This is really a great community here. I think it will take me quite some time to to check out all the advice I got from you .
In the meantime I was able to start a new attempt and it looks pretty good for me this time.
Although I am at war with Pythium, Ermor and Cītis I donīt see any danger for my empire. Once Cītis was the strongest Empire regarding troops and provinces.
That has changed after they declared war on me. Now I am the strongest. I own about 25% percent of the map with 7 nations (includung mine remaining)
Now to the bad news
Itīs turn 131: So it will be no fast victory. (If I should actually win
)
I used a game setup that would hopefully be very disadvantageous to Ermor. (World richness rich + Independents 9). Apparently it worked.
All AIs are on Easy level.
So all in all it wonīt be a glorious victory. But I think this time it will be a victory.
I will keep you up-to-date with my progress and will incorporate your advice into my strategy for my next game.