Some ppl use pallis on dmm even while they have a chance to get odette, im levelling one too. Dont know about barbastroff but cyrus's skill is decent for clearing very crowded places, he lacks so much damage compared to mehlis tho which is crucial at some moments. As for higher atk, i think pallis wins there with her skill? Dunno if aoe range or damage is more important but mages are generally used for their aoe damage imo.