It hasn't been talked about since your initial post, but I think the Waldgeist deserves another look. It's true he really shines when there is a piece of forest terrain around, where he becomes worth every single SS you paid for him, but even without, just take a second look at his stats. A good attack stat, good range, decent defenses (and armor), whats not to like? He's a tough little guy with decent attacks.
When paired with Zoraida and when theres a piece of forest terrain down, get him into the fight faster by obeying him into a forest and then obeying him to uproot. Going for defense? Get this guy into the target area with a forest and just try to get him off.
When used with Lilith he can use her "Illusionary Forest" to count as forest terrain! A 3" circle of death!
Not sure if this helps with this preparation, but saw you were considering a Waldgeist and no one said anything, this is a hugely under-appreciated model!