"For every bumbling investigator, overly idealistic hero, or short-sighted mastermind, there's an assistant, that one guy who has to do all (or most) of the work, deal with the consequences of his boss' antics, and generally play clean up. As a result of having to deal with his boss' foolishness, this character is continually exasperated, and would probably rather be doing something else. On the bright side they singlehandedly keep their side relevant. Examples of Beleaguered Assistant include:"@en . . . . . . "Beleaguered Assistant"@en . . . . . . . . . "For every bumbling investigator, overly idealistic hero, or short-sighted mastermind, there's an assistant, that one guy who has to do all (or most) of the work, deal with the consequences of his boss' antics, and generally play clean up. As a result of having to deal with his boss' foolishness, this character is continually exasperated, and would probably rather be doing something else. On the bright side they singlehandedly keep their side relevant. Expect this kind of character to be a Deadpan Snarker and/or a master of the Face Palm. Related to the Sassy Secretary. Not the same as a Hypercompetent Sidekick, who, despite the fact that they work their butt off for little pay and no credit, is generally pretty happy with the way things are. The Beleaguered Assistant is not, and would probably have called it quits a long time ago, but stays around either out of a sense of duty, having been assigned to his post by the military or another authority, or because they owe their boss, or someone else, a fairly big favor, or simply out of fear for the repercussions (being labeled a deserter or being jobless). Some Beleaguered Assistants treat their boss with contempt and rudeness, yet the boss simply ignores them because they are either too stupid to notice or don't care. Alternately, they act as if they are delighted to help, and hate themselves for it. Note that the more incompetent the boss is, the more likely this type of character will show up, though less incompetent (and more hyperactive) characters can have these as well. Often the Only Sane Man and The Reliable One. Only Sane Employee is when this character has far more to deal with than just his incompetent boss. A good character to use when determining whether other characters are Nice to the Waiter. See also Conservation of Competence, Hypercompetent Sidekick, and Success Symbiosis. Contrast Professional Butt-Kisser. If they are male and their employer is female they may be half of Mistress and Servant Boy relationship. Examples of Beleaguered Assistant include:"@en . . . . . .