Loyalty from the top down is even more necessary and is much less prevalent.
That has been a topic I have been working on since I was granted a leadership position in the Empire.
I did not create the Empire myself, I joined it as an imperialist without leadership functions. I raised through the ranks until I reached the position I now find myself in. I believe my contribute to the Dark Empire as an imperialist, in the times I did not lead, was a solid one and allowed the Empire to grow to what it is today.
Draklar and Aelya (the ones who lead the Empire at the time) trusted me, and I trusted them as well to make the right decisions. I had envisioned my raise through the ranks as I saw it as utterly necessary at the time, and they did not fail to bring this vision about. Of course I stated my ideas, as dialogue is the base of any good relation. And I would have respected them if they had thought of another way to empower the Empire, as long as I witnessed it work.
I expect nothing less from those who choose to join the Empire. And I crave for the opinions of my subordinates, as it is them who I try to please best.