If you're playing as a Warrior, you need to take 3 castles in the north and northeast of the map VERY quickly. I took them within 2 weeks of starting the game; otherwise, you'll simply be overwhelmed by numbers. After that, it becomes much easier. Regarding skill development: Tears are objectively better, and the second level isn't essential. Logistics + Pathfinding + Pillaging are must-haves, as are all the skills of the Cleric. If you're playing as a Mage, then **tomatovv** can explain it better than I can.