The Trixian Empire is made of of many tribute-paying states, and they are always seeking to increase their reach further to the east, their current mission. The Emperor and his government are located across the sea from the place-of-play, and rarely interfere with the goings-on of any state they may take over. Most states were formerly countries, now joined the empire and protected by it, for the price of tribute, some higher some lower. It is, in general, a mutually beneficial relationship and states are left to their own devices as far as gods, culture, and practices, as long as it doesn't directly interfere with the empire's business.