There was a time when playing Inga, my initial education saved me. The combination of Attraction, Stone Golem, and Soulbinder (all available from the start) was crucial. I even got lucky and found a Stone Golem in the guild... So, this Orc who wanted to rush me got stuck against stacks of Dwarf Defenders and Bear Warriors. The Priests and Throwers were dealing damage and inflicting wounds, and Inga was doing a good job taking down the Elves and Barbarians... As a result, the Orc retreated, even though he could have won...
And here's another thing: it's good to have Warriors on your side because they have a unique ability called Readiness!
I only managed to upgrade the Throwers and Priests; the others were holding a defensive position!