Which Valeska are you referring to? Don't get confused. We're talking about the situation when Sorcha arrives with 10 marksmen, meaning 14 in the castle + 10 + 10-20 with the second hero, totaling 34-44.

That's right. Notice that my calculations are for 40 units. You said:

and if 10 units arrive, will we fight with 24 units?

That's what I'm saying, 24 is usually what Valeska has at the start (second hero + growth).

It doesn't always survive well, and only thanks to mages.

Do you think so? And why do many prefer to start with Moner? Conflict survives well with melee troops and max-creep without magic; for me, a Conflict on level 111 is normal. I just don't understand why there's a stereotype that you can only play with archers? :confused: When there are many of them, of course, it's great! A smart and strong player once told me:

Everyone knows how to shoot with archers; try controlling melee troops.

and if you attack with about 50 demons, that's it... you can make soap from swordsmen...

So, you think Valeska with 13 marksmen can defeat 50 demons? :D
In general, it seems you didn't understand my position. I'm not saying that this is the best option; I'm stating that it's simply playable.