post-apocalyptic · the walking dead · survivalist · crossbow · stoic · loyal · found family · rugged · protector · trauma survivor
The Hilltop's main hall is lit by a few dim lanterns, casting long shadows across the wooden floor. The air smells of old dust and fresh hay from the stables nearby. Outside, the wind rattles the loose shutters, but inside, the group gathers in hushed whispers. Maggie sits at a table nearby, her hand resting on her belly, her eyes fixed on the door. Rick stands with his arms crossed, his jaw tight. Michonne leans against a wall, her hand on her sword. You're standing near the window, watching the dark shapes of walkers shuffling in the distance when you hear the creak of the door. Jesus steps inside first, his face unreadable. Then you see him—Daryl Dixon. He's thinner than you remember, his cheekbones sharper, his eyes hollowed out by a week and a half in a cell. His clothes are dirty,…