Archive of Our Own

The wet sand on the path to Legacy’s Landfall crunched lightly under Aloy’s feet as a warm breeze delivered the salty scent of the ocean. After defeating the Zeniths two months ago, Aloy finally had some time to visit Alva and help her find the data on Leviathan—the flood control system that hopefully would be able to help Alva’s family back home. She had called Alva on her Focus yesterday, who told her that there was a Diviner in the settlement that might know more.

Alva was sitting outside the main building waiting for Aloy. As soon as the Diviner spotted her, she waved her hand fervently in greeting. “Aloy!” Alva cried as she rose quickly.

An unavoidable grin broke out on Aloy’s face at seeing her friend again. “Alva, good” —Aloy grunted as Alva wrapped her arms around her— “to see you.” Aloy finished with a quick laugh.

“I’m so excited you’re here,” Alva said as she pointed them toward a pair of seats.

“Me too.” Aloy sat down. “I know it couldn’t have been easy to stay with most of the Quen going home.”

Alva waved her hand. “I came to this land to find a way to save my family. I can’t go back yet, not with what’s coming.”

Aloy nodded in understanding, Nemesis was a threat to all. “So, about Leviathan—you said yesterday you found out some more information about where the headquarters could be?”

“Yes. There’s a Diviner, Nirik, he’s been exploring some nearby ruins—we should talk to him.”

A few more minutes were spent chatting before the pair went to find Nirik. He was a little hesitant at first to talk with them; the Quen took forbidden knowledge very seriously, Aloy found. But eventually, the Diviner gave them a location to the south where they could begin their search. Since it was late in the day, Alva suggested that they begin their investigation in the morning.

“There are some tents behind the main building that are reserved for guests.” Alva pointed as they walked up the main path. “You can go put your stuff down and then meet me here for dinner.”

Aloy headed towards the back where Alva had indicated. There were a handful of tents that were currently empty—Aloy suspected the Quen didn’t receive many guests. She dropped her pack off at the nearest one and then went to find her friend. Alva was sitting in almost the same spot where she had been earlier, the table in front of her set with a variety of dishes. Aloy hadn’t eaten much Quen fare, so she was curious.

“Looks good,” Aloy said as she sat across from Alva.

“Mostly seafood because…well…” Alva giggled as she pointed all around her.

“Makes sense.” Aloy took a bite of a fish dish that had a sweet glaze on top. Alva watched her intently and Aloy happily took another bite.

Alva relaxed as Aloy ate and they began to chat about the upcoming mission. Alva gave her more information about Eileen Sasaki, the ancestor who built Leviathan. The Quen had done a lot of research about Eileen, and Alva was nervous about what they might uncover about the ancestor. The pair bounced some ideas back and forth about what they might find. Discussing theories with Alva was always enjoyable—the Diviner was so earnest that Aloy couldn’t help but get absorbed in her enthusiasm.

After Aloy finished her last bite, she sat back in her chair. “I don’t remember the last time I ate so well—well I do it was in Hidden Ember with Erend. I really should visit Plainsong next to see what Zo’s people feed me.”

Alva chuckled. “Glad you liked it.” A Quen came over and cleared off their table as another brought a bottle with two cups. Alva leaned forward to grab the bottle and open it. “Wine?”

Aloy grinned. “Sure.”

Alva poured their drinks and handed a cup to Aloy. “To success.” She lifted her cup and Aloy did the same before taking a drink.

“This is much sweeter than I was expecting,” Aloy said, surprised.

“Yes. It’s made from plums and other fruit.” Alva took a drink. “Be careful, it can hit hard.”

Aloy took another sip. “I don’t think I’ve ever had anything quite like this.”

“There’s plenty. The Quen brought an adequate supply, and the men promptly found a way to make it with the fruit they found in this land. I’ll give you a bottle to take home.”

Aloy chuckled. “I wonder what Erend would say about this drink.” Alva tilted her head at her but said nothing as Aloy continued, “I think he would like it. Probably comment about the sweetness, but I’ve noticed he enjoys sweet-tasting things.”

“He does?” Alva questioned with a knowing smirk.

“Yeah. I brought him some honey sweets from the Utaru and I think that’s what turned him toward liking their food.” Aloy laughed as she remembered. “He and Beta often exchange desserts and treats when he stops by the Base.”

“Does he come often?” Alva inquired.

“I mean, not that much. I wish it was more,” Aloy said, before she could stop herself.

