The woman eased the door open just enough to peer outside, revealing a glimpse of the hushed and anxious voices emanating from within the safety of the church.
"Come on in," she said to Damien, her voice a mix of caution and reluctant hospitality. With a quick glance over her shoulder, she added, "The holy priest will show you any potions he has within the church."
Stepping aside, she created a narrow path for him to enter, her gaze momentarily fixed on the congregation huddled behind the shelter of the church walls. Once Damien had crossed the threshold, she carefully pulled the door closed, her movements deliberate and wary.
Within the church, dim candlelight cast shifting shadows that danced across the floor, tables, rails, and altars. The soft glow provided a stark contrast to the encroaching darkness outside, a small beacon of hope amidst the nightmarish surroundings.
