There is still one Empire without any leader, the Trandosian Empire (previously ruled by Slick). They are 12th out of 20, and seem to be a quite balanced Empire (quite good on Maintenance, advanced storage techniques).
The neighbourhood isn't too bad either, as there is no Power in their close vicinity. (Well, unless you count a Religious race next to your door a power that is.
And there is always Ruatha to the North) I don't know about their economical status though.
*Winks to Ruatha* Was the Free Democratic Socialist Republic really a challenge? Except for a certain little matter they seem to be doing quite fine. For now that is.
)