We reached the border in moments, once Aoilainn ordered her people to stand aside. She looked so tired and worn I wondered if she put the last of her energy into moving us as quickly as possible. It seemed the air shimmered from a blank horizon to suddenly flaring with green flame and a gathered army of fading Unseelie.
I approached the doorway to the other side with Ameline next to me, gesturing for Odhran and Niamh to join us at the barrier. They came, looking as beaten down as Aoilainn, their people as weary. At least the giants sat up now, large eyes blinking slowly, sleepily, no longer prone and helpless. I looked up, saw the patch I'd installed still held, but with gaps around the edges.
We didn't have much time.
Odhran bowed his head to me before letting his gaze fall on Ameline. She didn't say anything to him, but he grimaced before taking his queen's hand.