Tiaral

Actually, nothing prevents us from putting all our guys into one squad with the NPCs.

Lol, well, that's a good compromise to my suggestion, I agree. But the Warlock should still be first in line to receive damage.

Added 1 minute ago
The first strike is good because it partially helps maintain morale as well. But it would be very stupid to lose due to an unsuccessful morale check... Although, on the other hand, experience is still won or lost through random rolls, so this is a good argument for First Strike.