First Non-Pretender SC

[sushiboat]

In my current SP game as Pangaea, things are looking good. However, one thing I haven't done yet (as I get close to Turn 90) is field a non-pretender SC. I may not need a SC for this game, but for more challenging opponents, no SC could be a major weakness.

1. For one or two of your favorite nations (and assuming standard MP settings), what timetable do you have for fielding your first non-pretender SC? What do you do in terms of research, forging, recruiting, etc., to make it possible? What other goals (besides the SC) are you balancing?

2. How/when/where are you deploying your non-pretender SC? Mainly inside your dominion or anywhere? Against hordes of enemy troops or medium-sized armies? What do you steer clear of?

3. What tactics does your non-pretender SC use? Buff and charge? Whole battlefield spells? Drain Life spell/item?

4. What is the life expectancy of your first non-pretender SC? What is the next SC you work on building?

Thanks!