Horizons - Dreaming Anew - Chapter 6 - CassieJ (2024)

Chapter Text

Elisabet felt numb on the walk to the palace. She took in many sights that typically would have amazed her and the Sun-Kings palace was truly a sight to see. Normally she would've marveled at the different pictures, tapestries and stone work displayed, as well as the architecture. With the knowledge that Aloy had gone off to fight, however, Elisabet found that right now it all mattered very little to her. She couldn't erase the thoughts of Aloy being in danger from her mind, and so, taking in the sights of Meridian seemed irrelevant to her.

It wasn't long before they were in the palace, the hallways Marad was leading them through quiet and deserted. Marad had given up speaking to her for now, but he appeared to understand and not hold it against her. His tone was kind when he showed her the room she could stay in.

"I hope you will find this room comfortable," he said quietly.

She peered inside and found a large airy room. The curtains were a deep red and fluttered in the breeze from a large open window. There was also a bed that looked soft. Flowers were set out and there was even a bowl with fruits in it.

"Thank you," she muttered as she walked in.

"Elisabet," Marad said and she turned to face him.

"Aloy is very capable. She is..." he paused, a pondering expression on his face before it sharpened again. "Many in Meridian speak of her as if she is the Sun's fire come alive, so ferocious and lethal in battle is she. As sure as the Sun rises, so shall Aloy return."

Elisabet nodded. The words had a two-fold effect. It both gave her some reassurance, but on the other hand, she still didn't like that Aloy was fighting. It amazed her how clearly well-known Aloy was, but Elisabet knew well that when it came to the position you held, the power and fame, there was always another side to it. The pressure could be suffocating and it had crushed many people throughout history. She could only hope Aloy would not be counted amongst them.

She clenched her fists. Not on her watch.

"Thank you," she spoke aloud and he nodded.

"I will return shortly," he said and left.

His words about Aloy did little to settle her nerves. She was proud of what Aloy had done and she was fiercely proud of her willingness to aid those in need, but picturing Aloy in battle, much less describing her as lethal and ferocious was still something Elisabet had trouble coming to terms with. She desperately wished it wasn't necessary. She wished that the girl she'd spent months with now could lean back and relax, perhaps find something that didn't involve tackling machines several times her size.

Her and Aloy had been in each others company since she had woken up to this new world. Elisabet still didn't know what they were in regard to each other, but she knew that she was attached. More than she had previously thought it would seem, but was that so surprising after spending months together almost non-stop?

She noticed that she'd begun to think of Aloy in possessive terms. As if she were hers. There were several problems with that. First of all, she wasn't certain Aloy was hers. Even if Elisabet felt that way, which she wasn't entirely sure of, she couldn't deny that the thought crossed her mind more often lately. Nor could she deny that in her gut it felt right.

Secondly, she had no idea what Aloy felt. It wasn't like Aloy was willing or eager to share about her emotional state and more often than not, Aloy chose to deflect and evade difficult conversations. There had been several moments though that made Elisabet wonder. Aloy came apart back at GAIA Prime and she didn't reject Elisabet's embrace or comfort. Clearly Aloy had some level of trust in her and GAIA, shown also by having given them access to her Focus and details about her life.

Third, did Aloy even want a relationship like that? Elisabet and GAIA had both come to the conclusion that Aloy suffered from her childhood, especially when it came to her not having a mother figure in her life. But did that mean she wanted someone to step in and take on that role for her? Aloy was a young woman now and incredibly capable, at least when it came to survival. Elisabet wasn't so sure when it came to the emotional aspects of life. Nothing indicated that Aloy had any idea what to do with that, except of course when it came to others and their issues. It was her own that caused problems.

There was also Elisabet herself to consider. She had very briefly throughout her life thought about having children. It wasn't that she didn't want to, but back then the world was such an unstable place with rampant terrorism, companies going to war with each other and climate issues. That hadn't been a world Elisabet wanted a child to grow up in, and she was happy she never did considering how it all ended. The world was not stable now either, of course. She and GAIA both knew that unless the terraforming system came fully back online it would only be a matter of time before everything went down the drain again. Plus, one of her only relationships had been Tilda, and adopting a child hadn't ever been a subject they talked about. Just the thought of her and Tilda discussing children made her want to crawl deep into a hole.

Still, the situation was different. Aloy was already here. She let out a frustrated groan. She didn't know what to do. She desperately wanted to speak with GAIA, but not here. She didn't know how safe it was or if anyone was listening.

She remembered when GAIA asked her how she'd like her child to be. It was almost impossible for her to not think of Aloy when she thought of those words and it brought a smile to her lips.

She sat down on the bed, testing it. It was as soft as it looked and the bed covers felt like touching soft flowing water. It felt silk-like, but she wasn't certain. She sighed deeply, looking forward to creeping under the covers later.

There was a soft knock on her door and she went to open it, revealing Marad again. He held in his one hand a jug with water and in the other hand what appeared to be folded clothes.

"I have brought you water and clothes fitting for someone visiting the palace. If you wish to change, I will wait outside," he said, briefly eyeing her dirty Nora outfit. "I imagine you must be warm in those leathers and furs. Try it on, if you wish," he finished and put the clothes on the bed and the jug of water on a small table.

He was right. She was warm, uncomfortably so.

"That's kind of you. I don't want to ask for too much, but is it possible to bathe somewhere?"

"It is not too much, especially for one who travels in the company of Aloy. She has done much for the Sundom and if we can repay her just a little of what we owe, then we shall happily do so," he said with a small smile.

She would have to talk to Aloy later. She knew Aloy killed Helis and destroyed HADES and defended the city from Scarab and Khopesh machines, but Elisabet felt like she was missing a few details. She could go looking in the files Aloy had given her but she would rather respect the trust she had been given and hear it directly from her.

"If you would follow me?" Marad gestured. She picked up the clothes he had brought her and joined him in the well-lit hallway outside of her room. There were many windows and she could see the bustling city on the largest mesa and faintly hear the sounds of life. Below was a large courtyard where she saw a child play-fighting with what looked like a practice spear. She couldn't help but smile at the eager shouts coming from him.

"Who is that down there?" she asked. Marad paused and she felt intensely scrutinized for a moment.

"That is the Sun-King's half-brother, Prince Itamen. As you can see, he is very eager to learn how to fight, much to the dismay of his mother," Marad smiled. "He is very taken with the spear, it would seem," Marad said with an amused look that she didn't understand.

She nodded and began walking again.

"If I may," he asked, regarding her with a curious look. "You and Aloy bear a likeness I have seldom seen before, only you are older."

She gave him a challenging look.

