[quote=@BellBottomBlues]
So, would it be wrong for Lanik to assume the Imperials are making serious leeway with their invasion into Aetherion?
[/quote]

They broke through the wall, so it's only a matter of time before Aetherion falls. I wouldn't say they're making [i]serious[/i] leeway with that, but they've conquered enough territory to acquire slaves and set up a base of operations.