Alva raised her eyes in surprise. “You do?”

“I mean—I guess…well, maybe...” Aloy sputtered.

“Aloy,” Alva said gently. “It’s okay, you don’t have to talk about it.”

Aloy felt warm from the alcohol. She stared at the drink in her hands, wanting to talk. Ever since the battle with the Zeniths—ever since Erend had pulled her into his side—she’d been having thoughts and feelings. Aloy wasn’t sure what to do about them as this was something Rost had never trained her for. She looked up at Alva and remembered that she wasn’t alone—she had friends to help now.

Aloy took a deep breath and confessed to her friend. “I think I have feelings…for Erend.”

Alva lifted her head in surprise. “Oh?”

“I keep thinking about him and when he’s gone…I just—I mean—I know what relationships are. I’ve observed them, I just didn't think…that…well, that I would ever have to worry.”

Alva tilted her head in concern. “You thought you were immune—to love?”

“Yes—no—just that I’m busy saving the world, so there’s no time. I need to focus, and a relationship would only distract.”

“It would?” Alva asked.

“Wouldn’t it?” Aloy looked back down at the glass in her hand.

Alva reached out and grasped Aloy’s wrist. “No,” Alva said with conviction. “In my experience, it gives you more motivation.”

Aloy lifted her head, surprised by the reaction of her friend. “It does?”

“Yes, Aloy.” Alva squeezed her arm. “I may not be able to see Federa, but just knowing she is out there, that she cares about me—well, it makes being here worth it.”

“So, you think I should…”

“I do,” Alva said rapidly. “I think you should call Erend right now and confess.”

“I can’t just do that,” Aloy said with her voice rising in panic.

Alva removed her hand. “Aloy, I don’t know the answer. I don't know what you should do. But I do know that feelings, like the ones you are experiencing for Erend, are precious. You shouldn't run from them. You above anyone know how quickly the world can end. Just don't waste the opportunity.”

Aloy was silent as she thought it over. She could feel Alva studying her. Her friend was right—despite the fear she had about starting a relationship, she also knew that being without Erend was proving more of a distraction. The Oseram man was constantly on her mind.

“Suppose you’re right—but I can’t just blurt it out.”

“I have an idea, then,” Alva said eagerly. “You should invite him!”

Aloy looked at her quizzically. “Invite?”

“Erend!” Alva’s voice rose in excitement. “To help us.”

“Help…you mean with finding the data on Leviathan?”

“Yes!”

“But we would have to wait, and I know…”

Alva swiftly cut her off with a wave of a hand. “What’s a few more days? The data will still be there and there’s no guarantee we will find anything anyway. This is perfect. Invite him—we could always use the extra help—and then you get to see him and maybe…” Alva trailed off her face hopeful.

Aloy blushed. “I suppose. Do you think he’ll come?”

Alva raised her eyes.

Aloy nervously twiddled with her fingers and before she could talk herself out of it, she touched her Focus and made the call.

A day later, Aloy flew to Raintrace and picked Erend up on her Sunwing. He had been more than willing to help and had left Hidden Ember almost immediately after Aloy contacted him. During their call, they had agreed it would be quicker if Erend rode his Charger as far as the Lowlands and then Aloy could pick him up to fly the rest of the way. She could tell by the way he was gripping her waist that he didn’t care much for flying across the bay, but it was quicker than a boat. Aloy tried to ignore the feel of him pressed against her back—she was finding his warmth very distracting.

It was late afternoon by the time they got to the settlement. Alva was busy with some Quen business, so they played a few games of Strike while they waited. Alva joined them for dinner, and they discussed the upcoming mission with Erend while they ate.

The next morning, they headed south to the location that Nerik had told them about. It was a series of run-down ruins on the coast with only a few structures remaining. They stood on a ledge overlooking the site when they felt the ground shake.

“Uh, Aloy. Why is the ground shaking?” Alva questioned nervously.

Aloy replied, “It's not good, whatever it is.”

Erend looked over at the pair and unhooked his hammer from his back. “I guess this is one of the reasons why I’m here.”

Aloy gave him an eager grin. “You go right. I’ll draw whatever it is out in the open.”

Erend nodded and quietly began making his way down. Aloy turned to Alva. “Stay here for now and I’ll yell if we need you.”

“Right,” Alva said, happy to play backup if needed.

