I'll start with the easiest first. The easiest way to get a GoH caster is to keep making Gyg's and hope for a 3 Nature (with randoms), have your Couatl forge yourself a Moonvine Bracelet, then forge yourself a Treelord Staff when you have someone with (4N). I wouldn't use a couatl for the casting, as he would require you to empower then use a bracelet.

Next portion. I don't know why you are having such a problem with Pan unless it's because you are getting swarmed (sounds like it). Try using a bunch of indep HI to fill up the spaces with the Giants. 1 human sized (size 2) HI per Giant. This will fill up alot of the holes and let your giants Last longer, it will also cause less routs. (Make sure you put them in the same squad as the giants in order to make the squad size count for your morale)

If you are having issues with your giants losing morale and running on you, try forging and putting on commanders Horns of Valor (1N).

Another Idea would be to make some Jarl stompers. With your gem income it shouldn't be an issue at all to buy yourself 6-10 Niefel Jarls (make this your primary objective) and forge them some equipment. Try:

Wraith Sword (10D)
Flying Boots (5A)
Pendant of Luck (5S)
Horror Helm (5D) (Or if you really want to be spendy, Wraith Crown (40D))
Ring of Regeneration (10N)
Whatever Armor is good. You could try Hydra Armor (Gives Regen) and replace your Ring of Regen above with a Antimagic Amulet.

Put your Jarls on "Quickness, Blessing, Breath of Winter, Attack Rear" and have them fight in teams of 2. Flying and raiding and jumping. Have at least 1 or 2 in your main army if you feel the need.

Hope that helps. Believe me you have alot of options, that is just the easiest in my mind to turn the game a little more to your advantage.

Edit: I didn't see any blood slaves. But if you want you can make Blood Thorns (20B) instead of Wraith Swords, then throw a Shield on your Jarls. Good ones might include: Eye Shield, Charcoal Shield, Lucky Coin (which would free you up another misc slot).

[ March 21, 2004, 06:28: Message edited by: Zen ]