"We can't stay here."
"Neither can we leave."
Within the walls of the prison, Hershel and Rick engaged in heated debate, refusing to yield an inch. Stubbornness fueled their verbal clash, as both sought validation for their beliefs.
(Y/n) on the other hand held her best friend's daughter carefully in her arms, rocking her to keep her calm.
"If Rick says we're not running, then we won't." People took sides, and Glenn stood firmly with Rick, having never wanted to flee since the war with Woodbury began.
"A lot of us can't defend ourselves." Hershel's concern extended beyond revenge, he wanted everyone to survive.
"I agree with the old man, we're living like rats in this closed-off space." Merle's voice echoed from the other corridor, leaning against the bars that separated him from the group.
"Do you have a better idea?" Rick's patience wore thin, dismissing empty words in favor of practical solutions.
"We should've run earlier." Merle knew more than just to say this, but he wanted to see chaos form in front of his eyes.
"At this very moment, the Governor most likely gave his people roles to take, keeping watch in every street." (Y/n) spoke up, allowing Judith to playfully tug her hair.
Silence fell upon the group until unexpectedly, Merle broke into applause. "You're the only one who makes sense!"
Maggie, however, couldn't hold back her frustration. "Can we put him in another cell block? It's all his fault we're in this war!" Her anger was evident as she hurled debris at Merle, who effortlessly dodged it.
But (Y/n) intervened, her gaze still fixed on baby Judith. "Maggie, it doesn't matter whose fault it is now. We must leave the past behind and find something useful, for Judith's sake and all of ours."
"Our walls won't hold on forever. A simple truck caused a horde to enter our field. Leaving this place would be safer for all of us, including your daughter." Hershel's pointed words were directed at Judith, who for the moment, seemed safe and sound.
Rick felt the weight of it all, the stress consuming him. What could they do? If they abandoned the prison, where would they go? He glanced at (Y/n), Carl, and Judith, knowing he had to find a solution, and fast.
But vulnerability couldn't be shown, not in front of everyone, especially not in front of (Y/n). Rick was the leader, and he couldn't afford to falter.
His eyes locked with (Y/n)'s, and he saw genuine worry reflecting on him. Rick knew he needed to distance himself before he completely lost control.
Stepping away from the group, no one dared to call him back except Hershel, who had grown weary of his delusions.
"Get back here!" Hershel's voice thundered, startling everyone in the cell block. It was a side of him no one had seen before, not even his daughters.
But Rick couldn't stay, even with Hershel's calls echoing behind him. He left the area, making his way to the watch towers, seeking solitude and clarity.
The group stood still, trying to process the unfolding scenes before finally dispersing
Daryl noticed the discomfort on (Y/n)'s face, sensing that something was amiss. Her eyes held an unusual, expressionless gaze as she clutched onto Judith protectively, trying to soothe the wailing child after the sudden loud noise.
Seeking solace, (Y/n) retreated to her prison cell, sitting on the not-so-comfortable mattress while humming a soft lullaby to calm Judith. Daryl quietly followed, keeping a watchful eye on them both.
