Arkngt has the right of it. Although, I don't find
any part of Vilverin challenging. But then, that's with the full FCOM experience of it...
Don't hesitate to retreat, or even full-on run away! At very low levels, especially. The areas around the IC are the best place to start, IMO, because that's more or less the behaviour expected by OOO's creator, if I'm not mistaken.

Another thing is, you can "use" guards - iow, get them to help with a particularly difficult foe. Again, at very low levels.
More than anything though, you learn by trying. And yes, failing is part of that, at first. I consider this a strong point. YMMV.