June 7th, 1693 – Fort Vaillac
The royalist army buzzed with activity as Prince Bruno prepared to launch the next phase of his campaign. Soldiers inspected their equipment—rifles were cleaned and loaded, artillery carriages reinforced, and wagons stocked with provisions. Engineers worked tirelessly on reinforcing bridges and pathways to ensure smooth logistics. The goal was clear: Fort Rochevelle had to fall.
Bruno stood over a map in the command chamber, flanked by General Berthold, Captain Vallier, and Antoine Leclerc. Scouts had returned with crucial information regarding the fort's defenses.
"Two thousand men guard the fort," Leclerc reported. "They've reinforced the outer walls and placed artillery on elevated platforms. However, their garrison appears hastily organized. There are signs they haven't fully prepared for an extended siege."
"They'll know we're coming soon," Vallier added. "We need to move before they can mobilize reinforcements."
