Iceland
Caesar in the New World - Level 1 of  9
500 AD

After the revival of Roman military and cultural glory following a period in which barbarians were at the gates of Rome itself, our mariners have begun to explore the great western ocean.  In the far north they have found an island surrounded by the richest fishing grounds the Empire has even known -- Iceland.  Following your success in continental Europe and Africa, I have chosen you as pioneer in this inhospitable land.

You are to establish a small city of 3500 inhabitants -- if you can persuade that many to come.  Since we view Iceland as a mere waystation in reaching the rich lands that are rumorored to lie further west, your requirements for culture and prosperity are modest.  However, the emperor will be expecting regular shipments to prove the value to Rome of this westward expansion.  If you want  to govern in a more congenial province when the opportunity next arises, raise your Imperial favor at every opportunity.

In this northern climate, farming and gardening are impossible, but this should not bother you, since your skill at establishing fisheries is well known.  Indeed, trees are almost nonexistent on the island, and your supply of timber, if you cannot do without it, must come from a remote and almost indefensible site. 

Rome stands ready to support you with trade.  Four cities of the Empire are willing to open sea routes to supply you with food and raw materials that you cannot obtain locally.

Did I forget to tell you?  We are not alone in Iceland.  Our old enemies the Picts settled here when we drove them from Britain, and since our recent arrival they have been building in strength.  They attack at unpredictable locations on the land borders of your new province, sometimes near your best harbors.  Fortunately, the rough terrain that makes the interior of the province unpromising for settlement offers advantages for defense.  I look forward to hearing reports of Pict chariots waiting helplessly at the base a cliff as our Roman javelins rain down upon then.