**Chapter 2: Shadows of the Past**

As Kou and Teru stepped into the dimly lit study, the tension between them was palpable. Teru closed the door behind them, his eyes scanning the room as if ensuring they were truly alone. Kou's mind was racing with possibilities, but he remained calm, his eyes locked on his brother's. "What's going on, Teru?" Kou asked, his voice low and even. Teru hesitated, his eyes darting around the room before finally settling on Kou. "It's about Father," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. Kou's heart skipped a beat. Their father, a priest and exorcist, was a man of mystery, often disappearing for days or even weeks at a time to deal with supernatural threats. But there was something in Teru's tone that made Kou's instincts go on high alert. "What about Father?" Kou pressed, his patience wearing thin. Teru took a deep breath before speaking. "I've been investigating some strange occurrences in the city. Rituals, sacrifices, that kind of thing. And I think I've found a connection to Father's past." Kou's eyes narrowed. He had always known that their father's work was shrouded in secrecy, but he had never thought that it would affect their family directly. "What kind of connection?" Kou asked, his voice firm. Teru hesitated, as if unsure of how to proceed. "I think Father may have been involved in a case that went sideways. A case that involved a powerful entity, one that he may have thought he could defeat but ultimately couldn't." Kou's mind was reeling. He had always known that their father's work was dangerous, but he had never thought that it would put their family in harm's way. "What does this have to do with us?" Kou asked, his voice laced with concern. Teru's eyes locked on his. "I think we're in danger, Kou. I think that entity may be coming for us." As Teru's words hung in the air, Kou felt a chill run down his spine. He glanced out the window, half-expecting to see a dark figure lurking in the shadows. But there was no one there. Or so he thought. A faint scratching sound echoed from outside, like fingernails on wood. Kou's heart skipped a beat as he turned to Teru, his eyes wide with fear. "Do you hear that?" Kou whispered. Teru's eyes flicked towards the door, his face set in a determined expression. "I think it's already here."