They say scent is the sense most tied to memory.So when you catch a hint of sulfur—burnt, rotten, ancient—you don’t expect it to whisper your name.
You don’t expect it to come with eyes like obsidian wells and riddles that feel more like threats.And you sure as hell don’t expect it to stand between subway cars like it belongs there—untouched, unseen by anyone but you.
That’s how The Gentleman entered Xander’s life. Not through some dramatic portal in the sky. No fanfare, no blood moon.
Just… a glance. A presence. And that scent.
And once you’ve seen him, you can’t unsee him.The Gentleman doesn’t ask. He speaks in riddles. He doesn’t walk. He glides like gravity forgot about him.
He doesn’t threaten. He offers truth—and that’s always the most dangerous thing you can be handed when you’re already unraveling.
Writing this character was like setting a shadow loose and daring myself to chase it.He’s not the devil, but he sure knows his mailing address. He’s not a friend, but he’s not your enemy either. He’s something older than labels. And he’s chosen you—or maybe, you called to him.
Next Blog Drops April 18: “That Subway Scene…”A slow descent into the in-between. And one sickly passenger that might not be entirely human.
Immerse Yourself
Tell me this: If you saw someone in a crowd that only you seemed to notice, what would you do—walk away or follow? Comment below.
Tags: supernatural horror, mystery figure, Echoes of Despair, dark fantasy