[quote=@Sigma]
I would say the Federation would view them quite poorly :P although that won't stop trade, commutations and such(if they do engage in trade that is).

And added nervousness of it the decaying state :p
[/quote]

Well there certainly will be any number of ambitious noble houses wanting a leg up in the constant courtly intrigue of the Empire. Not to mention there is plenty of market potential for specialized biosynth slaves and the hedonistic luxuries of the Empire.

And the question is, does the Federation want the empire destroyed, or does it want it still intact to avoid having to deal with a messy aftermath?