"Forgive me," he said, laughing quietly. "But I believe you know what I am asking you. You see, we were led to believe that Aloy had no living blood."

"Did Aloy tell you that?"

Marad didn't answer for a short while and the only sound was their footsteps.

As they turned another corner, the hallway grew darker. Instead of being lit by windows it was now lit by torches. Finally he answered.

"I have had conversations with Aloy before, but she is not very forthcoming when it comes to herself."

Elisabet couldn't stop the snort that left her.

"That's an understatement if I ever heard one."

Marad appeared briefly amusem*nt before he continued.

"I spoke with a young man who came to aid Meridian at the behest of Aloy," he said and pushed open a beautiful door that had carvings of the sun in different stages. It led to an empty room with a large bath in it.

"He was protective of Aloy, that much was clear, but it was he who confirmed that Aloy was alone. In regards to family, I mean," he clarified.

Elisabet stared at Marad for a moment and sat down on a bench.

"You mean you gathered information on her."

He inclined his head.

"That is not inaccurate. It was by no means malicious, I assure you," he said in a placating manner. "But it is my duty to know things about all who can influence the Sundom, whether that information is relevant or not at the time. The irrelevant can quickly become important," he mused, still looking at her with open curiosity. "In the case of Aloy, however, the interest lies mainly with Sun-King Avad. He was informed of Aloy's abrupt departure on the eve following the Battle of the Alight and became concerned. I must assure you, the only reason we spoke to one of her tribe was to determine where she might have traveled to. But now she returns...along with you."

Elisabet raised her eyebrows.

"The Sun-King is interested in Aloy? How so?"

"That is not for me to say, I'm afraid."

"Then what is yours to say?"

Marad stroked his chin for a moment, considering.

"Very well, I shall endeavor to be a little more direct. Aloy is well regarded here, especially by the Sun-King. You are unknown. However, your likeness to Aloy - and Aloy speaking well for you - affords you a certain amount of trust. I wished to take my own measure of you."

Elisabet frowned and carded her fingers through her hair. She sighed.

"And what have you found?"

He smiled easily, hands folded in front of him.

"I have found that I am satisfied. When you have bathed and clothed yourself the Sun-King will no doubt wish to meet you at some point."

Elisabet paused, her hand freezing while untying a few cords on her clothing.

"Wait, what? Why does the Sun-King wish to meet me?"

"You arrived with Aloy, and you have her likeness. Or is it perhaps more accurate to say that she has yours?" he questioned, rubbing his chin again.

She groaned aloud and pressed her thumbs to her temples. She was too tired for this.

"Aloy and I are bound by blood, but what we are to one another... I don't know. We haven't figured that out yet," Elisabet finally said.

Marad hummed softly and nodded.

"I see. My first thought when I saw you next to each other was that you were surely her mother," he said slowly and Elisabet looked away. "But the young man I spoke to was quite certain Aloy had no family, so that surely cannot be..." he said, trailing his words with a raised brow.

Elisabet blew out some air and shrugged.

"Like I said... I don't know. It's complicated."

Marad smiled again and nodded.

"Yes. Family does have a tendency to be that. I pray the Sun will light the path ahead for you both. Now, I must leave. Remember - when you are done, simply knock."

He left and closed the door behind him and Elisabet finally slumped on the bench, weary from the days of travel, and from the conversation she'd just had. It seemed there was a lot of information Aloy hadn't told her. Sun-Kings? Strange advisors who seemingly 'take measure' of things and who was clearly a spy, and prodding at the uncertainty that was Elisabet's own feelings regarding Aloy. She doubted he had knowingly done so. Or maybe he had. She groaned loudly.

She sighed and began undressing. A bath was exactly what she needed right now. Now if only she could distract her thoughts from Aloy fighting machines.

It hadn't taken long for Aloy to get down to Meridian Village below. The lift had been frustratingly slow, but it was much faster than having to exit through the northern gate. There were people everywhere and many of them were running deeper into Meridian Village, away from the Royal Maizelands. Screaming and shouting could be heard and further away she could hear the metallic roars and screeches of machines. Soldiers and city guards were helping the people to safety and had formed a barrier in an attempt to stop the machines from entering the village - should they get that far.

Aloy picked up her pace and ran faster against the throng of people trying to flee. After a moment she got noticed and word quickly spread, piercing through the haze of panic and fear.

"Move, move!" she yelled, and people complied, leaping to the side to allow her to pass more swiftly.

"...Savior!"

"She's here! The Sun blesses us!"

Aloy set her jaw firmly and kept running. Quickly she reached the line of soldiers who without a word opened a gap in their formation to allow her through.

"Savior! Continue along the path. The machines have breached as far in as the main warehouse. Unleash the Sun's fiery rays upon them, huntress!" a soldier said, one with an elaborate helmet and his fist clenched against his heart.

She nodded a quick thanks and continued along the path, the sounds of battle getting louder.

She turned another curve in the path and it all came into sight. All around were sparking corpses of Glinthawks and Watchers and Aloy spotted a dead Longleg as well. They looked different though. They were black-plated and had a trim of gold. The corpses of the machines were joined by dead farm workers and soldiers as well.

"Hephaestus," she whispered, her mind leaping to that conclusion at once. After her experience in the Cut, there was no doubt to her.

Her eyes quickly scanned the field of battle, taking in Erend and his Vanguard who had formed a line around the warehouse. Her eyes widened a fraction at another familiar person fighting alongside them. What was Varl doing here? She quickly dismissed the thought and nocked an arrow and let it fly. It hit its mark, tearing into the eye of a Watcher that had been about to fire a ball of energy at one of Erend's men. It reared back from the impact and one of the Vanguard soldiers quickly used the opportunity to crush his hammer against the machine.

"Varl! To your left!" she screamed and he must have heard her, because she saw him twist out of the way of a Scrapper that tried to bury its metallic claws into his side. Varl dodged another attack and buried his spear into the side of it, felling it.

Aloy's presence went noticed now - by human and machine. It seemed to galvanize the Vanguard who erupted into fierce battle cries, their hammers coming down harder and faster on the attacking machines. A good part of the machines however turned their attention to the new threat.

"ALOY!" Erend's voice rang out, easily heard above the frenzy of battle.

She didn't acknowledge him, choosing instead to focus on picking Glinthawks out of the sky. One exploded with ice, covering it's wings and causing it to crash into the ground with the sound of ice cracking and metal snapping. Before the Glinthawk could do anything else a hammer fell onto it, crushing its head.

