About map : obviously, the decision will heavily depend on how many water nations we have. Since only Calahan knows it, I guess Calahan will have to make the decision by itself. The only elements we, players, could discuss here is the ratio provinces/player we wish. As far as I am concerned : around 20 looks fine since it gives a chance to non rusher nations. As a general rule, I don't care bigger maps, I don't like so much smaller maps.
Also, about rushes : if we want to limit them, we could forbid to attack a province already owned by another player before, let's say t15 ? Could leave a chance to Marverni or Kailasa when they will start the game between Lanka and Niefelheim
