𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | TWD [Book 1]

LXIV. The Sanctuary vs Alexandria

A pervasive grey shadow looms over the sanctuary, casting a muted pallor on the faces of both the saviors and the inhabitants going about their daily chores. They navigate their routines, careful to avoid any trouble with, the people occasionally kneel as Negan or his highest ranks pass, a gesture of respect born out of fear.

Negan stands over the undressed, dirty, and vulnerable Daryl confined within the walls of the cell—a room devoid of windows or doors. A malicious gleam in his eyes reflects the sadistic pleasure he derives from asserting his dominance. Behind him are Sergio and Simon, the former shoots a glance back at a nervous-looking Dwight, prompting a narrowing of eyes. When their gaze locks, Dwight quickly looks away, intensifying the suspicion that simmers within Sergio.

"I'm starting to think I made the wrong damn choice. However, there's always that sweet ass of a woman you—" Negan begins, a cruel smirk curling on his lips.

Daryl attempts to charge at Negan, aiming for a punch, but Sergio swiftly intervenes, his firm grip forcibly restraining Daryl before callously throwing him to the ground.

Negan's disapproving sound is eclipsed by a chorus of chuckles. "Keep it up, and you'll see what happens. Have we not learned anything, Daryl?" Negan taunts, his voice a sickening mix of amusement and menace.

Sergio delivers a merciless kick to Daryl's stomach before locking eyes with Negan, he asks, "Do you want me to do it?"

Negan's attention shifts to the necklace adorning Daryl's neck. "Love the necklace, by the way." With a swift motion, he tears the pendant from Daryl's neck, holding it up with an impressed whistle. "I think I'll hold onto it."

"Negan?"

Negan's lips curl into a sinister smirk as he shakes his head with a low chuckle. "Nah. Let Dwight keep doing his thing." His piercing gaze locks onto Daryl, a twisted satisfaction glinting in his eyes. "It's been a few days, Daryl. I think I'll visit your lady soon, and I'll bring you a nice treat from her. Unless you try that shit again, then I'll bring you her head."

The group of soldiers, led by Negan, strides out of the dimly lit cell. A few individuals kneel down in a show of submission as Negan walks down the corridor, flanked by his right-hand men.

"When will we collect?" Simon inquires, his ulterior motives concealed within the labyrinth of his thoughts.

Negan smirks. "Eager, aren't you?"

"They need to know you're serious," Simon asserts, his loyalty to Negan woven into his every word.

Negan chuckles, a dark edge lacing his laughter. "Oh, Simon, but they know." He halts in the corridor, turning to face Simon to poke his chest. "They'll shit their pants every time they see me now." Chuckling, he glances towards the cells holding the other prisoners. "How's my second favorite prisoner? Keisha been taking good care of her?"