So, as an FYI, I'd like to point out that although the Timeline and the Wiki was not updated, the Imperials have been defeated and the civil war is over based on canon events that have taken place since 2011. In 2011, the Ixian Knights attempted to usurp control of Corone, but lost to Pheonix Ascendant, fragmenting the empire and leading to various cities being led by varying groups (see
here). Thereafter, individual group control slipped, and the war was declared over. To replace the Empire, each city/state, which was controlled by varying interests, elected a baron to represent them in the Assembly (see
here). In the most recent Adventurer's Crown, I firmly established that the Rangers are now simply a militia helping people. A corrupt politician, Fordstein, sought to usurp control of Corone VIA a military invasion of Akashima. Using the arrival of immigrants from Melnach, who were facing their own civil war, as cover, he successfully invaded Akashima and became its baron. Then, using his new power, he convinced the Assembly to invade Melnach using technology discovered. Ebivoulya, among others, teamed up with the Melnachians, and thwarted the invasion. Fordstein was killed, Corone released Akashima to its own devices and opened trade with Melnach (see
here). In short, the Assembly was overtaken by a maniac, invaded two separate sovereign groups, caused many casualties as a result. The IK, PA and Rangers, who once led coalitions within regions are no more. The Assembly is weak, and ripe for the pickings for all reasons Shinsou wants to invade. Just, the war is against the Assembly, not the Imperials to respect canon we've previously established through Clan Wars and Tournaments!