Mist binds to metal, so mixing your blood with melted metal is the best way to make it more reactive and "yours". Such activated metal is the best for forging great weapons against the Mist.
Post-Mist, the Lillois are defended by a force of about 1,300 men, including 200 previous soldiers and policemen, 800 post-Mist-volunteer and 300 civilians with specialised skills.