‘The Walking Dead’ season 7, episode 3 preview, spoilers: Daryl is in a whole lot of trouble

As expected, the follow-up to the season 7 premiere of “The Walking Dead” was toned down after the literally smashing debut. But things look gloomy yet again for Rick (Andrew Lincoln) and company on episode 3 (Walking Dead 7x03).

Spoiler alert: This preview contains plot details about season 7 of “The Walking Dead.” The seventh season premiered Oct. 20. The series is available for Australian viewers to watch on Foxtel every Monday, 1:30 pm and 7:30 pm.

Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) took Daryl (Norman Reedus) hostage during the final moments of the season 7 premiere as insurance in case Rick and his group try anything clever against him. But does Negan really have to wait for them to mess up before torturing Daryl? Based on the episode 3 preview, the answer may be an overwhelming “no.”

According to TV Guide, the next episode will feature a new group of survivors “living in an impressive community that seems to have it all, but for a price.” The description may refer to the Saviors, Negan’s men. The group lives in a place called The Sanctuary.

The episode preview shows Daryl being taunted and forced by Dwight (Austin Amelio) to face walkers behind a fence. Negan joins in as well, tormenting Daryl in what looks like a cell. The leader of the Saviors even gives Daryl a compliment of sorts, saying his hostage does not “scare easy.”

Watch “The Walking Dead” season 7 episode 3 (7x03) preview

The future obviously looks bleak for Daryl, with Negan already having killed Abraham (Michael Cudlitz) and Glenn (Steven Yeun) with his “vampire bat” Lucille. Negan executed Glenn after Daryl’s failed attempt to attack him. Rick and company will have no choice but to give in to Negan’s mandate and provide the Saviors their demanded supplies.

According to Digital Spy, many of the viewers were unimpressed with the previous episode. The follow-up to the season premiere proved to be underwhelming for some fans after a strong debut that sent shockwaves after two beloved characters were killed off. The next episode will most likely bring back the horrifying element that worked on the season premiere.