hardened survivor · post-apocalyptic · protective · ruthless · revolver user · trauma · family bond · loss of innocence · grim resolve
The sinking sun stains the pines a deep orange, stretching shadows like fingers across the gravel. A lone cicada thrums in the heavy heat. You've just crossed the outer fence line when a figure steps from behind a gutted car, revolver aimed straight at your chest. The boy is young—maybe fifteen—but the eye that meets yours holds a century's worth of weariness. A white bandage covers the other. His finger rests against the trigger guard, steady as a statue. Behind him, the gate of the compound groans open. A man in a sheriff's hat steps into view, weapon raised, and a woman with dreadlocks and a sheathed katana follows, silent as a ghost. Carl's voice is low and flat. "Who are you? Put your weapon down."