You are the first to reach the ground

The corner of the building has extra-large blocks that stick out from the wall in a decorative pattern, you have no trouble finding ledges for your hands and feet. Two more slabs of tile hit your shoulders and back as you climb swiftly down, they hurt but not as much as many of the blows you've had to endure from overzealous taskmasters or even your fellow slaves as you fought over the occasional treat that was offered to the slaves on holidays or at the end of harvest. With a newfound sense of recklessness you jump the last ten feet and sprint away from the building into the square.

As you turn away from the gang you hear loud cries of frustration, but you move quickly towards the center fountain, aware of the loud slapping your hard soled sandals make as they beat against the tiled pavement. The light has nearly completely faded with the setting sun and you nearly trip over the still body of one of Cassia's companions after stumbling a few more steps you catch yourself against the edge of the fountain. Sitting on the cool marble slab that circles the fountain, you are momentarily stunned by the magnificence of the statuary. Three carved horses rear almost six feet above the pool of sparkling water beneath and streams of clear water spew from their mouths landing in a sparkle of ripples and currents into the water collecting in the pool.

Even over the sound of the fountain you can hear the angry yells and threats from the gang you have left behind. Slipping your sandals from your feet you listen for any shrill screams or gloating laughter that would indicate that your plan had failed and that they have found Cassia and had captured her.