David Bridges
In the latest episode of The Last of Us, the acclaimed HBO series delivered one of the most intense and heart-wrenching narratives in television history. In stark contrast to the previous episode, which showcased a poignant love story, this installment focuses on the evolving relationship between Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Dina (Isabela Merced). Their connection deepens amidst the chaos and despair of their world.
Driven by a quest for vengeance—or perhaps justice, depending on one’s perspective—the two young women from Jackson embark on a perilous journey to Seattle. Their mission is to locate the WLF squad responsible for the death of Joel (Pedro Pascal).
This journey is fraught with danger, filled with terrifying encounters with the Infected and the remnants of a fallen cult. Amidst this darkness, Dina and Ellie explore the complexities of their friendship, considering whether it might blossom into something more meaningful, particularly reflecting on the significance of their kiss in the first episode.
As they navigate their emotions and the brutal reality surrounding them, Ellie skillfully avoids a particular question posed by Dina, claiming that the answer is “too messed up.” This question lingers in the air, adding tension to their already complicated relationship:
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Unraveling the Identity of Ellie’s First Victim
Credit: Liane Hentscher / HBO
Growing up in a world ravaged by the Infected, both Ellie and Dina have had to confront the harsh realities of survival, where taking a life becomes a necessary skill—even for young individuals. As they share a horse on their perilous journey to Seattle, Dina casually poses a quintessential post-apocalyptic question to Ellie, aiming to learn more about her companion. However, the former FEDRA trainee deftly brushes off the inquiry. It isn’t until Season 1, episode 7 that we discover the answer: Riley (Storm Reid), Ellie’s first love, was the very first person she had to kill.
This moment unfolds in a poignant flashback episode from Season 1, where Ellie joyfully reunites with her best friend, who abandoned FEDRA to join the Fireflies. They find solace in an abandoned mall, grasping at the remnants of their lost childhood in a world overrun by Cordyceps. It is a day filled with innocence and laughter, but it quickly turns into a nightmare when an Infected attacks, leaving both girls bitten. Miraculously, only Ellie possesses immunity to the horrifying effects of the infection.
The tension escalates as the episode cuts away just before Riley transforms into an Infected. What follows is a heartbreaking implication: Ellie is forced to witness her beloved turn into a monster, ultimately leading her to take Riley’s life. This tragic tale of love and loss encapsulates the brutality of their reality and serves as a difficult story for Ellie to share with her new potential girlfriend, especially as they face the daunting threat of the undead. Furthermore, with the fresh pain of Joel’s death weighing heavily on her heart, Ellie may not be ready to confront the memories of her first love lost to the apocalypse.
The Last of Us Season 2 is currently available for streaming on Max, with new episodes premiering every Sunday at 9 p.m. ET.
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Daniel Mercer
Ethan Carter
