Fries
"Alright, that's it," said Erend. He planted the end of his war hammer on the ground. "I'm taking you on a food tour of Meridian."
Aloy straightened out of her defensive crouch. "Because I've never had a cinnamon roll?"
"Or pie. Or potato wedges. And you've never heard of half the fruit I bring up."
"And this is a problem because . . . ?"
"Look, I'm just saying, if you're going to be staying in Meridian, you have to get the whole experience or you're missing out."
Aloy shrugged. "Alright, food tour it is. Sounds like fun."
One of the Vanguard who'd been watching them spar whistled and Erend glowered at him. "I see a lot of chit chat and not enough work," he bellowed. "Noon patrols, go, shoo."
With some grumbles, some winks, and a few comments of "Enjoy your lunch date, Cap," the Vanguard dispersed along their patrol routes.
Erend shook his head. "Idiots, all of them. Shall we?"
Together, they strolled through the city., heading down one of the little alleyways. Aloy recognized the general area, but had no idea where they were going until Erend stopped in front of a food stall. He held up two fingers to the Carja behind it and exchanged a few shards for two paper cones full of something long and golden brown. He handed one to Aloy.
"Fried potato wedges. They're addicting, I'm warning you now."
She took a bite of one and her eyes widened. "These are amazing."
Erend grinned. "Told you. The Carja definitely know their food, I'll give 'em that."
They wandered through the market, Erend pointing out the different fruits and their pie-making qualities while Aloy stole his fries when he wasn't looking.
