what was you indie strenght?
I never placed bogus anywhere I think...
I didn't know you can only recruit from nationals if you are the nation.. I placed Niefelheim on one too.. I liked the idea of being able to recruit neifelgiants after beating a strong province.. I can replace the akadeamia later with something to recruit sage though
If there was a site on the gates it's random 
 
Maybe you should try a game with a regular nation and indie strength 3?
				__________________
				Want a blend of 
fantasy and 
sci-fi? Try the total conversion 
 Dominions 3000  mod  with a new and fully modded solar system map.
Dragons wanted? Try the 
Dragons, Magic Incarnate nation.
New and different undead nation? Try 
Souls of Shiar. Including new powerfull holy magic.
In for a whole new sort of game? Then try my scenario map 
 Gang Wars.