I didn't understand the Swamp faction before. Now I've tried it – it's a complete analog of the Barbarians, only made of wood.
But seriously, where do you get this highly praised EXPERT teleport/bless spell?
I've already played several games on the maps of Tazar and Alkine – and I haven't been offered water magic even once.
Are you taking mages?
In my opinion, it's better to take Ballistics and Earth right away; there's a very high chance of missing out on water magic. Just like with the Barbarians.