The mages for Empire isn't the same as the mages for village. Imperials don't hate magic at all. They have black sect for anti-pals and necros. All other mages still can became citizens though only citizens. And it was said they should just be looked with more warrant. So if you can as Imperial take the use of a mage for your benefit and benefit of Empire then do it. At least thta's how I look at it.