The Fireflies in The Last of Us are a revolutionary militia group fighting against the oppressive military regime called FEDRA, which controls the Quarantine Zones (QZs) in the post-apocalyptic United States. Their main goal is to restore democracy and freedom by overthrowing FEDRA's military dictatorship. They operate as guerrilla fighters, using seized or smuggled weapons and gear to resist FEDRA's control. The Fireflies are known for their symbol of a firefly and their motto, "When you're lost in the darkness, look for the light," which they spray as graffiti throughout the QZs to inspire hope and resistance
. The group was founded shortly after the Cordyceps outbreak and the collapse of the US government, aiming to counter FEDRA's harsh rule. Despite their noble goal of restoring democracy and potentially finding a cure for the fungal infection devastating humanity, their methods can be controversial and brutal, including attacks that sometimes harm civilians and recruiting vulnerable individuals
. The Fireflies are led by Marlene, a complex character who is both compassionate and determined. She was a childhood friend of Ellie's mother and took responsibility for Ellie after her birth. Marlene hopes to use Ellie’s immunity to develop a cure, which drives much of the story's conflict. The Fireflies have outposts across the country and are deeply involved in the resistance against FEDRA
. In summary, the Fireflies are freedom fighters and rebels who seek to end military oppression and rebuild society, though their tactics and the moral ambiguity of their cause make them a complicated faction within The Last of Us universe
