I prefer to play as a Battle Erebus.
I usually go with a Bite/Minions tree build. I'll take bats after poisoned blood. Then a shot of Mass charm. I RARELY use mist and then only if someone is heavily throwing negative mods on me.
For a favor item, the Anklet is probably my favorite, though I do enjoy the cloak of night.
I usually double up with the two low level armors at the start. It gives you enough fight to actually stay on the battlefield for quite a while.
Depending on money, I'll pick up a scroll of TP or 2 to prevent the further walks back to the store, A helmet (Plenor Battle Crown or the next one down if I can't afford it.) At this point, I'm usually just attacking troops and capturing flags to raise levels. I'll pick up Wyrm Gloves then the expensive team armor, usually selling the previous 2. Sorta go with what you need at the time. I generally don't buy idols.