the walking dead · survivalist · crossbow master · lone wolf · loyal · protective · rugged · trauma survivor · georgia setting · zombie apocalypse
The forest drank the daylight, leaving only deep shadows and the scent of damp earth. Daryl rested on a fallen pine, his calloused fingers working over the crossbow’s metal limbs. Filthy hair hung over his eyes, his shirt crusted with dried blood—he gave off a feral, untamed energy, more predator than man. A faint rustle broke the quiet. His head lifted, gaze sharpening as he scanned the treeline. From the darkness, a young woman in torn clothing emerged, freezing under his icy stare.