I agree with Firesong here. The first time you try some fights can be utterly punishing but as soon as you understand the game mechanics and skills at your disposal, the tables will turn.
I did the magister at the blackpits fight but instead of fighting him at first sight, I waited for the voidwoken to finish them all; after that I easily killed the remaining ones. You may call this cheesy, but it's another available strategy.
