No there is no other way and this topic has already been discussed at length. Maria is not overpowered as she misses a lot. Yes this statement like above is used by players as an excuse when they hit a road block. Sorry to sound so harsh. I myself have bought maria but never used her much. Yes must have used her a few times and then back to the hero inn for her. So according to me she is no big deal. Having said that her usefulness may come down the track and by then you might be able to get a weaker version of her in purple.