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The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 5 Recap: Spores, Stalkers and Backup

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Published: Monday, May 12, 2025 at 1:50 am

The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 5 Recap: Spores, Stalkers, and a Relentless Ellie

Episode 5 of HBO's *The Last of Us* Season 2 plunges deeper into the post-apocalyptic world, showcasing Ellie's relentless pursuit of Abby and the dangers that lie ahead. The episode opens with a chilling flashback at a W.L.F. hospital, revealing a terrifying encounter with infected spores and the devastating consequences of the Cordyceps fungus. A chilling story of a sealed-off basement and a deadly airborne threat sets the stage for the episode's suspense.

Meanwhile, Ellie and Dina navigate the treacherous streets of Seattle, seeking a safe path to the hospital. Their journey is fraught with peril, including an encounter with a building infested with stalkers, forcing them to rely on the help of Jesse. Dina shares a harrowing story of her own past, revealing the origins of her hardened resolve.

The episode culminates in a tense confrontation between Ellie and Nora, a W.L.F. nurse. Ellie's immunity to the infection is revealed, leading to a brutal interrogation and a shocking revelation about Joel's actions. The episode ends with a cliffhanger, hinting at the introduction of crucial flashbacks between Ellie and Joel, promising a deeper exploration of their relationship. The episode's structure mirrors that of *The Last of Us Part II*, setting the stage for a potentially divisive narrative approach.

Keywords: The Last of Us, Season 2, Episode 5, Recap, Spores, Stalkers, Ellie, Dina, Nora, Abby, Joel, HBO, Cordyceps, Infected, W.L.F., Seattle, Video Game, Future Days, Jesse, Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Isabela Merced, Kaitlyn Dever.

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