From the upper terrace of the Thorne manor, Noel could see how far the preparations had already spread.
It was no longer just the mansion.
The entire usable stretch of Thorne Territory around it had been turned into a battlefield in preparation. Human soldiers were raising defensive lines and driving reinforced stakes into the ground where the land narrowed.
Mages moved in teams, tracing barrier formations across roads, slopes, and open approaches instead of wasting them around a single structure.
Dwarves reinforced choke points, watch positions, and supply areas with their usual relentless efficiency.
Elves had spread farther out through the outer ranges, adjusting lookout positions, sightlines, and support routes.
Trees were being cut only where they had to be. Paths had been widened. Evacuation points were marked. Medical posts and weapon depots were already being prepared behind the inner lines.
