Joel's Journal

by The Beskar Pen

Based on the HBO series, this collection of oneshots is a glimpse into the mind of Joel Miller. Beyond the tough exterior and capable skillset of a post-apocalyptic smuggler, despite unfathomable loss and years of hardship, the heart still feels.

1. Chapter 1

Author's Note: Takes place just before the scene in the beginning of Episode 2 when Joel, Tess, and Ellie are sheltering in a building lobby.

We left the QZ last night. After we found out Ellie was infected we just—ran. Into the night. Into the storm. We ran for longer than we should have. None of us were thinking. After Lee went after Ellie, all I could think of was Sarah—not us—not our safety.

Tess is sleeping. So is Ellie. The first light of morning shines down on her from the hole in the roof. If I would have been thinking last night I would have picked a safer building to shelter in.

Ellie is infected. She said it's three weeks old but if that was true she would have turned by now. The bite could be a day or two old. She could turn any minute.

All of this because of Tommy. I'll do anything to get to him, but smuggling her for the Fireflies? There's got to be a less insane way to get a battery or a truck.

We should go back to the QZ. What happens to Ellie is not my problem. Sure me and Tess will have to deal with FEDRA, and I don't know when or how to get to Tommy—

Growing morning light shines off of the cracked glass on my broken watch.

I can't afford to lose anyone else. I can't let Tommy down. I blink away the haze that has clouded my head since that FEDRA fool almost shot us last night. I have to stay sharp. Get Ellie to the Fireflies. Get the truck. Get to Tommy.

I hide away lingering doubts as Tess starts to wake up. At least I have her.