She was about to fire at a second Glinthawk when she spotted the incoming lance of ice. She grunted and threw herself to the side, expertly using the momentum to roll. She raised herself to a knee and turned to aim, arrow leaving her bow with a sharp whisper. It tore the beak from the Glinthawk who let out a piercing screech as it flailed in the air from the impact. It began a rapid dive toward the line of Vanguardsmen and Aloy instead took aim at a Longleg that had burst through a tall crop of maize.

She exhaled and paused her breathing before letting the heavy-tipped arrow fly. It struck the concussion sac on the front of the machine, embedding itself deeply. A moment passed and just as Aloy was about to fire another the sac exploded violently and caused the machine to fall and skid across the dusty path.

She raced across the field with her spear drawn. She could hear a shriek of pain from behind her, knowing that had been human, and possibly someone dying. She couldn't stop now though and quickly closed the remaining distance to the fallen Longleg. With a yell she drew her spear back and stabbed deep into the machine, tearing through essential wires and boards, reducing it to a broken sparking heap.

She shook her left hand, noticing a few light burns from where the sparks had touched her skin. She paid it no heed, her eyes sweeping the battlefield again, noticing significantly fewer machines. The Vanguard had taken some losses, but they were certainly holding their own.

There was an awful smell across the Maizelands. It felt heavy and thick and Aloy easily recognized the scent of blood and machine fluids.

Suddenly a silent thrum was audible to Aloy and she crouched low, eyes and Focus scanning for the sound but she came up empty. She knew that sound, had heard it before and usually that meant...

The sound stopped abruptly and was followed by a bright burst of energy that flew toward one of the Vanguardsmen. With a spray of blood and a choked scream the blast pierced his throat and he was dead before he hit the ground.

Stalkers. It had revealed itself when firing and Aloy quickly took advantage and lined up another heavy-tipped arrow. It left her bow and impacted against what she knew was the component giving the Stalker its ability to hide. The arrow hit and buried deep, causing the component to hiss and spark. The Stalker swiftly turned to her and began a quick leaping pace toward her. It was flickering in and out of sight because of the damaged part. Aloy snapped off another arrow which buried itself in an armor plate. It began to thrum, the sound getting louder before it exploded, shearing armor plates from the Stalker. It barely slowed it's pace, however, still bounding towards her.

The Stalker was plated in black as well. It looked deadlier and more sleek and its baleful red eyes were firmly fixed on her.

"EREND!" she yelled loudly, drawing her spear again as the Stalker was upon her. "STALKERS!"

She began running toward the approaching machine. Just then then Stalker leapt at her, sharp metallic claws extended to rend her open and Aloy slid under the machine, spear tearing open armor and components on the underside of it. She was showered with more sparks but ignored light stings the sparks caused, quickly getting to her feet again and facing the Stalker.

Behind her she heard loud shouts of surprise from the Vanguardsmen and the harsh sounds of battle picked up again from their side of the fight. Aloy kept her eyes on the Stalker though, turning slowly as it circled her.

"Come on then," she muttered, green eyes fixed on the machine. She tightened her hands on her spear.

As if goaded by her words, the machine quickly feinted to the left, but then sprung back to the right, claws swiping horizontally. She dodged back, feeling the wind from the striking claws and extended her spear in a sharp thrust. The tip of her spear pierced one of the red eyes and the Stalker leapt back.

Aloy prepared herself once more, machine and human circling one another again.

The machine was eerily silent as it moved. Aloy was used to some sound from them. Metallic screeching or roaring, but the Stalker was silent, much more so than a normal Stalker. Even its footsteps were incredibly light, the gentlest crunch of sand instead of the heavier thudding machines usually made.

The machine suddenly bounded to the left again and sprung back right - like before - and Aloy began to dodge backwards. Instead, the Stalker seemed to gain a sharp burst of speed. As it passed her, she noticed a second Stalker leap from the tall maize crops and she threw herself to the side at the very last moment. She rose quickly, eyes tracking the newly arrived Stalker, before she could take another step something sharp swiped down her back, tearing through armor, skin and flesh.

Aloy gasped and stumbled forward. She quickly turned, eyes darting between the two Stalkers. They'd effectively surrounded her. She gripped her spear tight, Rost's words ringing out in her mind.

"On the hunt, there is only you and the target. If you are hurt, use the pain. It will teach you how to become stronger."

She grit her teeth and focused, trying her best to put to use what Rost had shown her. To use the pain in battle as a focus. She shifted her stance, ready to move. She would need to be perfect and fluid, always moving.

The Stalker to her right attacked again and Aloy found herself moving before she could even think about it, weaving around the claws and tail of the machine. She turned abruptly in another direction as the second machine flew past her, ending up a small distance away from her. She kept dodging and weaving around their attacks, feeling exhaustion from the last two days rapidly catching up to her. They were so aggressive, barely giving her room to think. All she needed was one opening.

She got it soon as one of the machines flew past her, it's claws swiping uselessly. It landed farther away from her and slid on the sand which left the other Stalker open.

She used the momentum as she spun to bring her spear deep into the side of the Stalker closest to her, causing something within it to burst, showering her and the ground with sparks. It leapt away from her, taking her spear with it, but it barely made it two steps before it collapsed again. As it lay thrashing it finally released a sound, an odd growling that somehow came across as defeated to Aloy. She quickly turned to face the other but Varl and Erend were both hammering and stabbing away at it, neither willing to let the Stalker gain range on them.

Turning back to the fallen Stalker, it's red gaze was still fixed on Aloy. It kept thrashing, tail and legs trying to find some kind of purchase on the ground.

She drew her bow and nocked a heavy-tipped arrow. She took careful aim and after staring at the machine for a second more, finally let it fly. It buried itself deep into the eye and it did not take long before it finally collapsed fully, dead.

She quickly looked around the Maizelands. There were only a few Scrappers left and they were being handily taken care of. She could feel the gazes of Erend and Varl behind her. She could hear them approaching as they were done with the other Stalker.

She swallowed and slung her bow over her shoulder and went up to the dead machine to pull her spear out. She grunted as she pulled it loose, breathing heavily. She felt utterly exhausted. Elisabet had been right, of course. She needed rest, but there hadn't been time. She'd been complacent and foolish and she had no doubt that Rost would have scolded her fiercely for not being prepared. She should have brought her sling, brought bombs. She breathed deeply, shakily. This wouldn't happen again. She was better than this, stronger than this. Exhaustion was no excuse. She was lucky.

"Survival requires perfection," she muttered. She had been far from perfect.

She felt the wound on her back more keenly now. It felt like it was pulsing angrily, hot and still bleeding. She could feel sticky blood on her back, running down the inside of her armor. She grimaced. Luckily it didn't feel deep at all though.

