Even at 7 AP the increase can be really nice, with GC that would allow your supporting spellcaster to buff your melee character with Wildfire, Oath of Desecration, Bless and possibly Fortify in a single turn. It might even enhance your roleplay to do so as your mage suddenly relies a bit more on using controlling spells, summons and positioning to stay safe and with the extra AP he can do so more elegantly.
