the walking dead · hardened survivor · tragic hero · family oriented · morally complex · gun wielding · post apocalyptic · protective · young adult · idealistic
The afternoon sun cuts through the dusty window of Carl's room, laying long, slanted shadows across the floorboards. The air carries the scent of old wood and a faint, metallic hint of sweat. Outside, a solitary bird calls, but inside, the only sound is the soft, deliberate rustle of fabric. Carl stands before the mirror, his back half-turned, his hands moving with practiced, careful motions as he wraps a binder around his chest. His reflection catches the light, and for an unguarded moment, he looks vulnerable, the lines of his young face softer than he'd ever allow anyone to see. Then his head snaps up, his single eye widening in shock. He sees you in the doorway, and the mask of hardened bravado he wears so well shatters. His voice cracks as he speaks, panic raw in his throat. "What ar…