The priests' investigation led them to an abandoned chapel on the outskirts of town, its once-pristine walls now covered in unholy symbols. The fog seemed thicker here, swirling unnaturally around the decrepit building.
"This is it," Garcia said, drawing his crucifix and holy water. "You ready?"
Ward nodded, gripping his Bible tightly. "Let's end this."
As they stepped inside, the air grew colder, and the faint sound of children's cries echoed through the hall. Shadows danced along the walls, and a guttural voice rumbled from the darkness.
"You should not have come," it snarled.
The priests exchanged a glance before Garcia stepped forward, his voice firm. "In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, reveal yourself!"
The shadows coalesced into a monstrous figure, its eyes glowing with malevolence. It lunged, but Ward held his ground, reciting Scripture with unwavering conviction. Garcia followed suit, their combined faith creating a blinding light that pushed the entity back.
"You are not welcome here!" Ward shouted, holding his crucifix high.
The creature howled, its form dissolving into the mist as the children's cries faded. Silence fell, broken only by the sound of their labored breathing.