Aemilius Crassus is very loyal to two things: credits and the Severian Principate. This dual-allegiance can cause him difficulties when situations that bring the two into conflict. In such situations, he is prone to seeking out advice from his fellow leaders, each with their own biases. This could result in Aemilius being seen as "weak", but also can increase the regard and high esteem with which his colleagues hold him, earning him more trust than animosity.

As a man who made his name in business, Aemilius Crassus prides order and cohesion among people above all else. This focus on positive results drive him to be the best leader he can be for those who rely on him. However, not everyone is able to understand his decision-making process and can leave those who don't understand his reasoning to have a negative opinion of him,

Coming from a family who once served the Empire, Aemilius Crassus has grown to disdain many of its policies. From the subjugation of aliens and women to the insistence on possessing a superweapon, Aemilius burns with a hatred of the Empire's crimes. This causes him to be a particularly outspoken voice, cautioning others to not repeat the mistakes of the past. While this is understood and non-controversial within the Severian Principate, this can cause conflict with individuals who are less discriminate about their admiration for the Empire.

Aemilius Crassus is aware that knowing everything is an impossible proposition. Instead, he tries to source knowledge from a wide variety of perspectives. The diverse nature of those he consults could cause people to accuse him of lacking knowledge, while others would praise the open-mindedness displayed by such a prominent figure.

Aemilius Crassus is a man who pursues not glory, only the swift resolution of conflict causing as little harm as possible. He hates to see unnecessary suffering and will do everything in his power to prevent this. While this can cause accusations of softness from people with more experience with matters of war, his attitude is far from an unpopular one. Because of this, he can enjoy the support of more compassionate individuals.

Aemilius Crassus knows that conflict makes life harder, not just for himself but for society at-large. This knowledge manifests itself in his advocacy for non-aggression with the galaxy. While not quite a hopelessly naive pacifist, Aemilius understands that if the number of conflicts is kept to a minimum, people are happier. His advocacy can result in popularity for those who share his view but can worsen relations with those who make a business out of such violent clashes.