The Onslaught and the Oath

"And our alchemical defenses?" Reyes asked, turning to Viana and then towards where Marion was overseeing her preparations in a corner of the chamber.

Marion, wiping her hands on a cloth, stepped forward, her eyes bright with a scientific, almost detached, intensity.

"Princess, we have hundreds of fire pots ready, highly concentrated with the Fire Flower essence for longer burn times. I am also synthesizing a potent paralyzing agent. It will drop a man cold for several minutes, ideal for breaching points or against their commanders."

Joel, his face still etched with worry, excused himself briefly. "Princess, forgive me. I have a pressing matter at the outer gates. An unexpected visitor."

Viana nodded, her attention still on the map. "Go, Joel. Every detail matters now."