{SPOILERS} So, how did you feel about...

[Kyran-Varlsen]

If the Empire wants to engage us in diplomacy, now is the time. If they go on the offense I do not want to hear further excuses for their lack of diplomatic outreach.

I was under the assumption that the Emperor allowed both provinces to fall so as to force his son Zenos into a corner where he could get himself killed. The loss of two dilapidated provinces is nothing compared to the ruin that would have been brought about by Zenos ascending the throne. Both Ala Mhigo and Doma were conquered long before the current Emperor came to power and it stands to reason that, unlike his grandfather, he himself could care less about trying to conquer all lands possible. If this were a game of civilization, Emperor Varis would be the player seeking a technological victory rather than a straight up military victory to ensure dominance. This was shown in his efforts on Azys Lla which focused on reclaiming Allagan tech rather than conquering more turf.

Whatever experiments or procedures produced a powerful warrior like Zenos would be more than enough to put down anything the Warriors of Light could throw at Emperor Varis if brought to bear out of necessity. The only thing we know about the current Emperor is his focus on stopping the Eikons, possible genetic experimentation, and a willingness to work with Ascian elements. None of those seem to mesh with a conqueror, but rather someone who wants to maintain a secured position.