Aenillia, or Ohnar West. (Propaganda Alert: The valiant and bold Free Realms are making an heroic stand against the insidious evil of the Imperial claw as it stretches out its talons to try to engulf the island. The Free Realms offer large amount of Free Cake for nobles willing to rally to their cause. Choices of cake include chocolate, strawberry jam, and fruit (subject to available stocks).
EC is settling into a period of peace. A new realm is being created in the south so if being part of creating a realm from scratch interests you that's a good place to be. Just join Perdan and wait for the new realm to be founded. If you're interested in the priest game, the EC is also an interesting place. The Church of Humanity is one of the largest religions in the game, and there are several minor religions (Flow of the Balance, Triumvirate, and so on).
