[Meglobob]

I would not say they are as weak as MA Ulm. But do suffer from lack of good early expansion units.

I think you have little choice but to take a bless. The consorts will make a excellent thug that can bless himself. He is cheap and cheerful.

Could you go with S9/E9? A little unusual, but it would cover your weaknesses which are low MR and high encumberance. Twist of fate, plus the high protection will make your mother guards supported by coral guards decent for early expansion.

S9/E9 will be most useful later on for forge of ancients and wish which compliments your thug strategy.