[Tallenn]

Here's the main issue:

I really want to play a mage. I've never played one to very high level before. I already have a necro, and will probably make another one when Kunark is out (love Iksar necros). I REALLY don't need 3 necros. My wife is a true EQ newbie. She's played a few times over the years, but never gotten any characters over about level 10 or so. I'm pretty sure she will want to play a pet class, but who knows? Enchanter may be a bit tough for a real newbie (hell, it can be tough for a veteran- I know I'm still learning how to do it). Shaman? maybe. That would give us SoW, and the buffs would really help the pet to be even more of a monster. It is technically a pet class, though they don't get the pet for many levels. I think she'd really enjoy necro or mage, either one. She enjoyed playing a wizard the last time we played on live, but let's face it, the low-level wizard of 2010 live and P99 are not even close to being the same class. She was getting nukes that would take half or more of an even-con mob's health there.

As far as fear kiting- wouldn't that negate the biggest reason for using a fire pet: the damage shield? (and probably the biggest reason mages are so good at soloing)

So that's the thing. I REALLY want to play a mage. What would be the best partner for a mage that a true EQ newbie that likes pet classes would enjoy, and would make for a good duo? We will probably also join other groups from time to time, but they would have to be willing to take both of us. Also, given how little she is likely to play, we are probably NOT going to level very fast- so we'll be in the lower levels for quite some time.