When I very first joined BM, I based my choice of which realm to choose on AT based on their Government type and flag.
I was very tempted by the rising phoenix, however I ended up choosing the CE. Something very regal about that Gold Cagilan lion on a red field.
I'm extremely glad I did not choose Norland now, for I very much doubt I'd still be here today. That kind of RP would have spoiled the whole game for me. Crazy chickens and squirrels and what not? Call me a prude, but I liked the atmosphere of the CE.
In fact, even as ruler of Coria, I still think I enjoyed the CE as a mere Knight just as much. Yeah I didn't have as much power, and the travel times were a pain, but you certainly felt like you belonged there.