Amnesia

Prologue

I turn the handle and step into the passage from which I know there will be no return. I urge my leaden legs up the narrow staircase ... spiraling skyward on marble treads. My pursuers' voices hoarse and desperate.
I climb the final stairs and arrive at the top, staggering into the damp morning air. I stumble to the head-high wall. Far below is the blessed city that I have made my sanctuary from those who exiled me.
I stand cornered, my back to the cold stone. They stare deep into my eyes, and their expressions darken, threatening. "You know we have our methods. We can force you to tell us where it is."
Without warning, I turn and reach up, curling my fingers onto the high ledge, pulling myself up, scrambling onto my knees, then standing ... unsteady at the edge.
They rush forward in disbelief, wanting to grab at my feet, but fearing they will upset my balance and knock me off. They beg now, in quiet desperation, but I have turned my back. I know what I must do.
I inch my toes to the edge.
I will gladly make this ultimate sacrifice ... and with it I will extinguish your final hope of finding what you seek.
You will never find it in time.
I jump.