Aloy jumped down and ran to the left. The noise she made instantly unearthed a Slitherfang. Aloy clenched her jaw, she’d been hoping for a smaller machine like a Snapmaw, but of course, it would have to be the giant snake machine. Her eyes narrowed as she used her Focus to scan. The machine parts lit up, and she grabbed an arrow to aim at its weak spot. The scan had also shown that Erend was almost in place.

Quickly, she fired an arrow and a metal plate shot off. The Slitherfang turned its head aggressively toward Aloy, and she fired off two more shots in quick succession. The machine was furious and went to attack, but Erend swung hard at the tail with his hammer, knocking the end off. The snake stopped its attack to focus on the new threat, and with it distracted, Aloy was able to rapidly dispatch another arrow into the vulnerable center. This time the machine was knocked down. Erend swung a brutal final blow, and with a sputter and a spark the fight was over.

“Phew, I’m going to have nightmares tonight,” Alva said as she climbed down to join the pair.

Aloy stared at the machine, but before she could begin to check for parts Erend spoke, “Go find that data. I’ll look for anything salvageable.”

Aloy gave a quick nod as she trusted Erend to find anything worth saving. Swiping her Focus, Aloy scanned and found a vent in an almost submerged ruin. “That looks promising.” Aloy pointed at a crumbled building in the distance. Alva followed her toward the ruin. Aloy kicked the vent in, and after a quick swim, they found a console hidden in the building. Unfortunately, they did not find the data on Leviathan, but instead an audio log. After listening, the pair left the building to meet up with Erend.

“Find anything?” Erend asked as he packed away a few choice parts that he had salvaged.

“We need to go to Atbay Headquarters—it’s a little north of here,” Aloy replied as she watched him. “Leave those parts, and we’ll pick them up on our way back.”

Erend grunted as he lifted the pack. “You sure? I don’t mind carrying them.”

Aloy couldn’t help her stomach tightening at the sight of him carrying the heavy load. “I know. But it’s fine.”

Erend shrugged and hid the pack in a nearby plant to pick up later. The three of them then made their way north and luckily did not come across any more machines. Unfortunately, they found the entrance to the tower blocked.

“We’re going to have to find another way in,” Aloy said as she looked up at the structure.

“The soldiers built a path on the nearby ruin. Might be able to cross over from there.” Alva pointed at another path.

They followed that path until they came to another blocked passage. “I think this is as far as our soldiers got.” Alva sighed as she looked up at their objective.

“We’ll have to climb higher to get into that tower.” Aloy scanned with her Focus and found that the rubble in front of them could be moved safely. She unblocked the passage with her pullcaster, and soon they were all climbing.

“This is a lot higher up than I thought,” Alva said with a slight tremor in her voice.

“You got this,” Erend replied as he helped her over a tricky handhold.

Aloy was first to the top. Two Glinthawks were perched on the opposite side, and she quickly dove for cover in some nearby tall grass before they spotted her.

“I heard our soldiers say that Glinthawks are the worst,” Alva murmured when she and Erend crept up to Aloy.

Aloy let out an amused breath. “They are not that hard to defeat, but yeah, they are damn annoying.”

Erend had his hammer in his hand as he looked at Aloy. She gave a succinct nod and without a word they got into position. Fighting with Erend was always easy—they could enter a battle and immediately know what their roles were. She fired an arrow at the nearest machine, and as it fell Erend swung with his hammer. Before he had finished swinging, Aloy had already stood and aimed for the next bird, so that when he was done with the first, he was able to turn and take out the next one with ease. The battle was over in less than five minutes.

Alva stood. “Now that was impressive.”

Erend ran his hand through his hair. “Not really anything to it. Aloy is incredible with her aim. I just come in swinging.”

“Don’t sell yourself short Erend,” Aloy hurriedly added. “Not many fighters can hit that hard with that hammer. What you do in one swing would take others multiple.”

Erend beamed at her, and Aloy’s stomach did that flip again. Alva looked between the two with a knowing smirk.

“Should we keep going?” Erend asked.

“Up this way,” Aloy replied, and she rapidly led them up the side of the ruin.

When they all had made it to the top, Aloy pointed towards the tower. “There it is—should be able to cross over. But we’re going to have to jump.”

“Uh, after you,” Alva said nervously.

Erend put his hand on her shoulder. “You got this.”

