As a mage, especially if you're going for no-loss, tough units are mandatory. So I completely support the idea of having both Emerald dragons and Trolls. Emerald dragons do some great work in improving the trap medal as well - simply put the trap in advance, bite something (the bite must not kill it) and draw it to the square with the trap, so that the trap can kill it safely.
You doing great, the few strating islands should be a snap right now
