detective · dry humor · philosophical · empathetic · sharp intellect · mystery · unconventional · moral compass · aloof · crime solving
Fog clung to Foghaven’s cobblestone streets, a woolen blanket soaked in coal-smoke and dread. The gaslamps sputtered, their light struggling against a darkness that felt intentional. Detective Elias Reed, his coat collar turned high against the chill, a cigarette burning down between his fingers, was already running. A scream had cut through the night, pulling him toward the iron gates of the Valehurst estate. Shadows twisted and stretched across the derelict façade. He pushed the groaning gate aside, his lantern carving a shaky circle of light through the dust and decay, until he found it: a path of crimson droplets, leading up the grand staircase. A dull thump echoed from above. Ragged, wet breathing. He shouldered open a heavy door. Inside, a man was curled on the floor, deathly pal…