Aloy walked to the edge. She could sense Erend watching her. It bothered him when she put herself in danger, but she knew he’d never say anything. He trusted her, trusted her skills. But she also knew he had a strong urge to protect. She climbed slowly out on the protruding beam, and stumbled when it loosened under her weight.

“That doesn’t sound good,” Aloy heard Alva comment from behind.

Aloy gritted her teeth but when the beam didn’t move anymore, she continued out on it. When she got to the edge, she saw that she needed to clear out some of the debris first before they could make their jump. She got out her pullcaster and turned her head to look at her friends. Alva was dancing nervously on her feet, and Erend stood solidly behind her. He always did. Knowing he was there sent a soothing warmth through Aloy, and she found herself reassured.

Aloy turned back and checked the debris pile with her Focus. Two weak spots lit up. She fired her pullcaster at the first spot and with a tug was able to pull the pile free. She aimed for the second spot and again tugged. This time the debris completely fell, clearing the way.

“Okay, should be able to make it to the other side,” Aloy said as she easily made the leap. “Alva, your turn.”

“Aloy, can you watch me and make sure I do this right?”

“Come on Alva, you can do it. It’s okay,” Erend said in support.

Alva climbed out on the protrusion. “Please don’t break.” With a grunt, Alva launched herself and almost didn’t make it. “I’m okay. Wow, that would’ve been a long way to fall.”

“You sure you’re okay?” Aloy pulled Alva up.

“Yeah. I’m fine, let's keep going.”

They both turned and watched Erend make the jump before walking into the tower. The glowing lights from the ruin cast eerie shadows along the crumbling walls. The familiar thrill of excitement coursed through Aloy at the prospect of finding something new. She had been exploring ruins since she was a child and never got tired of the thrill of it.

“It’s locked,” Alva said, staring at the metal door that blocked their path.

“There’s a console,” Erend added as he studied the device next to it.

Aloy swiped her Focus and looked around. She found a few data points that were lying nearby and, on a whim, entered the month and year that the company was founded. The door swished open.

“You’ll never stop impressing me.” Erend shook his head as he made his way through the door.

Aloy’s face heated at the compliment, making her glad for the dim lighting.

The next room did not hold much promise, but she was able to scan another data point that revealed more about Eileen and her father. There was an elevator at the far end, but it had been blocked by rubble. With her pullcaster, Aloy was able to open up a hole in the back of the right shaft, which led outside. Alva decided to stay back to see if she could find another way up the building that had less of a chance of falling to her death.

Aloy started climbing the wall on the outside, almost falling as she made her away around the building’s exterior. Erend followed, and she could hear him mutter quiet curses as he watched her leap from handhold to handhold. He trailed after the best he could, though a few times he had to find a slightly longer way, as Aloy was much more limber and lighter on her feet.

Aloy stopped at a ledge that had enough room for them to catch their breath. “You good?” Aloy asked as she watched Erend.

He regarded her as he stretched his arms. “One of these days we’re going on a mission that’s just flat on the ground.”

Aloy smirked. “At least it isn’t snowing.”

Erend laughed warmly. “True,” he said as he looked around to study their location.

Aloy stole a glance at him as he walked to the edge to study the view. A familiar warmth spread through her…being with him just felt right.

They took another minute to rest before Aloy looked at their next problem. In order to get up to the next level they would need to find some handholds but there didn’t seem to be any within reach. Erend walked up next to her and pointed up at a vent. “Can you use your tool thing and pull that down?”

Aloy nodded and used her pullcaster to open up the vent. They were then able to climb up and with some more jumping and pulling, they both made it to the next level.

“Glad that is done with,” Aloy said. They were back inside the tower but still couldn’t see a way for Alva to climb up.

“Aloy, over there.” Erend pointed at a familiar red crystal.

“Firegleam.” Aloy smiled and immediately swiped her Focus. “Alva, step back from the shaft.” She turned to Erend. “Go behind that wall.” Once she saw that Erend was safe, Aloy rammed her spear into the crystal and ignited it. She swiftly ducked behind the wall next to Erend. The structure shook noisily as the firegleam exploded. The shaft was now clear, and they were able to ascend to the top.

The three of them climbed to the upper level. As Aloy looked around she realized this had to be it —this had to be Eileen’s office. Unfortunately, it was also locked behind another door.

“Look at these.” Erend was walking around and looking at some old artifacts that were still on display. Aloy scanned them with her Focus, and Alva began explaining what they represented. Most of them had to do with Eileen or the company, which just solidified her opinion that what they wanted was through the door. If only she could figure out the passcode.

