Re: Dealing with an early N9 E9 Niefel Giant rush
 

But in the early game when you've not researched any heavy evocations? Your dominion hasn't spread much, as Abysia has little need for a "high" dominion? You have a low troop count because your troops are so resource intensive?

Likewise, Blight isn't going to stop a true first year rush, and unlikely many people are ready to make Bows of Botulf in the first year - besides both of those are reliant on Death magic access, which still leaves Tir, Kailasa, and Marverni out, among others.....

Re: Dealing with an early N9 E9 Niefel Giant rush
 

Well you have flare by level 2, and falling fires by level 5 which will provide adequate magic support. Your domain will be high enough in your key provinces to cause them a major headache. But with Abysia, your army will be strong even if it is smaller then most, and with the heat aura, you get extra bang for your buck against any army, especially an army that is weak to fire as it is.

Re: Dealing with an early N9 E9 Niefel Giant rush
 

I disagree that blight isn't going to stop a first year rush. It does require a nation with earth gem income. But if you explain what you are going to do, niefle will definitely choose a different target.

Niefle has to make capitol only units. Take those away and he is *hosed* - he's left with lousy pd, and a bless he can't use.
His bless doesn't even really work well with other indy sacreds.