Question

the tribute states of the ancient aztec empire
were governed directly by the emperor.
made regular payments to the emperor.
acted as powerful independent city - states.
surrounded the main aztec city - state.

Explanation:

Tribute states in the Aztec empire were required to give regular goods or payments to the Aztec ruler as a sign of submission, while they often retained some local governance. Direct imperial rule was not standard for these states, they were not fully independent, and not all tribute states surrounded the main Aztec city-state.

Answer:

made regular payments to the emperor.