I have no real preference to be either in or outside the empire.
I'm just looking for a place with some active internal communications, and possibly a few roleplayers. I don't want to have to be a livening force in a realm but instead join a realm which is already somewhat lively. I like RP'ing and I enjoy good interactions amongst the hierarchy and abroad.
I'm planning on returning to Arcaea in a week. That should liven things up.