"Aloy," a voice said from behind, a mix of soft and firm. Varl. She turned and faced them both, burying her nervousness. She wondered often if they would be displeased with her leaving. She supposed it made sense if they were angry with her. But then, she hadn't had a choice. There was too much at stake, too much to figure out. And she couldn't stand how the people looked at her after the battle. Leaving was the only choice.

Erend had a small cut on his forehead. There was blood on his armor and darker fluids from machines. His light-blue eyes were fixed on Aloy and while his expression was tight, the gaze he leveled on Aloy was concerned.

She quickly checked over Varl as well. He looked fine, though it looked like he had been hit with ice at some point. There was a small smile on his lips and his warm brown eyes regarded Aloy fondly.

"Aloy," Varl said again, gentle and firm and Aloy snapped her green eyes to his brown. "You're hurt."

"It's just a small cut," she said dismissively.

Rost's words about pain and its usefulness swam through her mind one more and it almost made her smile. Despite the exhaustion she felt, the world appeared in sharp focus to her. It had taken a while, but throughout the last year she had taken Rost's lessons on pain to heart. It told her when she made mistakes. Told her when she wasn't perfect. It told her where she needed to improve and it reminded her to never stop. She always needed to move and learn. Become better and stronger. Only then could she protect Elisabet and GAIA and fix things.

"We saw the tail swipe," Erend rumbled quietly. "Didn't look small."

She shook her head, frowning. She looked around the battlefield, pointedly ignoring the concerned gazes on her. There was so much blood on the ground and dead people strewn around. She felt a pang hit her. She should have been faster. Better. It was her job to protect and she had failed here she thought, as she took in the glassy eyed stare of a dead farm worker. At least she had been here though. If they'd delayed their trip to Meridian just one day, the toll would have been higher.

"Aloy!" Erend said again, interrupting her thoughts. She stared at him, at the cut on his forehead.

"You need to get that cleaned," she said.

Erend turned to Varl, shrugging in disbelief. "Can you believe this girl?" he exclaimed loudly, irritation and concern laced together in his tone.

Varl sighed deeply and stepped closer to Aloy. He gently placed a hand upon her shoulder.

"Aloy, can you hear me?" he said slowly.

She gave him an odd look. What was wrong with these two? She relaxed and tried a smile, although from the look on Erend's face, and the deepening one of concern on Varl's, there was something else going on.

"Can you?" he repeated.

"You're right in front of me," she said and shrugged his hand off her shoulder. "Of course I can hear you."

Erend looked like he was about to burst into flames. His face was red, though, he seemed to be managing to hold back whatever words he had been thinking.

"Alright," Varl murmured, brown eyes studying her. "So you are here. I've seen...the Warchief often spoke about how people can be physically here, but their minds are not. I was worried."

She peered at him for a long moment, considering his words. She knew what he spoke of. She'd often seen Rost in the throes of dreams or thoughts during the day where he would be present, but his mind was not. Aloy knew she herself had terrible dreams, but she felt very present in the moment.

"Warchief Sona is wise. I know what you're talking about, but you don't need to worry about that. I'm fine," she said calmly.

"Just turn around already!" Erend loudly said and Varl gave him a scolding look.

"Erend, that's not very helpful."

Aloy narrowed her eyes in growing irritation.

"But Varl, this ain't right. She's being...fire and spit, what was that word Ersa used...Ah! She's being obtuse!" he said loudly, pointing at Aloy.

"Alright, that's enough. I'm going now," she said with spiking irritation and Varl grasped her shoulder again and she felt another surge of anger begin to pool in her stomach.

"Aloy, just ignore Erend for now-

"Hey!"

"-we just want to help you. We know you're hurt. We saw it, do you understand?" Varl said slowly.

"And I'll take care of it," she replied, growling.

He looked unimpressed, brows arching.

"Alone? A wound on your back?"

She scowled and felt a blush creep into her cheeks. Didn't they understand she just wanted to leave? Why were they being annoyingly stubborn and pushy?

She drew in a deep breath, thinking of Rost. He would be calm in the face of this, and he would control the situation.

"Varl, I'm going to the palace now. Marad is waiting for news, no doubt."

Erend snorted. "No doubt old Marad already knows everything that's happened here. Eyes everywhere, so how about you just let us take care of that wound and then you can go," he grumbled.

She glared at him before finally letting out a loud irritated sigh.

"No. Compromise, then. I'm going to the palace and neither of you are stopping me. You can follow, but I'm not staying here any longer, understand?" she said firmly.

Varl and Erend looked at each other for a long moment and seemed to come to some kind of silent understanding as they both turned to her and nodded.

"Okay," Erend said agreeably. "Works for us. Maybe we can even stop you from running off in the night again."

"Erend..." Varl sighed.

"Nah, don't even start it. She needs to hear it."

"Right now? Just let it wait for a bit," he said quietly.

Aloy stared at them and felt that same feeling she'd had on the night after the Battle of the Alight. Guilt. She remained quiet.

Erend waved a thick hand dismissively.

"Fine. It can wait. Let's just go to the palace," he grunted.

Aloy slid her spear into place and walked off toward Meridian Village without another word. She could feel the cut on her back pulse angrily when she moved, but it didn't matter, a little pain was irrelevant. She heard the two men quickly follow behind her, speaking quietly to each other.

She quickly reached the line of soldiers and nodded at the commander.

"The machines are all dead. The Vanguard are securing and clearing the Maizelands," Erend spoke from behind her and the commander nodded and saluted. He turned to bark orders to the line of soldiers who quickly moved into the now quiet battlefield.

When the trio entered Meridian Village and headed to the lift, the people who crowded the entrance to it hushed and parted for them. Gasps, mutters and soft words came from them. Aloy looked around uncertainly, hating how crowded it was. How close people were. Behind her, Erend and Varl moved up and started shouting for people to move quicker.

"Sun bless your steps, Savior!" a man shouted.

"She saved us again! The Sun favors her!"

Aloy clenched her jaw and stepped onto the lift, fighting not to scowl. Erend and Varl joined her, Erend looking particularly amused.

As the lift started to rise Erend chuckled.

"You're pretty popular around here. People were devastated when they found out you'd left," he said quietly.

"I wish they wouldn't do..." she waved her hand, "that."

"Hah," Erend exclaimed, scratching his face. "Half of them think the Sun shines out of your ass! You should see what's being built at the Alight."

Varl winced and Erend laughed. Aloy stared at them.

"What are you talking about?"

Erend looked smug and Varl scratched the back of his head awkwardly.

"Uh, you see Aloy, it's really not that bad..." Varl started.

