The way up was perilous at fast speeds due to the scattered rubble, but Kenza managed to outskirt each scattering of stone. Mistletoe did the same, proving herself just as agile as the other hunter on the way up. A glimpse of light glancing off the cobblestone walls of the stairwell caught Kenza's attention, causing her to move faster in excitement. Clearly there was a gap in the walls, and any glimpse of what lay outside the stone would be readily welcome. Noticing the light as well, Mistletoe followed suit, hope of escape blossoming.

It was a window, and it was too small. The observation caused Kenza's heart to sink, a quick, mental run-through of the hunters' tools confirming that this was not their escape route. Still, she bounded up the last few steps, coming to a panting stop by the opening and thrusting her arms out and around in an attempt to get a proper glimpse of the landscape. Mistletoe arrived as well, prioritizing catching her breath as she watched the other hunter struggle.

Kenza's pulling, bending, and cracking quickly gave way to frustration as realized that the spruce was too well-placed and well-grown to be beaten. giving the branches on more fierce pull -- the scratches on her hands finally breaking open -- she gave up the attempt, crashing her weight against the window's base as she finished her panting.

"Damn it," she said between pants. Mistletoe was silent at her side, reaching a comforting arm out to the other hunter. 

[hr][@hekazu] [@lord of evil]