The sound of hooves thundered behind them, headed towards them at a fast gallop. The rider, her slender form swathed in the heavy, cream-colored cloak of the guard, was pressed against the horse's neck in an effort to either increase their speed or to shield herself from the rain. In any case, between the too-large cloak and the rider's posture, it was difficult to make out any features. The horse itself -- a dappled gray -- was familiar enough, however, for it belonged to Eliana.
The rider glanced up as she approached and reigned her horse to a halt before the group. She swept the too-large hood of the cloak back from her face, revealing the lady herself. In spite of the cold rain, her face was flushed prettily, and there was a glow of triumph about her that even the weather could not quench.
"I didn't expect to catch up to you so soon," she announced, her eyes travelling from the group to the swollen waters behind them. "I sent the guards to a little hamlet to the east, but it won't take long for them to realize which way you've really gone. And that ruse isn't going to work twice." No matter how pretty or vulnerable the girl...