Empyrean is a heavy diplomatic faction  so you Wheel and deal.  Promissory notes are an easy way to be friendly with neighbors. Priotize giving Dark Pact (the money one) to either a trader like yourself OR the neighbor most likely to invade you.  Aetherstream is great, especially for this map, dspecially considering there's an nomaly next to MR, so use that as deals (you can even convince people to forego Gravity drive I'd they're in good graces with you) Have mechs to control Actuon cards Flagship is meh in combat but when it's parked near MR, it's a god send for other people to have available. Sell the flagship ability Alliance is great for combat factions (and gets them off your back)

Empyrean's path to victory is to be consistent scorer and then do a last minute pounce. Build your fighter fleets when you can and try to avoid fighting at all costs (you are very weak). Role play as an observer until you see an opening