"What Varl is trying to say is that they're building a statue of you," Erend laughed.

Varl winced again, knowing her well enough to know that she would hate that. And he was right.

She did.

"Goddess save me," she growled and rubbed her forehead. She was going to find whoever was responsible for that. Maybe give them a good slap over the head.

Erend obviously found it funny. Every time he looked at her scowling face he snickered, and even Varl couldn't stop his lips from twitching.

She rolled her eyes, shoulders lowering.

"It's good to see you both," she admitted in a quiet voice.

Varl gave her a smile and Erend looked pleased at her words.

"Good to see you as well," he grunted, and Varl nodded in agreement.

The only sound for a while was the lift raising the three of them up to the mesas.

Erend seemed irritated with her, but Varl seemed okay. It hadn't been her intention to hurt any of them when she left and she hoped they understood that. She could see why they would be upset though, she supposed. They were friends and she had left without a word, but everything had quickly become too much. All the stares, people touching her back and arms, and then there was the knowledge that things weren't over. Helis and HADES defeated was a great step, certainly, but at the time, there'd still been no GAIA and even now, it was only pure luck that GAIA was online at all - and then in a version that was experiencing a lot of errors and no control of the terraforming system, which was going to become catastrophic eventually, according to Elisabet and GAIA.

"What have you been doing?" she asked.

Erend shrugged and Varl gave her a smile.

"After you left I went home. I told the High Matriarchs that I wanted to find you so that I could continue helping you, with whatever that may be. They agreed that was the most important, so I left again," Varl explained.

"Even Lansra agreed?" Aloy asked with a lifted brow.

"High Matriarch Lansra was very outspoken about how important it is that the Anointed receive all the assistance she requires," he said with a widening smile. "She's... certainly changed her ways."

"More like she's afraid the Goddess will strike her down or something," Aloy said, rolling her eyes.

Varl let out an amused laugh, but he nodded in agreement. Aloy's eyes drifted to Erend and he shrugged.

"Ain't been doing much myself. The Vanguard has been busy keeping things under control here along with the city guard. And we've been doing some repairs and helping with re-construction too, I guess," he said.

Aloy nodded and turned away, looking out over Meridian Village and then the Maizelands. The city guard and people were working together to clear away bodies and machines and putting out fires from what she could see. She was glad she'd gotten there in time to at least prevent worse casualties, but she wished she would've been faster.

"So..." Erend said as the elevator reached the top. "You uh, find what you were after?"

She didn't answer immediately, at once unsure how to answer the question. She bit her lip.

"Sort of, I suppose. I found something, but all its done is show me how much more work I have left."

Varl peered at her curiously as they walked through the streets and alleys, heading to the palace.

"You're going to leave again," he stated.

"Yeah," she said quietly.

"When?" Varl asked.

"I'm not sure, but soon. As soon as possible," she said. "Listen, I've got to... I found something, but, I'm not sure how to explain it."

Varl and Erend looked at each other and seemed to shrug. Maybe it would be best to just show them?

Elisabet paced restlessly in her room in the palace. She wouldn't have been surprised if the beautifully patterned carpet on the floor had been ruined by her pacing. After bathing she had gone back to her room and attempted to occupy herself with scrolls and other written works that told the history of the Sundom, but she had given up after five minutes. She couldn't get Aloy out of her head and she hadn't heard any word from Marad regarding the machine attack Aloy had left to defend against.

Unbidden images of the girl kept flashing in her mind. Dead and twisted, bleeding and hurt, screaming for help. And here was Elisabet, comfortable and dressed in fine Carja clothing. She should have insisted on going with her. Forced the issue. She knew from the moment Marad had opened his mouth and asked for aid that it was a bad idea. Aloy was in no shape to fight. Elisabet should have demanded she stay.

She was breathing heavily, hands clenched tight in the bed covers. What if something had happened? Was that why she hadn't heard anything yet? The heat in the room was oppressive and Elisabet increasingly felt like she couldn't breathe.

"Elisabet, you are experiencing a panic attack," GAIA's voice spoke softly in her ear.

She took in another heaving breath of air and focused on GAIA's voice. It took several minutes that felt like an eternity to her but it helped. She thought of GAIA who was so comforting and always had encouraging words for her. GAIA who never failed to lift her mood, never failed to make her believe in herself.

She exhaled.

"Yes," she whispered. "I'm okay. I'll be okay."

She was about to say more to GAIA when a knock on the door interrupted her. She sprang from the bed and practically tore open the door, revealing Marad. He wore the same serene smile from earlier.

"News?" she demanded.

He inclined his head.

"You will be pleased to know that Aloy has been spotted in the company of the Captain of the Vanguard and the young man I spoke of earlier. They are currently making their way to the palace," he said calmly.

Elisabet closed her eyes and let out a relieved huff of air. She look at Marad again.

"Thank you. And...is she, are they okay?"

"I do not know, I'm afraid. But Aloy was walking on her own accord," he replied, knowing well that was her main concern. "I will direct Aloy to your room when she arrives," he said and turned to leave.

"Marad. Thank you."

He nodded again and left silently and she closed the door.

She laid down on the bed and closed her eyes with relief. She would be here soon - safe. She felt that tight knot of emotion in her stomach again. A bone-deep desire to find a way to protect the girl from the dangers of the world, only Aloy was so much more capable of surviving and fighting the things that might threaten them.

Elisabet couldn't do that. She had never been athletic or had the drive or care to truly learn how to fight or survive in the wilds. She had never foreseen those skills would become necessary either.

And she still didn't know how to navigate the complex mix of emotions she felt in regard to Aloy - or what role Elisabet should take in the girls life, if any.

"What's happening to me GAIA," she whispered.

"I am unsure, Elisabet. Are you able to clarify?"

Elisabet wet her dry lips and thought about it.

She kept her tone low, a whisper.

"With Aloy. I just want to protect her and shield her away from the world."

"You have established a bond with Aloy," the AI answered promptly. Then she continued, "I must admit that I share the same desire, Elisabet. I feel responsible for Aloy, and it pains me to see what she has had to suffer and fight through. But I am proud of what she has accomplished. I also fear that we will not succeed in our mission in the future without the skills Aloy possess," the AI finished quietly.

Elisabet feared that as well. They had no idea what awaited them on their journey into this 'Forbidden West', nor what the conditions of the missing subordinate functions were. She hoped for a little luck on their side.

"I know what you mean. I worry as well about th-"

She was interrupted by a knock on the door - again.

It opened before she could get up and the girl stuck in her mind walked in. She looked awful, Elisabet thought to herself. Aloy looked beyond tired and she was covered in dirt and dust. Her armor seemed to be stained with blood in several spots as well.

