With the departure of Geckomlis, we are looking for a replacement for his empire.
I do not know this empire in the game, so I don't know what state the empire is in, but since one team member surrendered to this empire, you would be effectively controlling this entire team.
I believe that 2 teams have met Gecko's Empire and that their has been some fighting. From information from one of his enemies, this empire is not a death's door just yet.
But to be honest, if you sign up, you could be looking at a world of hurt, but the action will be fast.