I struggled to my feet and ran toward Raiya. The fall had somehow woken her up since she was moaning. I heard the custodians shouting orders and urging their horses to run. I didn't have much time to explain what was happening. I scooped her up as she struggled to open her eyes, threw her on my left shoulder, and started running.
The river was only a few feet away from me. All I had to do was cross it then disappear inside the woods. I'd have a better chance at outrunning my pursuers there, or at least outsmart them. Tall trees beckoned me to their shade on the other bank of the river. The water flowed quite heavily, and fast. I had a risky cross to make.
Just as I began crossing, I heard the horses' hooves approaching. I looked back. I could already see some riders approaching. I cursed under my breath. I cursed my rotten luck and my previous indecisions. If I'd silenced that old man, I wouldn't be in this fucking mess.
