[Azred]

Pierce magic is good in a pinch, for it removes one spell protection and lowers MR. Khelben's Warding Whip is useful against those who have Spell Immunity: whatever and Spell Shield (although most foes don't use Secret Word/Spellstrike). Pierce Shield is essential because some very powerful foes are immune to/protected from Lower Resistance. Mantle is a lovely live-saver in combat; I use it quite often, especially in conjunction with Improved Haste and Black Blade of Disaster. Spell Turning is also quite valuable because it reflects the spells back to their source (hint: take two mages, both with Spell Turning, and have one cast Magic Missile at the other). Stay away from Summon Djinn/Efreet and Sphere of Chaos.

For double xp fun, use Imprisonment on a foe, rest, cast Freedom, and beat them again. Or Imprison them again and repeat.