For the first 2-3 weeks, I couldn't find enough resources, and I also lost a bit to neutrals who kept harassing me at the worst possible moments. Then things seemed to improve, but I kept getting skills that weren't very useful (mysticism, etc.). I decided to push for the center, and I noticed the enemy Castle when Kirr was wandering around with his army nearby.
First, I attacked Kirr, destroying half of his army, and then I attacked the city. If I had attacked a day or two later, I might have lost.
Thanks for the game.