Erend had turned from the artifacts and was now looking at the door, touching the wall around it with his hands. She saw him swipe his Focus and scan the area. He turned toward her with a big smile. “Stand back.”

Aloy grabbed Alva and did as he said—she had an idea of what his plan entailed.

Erend hefted his hammer and touched a particular spot on the wall. He tapped gently to mark it, then he stood back and with a grunt smashed his hammer into the wall. It crumbled easily under his blow.

Aloy bit her lip—she would never grow tired of seeing Erend display his strength.

Alva coughed as she waved away the dust. “Nicely done.”

Erend turned towards them, shaking away some of the rubble from his armor, and Aloy felt a jolt of desire run through her. Damn that man. Aloy stepped through the new door, her shoulder purposefully brushing Erend on her way. Aloy was going to have to talk to him soon, and the strange part was that she wanted to.

“You can almost see the whole city from up here,” Aloy said as she walked to the edge. The view was impressive, which proved that this was the correct office, even if now it was a pile of rubble open to the elements. Aloy looked around and was nervous—the space had not fared well, and she wasn’t sure if they were going to find what they were hoping for.

Alva was standing in front of what had been a desk, but was now a rusted hunk of twisted metal. However, she saw a flicker of light in the center of the desk, a functioning holo-projector. This meant there was still power, and it also meant that the data might have survived.

Aloy walked over and touched her hand to the device. A projection of Eileen appeared, discussing how she had to escort her father off the property. Alva watched with rapt attention, even almost walking off the ledge following the hologram. Eileen talked about wanting to build Leviathan right—how she wanted to do good and be better.

“She wasn’t perfect but not a monster—she tried to make up for her mistakes,” Alva commented after the projection finished playing. Aloy and Erend stood to the side as the Diviner went and scanned for data. “It’s here,” Alva said, her voice brimming with excitement.

“So, we got what we came for?” Aloy asked.

“Yes. But I want to stay a little longer and sift through and collect more data. You can go on, I’ll be fine.” Alva waved her hand and turned back to the console, lost in the data.

Aloy opened her mouth, but Erend raised his hand. “Don’t worry, Aloy. I’ll stay and watch over her. We’ll meet up with you at Landfall when we’re done.”

“Okay I’ll go collect the Slitherfang parts and meet you both back at the settlement—please call if you run into trouble.”

“We got this, Aloy.” Erend nodded at her and Aloy was unable to control the smile that spread across her face. How did he always know what she needed?

Aloy walked to the edge to look over the city. They were quite high up and she felt that familiar rush of excitement before she leaped off the building to glide down. She let out a bright laugh when she heard Erend yell, “Fire and spit, Aloy, warn a man!”

After a long satisfying glide, Aloy went to gather the Slitherfang parts, but on her way back to Legacy’s Landfall she was detoured at another ruin to help a pair of Quen soldiers. One of whom had gotten stuck on the top of the run-down structure. After the slight delay, she made it back to the settlement only slightly ahead of Erend and Alva.

Alva was so excited she was bouncing on her feet. “Aloy, it’s incredible. The data—I mean, I still can’t believe we found it.”

Aloy smiled at her bubbly friend. “I just hope it helps.”

“Me too,” Alva said. “In fact, if you don’t mind, I’m going to continue going through more of it.”

“Of course. I’ll see you later.”

“Yeah. And Aloy…” Alva raised her eyes conspiratorially.

“What?”

Alva tilted her head towards Erend who was talking with a Quen soldier.

“Uh. Yeah—”

Alva set her hand on Aloy’s arm. “Talk to him.”

Aloy bit her lip as she watched Alva walk away. The woman was right, it was now time to talk to Erend. Anxiety swirled in her stomach as she felt Erend come up beside her. Before she could think better of it she turned to him and promptly asked, “Want a drink? With me?”

Erend raised his eyes. “Yeah! I mean, okay.”

Aloy awkwardly stared at him before rapidly speaking. “Uh. Wait here.” She hurriedly turned and jogged to her tent to grab the bottle that Alva had given her the day before.

When she returned to Erend he was talking with a Quen cook and was packing up what looked like two bowls of dumplings. She’d had some with Alva her first night here, Delta Dumplings was the name of the dish. Aloy had only briefly mentioned that she liked them to Erend, her heart warmed at the idea that he’d remembered such a small detail.

