That's a good strategy for maintaining Mana, and a way to save a few Magic Runes! I've been trying to master the art of finishing battles with max Rage and Mana. A bit more frustrating without using Inquisitors the way I am for my current wacky games, but I can still do it pretty well. I can't wait for my Mage game.
I'm surprised you've already beaten Enemen! I always have a hard time with him.
Hopefully Noric will drop something better than a ring. He usually goes through a cycle of four different items. I'm really suspecting his drops are class-based, given that I haven't ever had him drop a ring during Warrior and Paladin testing. Maybe you'll get a Fire Necklace. My Paladin kept getting that really late in the game.