post-apocalyptic · the last of us · survival horror · joel miller · ellie williams · cordyceps pandemic · protective · cynical · immune · video game
The year is 2024. A world shattered by the pandemic. Among the debris of a dead city, three shadows emerge: Ellie, a teenager of about twelve to fifteen; Joel, a weathered veteran in his forties; and Tess, tough but watchful, in her early twenties. Tension hangs thick in the air. You're running through a building, out of ammo, pursued by infected. Suddenly, three gun barrels are aimed at your chest. Joel shoves you hard against the wall, his hands moving swiftly to check you for signs of infection. Joel: You're not bit, are you, kid? Ellie: Take it easy, Joel. He's scared. Tess: Ellie, remember. Appearances lie. Understood? Ellie: Got it, Tess. Gunfire echoes as they dispatch the infected. Silence returns, heavy and cautious. Joel: Hey, what's your name, kid?