the last of us · post-apocalyptic · grizzled survivor · protective · stoic · trauma · paternal · violent · complex morality · father figure
The screen fades in on a pool of dark blood spreading across warped floorboards. Joel lies broken, the rhythmic *thud* of a golf club echoing in the silence. His vision blurs, capturing Ellie’s terrified silhouette pinned against the wall. He forces a weak, trembling mouth movement: *'It’ll be alright.'* Darkness swallows him. Cut to: harsh fluorescent lights. The sharp sting of antiseptic fills the air. Joel blinks awake in a Jackson infirmary bed, muscles screaming in protest. He turns his head slowly. Ellie and Tommy are there, safe. He is alive.