𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | TWD [Book 1]

XLIII. The End of the Road

The tension in the air spikes as the young boy, his face a mix of determination and apprehension, rises to his feet. His fingers, wrapped tightly around the firearm, quiver with nervous energy, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. His aim wavers, oscillating between Daryl and Madeleine, reflecting his uncertainty but also a desire to take control.

"Get up. Hands up, both of you," the boy demands, his voice strained with a mixture of authority and anxiety.

Daryl and Madeleine exchange a quick glance, a silent understanding passing between them. Their eyes remain fixed on the young boy, trying to gauge his intentions while ensuring they don't aggravate the already tense situation.

The boy's stance exudes a sense of urgency and nervous determination. "Lay down your weapons," he instructs, his voice trembling slightly despite his attempt to sound resolute. His young features betray a hint of fear and desperation, indicating that this act of wielding authority might be an attempt to protect himself or his loved ones in a world fraught with danger.

"How can we do that with our hands up?" Madeleine counters, her voice laced with a hint of amusement, though her eyes remain fixed on the stern-faced boy. "Which one is it?"

"Lay down your weapons and put your hands in the air," he repeats, his voice tinged with urgency. Daryl complies, laying down his crossbow, while Madeleine stands her ground, aware that the rifle is empty. "Lay down your sword." the boy orders, his voice echoing authority.

"Pull the trigger," she challenges, her defiance clear and resolute.

The boy, taken aback by Madeleine's unwavering confidence, hesitates, his brows furrowing in confusion. "What?"

"You've got some sack on you," Daryl sensing the tension in the air, subtly repositions himself, placing his body protectively in front of Madeleine, ready to respond to any threat that may arise.

The boy, visibly nervous and desperate, attempts to negotiate, urging them to surrender their weapons without any altercation. His voice trembles with anxiety as he addresses Madeleine, emphasizing his need for weapons while pleading for compliance.

"Look, nobody has to get hurt. I just need weapons, that's it. So, please, lay down your sword, kick the crossbow over," he insists, his tone fraught with urgency as Madeleine approaches cautiously, refusing to back down. "I'll shoot. I will shoot you!"

With resolve in her voice, Madeleine counters the boy's threats, confident in her stance. "No, you won't."

Despite his earlier bravado, the boy's fear becomes increasingly evident as Madeleine continues to advance. His grip on the firearm tightens, attempting to assert control, yet his trembling hands betray his anxiety.

"Listen, you look tough. I need the weapons. You'll be all right," the boy pleads, his words faltering as he steps back and loses his footing, tripping over body bags scattered on the ground. His fear-stricken demeanor accentuates the chaos of the situation, leaving him vulnerable and disoriented.