True true, for the LA.
But what about MA? I'm somewhat partial to Slave Mages because they can get Astral/Nature combo which allows you to make use of the commonly found nature gem sites on the seas. Totem Shields and later on Moonvine Bracelets and then Clams, Hydra Armors, Thistle Maces and so on.
But Starspawns are cheaper and they are sacred, thus they cost less, and they can be sent to the Gate.
Hmmm, decisions decisions.
I like buying couple of Slavemages to see if I get a nature one and then use him to search around while the others do research.