Before entering the holy gates of Meridian, Aloy thought it best for her to leave her strider companion a few meters away from the wandering gaze of the citizens. Although knowing of how fast word spread throughout the lands on her being the "machine tamer," she still shied away from such praises, she didn't want to add even more fire to the fuel.

Eyes set in sadness she took in the strider she held in as company. "I'm going to miss you little buddy, but it's time we separate." With one more admiring touch on the striders back she slapped its behind and sent it back in the wilds. The jungle that stretched around all of Meridian. She had no doubt that it may not last long deep in the terrain.

Turning around she headed onwards, knowing her strider companion will slip her mind and eventually fade to the back of it. Bowing her head to the guards who jolted awake at her presence and shouted out praises. Saying thank you in return until there became too many guards and citizens alike who stumbled upon her unexpected arrival. Head held high she sought what she's been missing in the city of Meridian.
_

The cafe's lights hung high above its ceiling, casting the atmosphere with a sunset tint. Decor that represented the carja hung along its walls. The colors of deep violet, soothing red, and a golden yellow draped in silk. As if just walking in, you'd be filled with warmth by being absorbed in the warm toned atmosphere.

"It's free of charge!"

"Please, just tell me how much it costs."

"No, no I insist."

With a groan Aloy pinched the bridge of her nose and sat back even more in the wooden chair. Wanting to slide further away from the gaze of others.

Why had she chosen to eat in this specific area? Does it even matter anyways , every other place would likely be the same. She badly wanted to pull out all the shards she had pocketed and slam it in the servers chest. She could, she could just stand up and leave also. But this wasn't her and she knew it.

"Listen I'm flattered with your gratitude, but-"

"ALOY!"

Turning her head to the source a smile slowly etched itself. That voice could only belong to the burly and drunken man she came to know. "Erend, it's so good to see you." Fitting himself between the chair and the server he plopped down onto the empty seat in front of her. Leaning his hammer on the countertop and taking off his heavy helmet. Aloy had a suspicion it was Ersa's as he sat it on the far edge of the table. She figured it was none of her business to pry in, as her gaze returned to the vibrant blue orbs that belonged to the man.

Feeling suddenly awkward the server gently placed the mug on the table, bowed her head and scurried away.

"It's been so long since I've last seen your face, say you come back to see me?" With a wink and a smile, he rested his hands on the table. Minding the space between himself and her.

"I told you I'd always have time for you, maybe even two." Sliding the drink towards her companion she waved off his 'are you sure?' Glances.

Grabbing the mug he brought it to his mouth and drank. She wasn't sure if orange juice was his favorite but she had lost any thirst to quench. Judging from his own long sips she figured he enjoyed it.

Bringing her elbows up on the table as he did she crossed her fingers and laid her chin on them. "I figured it was time I come back here, help with whatever I may."

His blue eyes studied her, "Well Avad will be joyed to hear that, heck maybe he'd even place you with the Vanguardsmen."

Her eyes twinkled at the opportunity, being placed in Erend's command would certainly be a fun experience. His men did have a knack to make anyone laugh at their jokes or any conversation they have amongst themselves.

"That sounds interesting, not going to lie."

Sitting back in his chair he rested his metal clad hand on top of his orange trousers. "Where did you go, after the battle?" He said with his voice softening.

"I went to see my mother, she's..dead."

A look of horror and guilt for asking crept itself upon Erend's face. Mouth opening to utter his apologies and condolences.

"No, no Erend no need to feel bad."

She raised her hand to hush any words that would leave his mind.

"She's been dead for a long time but, I felt like, I don't know that I was kind of complete."

Which she did, after many years of Rost hardening her into the huntress she was today she finally got the answers she rightfully deserved.

Her eyes flickered quickly and widened as her hand reached to her waistband. Unlatching the globe she grabbed it in her fist and brought her hand to Erend's to grab. Waiting excitedly for his reaction.

His eyebrows scrunched as he cautiously grabbed the string that connected to the globe. Bringing it to his eye level, like a child discovering something new.

"I found this with her, it's the Earth."

"The Earth?"

Biting the inside of her mouth she thought on how to put it simply in her own words for him to understand. "It's like our world, how it looks like from beyond the sky."

Twirling the small globe in his rough palms he turned it and ran his finger along the green landforms. Taking in the mysterious artifact.

Still looking confused he slowly handed it back to her, "You really are an awesome gal, I'm sure Avad would be happy to hear this." Grabbing onto the globe she latched it back onto her waistband. This was the second time he's mentioned Avad in their conversation. Was he trying to give her a hint? She thought he was glad to see her.

"I suppose I should talk to him soon."

The familiar cheery smile that Aloy grew to find contagious appeared back on his lips, "Want me to escort you there, m'lady?"

Noticing her features giving the hint of planning to leave he reached for his helmet and latched it back on.
With a chuckle Aloy stood up and stretched. Erend following suit as he gripped his hammer and lazily sling it on his shoulder. Nodding to her companion she led the way out the door, but not before leaving a few shards.