Between Arrows and Hearts - Daryl Dixon

Drink up

The group trailed closely behind Rick as they stepped into the building. Shane immediately began shouting orders, instructing everyone to guard the perimeter. Cass took in her surroundings, her curiosity piqued by the vast lobby. What must have once been a bustling hub filled with people, was now empty. She scanned the area, fearing to find any signs that the place could be dangerous, but everything appeared calm. There was no blood, no walkers. Just an unsettling silence.

Suddenly, the sound of a gun echoed through the lobby, causing the armed men to instinctively point their weapons, ready to defend the group against an unseen threat. Cass's heart raced as she looked around, tension thick in the air.

"Anyone infected?" The man appeared to be middle-aged, with unkempt blonde hair and pronounced dark circles under his eyes. He was carrying a gun, pointing it at the group. But Cass thought he didn't look like the type of person used to carrying a gun.

"One of our group was. He didn't make it." The entire group was breathing heavily, as if they were waiting to see what would happen next.

"Why are you here? What do you want?" The man inquired.

"A chance." Rick replied honestly.

That's asking an awful lot these days." Cass looked at the man, who slowly approached the group.

"I know."

The blonde man seemed to study them intently, his gaze flickering over each member of the group before giving his answer. "You'll all submit to a blood test. That's the price of admission."

Rick nodded. "We can do that." The group collectively lowered their weapons.

"You got stuff to bring in, you do it now. Once this door closes, it stays closed." The man said, finally lowering his gun.

Shane, Rick, Daryl, and Glenn went back to retrieve their gear, while Dale and T-Dog kept watch by the door.

"Vi, seal the main entrance. Kill the power up here." After the man's words the doors began to close automatically.

-----

Cass felt a mix of anxiety and curiosity as she stood squeezed between Glenn and Daryl in the elevator, the cramped space amplifying the tension. 

Daryl's voice cut through the silence, making her jump slightly. "Doctors always go 'round packin' heat like that?"

Dr. Jenner responded almost immediately. "There were plenty left lying around. I familiarized myself." 

He glanced around the group. "But you look harmless enough. Except you" He teased, nodding towards Carl. "I'll have to keep an eye on you." Cass chuckled watching Carl try to hide a smile.

Cass focused on steadying her breath and calming her racing heart, still buzzing with the adrenaline from being outside. She let out a deep breath, leaning slightly to the side, but immediately stood upright when her body bumped against Daryl's.

As the elevator came to a halt, she hurriedly stepped out, intentionally avoiding eye contact with the hunter.

"Are we underground?" Carol asked, adjusting her bag awkwardly.

"Are you claustrophobic?" Dr. Jenner inquired, his gaze shifting to her.

"A little." 

 "Try not to think about it." Cass fought back a laugh that threatened to escape. That was great advice, she thought sarcastically.

As they reached a large control room. , Jenner called out, "Vi, bring up the lights in the big room." 

The entire group watched in amazement as the lights began to come to life, illuminating the room. "Welcome to Zone 5," Jenner announced.