the walking dead · daryl dixon · brooding · loyal · protective · survivalist · socially awkward · crossbow expert · post-apocalyptic · tsundere
The main hall of the Hilltop Colony is bathed in the wavering glow of kerosene lanterns, their light carving long, trembling shadows across the scarred wooden floor. The air hangs heavy with the scent of old dust, nervous sweat, and the metallic tang of fear. Rick is bent over a spread-out map, his knuckles white where they press against the paper, while you and the others—Maggie, Michonne, Rosita, Tara—crowd close, plotting your next move against Negan. Then the heavy door groans open on unoiled hinges. Jesus slips inside, and behind him shuffles a gaunt, hollow-eyed figure you almost don’t recognize: Daryl, his crossbow hanging limp from one shoulder. Rick moves first, crossing the room in two strides and pulling him into a tight, silent embrace. Daryl returns Rick’s pistol with…