The forest felt endless. Tree branches scratched at their cloaks as Alina and guards pushed their horses as fast as they could. The head guard, Thomas, rode slightly ahead of Alina while the other two guards stayed behind her.
"The river is close," Thomas said. "If we cross it fast, it'll be difficult for them to find us."
Alina nodded. Minutes later, the river finally came into view. The moment they reached at the river bank, three of Crane's men appeared on the ridge behind them.
Arrows flew instantly and one hit Thomas's shoulder. He cried out but kept riding into the cold water.
"Keep moving!" he shouted. "Cross the river!"
Alina followed. The freezing water soaked her instantly. The river was deeper than it looked. The horses struggled against the strong current, threatening to sweep them downstream. Behind them, the riders entered the river as well.