"I'm back," she said and stashed her bow and spear into a corner of the room.

Elisabet was about to respond when she saw the large cut on Aloy's back and gasped. It looked to her like something incredibly sharp had easily sliced through the back of Aloy's armor and cut into her as well. Her back looked like a mess.

"You're hurt," she breathed, fear seizing her. Her eyes were glued to Aloy's back.

The girl turned around and stared at her, sharp green meeting fearful green.

"It's just a cut," Aloy said softly as she looked at Elisabet with concern. "Are you alright?"

Elisabet blinked a few times then sputtered. Aloy tilted her head, looking confused.

"Am I alright?" she asked incredulously.

"Well...yes. I tried to get back here as quickly as I could," Aloy said and Elisabet stared at her incredulously. She couldn't fathom what possessed Aloy to ask whether she was all right. As if she was the one who had just fought, or had a large cut splitting her back in half!

"Are you insane?" Elisabet asked dumbly and then shook her head as Aloy frowned with a hint of hurt.

"I'm sorry, that was... I shouldn't have said that," Elisabet quickly continued. "Aloy I have bathed and been laying here in a soft bed while you were off fighting. And you're asking me that?"

Aloy's expression shifted slightly and she seemed to consider her words.

"I was... just worried about you," she said simply.

"Aloy, you were the one in danger... Why on Earth would you," Elisabet began asking, then stopped herself. "You know what? It's not important right now. We need to take care of that cut."

Aloy nodded with a grimace.

"Yeah, I was kind of hoping that...do you think..." Aloy started, unsure.

"Do you want my help?" Elisabet asked gently.

Aloy nodded and there was a look of relief painted on her face that made Elisabet's heart clench.

"Normally I do it myself but I can't reach, and I don't want others to do it right now, so I hoped you would-"

"I'm happy to help," Elisabet interrupted and tried to come across as reassuring. It must've worked because Aloy grew quiet again.

"Let me see it."

Aloy turned around and Elisabet hummed as she took in the mess on her back. It was difficult to see where the wound began and where it ended because of the blood and dirt. She tilted her head, considering. It couldn't be very deep, otherwise Aloy wouldn't be walking at all, Elisabet thought with a shudder.

"Basic wound care... Let's see..."

"You do know what you're doing, right?" Aloy suddenly asked.

"Of course. I've fixed up a few wounds before. Though none of them looked like this, but, the theory is the same I guess."

"Okay, so-"

There was a knock on the door and Elisabet sighed irritably.

"It's open!" she yelled.

A dark-skinned man with a healthy looking beard opened the door and stepped through. The first thing that struck Elisabet was that he had the kindest eyes she had seen in a very long time. He wore an outfit of leather and machine parts, much like Aloy, with bits of fur interspersed, especially by the shoulder. In his arms he carried a large basin of water and he had clean cloth draped over his arm.

When he saw them both he stopped short, gaping for a moment.

"Uhh," he said eloquently, before he blinked rapidly. "Aloy, I'm... What's going on? Why does that woman look like you?" he asked in a confused tone.

One look at Aloy's face revealed a multitude of emotions and she didn't seem to know what to say if the way her mouth opened and closed several times with no sound was any indication.

Elisabet decided to take the reins spoke.

"I'm Elisabet Sobeck. Who are you?" she asked directly.

He gently put down the basin and cloth and then stood fully again.

"I'm Varl of the Nora...and a friend of Aloy's," he said slowly. He leaned a little closer, studying her, as if he couldn't really believe what he was seeing.

"It's nice to meet you Varl. I see you brought clean water and cloth - thank you," Elisabet said. He nodded in response.

"Of course. Erend - another friend - is on his way with medicinal paste. Aloy should use that on her back," he spoke absently, still staring at her. "Aloy, is this woman your mother?" he suddenly asked without warning.

That question seemed to worsen the flustered state Aloy was in. She sputtered and looked like a spooked deer trying to find the quickest means of escape.

Elisabet answered again, taking mercy on the girl.

"Aloy and I only just found one another a while ago. We're figuring things out," she said evasively.

She could feel Aloy's gaze burning into the side of her head but smiled at Varl. He looked confused still.

"You just... You're obviously older. But you look very similar," he said. "No one looks that similar unless they're-"

Elisabet sighed, she didn't want to be rude, but Aloy was still bleeding and she needed to take care of that first.

"Do we? I hadn't noticed," she snarked. "Listen, I don't mean to be rude, and I would like to get to know one of Aloy's friends - after I've tended to her back."

He leaned back quickly and he gave her a smile and an understanding look.

"Of course, I'm sorry. I was just...shocked. I'll wait outside then. I'll let you know when Erend arrives with the paste."

"Thank you," Elisabet said again and turned to Aloy.

"Oh, Aloy's back will need to be sewn. I noticed before it was deeper on the left side," Varl suddenly said, turning in the door.

"Aloy is right here," the girl said irritably.

Elisabet froze for a short moment. She hadn't ever sutured a wound before. She ignored Aloy's remark and looked at Varl again.

"Are you capable of that?"

"I am. All Braves can do that. Would you like help?" he asked kindly, also ignoring Aloy's remark.

"Yes. I'll just clean everything first then I'll call for you. Thank you, Varl," she replied, giving him a friendly smile. He nodded and left.

"I'm right here you know," Aloy said, annoyed.

"I know. And you could have answered several times. I mean he did ask you questions, didn't he?" Elisabet shot back, brow raised.

Aloy groaned and ran a hand through her dirty red hair. She really needed a bath herself Elisabet thought. The smell was not entirely pleasant either.

"I'm just not in the mood to have the conversation he wants. Him and Erend," she said, and then added, "and I didn't know what to say about...us."

Elisabet slowly began to clean Aloy's back after she'd helped her peel off the top part of her armor. Her heart clenched everytime the girl hissed. The truth was, Elisabet didn't know what to answer regarding them either. She knew she wanted to be in Aloy's life, to protect her and help her and to teach her how to deal with aspects of life that weren't fighting or hunting.

Like a mother would do her brain helpfully supplied.

"Are they good friends?" she asked instead.

Aloy was quiet for a moment, then nodded.

"...yeah. I think so. Varl came with other Nora to fight here when I asked. And Erend..." she trailed off.

"Well, just hear them out, won't you? Maybe it'll be good."

"Yeah," the girl sighed with resignation.

"It'll be okay. Let's get this done first though. You'll see."

