A/N: Hello! This is my first ever fanfiction, and to be honest i'm completely new to this site. Please, i BEG you, i know that there's alot of people who read stories rarely even logged into an account, but if you do have one and are reading this story, PLEASE review! I check this site like 10 times a day! i'll get back to you as soon as i can, and leave the longest reviews possible. Thank you so much, and I hope you enjoy my first FF! Much love, Wave 3 P.S. This is not a homosexual Rick/Daryl fanfiction, but will focus on their relationship and there characters unless of course your guys' input will change it. Ok goodbye for real now!
The sound of cackling flames and darkness surround the makeshift camp. Years prior, the night would be teeming with activity from insects and owls and other organisms wandering around at the hour, but that simply was no longer the case.
A gruff, harsh voice disturbs what was almost a serene silence, in a tone that is almost patronizing. "You sure 'bouthis?" Daryl huffs quietly but loud enough to be heard at the resting mass leaned against the bark of a tree. "Goin' into the city again.. coul' be dangerous in the day.. the light 'n' all" He warily but confidently explains.
The mass shifts slightly in position, allowing the light from the fire to cascade across his face. "I don't think it's anymore dangerous than what we've already done blindfolded, going into Atlanta we could maybe find supplies, get up some walls. Fortify a section of the forest" Rick explains solemnly, taking in his surroundings for what must be the millionth time.
"Alot can change in six years" he discouragingly continues. "Thas' what im afraid of," is Daryl's only reply before stoking the fire softly and almost harshly muttering "Take watch."
He gives one fleeting look across the temporary camp, and nods his head a millimeter down. A confirmation of what he already knows. Laying down on the makeshift bed made from leaves and the forest floor, and turning over without another word. Leaving Rick staring at his back, analyzing their conversation, replaying it in his head. Over and over. He had to be right about Atlanta. He had to do this, get a wall built, fortified. Safe. Like the last time.
Letting out an exasperated sigh, his mind slowly began to wonder to other things, observing the sleeping bodies of the remnants of his family. Michonne, Tara, Maggie, Daryl, Carl.. forgetting about the conversation with Daryl for then. Thinking about the day ahead of him, he shifts in position letting his mind wander to times before the apocalypse.
Unbeknownst to a daydreaming Rick, Carl lay awake on top of his pile of foliage, taking in everything that was said. But unlike his aging father, he would not be sleeping that night. He rarely has that luxury. But as he guides his eyes over to two of the sleeping women, huddled together in the chilled night, he reminds himself that he still has one virtue. Family.