Days turned into weeks, and Zione transformed into a fortress. The city walls were reinforced, and watchtowers were constructed to keep a vigilant eye on the horizon. Training grounds echoed with the sounds of clashing weapons and shouted commands. The rebel leaders worked tirelessly, strategizing and preparing for the inevitable counterattack from the Empire.
Lyle spent some of his time studying the magic map he had obtained as a reward. The intricate details it provided, especially when infused with mana, allowed him to grasp the lay of the land around Zione. It became an invaluable tool for planning and anticipating the movements of potential threats.
The map allowed them to prepare some outposts and ready traps nearby, even though defending Zione would be the last thing they would do as that would mean the other cities were taken, it was still a smart choice to prepare for such a possibility.