So how about extending the depth of the casting queue?

[Blitz]

I think a lot of this discussion could be eliminated with the inclusion of two new commands into the combat orders screen. Both would be under the "rest of the battle" window with the now confusing "cast spells".

1) Cast Only

Pretty simple. The Mage will only cast a single particular spell. If he has no valid targets, he waits for one. This might be Orb lightning or relief, whatever floats your boat. Probably most useful for nuking mages who often waste time summoning ghost wolves.

2) Cast Either

Simple concept again, right? Pick two spells. The mage will cast one or the other, depending on the situation. A Seithkona might take Nether Darts and Healing Light... death mages on drain life and raise skeletons. You get the idea.

It's a pretty simple concept, and it solves a lot of the headaches with the order system. Nothing will replace phase-by-phase control, but that's not really feasable in a pbem game really. I think this is a pretty quick fix and should probably be implemented at some point.