As events unfurl, the group initially opts for the longer path but is forced to backtrack and take the shorter, more perilous route. Along the way, they confront Clickers in a harrowing encounter before arriving at their destination.
The episode mirrors the tone of its predecessor, delivering an ending that prompts reflection on its dark themes. Below is an exploration of the pivotal moments in the episode’s conclusion.
Tragedy strikes as the Fireflies’ mission crumbles in a scene of chaos and despair (Photo: The Last of Us/Sony Pictures)The Fate of the Fireflies at the State House
Upon reaching the State House, Joel, Tess, and Ellie discover a grim scene. The Fireflies, who were supposed to take Ellie off their hands, are all dead. Trucks and barricades outside the building suggest a battle, and inside, the group finds that infection among the Fireflies led to infighting.
Joel deduces that one Firefly became infected, causing chaos and leading to their deaths. This tragic twist leaves Joel and Tess without the resources or guidance they were counting on, complicating their mission to reconnect with Tommy.
Tess’ Infection and Its Timing
The episode also reveals that Tess has been bitten by an infected, although the exact moment is not explicitly shown. During a sequence in which Joel, Tess, and Ellie face off against Clickers, Tess becomes separated, presumably leading to her bite.
While Ellie is also bitten, her immunity renders it inconsequential, whereas Tess’s injury carries fatal implications. Tess later discloses her infection, confirming the dire consequences of their encounter.
Tess’s Plea for Joel to Continue
Realizing her fate, Tess urges Joel to ensure Ellie reaches safety and fulfills the Fireflies’ mission. While Joel initially resists, Tess becomes increasingly desperate, searching for any clues that could direct their path forward.
She reveals her bite and contrasts it with Ellie’s immunity, interpreting Ellie’s condition as proof of hope for humanity. Tess makes an emotional appeal to Joel, asking him to take Ellie to Bill and Frank, believing they can continue the mission.
A selfless act of sacrifice, ensuring Joel and Ellie’s escape from danger (Photo: The Last of Us/Sony Pictures)Her plea also touches on their relationship, suggesting a deeper bond between her and Joel that Joel has struggled to fully embrace. Tess’s vulnerability and urgency underscore the emotional weight of her request.
Introduction of Bill and Frank
Tess’s insistence on taking Ellie to Bill and Frank sets the stage for episode 3. Hints about the duo have been subtly incorporated into the series, including the radio codes referenced in earlier episodes.
Bill and Frank, portrayed by Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett, are described as resourceful allies living outside the Boston QZ. Joel and Tess’s past dealings with them suggest they could provide the support needed to advance Ellie’s journey.
Tess’s Sacrifice and the Tendrils
In a devastating turn, Tess sacrifices herself to buy Joel and Ellie time to escape. She prepares to destroy the State House and the infected horde by dousing the area in oil and grenades.
Her death introduces a chilling new concept to the series: the tendrils. These fungal extensions, which replace the spores from the original game, serve as a means of infection and communication among the infected.
The horrifying moment when an infected shoves its tendrils into Tess’s mouth highlights the grotesque nature of the outbreak. Tess’s final act of defiance ensures that the building and the infected are destroyed, allowing Joel and Ellie to flee.
Comparing Episode 2 to the Game
The episode retains many elements from the game while introducing remarkable changes. Tess’s death, for example, differs as she confronts an infected horde rather than FEDRA soldiers.
Additionally, her game counterpart directs Joel to take Ellie to Tommy, relying on his Firefly connections, rather than Bill and Frank. These adaptations reflect the series’ unique approach to storytelling while honoring the source material.
