It was a boom that pulsed throughout her body.
Beth felt a strong grip jerk her back. Daryl pulled her behind him and Rick as Carol stroked her hair. She watched, dazed, as Dawn's panicked face paled and she mouthed the words 'I didn't mean to.' Then, another shot rang out, this time from Daryl, gun drawn, pointed dead center to Dawn's head. Her body crumpled to the floor. Beth had never seen Daryl use a gun.
Muffled yells began to form and Beth felt Carol's hands on her shoulders, gently shaking her to attention.
"Beth, your ear!"
In her shock Beth hadn't realized, but as she started to compose herself, she felt it. A cold, wet trail snaked its way down her neck, on her shirt, and pooled on the bottom seam. Her fingers grazed it before Carol clutched her hand and pulled it down, holding it tightly. Beth's left ear was torn, ripped with the cartalige broken and mutilated. It was then that the pain set it.
"C-Carol," she managed with wide eyes. Rick turned to look and cringed with deep hatred, eyes ablaze and mouth pursed. He drew his gun and glared. Daryl peeked from the corner of his eye and let out a wild, staggered and angry breath. Both men walked forward with swift revenge in their hands. Beth began to cry. Carol and Tyreese tried to calm her.
Shepard quickly piped up. "Only her! The deal's done!" Her eyes fell on Dawn's lifeless body, "It's over, you can leave." Rick watched her carefully. He could hear Beth's pain behind him. He glanced at Daryl, who nodded. Rick turned to leave.
"Or you can stay here. It's better than out there." Everyone froze, eyes on Rick. Daryl shook his head vigorously as he turned and put his hand on Beth's bloodsoaked shoulder. He glowered.
"No, it isn't," Rick spoke sharply, left no room for argument. "Anyone who wants to come with us can. Step forward."