The Daughter of the River has been completely removed from the game I believe.
I agree that the nations should be more specific. Specific units are really great (one of the best element of the game IMHO). What about more national magic items ? We've the Jade Mask and the Black Laurel, that's all IIRC ! Think of Ulm with a monopoly on Fire Shields, or Pythium on the Gloves of Gladiator, or Abysia on Demon Whips... that could make harder solo games, and bring more trades in MP games.
Cheers