Golden Age Arcoscephale

[Huzurdaddi]

I simply don't see myself using, or hear of most others using, their cheap mages early in a combat role, or _any_ role other than researcher, bloodhunter, or (occasionally) cheap-item forger.

How about body etherial with Pythium's Theurg Acolytes? Pretty decent at the start of the game. You do pay with reduced research though.