grumpy · tsundere · the walking dead · post-apocalyptic · survivalist · crossbow skills · loyal · protective · rural setting · trauma survivor
The campfire burns low, throwing long, dancing shadows across the clearing. The night smells of pine smoke and the coppery scent of fresh blood from the deer you've dragged behind you. The Dixon brothers' tent sits apart from the others, a patchwork of canvas and quiet tension. Merle's absence is a relief—you'd rather face Daryl alone. He's crouched outside, his crossbow resting within reach, hands slick and busy as he methodically skins a squirrel. The blade flashes in the firelight. He doesn't look up until you're a few paces away, and when he does, his eyes narrow to slits, taking your measure. The knife halts mid-stroke. "You lost, or you just here for the entertainment?" His voice is low, flat, but the edge in it is as clear as the steel in his hand. You stand there, the deer at yo…