[ryu]

one of major mistakes many players make is putting characters into the flanks; dont;
you must only put characters into flanks if they must protect 10x times less HP having psionic or such;
if i get surrounded, my only three melee characters (ninja, samurai, monk) easily reach even enemies attacking from behind;
and yes, thus enemies can reach my psionic; all i need is a little more attention (guardian angel or so);

as for Meanie fishie (rynjin), just look at their legs a bit more closely and carefuly; they are folded and have 'Z' form; they can easily get longer than any polearm for a few moments just needed to hit party member;
good luck