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The adventure progresses in The Last of Us Season 2, as fresh factions emerge and enigmatic, hooded figures roam through the post-apocalyptic environment, presenting new dangers to our beloved characters.

In the inaugural season of Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann’s adaptation of the renowned Naughty Dog video game, attention was primarily directed toward FEDRA and the Fireflies. However, following Joel’s (Pedro Pascal) eradication of a significant number of Fireflies in the Season 1 finale — a choice that remains debatable — and with FEDRA seemingly out of play, new contenders have emerged.

Among them are the Seraphites, referred to as the “Scars,” a bow-armed, hooded faction journeying throughout the ravaged United States.

(Also of interest: What does the Washington Liberation Front entail in The Last of Us Season 2?)

If you have played The Last of Us Part II, you may already be familiar with the story of the Seraphites. However, for those tuning into the HBO series only, here is what we currently know about them — without divulging any spoilers beyond the latest episode on Max.

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When do the Seraphites make their initial appearance in The Last of Us?

The Seraphites debut on-screen in Season 2, Episode 3. We encounter them along a wooded path that leads to Seattle — the same route that Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Dina (Isabela Merced) will later traverse. The group stands out due to their hooded attire and a unique symbol marked on their clothing.

Each individual also has self-inflicted scars on their cheeks, serving as a ritualistic emblem that even the youngest among them, like Constance (Makena Whitlock), bears. These scars give rise to their nickname, the “Scars.”

The Seraphites tend to prefer close-combat weapons such as hammers and stealthy implements like bows and arrows. They likewise use a complex system of whistles to communicate, which adds a chilling dimension to their presence.

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What are the beliefs of the Seraphites?

While the series hasn’t disclosed much regarding the Seraphites’ spiritual convictions yet, we understand they revere a figure known as “The Prophet.”

In Episode 3, the Seraphite leader conveys to young Constance, “The Prophet isn’t magic. They’re simply someone who uncovered truths that were concealed from others and shared them, regardless of the cost.” The group adheres to the teachings of the Prophet even after her death a decade ago.

Who precisely the Prophet was and what she preached continues to be a mystery — but revelations are certainly forthcoming.

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What is the connection between the Seraphites and the WLF?

During their introduction in Episode 3, the Seraphite leader instructs the group to conceal themselves when he senses “Wolves” are nearby — referring to the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), whose emblem features a menacing wolf within a yellow triangle. (Significantly, Abby, a WLF member portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever, is accountable for Joel’s demise.)

Although the complete dynamics of the Seraphites’ association with the WLF are not yet clear, it is evident they are not allies. By the conclusion of the episode, Ellie and Dina come across the Seraphite group, now decimated — and while it’s not explicitly stated, the narrative strongly implies that the WLF is to blame.

Given the Seraphite leader’s greater apprehension of the “Wolves” compared to the “Demons” (their label for the Infected), it is apparent that the WLF constitutes a substantial threat. With both factions operating in Seattle, it is plausible their confrontations are over territory. However, considering the WLF’s armored vehicles, powerful weaponry, and organized units, the Seraphites seem to be at a significant disadvantage.

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The Last of Us Season 2 is currently available for streaming on Max, with new episodes premiering Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO.

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