The Last of Us Season 2: Who are the Seraphites and why do they hate the WLF?

Season two of The Last of Us has brought a tense new layer to the post-apocalyptic world, with the introduction of a dangerous and enigmatic faction: the Seraphites. This group, also known as the "Scars," has been a central part of The Last of Us Part II’s narrative, and their on-screen debut in episode three is nothing short of chilling. So, who exactly are the Seraphites, and what role do they play in the world of The Last of Us?

A Mysterious new Faction

In episode three of The Last of Us season two, viewers are introduced to a group of hooded figures who are seen on a forest trail to Seattle, the city that serves as a key battleground in the series. The Seraphites are marked by the same distinctive facial scars, a key identifier that gives them their nickname. These scars are self-inflicted as part of their belief system, symbolizing their devotion to the teachings of their spiritual leader, known as "The Prophet."

While The Last of Us Part II delves much deeper into the Seraphites' story, the show gives viewers a glimpse into their world. The group is primarily known for their use of melee weapons such as hammers and bows and arrows, preferring to fight with rudimentary tools rather than relying on technology. They also communicate in a unique and sophisticated whistling language, which adds to the mysterious aura surrounding them.

Beliefs and The Prophet

The Seraphites' core belief system is shaped by their reverence for the Prophet, a leader who inspired them to reject the old world and embrace a life of simplicity and survival. The Prophet, according to the show, had a vision during the early days of the Cordyceps infection, leading her to believe that the outbreak was a punishment for humanity’s sins. The Prophet’s teachings emphasize a return to the land, renouncing technology, and living off the earth.

The Seraphite leader explains to Constance, a young girl in the group, in episode three: “The Prophet isn’t magic, they’re just people that see truths hidden from others and share their truth no matter what the cost. So it was with our Prophet. That’s how we keep her spirit alive, we follow her words, we obey her teaching, but we keep ourselves safe."

This devotion to the Prophet, however, is complicated. The Prophet has been dead for a decade, yet her followers continue to adhere to her teachings, even as their methods grow increasingly violent and extreme.

The Seraphites vs. The Washington Liberation Front (WLF)

As The Last of Us season two continues to unfold, the Seraphites’ tension with the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), a militant faction that plays a major role in the events of The Last of Us Part II, becomes a key point of conflict. In episode three, the Seraphite leader refers to the WLF as "Wolves," signaling a longstanding rivalry between the two factions.

Ellie and Dina discover the aftermath of a massacre, with several Seraphite members slaughtered in the forest. Though the perpetrators are not immediately clear, the episode strongly suggests that the WLF is responsible. From what we see in the show, the Seraphites fear the WLF, and this fear is amplified by the militaristic power of the WLF, which boasts tanks, guns, and an organized army.

The Seraphites, on the other hand, rely on their guerrilla tactics and early weapons. This power imbalance sets the stage for the ongoing territorial battle that both factions engage in across Seattle.

The Scars and Their war with the WLF

In the game, the Seraphites and the WLF are at constant odds, fighting for dominance over Seattle. The Seraphites, a group that initially renounced technology, eventually form their own army of around 500 soldiers. Despite their idealistic beginnings, the cult’s violent and zealous practices escalate over time, including acts of brutality toward outsiders.

The WLF, led by figures like Abby (played by Kaitlyn Dever), often calls the Seraphites “Scars” due to the disfiguring facial tattoos that are a hallmark of their religious devotion. In The Last of Us Part II, we learn more about the Seraphites through the eyes of the WLF and a few young survivors who have recently escaped the cult.

These encounters paint a picture of a deeply fractured and violent community, with their religious teachings potentially twisted over time. This war between the two factions, which is already well underway in the Last of Us universe, promises to escalate further as the season unfolds.

What’s next for the Seraphites?

As we delve deeper into the world of The Last of Us season two, the Seraphites remain a compelling and mysterious force. With their unsettling practices and fierce opposition to the WLF, they will undoubtedly play a major role in the ongoing battle for control of Seattle.

In the game, the Seraphites' story is told mostly through letters, notes, and encounters with members of the WLF, but the HBO series is poised to explore their backstory in more detail. How much of the Prophet’s original teachings remain intact? What is the true nature of their conflict with the WLF? These are just a few of the questions that fans of the series will be eager to see answered in the episodes to come.

With the introduction of the Seraphites, The Last of Us has only deepened its portrayal of a world where survival is no longer just about fighting the infected—it’s also about navigating the violent and unpredictable conflicts between human factions. As the Seraphites and WLF clash in the heart of Seattle, one thing is clear: the line between good and evil has never been more blurred in this brutal post-apocalyptic world.

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Where can you Stream The Last of Us Season 2?

The Last of Us season two is now streaming on HBO and Max, with new episodes airing weekly on Sundays. The fourth episode will premiere on May 4, 2025. If you want to refresh your memory, we have a recap of Episode 1, Episode 2, & Episode 3.