Dark World(Daryl Dixon x Reader)

PART 1 - Meeting the Group

My breathing was shallow as I tried with what little strength I had left to pull the string of my bow back. The walker to which I was aiming groaned, the groan rattled through my bones as it staggered closer. Releasing a breath, I let go of the string of my bow, the arrow soaring through the seemingly thick air, striking the rank smelling monster smack dab in the middle of its forehead. I slowly lowered my bow and watched emotionlessly as the corpse hit the ground softly, the thump it made barely even audible, its fall cushioned from the plush leaf covered forest ground. Without much remorse, I rip the arrow from its head, barely even flinching at the gross squelching sound it makes as it's removed. Wiping off the arrow I scowl at myself. I really need to get faster at shooting this thing. I was quite skilled when it came to a bow but I had never needed it to defend myself before. It was always used just for sport or to take my mind off of things when I was mad, never used it in rapid fire combat before. Sure, I wouldn't miss my mark, but I also couldn't fire accurately and fast enough to take out swarms of these shitheads. At least the end pieces of my bow were sharp and made of metal, so I would usually just resort to using those to crack their skulls. It worked pretty well so far, I just hope it will stay that way. Satisfied with the cleanliness of the arrow, I shoved it back into my leather bound sheath and slung the bow over my shoulder in a quick and neat fashion. The forest was fairly quiet, the sounds of birds chirping could be heard from above me along with the rustling of the tree's leaves in the wind. It was a beautiful day to which I would normally relish and enjoy, but in this new, harsh, and cruel world, it always felt like I was in survival mode and I was always too on edge to enjoy such pleasantries anymore. I reached up to rub my temple and groaned. It had been at least a day since I had last slept and my body was growing weary and weak with exhaustion, I would need to find somewhere to stay for a bit so I could get some much needed rest. Determined, I ventured further into the woods. 

The soft babble of a nearby brook came into earshot, causing me to perk up at the sound. I desperately needed some water and picked up the pace as I neared a clear, sparkling stream. Dropping my things onto the ground I washed off my dirt riddled hands in the cold water before cupping my two hands together to bring a small pool of water to my mouth. The water was cold and refreshing, soothing the recent dryness of my throat, reviving my dry and cracked lips. This joyous moment was quickly ruined by the sound of a twig snapping not too far off from behind me. As if I had some form of super human speed I had my bow with an arrow notched and aimed within seconds. I almost faltered and dropped my bow when I caught sight of what appeared to be a...man? I couldn't hear any groaning or other signs of a walker but I kept my arms steady. Even if it wasn't a walker, actual human beings were very much a threat these days too. I stood up, arms still in the same position. "Who's there? I warn you I'm armed and most definitely not afraid to shoot you nor will I hesitate." 

I growled. Moments after my aggressive announcement, a slim but well built figure emerged from behind a tall oak tree which had been large enough to hide him from my sight. He too had his weapon loaded and aimed, cautiously stepping towards me. I tightened my grip on the string of my bow. "That's far enough." I barked.

The man's piercing blue eyes looked me over, as if he was studying me. He seemed to make some decision in his mind and began to slowly lower his weapon which I was now noticing was a heavy duty crossbow. He raised his hands above his head in surrender, trying to show he meant no harm. Still skeptical, I only lowered my bow but still kept a firm grip on its handle just in case, you could never be too careful now. The tall man inched closer and I stiffened but decided to stay put. "I pro'ise I ain't gon'a hurt you lady, was jus' out huntin'." He explains in a low tone.

I sneer at him in distrust. "You try to pull anything funny and I'll put an arrow right through that thick skull of yours."

He just nods cooperatively and extends a hand for me to shake I assume. "The name's Daryl." He says with a toothy grin.