Last week, the HBO series The Last of Us showcased one of the most intense and tragic episodes in television history. In contrast, episode three highlighted heartwarming moments, particularly in the developing relationship between Ellie, portrayed by Bella Ramsey, and Dina, played by Isabela Merced.
On a quest motivated by vengeance or justice, depending on perspective, the two teens from Jackson traveled to Seattle to confront the Washington Liberation Front (WLF) squad responsible for killing Joel, played by Pedro Pascal.
Their journey was fraught with danger, including encounters with the Infected and deceased cult members. Nonetheless, there was a tender exploration of whether Ellie and Dina’s friendship might evolve into something deeper, pondering the significance of their kiss in the first episode.
During their conversations, Ellie avoided a particular question from Dina, describing the answer as "too messed-up." The question posed was: Who was the first person Ellie killed?
Having grown up in a world devastated by the Infected, both Ellie and Dina viewed killing as a necessary reality, even for children. While they shared a horse on their way to Seattle, Dina casually inquired about Ellie’s past. Ellie, previously trained by FEDRA, evaded the question, but Season 1, episode 7 revealed the truth: Riley, Ellie’s first love, was the first person she had to kill.
In a flashback episode from Season 1, Ellie joyfully reunited with her best friend, Riley, who had left FEDRA for the Fireflies. They spent time together in an abandoned mall, capturing remnants of carefree girlhood in a world dominated by Cordyceps. However, the day took a tragic turn when they were attacked by an Infected, resulting in both girls being bitten. Only Ellie was immune to the effects.
The episode concludes before Riley turns, but it implies that Ellie had to witness her love become Infected and ultimately had to kill her. This heartbreaking tale of doomed love is not an ideal story to share with a potential girlfriend amidst the undead threat. Additionally, with Joel’s death still fresh in Ellie’s mind, she is likely unwilling to revisit the memory of her first lost love.
The Last of Us Season 2 is currently streaming on Max, with new episodes airing weekly on Sundays at 9 p.m. ET.
