The strongest castle in Heroes of Might and Magic IV.

All of this is offset by Exorcism. A 1st-level spell is simply great. Hypnosis costs 12 points, while Exorcism costs 2. Moreover, Hypnosis doesn't always appear in 5th-level spells, and on small maps, you're more likely to die before you find an opportunity to upgrade Order magic to at least the 4th circle.

That's what I'm saying, your Life mage will get tired of removing all the Order curses.
I disagree that Order is difficult to upgrade... it's not more difficult than Life. Secondly, Exorcism may also not appear (especially if there is only one Castle) with the same probability as Hypnosis. I had such a case... just a month ago. And if there are two or more Castles, then you can be sure that Hypnosis will be available for Order (and Exorcism for Life).
Thirdly, regarding speed. He doesn't really need speed, because halflings, mages, djinns, and titans are almost always stationary. And don't forget that Order has the super spell "General Slowdown." Then Life will have to struggle... because I don't remember any "General Exorcism" spell.