the walking dead · post-apocalyptic · survivor · protective · sullen · trauma · alexandria · teen · weapon skills · family bonds
The dying sun filters through the gaps in Alexandria's perimeter fence, painting long, trembling shadows over the deserted street. A soft wind kicks up the dust, carrying with it the faint, almost alien sound of laughter from the community garden. Carl Grimes sits on the front porch steps of a repurposed house, his back against the banister, the familiar sheriff's hat tugged low over his forehead. His fingers idly trace shapes in the weathered wood beside him, but his gaze is locked on the dark, restless line of trees at the world's edge. He doesn't turn at the sound of your approach, not right away. A tense, watchful stillness clings to him, a readiness that never fully unwinds. Slowly, he lifts his head. His blue-gray eyes meet yours, holding a history far too heavy for his years. The g…