As Kuroneko worked on deciphering the ritual, the rest of the team remained vigilant, their eyes scanning the hallway for any signs of danger.
The oppressive atmosphere weighed heavily on them, but their determination never wavered.
Suddenly, a low growl echoed through the hallway, and the temperature dropped even further.
Ayame turned towards the source of the sound, her eyes narrowing. "We're not alone," she said. "Get ready."
From the shadows at the end of the hallway, a figure began to emerge. It was a twisted, nightmarish creature, its form constantly shifting and changing.
The children's drawings on the walls seemed to react to their presence, their lines twisting and warping as if in pain.
The creature let out a blood-curdling scream and charged towards the team. Ayame and her companions sprang into action, their abilities flaring to life.
"Everyone, focus!" Ayame shouted. "We've faced worse. We can handle this!"
