Not bad... so that way you save a bit more mana? I didn't consider this option because running away from two squads of leprechauns is... well, inconvenient... plus your health will be almost at zero, and you'll have to return to the town, otherwise you can't break through the fairies.

And trying to run away from 4 squads is just game over :) But on the other hand, 6 imps drain mana very well. Yeah, I really don't want to take health from 1-2 squads of leprechauns because it's not worth it. I took a step back toward the Fortress, you're right. But nevertheless, by using shortcuts, you can actually capture the altar on the first turn, wipe out the fairies, paint the sawmill, and get the armor using exactly this kind of normal tactic without heavy load/saves. Pity about the 36 skeletons. I didn't lose any imps. Maybe it's worth optimizing the battlefield with the fairies? :)
Spy, what did you take for the buff? :) I took health; I think it will come in handy :)