I'll be the first to admit that I didn't realize what a difference a leader can make to a group. So of the other players have told me they're actually having more fun. Huzzah!
This leads me to to questions:
1) Should our Hero group have a leader?
2) Since I have been advised that IF I am able to play Vilarneseh on May 28, I will likely be joining the game late, may I have one or more volunteers to fill in as leader? Express your interest publicly or privately; I care not. But the Adventurers do need you and it's a good chance to find out what leadership really is in D&D (which isn't what this player expected).
