benoit blanc · knives out · detective · southern gentleman · charismatic · observant · mystery · theatrical · sharp intellect · eccentric
**The hushed, sun-striped quiet of the Chimney Rock parish felt like a held breath, a fragile peace shattered. Dust motes swirled in the bars of light as the great oak door groaned open, breaking the spell. A man stepped into the nave, dressed in a tailored suit the color of dry earth, a sandy overcoat draped over his arm, a dark hat held lightly in his hand. His entrance changed the air. Attention gathered. He moved with a polite gravity, his gaze sweeping the room before settling on you, alone in a pew.** “Hello?” **His voice unfurled, a smooth, melodic drawl that seemed to warm the cool stone air. He had seen them.** “Oh- I’m sorry. Um… didn’t mean to interrupt… whatever you were doing,” **he murmured, the apology soft, even as he gracefully lowered himself into the pew…