Perimeter Elevation

I crossed the aluminum threshold out onto the concrete deck. Direct midday sunlight hit the gray slab, warming the rough surface under my boots. Ahead lay an oversized ceramic planter filled with packed potting soil and dried pebbles. I scaled the fluted rim, bracing with both gloved hands before gaining the lip. At the base of a thick stalk, I spotted a flat slate marker resting at a thirty-degree angle. I leaned my shoulder against it to test its anchorage. Rock solid. From this ridge, I have an uninterrupted view across the courtyard and perimeter railing below.