Use of mages

[Crafty]

Newbie here I need tips on the use of mages!

I almost always just use them for research, and then when construction is high enough, i start forging stuff.

Trying to figure out how to do the upgrading path tricks with items and summons e.g get a N2 mage add a thistle mace, with N3 get a Ivy king who is *naturally* N3, add mace to get a N4 etc..

But one thing I'm still wondering is, how efficient mages are in battle. I know it depends on what mages you are using, but is it generally worth while to drag a couple of mages with your elite troops just to have them cast battle field magic? Sure there are some special tactics like Wind guide , flaming arrow with archers, but in general are they worth it?

So far, the only time my mages see battle is if they are attacked in their nice fortress+lab... Is that a mistake? Should I be more warlike with my mages?

Any national specific advise is welcome as well.