[atul]

As K says, White Ones are solid with bless that strengthens their armour. Dunno how "good" scales you can get with E9N9 though, even if you get free points from heat and semi-free (for shorter games) with heavy death.

I've tried to use Elephants, but they just cost way too much. You can get same indy-bashing power from the combination K suggests with way less money - resources might become an issue though.

And btw, check the EA Arcoscephale thread for advice how to use Oneiads. Your astral commander summons have similar qualities (awe and good buffing magic), with even more hands to wield weapons and shields with.