Newb Q: Pretender options for Machaka?

[Cainehill]

Originally posted by quantum_mechani:
I like a Daughter of the Land with A3 W2 S7. Covers your magic gaps, gives a decent SC, and a nice extra two gems a turn.

Note the Astral (S) 7 Quantum recommends - not anything lower. Having 7 gives some insurance against Magic Duel (evocation 3) which would otherwise allow a chance of an S1 mage to get lucky and kill your pretender. Adding on a Starshine Skullcap and casting the spells that raise your astral (and other) magic skill levels means that most nations won't be able to take you down without using Communion.