Personally, I prefer a mage and a bishop in my parties. The mage gets a couple of good offensive spells early, plus missile shield and enchanted blade, both good buffs.
If you're having that much trouble on the road to Trynton, you may want to consider staying in Arnika to go up another level or two first. Be sure you get the X-Ray spell, which shows all monsters on the main map. Can be very helpful when you want to avoid fights.
Nightowl2
|