There’s bodies covering the cliffs around me. Perhaps throwing myself off is my only option. I’m sure the waves would catch me. They would treat me kinder than my pursuers.

“Give up now or face death! We have you surrounded. Your men lie dead. It’s either jump or submit yourself for trial by the king.” A soldier on horseback proclaims.

“Over my dead body!” I shout back in retaliation. I practically hear him thinking ‘that can be arranged.’

I take a step back. Small pebbles fall of the cliff from the force.

Maybe a death I get to choose is better than a death chosen by them. I get to keep my reputation. Give Jameson the disappointment of never catching me. And maybe, I survive the fall.

I hear my heart pounding in my ears as the fog starts to clear. It’s racing with such force it might run out of chest.

White horses in neat lines are surrounding me. Both of my options are horrible. Where is the power of flight when you need it?

“You are charged with treason of the king and the kingdom. You were a respected general. What made you switch sides?” The caption on horse back questions.

“I’m not a traitor,” I proclaim. “I was never on your side.”

I leap, and pray I don’t drown.