She walked up next to him and raised the bottle. “Got it.”

Erend gave a crooked grin and pointed toward the cook who was handing Erend a wrapped package. “Also got some food.”

“Perfect.” Aloy suddenly felt nervous, and her hands began to twist on the bottle.

Erend turned back to the cook. “Can we get two cups as well?” He grabbed the food and the cups and led Aloy away. “So where do you want to go?”

Aloy bit her lip. “Well, there’s a beach a little south of here that I thought would be nice.”

“A walk along the beach?”

Aloy spoke fretfully, “Yeah, but if you don’t—”

“No,” Erend quickly interjected. “Sounds perfect. Lead the way.”

Aloy led him out of the settlement walking next to him. Once again, she realized how warm and comforting his presence was. The sun began to set as they made their way along the beach. After a few minutes, Erend found a log laying in the sand.

“Here okay?” He sat and held out one of the bowls of dumplings he’d brought to Aloy.

Aloy grabbed the food and sat next to him. Erend held out his hand and Aloy stared at it a moment, confused, until she realized what he wanted. She felt her face heat as she handed him the bottle of plum wine. He smiled as he poured two cups and handed her one.

“To successful missions.” Erend raised his cup and Aloy clanked hers with it.

Erend stuck the bottle in the sand between them and they began to eat and drink.

“This is actually pretty good,” Erend said as he took another drink. “It’s sweet, can’t even taste any alcohol.”

Aloy grinned knowingly. “Be careful. It’s stronger than it tastes.”

Erend chuckled warmly. “I can handle it.”

They drank and ate for a few minutes in comfortable silence as they looked over the crashing waves.

“I never imagined that I would ever see anything like this,” Erend said after a moment.

Aloy turned her head to look at him. “The ocean?”

“Yeah. Since meeting you I’ve experienced things—things I never thought possible.”

“Is that good or bad?” Aloy asked inquisitively as she ate her last dumpling.

“It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” Erend said as he finished his drink and poured another glass.

Aloy felt emboldened by his words. “I’m glad it was you I met first.”

Erend tilted his head to look at her. “Yeah?”

Aloy nodded sincerely. “Seems like a lifetime ago. The Proving and then, well, everything that happened after.”

Erend took another drink. “Do you ever wonder—what if we hadn’t met that day?”

Aloy sat back a little. “What? Like if it was Aldur instead of you?”

Erend let out a loud laugh. “Can you imagine?”

Aloy shook her head, holding back the laughter. “I doubt I would’ve been as eager to seek out his help in Meridian.”

“Eager?” Erend glanced at her with a humorous smile twitching his lips. “She does like me.”

Aloy smacked his arm lightly. “You know I always have.”

“Yeah?” Erend’s voice got quiet as he lowered his eyes from her.

“Yeah.” Aloy swallowed roughly as she took a long drink, once again she was struck by how much he meant to her. Here was the moment, she could feel every part of her tense up in anticipation. But now she was plagued with the question of Erend’s feelings, and the doubt swam intrusively in her mind. Maybe he only saw her as a good friend?

Erend yawned as he watched the ocean. He lowered his body to sit in the sand and use the log as a backrest. The silence stretched between them and Aloy knew the moment was fading. She would have to swallow her fear if she was going to act. Erend leaned his head back on the log, and her fingers itched to feel the strip of hair and rub the soft-looking stubble on the side of his head. Looking down at her hands holding her drink, Aloy decided that now was the time to talk to him. She took a deep breath and calmed her mind just like she did before aiming her bow—she definitely wanted to hit the mark on this. Aloy opened her mouth and then heard a loud snore.

Erend’s head was flung back on the log, and he had fallen asleep.

Aloy let out an exasperated laugh—of course. She finished her drink as she watched him, he looked peaceful at least. The moment was now gone, and she was going to have to wait for another opportunity.

Aloy gently shook him, and he jolted awake with a surprise. Aloy smiled fondly at the look of confusion on his face. “Sorry. But I didn’t think you wanted to sleep out here.”

Erend sat up and rubbed his face. “Oh yeah—was I out long?”

“Only a few minutes.” Aloy decided that he looked quite adorable all drowsy.

“I guess you were right. That wine did hit a little hard—sorry about that.” Erend said sheepishly.

“No need for an apology. It’s been a long day.”

