Glad you're enjoying it! You really got chucked in at the deep end, so I'm glad you're having fun with it.
Niefelheim's been a thorn in everyone's side, it's amazing the fight he's put up with almost no-one left. He's also been an excellent sport (thanks, Dr P!), given that at one point he looked certain to win and everyone turned on him.
As for Caelum's research, it's terrifying. I've done more research in this game than I have in any game before (even SP), and it's scary how powerful some of the later spells are. I dread to think what Caelum can do. Happily he seems very nice.
There are no victory objectives at the moment. Anyone want to suggest some?
As for the timer, I don't think people have been staling at all in general, except today I think Ermor and Niefelheim both staled, and maybe Vanheim. Maybe Tuesday's a bad day for dominions. I'm happy with the 24 hour timer but it takes me the best part of an hour a day now, so I wouldn't be surprised if some people wanted it slower.