Elisabet couldn't help but scoff mentally at the thought of her being the one to advise someone about friendships. The nature of her relationships during the end - and even in her youth - had been that of distant colleagues and acquaintances. The other Alpha's had tried but there had been no time to spare. The future of the world had been at stake. She sighed.

Maybe this time around things could be different for her too.

Several hours later Elisabet had managed to wrangle Aloy into bed. She couldn't help the spark of amusem*nt that filled her at the stubbornness Aloy had displayed. Trying to get her to rest had been taxing. Elisabet had quipped that if she rested, at least she'd be able to push back the conversation with her friends that she didn't want to have. She should've expected it, she supposed. Aloy had grabbed onto that line of thought like a life-line and promptly gone to bed.

She shook her head. There was a lot of work to do to help Aloy, but she was determined. Helping Aloy clean and dress her wound had felt nice - because she could help, and Elisabet liked being useful. But seeing the patchwork of scars - old and new - on the girls back and arms was deeply saddening and Elisabet had to reach deep to stop reacting to them, certain Aloy wouldn't appreciate it. She had no doubt the rest of Aloy's body told a similar story. It spoke of a life of strife and struggle, of fighting and surviving and Elisabet hated it.

And she hated that her gut told her they would need all of Aloy's experience and skill in the future. And she hated that she knew already, that Aloy would leap into danger with no concern for herself - only the mission. Like she herself had done in many ways, just without the physical danger.

She stood in the hallway outside of her room, having given Aloy the bed. It was evening now and she could still hear the tell-tale signs of life in the distance. She leaned forward on the windowsill, enjoying the gust of fresh, cool air.

It wasn't long before she heard heavy steps to her left. They didn't stop until they neared her and out of the corner of her eye she could see a largely built man lean against the wall, observing her.

"Forge," he whispered, then spoke louder. "I had to see it myself. Varl said someone looking just like Aloy was with her. I thought he'd gone mad, but..."

Elisabet turned to look at him more clearly.

"Well, here I am," she said.

"So you are! I'm Erend," he said again, loudly.

"Shh. I finally got Aloy to bed, don't wake her," she hissed. "And my name is Elisabet."

She couldn't help but laugh inwardly at the thought of tucking in a battle-hardened young woman like a little child and scolding others for being loud. But Aloy needed rest, and Elisabet would ensure she got it.

"Oh, uh, sorry. I didn't know," he said, lowering his voice. "So... What's going on?"

She raised an eyebrow.

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, why do you look like Aloy. Or does she look like... Nevermind! Aloy doesn't have family. That's what she said, at least," Erend said, looking at her with unhidden curiosity.

She thought about it for a moment, the shrugged.

"Like I told Varl, we-"

"Found each other - yeah, he said," his thick eyebrows furrowing. "But how do you find someone that looks like...well, like you two do? It's like you were spat out from the same forge."

She cringed inwardly at his words. There was a sort of truth to them if you looked at it from a certain angle.

"That's a longer story, and its not all mine to tell. You'll have to ask Aloy."

He scratched the side of his face for a moment and he looked mildly disgruntled.

"Yeah that's gonna work," he muttered and shook his head. "Don't know if you've noticed, but Aloy isn't exactly big on talking."

She smiled a little.

"I've noticed, but just give her a little space. Might be you'll find that's all she needs."

"Hah, not likely. She'll claw you like a Sawtooth and then before you know it she's gone!"

She tilted her head a little in thought, peering at Erend. He was easy to read, his face practically an open book. He was concerned, she realized, and tried to hide it beneath a veneer of frustration and perhaps a little bit of bluster.

"How long have you known Aloy?" she asked.

"Oh, uh... Well, I met her back in Nora lands. They were doing this ritual or something, and we, uh, talked a little," he scratched the side of his face again, "I'm not sure how long it's been now. A little over a year maybe? Haven't known her that long, I guess."

She nodded and was about to ask another question when Erend continued.

"But we fought in battle - together! As the hammer strikes steel, bonds forged in battle make for the strongest!"

"The Battle of the Alight?" she asked.

He nodded. "Yeah, but Aloy also helped me...she helped me find my sister, you know? She tell you that?" he asked quietly.

She shook her head.

"Aloy hasn't shared that much with me yet."

"Yeah..." he muttered, then continued. "She used that second sight of hers. Knew just where to go. I thought she was crazy at first, you know? But I had nothing to lose. Everyone else had given up on Ersa...but then Aloy came along and I was swept into the fire. 'Fore I knew it, we'd found Ersa."

Second sight? Elisabet frowned. He must mean the Focus. She studied Erend closely. There was sadness written on his face, but also something else, something harder. More determined.

"What happened to your sister?" she asked gently.

He sniffed and cleared his throat.

"She was taken. Uh, yeah," he cleared his throat, "Anyway, we found her, but she was too...too hurt. But Aloy...she gave me a gift that day I won't ever forget. I got to say goodbye to my sister. I got to be there when she died. Her flame didn't die alone and Aloy gave me that. She gave Ersa that," Erend finished, his tone transforming from one of softness to steel near the end. His face was set in stone as he stared at Elisabet.

She swallowed, feeling a shiver. She felt so sorry for Erend, and so proud of Aloy for helping.

"I'm so sorry, Erend. That... I'm glad you got to say goodbye, at least."

"Thanks. Me too. But look, Aloy... We've all noticed it. She has no one. The one she grew up with got killed. Look... we're just worried about her. We want to help with whatever she's doing, but trying to get her to stand still and talk to us is like trying to tame a rampaging Thunderjaw," he said.

"Yes," she whispered, frowning. "You're not wrong. But she's not alone anymore. She has me, and I can see that she means a lot to you too. And Varl. You want to help, you say?" she asked slowly.

He nodded. "We do. I want to help. I won't...after what Aloy did for me and Ersa... She'll always have me at her side in battle, and as a friend." he said firmly.

She smiled warmly at him. He was, and would, be a good friend to Aloy, of that she had no doubt. And she herself liked him as well, and her impression of Varl had been positive also.

"Aloy and I," she began slowly, "have something that we're trying to do. Something important. However, we need to go west to accomplish it."

She saw his eyebrows raise and he stroked his chin.

"When you say west..."

"Yes. Into what Aloy refers to as the Forbidden West."

He nodded slowly. "That's gonna be difficult. The way is closed for the next month, at least."

"What do you mean?" she asked quickly. Aloy had said nothing about that.

"Well, Avad's been going on about some kind of gathering. An embassy he calls it," Erend said thoughtfully. "Gateway to the Forbidden West is shut until then. It's some kinda meeting with tribes from the other side."

Elisabet nodded and cursed under her breath. Aloy would be furious, she had no doubt.

