Hmm, I agree defense is warrented. Keep a close eye on the power graph. As for city placement, I don't see any big rush to settle due West of the capital, there isn't any immediate competition there that I can see on the mini map?
Blue's cities of Cades Cove and Mt. Thunderhead are completely indefensible and should be pressured. I like the plains hill spot... it can incubate cottages for the Holy city as well. But honestly I'd consider the flat desert closer to Cove. 4 forests to knock out some culture, and then keep Cove isolated. not sure if plains hill will do that.
I do like the desert hill next to iron in the south... a nice spot with oasis and farmable grass. It can be a good buffer city and *try* to turn the corner on Blue for claiming that yummy Eastern coast.
In both these recommendations, I'm proposing basically "crush zones" cuz if Suttree attacks, cities are going to fall. Just make sure the holy city (and cottages) are as safe as they can be.
Blue's cities of Cades Cove and Mt. Thunderhead are completely indefensible and should be pressured. I like the plains hill spot... it can incubate cottages for the Holy city as well. But honestly I'd consider the flat desert closer to Cove. 4 forests to knock out some culture, and then keep Cove isolated. not sure if plains hill will do that.
I do like the desert hill next to iron in the south... a nice spot with oasis and farmable grass. It can be a good buffer city and *try* to turn the corner on Blue for claiming that yummy Eastern coast.
In both these recommendations, I'm proposing basically "crush zones" cuz if Suttree attacks, cities are going to fall. Just make sure the holy city (and cottages) are as safe as they can be.