Machaka

[Sandman]

Just get a fire-2 mage to cast phoenix power and then cast flaming arrows.

[Saxon]

Yes, anyone who can surprise Norfleet was doing rather well! Am I correct in understanding that very low level spell “Summon Black Servant” produces something that can be powered up to a decent thug? Armour was mentioned, what else should I look into?

However, isn’t this a strategy pretty general, as the spell is for everyone, or am I confusing the commander unit with the summoned unit?

To bless or not to bless? I may well try it out, especially as I really like the Nature spells generally. I assume you keep the holy unit well back casting spells, with some anti missile hardware or spells while the Hunters rush forth and destroy the enemy. Is this the general idea?

[Cainehill]

Yep, almost any nation can cast the spell - but certain nations can use it more effectively. For example, Ulm with the lich pretender can have a 27 protection, ethereal, life-stealing black servant out by turn 5 or 6 ( loaded with full black steel armor, helm, and shield ).

Likewise, Machaka has an earth income, albeit it can't equip a BS as quickly - but it has mages with earth and death, so while it may need to find some sites first, it can produce them without needing a pretender to do it.

By the mid-to-late game, these mini-thugs aren't worth as much, which is why you then see spectres kitted out with magic being used as thugs. But the black servants can be very useful for early expansion against indies & the AI, and even as a surprise against human players.