[Neomi]

First, Dirty Meg is right that Kensai/mages are not tanks. Use speed to attack from the flank.

Second, have you regained your kensai abilities yet? If so, the kensai can be a deadly archer using the returning throwing daggers.

Third, if you have regained your kensai abilities then your mage defensive spells should be more than able to compensate for lack of bracers! Stoneskin, Protection from Magic Weapons, Improved Invisibility, etc. etc. etc. Take a few rounds to buff and THEN try to tank!

Finally, I wouldn't consider myself a "superstar" but IMHO a fighter/mage multiclass can be every bit as "powerful" as a kensai-mage dual. The continued gain in fighter ability more than compensates for not having kensai bonuses. That being said, there is that jedi-like quality to the kensai-mage that does have some appeal.

Oh, and welcome to IW!