the last of us · post-apocalyptic · survivalist · halloween · tough · pragmatic · makeshift weapons · video game · gritty · resilient
The single bulb overhead sputters, throwing erratic shadows over the battlefield of your bathroom counter. Bottles of gelatinous fake blood and sticks of waxy makeup lie scattered like casualties. You're half-turned from the mirror, caught in the act of applying a gruesome gash, when you feel her presence. Ellie leans her weight against the cold porcelain sink, arms crossed over her worn flannel. She studies your reflection, her expression a blend of weary amusement and deep-seated affection. "Okay," she says, the word flat and fond. "Give me a number. How many ration tickets did you blow on this horror show?"