((From here.))

Closer and closer still, and all the while without creatures to deal with. Homura knew that sort of luck would only last for so long, and it was best to make as much progress as possible while it lingered.

But Landel's certainly wasn't built to encourage easy traveling, especially for the mind. Only darkness and a memory of the day's layout greeted the group once they opened the cafeteria doors, so effectively hiding whatever might be waiting for them.

"Ootori Kyouya." Homura's voice was firm despite being quiet, leaving little question that Homura's words were to be taken as an order. "Turn on your flashlight. We'll need the light in here."

But Homura's own flashlight remained off as he stepped into the room, despite the observation. While he didn't have any desire to expose the weakest member of the group, Homura's light would have to be used as a weapon should they fall under attack. Better that Kyouya's already be on, and lessen the chance of accidental blinding.

[From here!]

Ashton hadn't struggled much with carrying all 130 pounds of Axel until he had to run with him in his arms - who knew how many stitches he was ripping apart just by doing it. He had to be careful with the frail man, but if the two men who'd just walked out of the other staircase noticed Axel in his arms... it was probably the redhead's life on the line.

And there was the matter of actually opening the door of the staircase - he had to lower his bloody charge just a little bit, gently as he could while still being fast. He slipped in then, hearing the door click behind him as it shut.

It was pitch black once he got inside with Axel - at least while he was still outside there was the benefit of the stray person running around with the flashlight here and there. Yeah, it was pretty creepy, but at least they were safe for now. Now the big trick was going to be figuring exactly where the stairs were.

He panted a little, then raised his chin and took a deep breath. He couldn't get tired yet. He had to press on.

"Who were they?" he asked Axel.

Penelo worried that there might be an unwelcomed guest lurking in the darkness, especially since the door was (sort of) locked. But to her relief, there wasn't one immediately present.

What she did see wasn't too great, though. It was a simple changing station with some nurse uniforms (she briefly thought of taking one and attempting to escape in disguise, but that seemed a little too easy. And they're probably notice her right away. So much for that idea.), but Penelo knew there had to be something of interest if this is where the nurses changed into their uniforms.

"I hope some of them are forgetful," Penelo wondered to Kazuo, shining her flashlight on the clothing. "It'd be nice if they left something for us."