I am deeply dumb and have a severe skill issue Pls tell me how. I tried to do it like crafting but that didn't work

Even battles at pauper mounds sometimes end up being insane. Were tlaking triple the amount of enemies to player count. it's just totally insane and unfair and I am not new to rpgs or strategy rpgs. This is not well balanced. Why the **** cant I just grind a little bit? Im also not at the beginning of the game either. I've put many hours into strategizing my party and stuff. This is dumb...

Got curious about this after starting a second run. The option is there when she first introduces herself (and it's a real choice, unlike with Zavarde) but it appears to just make everyone mad at you. Is there any reason to go ahead with it or is it just there to make life harder for yourself?...

I thought I'd pick it up if it was $1 .. but this is more expensive than Hollow Knight.. My wallet is crying ..

Anyway to restore this???? One of my main guys now has 5 hp lol