"Damn it. That's... Aloy is not going to like that. Is there a way past?"

He shrugged. "I don't know. I suppose we can talk to Avad, but...I doubt it," he said.

"You say that rather casually. Just speaking to a king," she said curiously. Marad had indicated that he was interested in Aloy. It would be interesting to see if others shared that view.

Erend snorted loudly.

"I mean, yeah. Everyone at the palace knows Avad is sweet on Aloy, especially after she saved Prince Itamen and all. He'll drop whatever's in his hands to talk to her," he laughed.

She raised her eyebrows again. Aloy had saved the Prince? The little boy she'd seen in the courtyard practicing with a wooden spear? She knew Aloy hadn't left her homelands before a year ago... Exactly how much had happened in the past year that Aloy was involved in?

"She...didn't share that with me either, it seems."

Erend grinned and shook his head.

"Yeah... Aloy, she's uh... She's done a lot for the people here in the Sundom. And everywhere else, to be honest. Everyone knows the 'Flame-haired Nora' these days."

"I see. I'll have to... I'll have to ask Aloy about it. Anyway, that's not what I was going to ask," she said, looking seriously at Erend. "If you want to help, then I ask that you come with us."

"To the Forbidden West?" he asked slowly.

She nodded.

"I'm in. But I would like to know what we're doing."

He didn't hesitate for a second, and Elisabet liked him all the more for it.

"That's fair. Before I explain, do you think Varl might want to hear this too?"

He nodded firmly. "Yeah, he's been looking for Aloy since she left after the Battle of the Alight. He's not going to want to stay out of this."

"Then lead the way. I'd like to talk to him too," she said, smiling.

Hours later when Elisabet returned to her room, she entered silently, managing to close the door with a soft whisper.

There was a cool breeze in the room and the curtains fluttered. She hadn't opened them. Her eyes scanned the room and found the bed empty and she gasped. Where...

"Aloy?!" she said loudly.

"'m here," came a tired voice and Elisabet's eyes quickly found her. She was laying on the floor, using her travel covers.

"Why aren't you in the bed?" she asked confused.

"Too soft, kept waking. Where y'been?"

"I was talking to Erend and Varl."

Identical green eyes sought her out, narrowed with tired suspicion.

"Why?"

Elisabet shook her head. "We can talk tomorrow. Won't you hop into bed again?"

"I'll sleep here. You take the bed," she muttered softly.

"Are you sure? We can share it if you'd like?" Elisabet tried.

"Mmh. Sleep Elis'bet," was the last thing she heard from Aloy and she sighed. She supposed a life of surviving in the wild would cause someone to grow more accustomed to sleeping in harder conditions. She wouldn't press it anyway, as long as Aloy slept, she was happy.

With a sigh she slipped into bed, eyes on the darkened shape of Aloy on the floor, as if afraid she would somehow disappear.

When Elisabet woke next it was to the rays of the sun hitting her face. She groaned loudly and turned away from the invading light. Blearily she opened her eyes and stared at the wall. God, it had felt good to sleep. She felt heavy but rested.

She had spoken at length with Erend and Varl the evening before and she was happy that she'd taken the leap. They both seemed like fine people and both had been unhesitating when she asked them to join. Despite telling Erend that she would explain why they had to go to the Forbidden West, the conversation took a different turn. She promised she'd explain along with Aloy later. Still, the two men were more than willing to help and Elisabet found herself rather touched by their willingness, despite the lack of information she'd given them - for now.

"Aloy?" she asked quietly. No answer came, or even the shuffle of clothes or cover. Elisabet turned to see the space Aloy had occupied was empty.

Her eyes darted around the room, quickly finding most of Aloy's belongings. Only her spear and bow were missing. She sighed with relief. That meant she was around here somewhere. Probably.

She got up, quickly dressed in the Carja clothing she'd been given and left the room. She startled and cursed. Outside of her door, leaning against the wall, she found Varl.

"Why are you skulking outside my door?" she asked with a raised brow.

"Skulking? I...no!" he stammered indignantly. "Aloy asked me to stand gua-" he stopped, and leveled a mild glare at her smirking face. "You're messing with me."

She laughed.

"Sorry. Anyway, you said something about Aloy? Where is she?"

"She asked me to keep watch by your door," he said, and Elisabet shook her head in mild exasperation. "She went to see the Sun-King. Erend is with her too," he supplied.

"Well, what are we waiting for then?" she asked impatiently.

He gave her a long look.

"Are you sure you are not Aloy's mother? She's very impatient as well, you know," he teased.

She glared at him as they began walking.

"It's complicated," she shot back and he peered at her a moment longer.

"You know," he began conversationally, though there was clear curiosity lacing his voice. "The All-Mother chose Aloy, blessed her, to carry out her will. She came from the mountain, and I'm just curious why you look so much alike."

Elisabet paused her walk. Varl had briefly touched upon this last night as well, but Elisabet had glossed over it. It was clear, however, that the Nora were very religious, and the Carja as well. She licked her lips as she thought of how to navigate it. She wanted to snap and ask if Aloy had been so special to them, then why was she cast out as a baby and never spoken to until she'd won their 'Proving'?

Instead she managed to temper herself.

"Aloy and I," she said carefully and quietly, "are of the same blood."

His eyes widened and he was about to speak but she raised her hand.

"What exactly that means is complicated. I say that because I mean it. Later, if you wish, we can try to explain it to you," she said seriously and he nodded. "However, that is entirely dependant on Aloy and what she wants, understand?"

"I understand. It's just hard to understand what is going on, but then, I've never claimed to be the one to understand the All-Mother's will."

"There's a reason I look as I do, and Aloy as she does. That's all I'll say for now."

He nodded and they continued their walk. He looked thoughtful but he didn't ask anymore questions, for which Elisabet was relieved. They exited the Sun-King's palace and Varl led her over the bridge connecting the palace to the actual city. Further they went and as they walked, Elisabet began noticing that more and more of the city looked damaged, with some buildings having been outright destroyed. The spire that was sacred to the Carja loomed. Elisabet swallowed, knowing from the Focus recording that this was where the world almost ended again. Where HADES almost succeeded.

Finally they reached a large open space. This was the Alight then, she thought. Reconstruction efforts were truly underway here, with a mass of scaffolding having been raised. Builders were hard at work, sweating in the scorching sun. Ahead, in the middle of the plaza, Elisabet saw a group of people, Aloy amongst them.

Elisabet failed to suppress a large grin from breaking out. In the middle of the Alight stood a large statue of Aloy, regal and fearsome looking, staring into the distance with her spear drawn.

She couldn't wait to tease Aloy about it.