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The Walking Dead: Always Accountable – Daryl’s Detour, Abraham’s Angst, and a Walkie-Talkie Mystery (Season 6, Episode 6)

Originally aired: November 15, 2015. 12.87 million viewers tuned in for this Daryl-centric episode. Written by Heather Bellson and directed by Jeffrey F. January.

The Road to… Who Knows Where?:

“Always Accountable” takes a break from the Alexandria drama and follows Daryl, Sasha, and Abraham as they lead the walker herd away from the community. But their mission takes an unexpected turn when they’re ambushed by a mysterious group, leaving them scattered and vulnerable.

Key Plot Points:

• Ambush!: Surprise, Survivors!: Daryl, Sasha, and Abraham are cruising along in their fancy cars (because who doesn’t love a good road trip in the apocalypse?), when suddenly, they’re ambushed by a group of armed strangers. Daryl, being the badass that he is, tries to fight back, but he ends up separated from Sasha and Abraham in the chaos. Daryl Dixon: the lone wolf who’s always getting himself into trouble.
• Daryl’s New Friends (or Are They?): Daryl stumbles upon a group of survivors hiding in the woods. They’re a motley crew, including a woman named Tina and her companions, Dwight and Sherry. They’re all a bit skittish, and they’ve clearly been through a lot. Daryl, being the good guy that he is, tries to help them, but he’s also wary of their intentions. Daryl Dixon: the man who trusts his gut (and his crossbow).!
• Sasha and Abraham: The Odd Couple (of the Apocalypse): Sasha and Abraham, who are also separated from Daryl, find refuge in an abandoned office building. They have a heart-to-heart about their past traumas and their coping mechanisms. Abraham, who’s always been a bit of a loose cannon, is starting to develop feelings for Sasha, but he’s also struggling with his own demons. Abraham Ford: the soldier who’s trying to find peace (and maybe love) in a world gone mad.
• Betrayal: Dwight and Sherry’s Dirty Deed: Just when Daryl starts to trust Dwight and Sherry, they betray him. They steal his crossbow and his motorcycle (the nerve!), leaving him stranded in the woods. Daryl, though understandably upset, also shows a surprising amount of empathy for them. He realizes that they’re desperate, and he doesn’t hold their actions against them. Daryl Dixon: the man who’s too good for this world.
• The Mystery Voice: Who’s Calling?: The episode ends with Daryl, Sasha, and Abraham regrouping and hearing a mysterious voice on the walkie-talkie.¹ They don’t know who it is or what they want, but it’s clear that there’s more to this story than meets the eye. The walkie-talkie: the new source of suspense in the apocalypse.

Themes and Meanings:

• Accountability: Taking Responsibility for Your Actions: “Always Accountable” explores the theme of accountability in the apocalypse. Daryl’s willingness to trust Dwight and Sherry, despite their betrayal, shows his own sense of responsibility for his actions and his belief in second chances. Daryl Dixon: the man who owns his mistakes (and forgives others for theirs).!
• Isolation vs. Connection: The Power of Human Bonds: Sasha and Abraham’s conversations highlight the importance of human connection in the face of isolation and despair. They’re both struggling with their own demons, but they find solace and support in each other’s company. The apocalypse: it’s a lonely place, but it’s easier to survive with friends.
• The Unknown: The Ever-Present Threat: The ambush on the road and the introduction of a new, organized group of survivors remind us that the apocalypse is full of unpredictable dangers. Even when you think you’re safe, there’s always something lurking around the corner, ready to challenge your survival skills and your trust in others. The Walking Dead: where paranoia is a survival skill.

Little Details You Might Have Missed:

• Daryl losing his crossbow is a symbolic moment. It’s his signature weapon, and it represents his strength and his independence.² Losing it to Dwight and Sherry is a reminder that even the most capable survivors can be vulnerable. Daryl Dixon: the man who lost his weapon (but not his heart).!
• Abraham’s discovery of a military uniform in the office building reflects his ongoing struggle with his identity and his purpose in the apocalypse. He’s trying to figure out who he is now that his mission to Washington has been compromised. Abraham Ford: the soldier who’s searching for a new battle.
• Dwight and Sherry’s references to the “Burns” group foreshadow the introduction of Negan and the Saviors, a major antagonist group that will play a significant role in future seasons. The Saviors: the new baddies on the block (and they’re even worse than the Wolves).!

Stats and Stuff:

• Walker Kills: 15+ (the survivors are still keeping those walker-slaying skills sharp).
• Human Deaths: None (but the betrayals sting).
• Survivor Count: Stable, but the road ahead is uncertain.

My Final Verdict:

“Always Accountable” is a character-driven episode that explores the themes of accountability, trust, and the unpredictable nature of the apocalypse. Daryl’s encounter with Dwight and Sherry, Sasha and Abraham’s heart-to-heart, and the mysterious voice on the walkie-talkie all contribute to the suspense and intrigue of the episode. This is “The Walking Dead” at its best – keeping you guessing and leaving you wanting more. What did you think of the episode? Were you surprised by Dwight and Sherry’s betrayal? Let’s discuss in the comments!