I've never completed the main or faction storyline, so I'm downloading the game again on my new laptop thru Steam, right.

Because I'm thinking perhaps it's worth it as I've got a much better laptop now.

A long time ago.. I explored some caves and regions but not all, far from it, I think. Slayed the dragon outside of Whiterun.

That's about it..

I really do love the magic but I think to be a Mage which uses Destruction for damage is not for me, as I felt it was only fun in the beginning and not later on.

But I want to try something else, maybe get some advice from the community here?

One idea that I have is of a man that uses powerful Ward in one hand against dragons, wizards and so on.. but what could I use for destruction when I don't really want to wield Destruction spells?

Illusion, Conjuration? A little unsure of what kind of spells.

If I was playing like you suggest, I'd go with conjuration. Summon minions to handle your enemies plus always have bound bow or bound sword to of my favorites. My only concern would be in my exp wards eat up my Majika like no ones business.

Maybe there's a way through enchanting (which I've never tried) or talents to adjust the cost, so it doesn't stop me from using it as the main way of defending myself?

So I've got Restoration (Ward), Conjuration (Bound Bow, Sword and then there is the summoning of minions if I want).

Should I be able to pick up one or two more talent tree? Illusion? Alchemy? Enchanting?

Enchanting is very usefull. With the right enchantments you won't need to worry too much about mana consumption, or taking damage and so on.

There are tons of enchantments to be had. Trick is to find them sometimes.

Fortify restoration and magic regen I'd say. I think wards fall under restoration. Personally I wouldn't use illusion if I was looking at wards as my main. Just doesn't fit well to me if it was my character.

Second thoughts.. I've just played for 5 minutes now with Enhanced Lights and FX installed as well.

Caves are dark, very dark and I do like it.

So a Torch is quite useful and in addition I can strike the enemy with it so they catch on fire.

So now I wonder if maybe the Destruction spell in one hand can be good enough in caves if I decide to go with Torch and a Destruction spell in one hand?

(Update: Ops, the Torch did not last as long as I thought.. Is there some magic that can cast some light in these dark caves?)

Destruction and magic in general, comes with a number of spells. There's no useful or useless -what is there, is the right spell for the job and the not so right.

Yes, you can use a torch/shield on the left slot, with a spell on the right. As for light spells:

• Candlelight: a ball of light, hovering above your character's head.
• Magelight: a ball of light, that sticks where you launched it at -walls, objects, followers, friends and foes.

Candle light works the best in 3rd person.