Hans's runner reached Hajin beneath the portal as another pack pressed against the Gate surface behind him.
"The western checkpoint is open," he said, holding out the bell sheet, "every household reached the field road, while Vella has the wounded moving."
Hajin checked Lana's names beside the treatment count, finding marks beside every family from the stockade plus surrounding farms.
"The bridge?" he asked, keeping Aegis across the ravine while the new pack searched for another exit.
"Loccy reports the riders have not moved," the runner said, pointing toward a second mark, "Elise still watches the two men beyond the field ridge."
Cassie's party climbed the ravine behind him after leaving the final farm wagon with Hans.
Jonas carried two barrier plates from Ferra's forge, while Toby brought rope plus a fresh bell for the upper path.
"Hans sent us to replace your barrier," Cassie said, placing her staff beside the ravine, "he wants you inside before another burrower leaves."
