Yep, that basically how mage live in this version of KB (i mean KB CW).
Don't worry about not able to reach very high int, int boosting items are the most numerous, more than defence and attack boosting items.
Companion Elenhel (he is in verona) also provide +4 int (as long as he is with you).
Usually you'll have 45 or 50 int as minimum, even 60 int is not a dream. At that time, happy blasting your enemies with mass destruction spells. Usually you'll win the battle very quickly because of constant bombardment of damage spells. I recommend getting mage skill called Destruction (upgrade it to lv 3).
Well, my pet dragon have become the legendary star dragon, i'll order him to wipe them