[Dragar]

I'm a bit scared of your example Chris, Mictlan starting with an extra 2 castles and templea would be frightening. It is hard to think of anything else that would compare. I agree with the Illuminate One that those costs probably need revision - castles in particular due to the huge time saving.

I don't suppose equipment is an option, costed at research_level*gem cost, with no artifacts? That could make for some interesting awake pretenders presumably.