Taking control of the eastern area of Iaester's empire, and having the city of Ustria as his capital, Shalmaner began to expand towards the east and south-east, acquiring large amounts of territory and placing many city-states under his control. In doing this, he implemented a policy of allowing the conquered rulers to retain sovereignty over their realms, yet under a extensive set of conditions. In these actions, Shalmaner showed a great respect for the local cultures of his subjects, both those who had come from the defunct Issian Empire, and those who he had conquered. This mentality was a consequence of his own experiences as a general and governor under the Issians.