The sound rattled Kenza more than she'd like to admit. On one hand, it was just a sound -- one that wasn't loud or threatening and could very well be from something utterly harmless. On the other hand, it was also a sound, but it was a foreboding sound, pacing out the final moments until the hunters' deaths. Opening the door would be what a brave leader would do, but it was also what a foolish one was. The fine line between bravery and folly grew thinner with questions, and Kenza hesitated to make a call.

Sensing the other hunter's hesitance, Mistletoe figured she'd pitch her two cents in. "Best case scenario, it's some way out of here, or some useful stash of tools. Worst case, it's the Wolfwing," she said, "but I doubt the beast is capable of being so synchronized with its breathing, and it doesn't seem like it would be one to shiver." She paused, shrugging. "I honestly don't see how opening one door could worsen out situation all that much. Other than the Wolfwing -- and perhaps the winged beasts we met a while back -- this place should be empty. There was dust and there was mold, so I doubt anything's alive. Plus, it's not even locked, so whatever is in there -- if alive -- should have been able to come out already," she concluded. "So, I say open the door."

Kenza paused, thinking over the other hunter's words. Was she correct? 

[i]Mistletoe has the most experience out of any of us, and she has a point. How much worse can it get?[/i]

Meeting the other two hunters' eyes, Kenza inhaled, readying her weapon. "I'll open the door on the count of three," she whispered. When the other hunters got in position, Kenza pulled the door open wide enough for a large dog to pass through comfortably. Through the dim light of the hallway, the hunters peered into the room.

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