The Emperor doesn't have a blade clutch- it is a direct drive from the engine crankshaft so if the engine is running then logically the blade must turn. However the drive to the roller is from a belt via a side PTO shaft on the left of the engine- this drive can fail even if the engine due to roll pins shearing or simply because the drive belt is worn/come off/out of adjustment.
I am somewhat confused regarding the engine running but the blade not rotating due to the reasons stated.
Have you checked the blade is actually fitted?
pleasant
September 2010