Working on developing the staff skill turned out to be much more fruitful than one might have thought. The artifact seemed to resonate with Coriel's soul, increasing her concentration, memory, and control over magic.
Lily saw that everyone was preparing for the battle seriously. She herself wasn't particularly worried (what will be, will be), but she couldn't help but notice how hard everyone was trying, and so she also put in the effort.
Ashur's unexpected talent for enhancing items, unexpectedly useful reconnaissance data from Lyfa (did she get it by interrogating people in alleys?)...
Coriel also couldn't help but notice the acute lack of funds for the upcoming operation. Therefore, the girl approached Ashur and offered him her original staff for sale.
I didn't think of this right away, but it can be done. Of course, the staff was originally intended as an inheritance for Coriel, and perhaps it should be kept in mind – however, let the group decide what is more important here, the future or the present. And in any case, if we win, and if the enemy doesn't surrender (haha, how much optimism), we'll get even better staves.