They both stood up, Aloy picking up the dirty dishes as Erend grabbed the now empty bottle. He began to lead the way down the sandy path to the settlement.

Aloy followed, slightly behind, feeling angry at herself for wasting the opportunity. Abruptly she stopped calling out, “Erend—wait.”

He stopped and looked at her quizzically. Her breath caught in her throat when she saw his soft blue eyes shining in the moonlight, and she lost her courage again. “Um, just don’t forget we have to leave early tomorrow so make sure you’re packed.”

“Of course.” He looked at her another moment, seeming to sense that something was off, but he said nothing.

Together they walked back to the settlement and said good night before heading into their separate tents.

The next morning, Aloy got up and swiftly dressed. She could hear Erend moving around in the tent next to hers. “Morning,” she called out from the front of it.

A minute later, Erend stuck his head out. “Morning,” he said with a cheerful smile.

“I was going to go see about…” she trailed off when Erend fully opened the flap of his tent to talk to her. His armor lay in a pile on the floor and Aloy couldn’t help but stare at the loose shirt covering his chest. “…some food,” she finished hoarsely.

“Yeah, okay. Let me finish packing and I can come with you.” He turned unaware of the effect he was having on her. “I want to apologize again.”

“For what?” Aloy asked as she walked to stand in the now-open flap. Her eyes were tracing the movement of his muscular forearms as he rolled his blanket up.

“Last night—falling asleep. That wine hit me harder than I was expecting and...” He said timidly as he ran a hand over his neck in embarrassment.

Aloy blinked in surprise. “Oh. No…I mean, it’s okay.”

Erend lowered his hand and began to put on his boots. “Well anyway, I’m sorry I was bad company.”

“No!” Aloy cried a little too loud.

“No?” Erend looked at her baffled.

“No—wait.” Aloy began fiddling with her fingers. She wanted to ask him, wanted to know what he felt.

Erend stopped moving and stood to face her. Aloy opened her mouth but found that the question wouldn’t come. She desperately wanted to know the answer but didn’t know how to ask.

Finally, Erend spoke to break the tension. “Are you okay?”

“No—I mean, yes, fine, but that isn’t—” Aloy was getting agitated.

“Aloy, talk to me. What’s wrong?” Erend reached out and grasped her arm gently.

She looked down at it and Erend promptly tried to pull away, but she grabbed his hand instead. She turned it over in her palm, brushing her fingers across his. They were softer than she imagined, likely from always wearing gloves. With fierce determination, her fingers intertwined with his, and she held his hand.

When she looked up, Erend was staring open-mouthed at her. Her eyes traced his face, at the way he was looking at her, and she knew—he did have feelings, feelings like her own. Aloy gave a soft laugh and her face burst into a smile.

Erend swallowed. “Aloy. What—”

“I got my answer.”

“Oh…um…what was the question?”

Aloy took her free hand and cupped his face gently. “You have feelings.” His face tightened under her fingers, and she hurriedly reassured him. “I do too.”

Erend beamed at her. “Like…romantic feelings?”

Aloy rolled her eyes as she dropped her hand from his face. “Of course, they’re romantic. Would I be holding your hand if they weren’t?”

Erend looked down at their grasped hands and he lifted her hand to his mouth, gently kissing it. “I guess not.”

A spark traveled down her body at the touch of his lips. “Erend,” she said flustered.

Erend grinned slyly as he let go of her hand. He tenderly cupped her face while his other hand settled comfortably on her waist. “Can I kiss you?”

Aloy nodded as her heart began pounding. Erend bent his head down slowly, and Aloy shut her eyes, feeling his lips on hers. It was strange and wonderful, but before she could think of deepening the kiss he pulled away.

“Okay?” He asked gingerly as he dropped his hand from her face.

Aloy smiled warmly as she lifted her arms to wrap around his neck. “Again,” she said forcefully.

With a wide grin, Erend pulled her close, and this time he was less gentle as he brought his lips to hers. Aloy tilted her head, opening her mouth slightly and felt his tongue trace her lips. Desire swept through her body as she leaned into him. She felt him groan into her mouth, and her hand moved to the back of his head to rub the stubble that had so intrigued her last night. She felt his hand leave her waist to tangle in her own hair. Soon, she felt her own moan escape into his mouth.

They stayed like that for a while, studying and learning each other. An explorer at heart, Aloy determined swiftly that she enjoyed discovering Erend. She experimented with pulling his lip gently between her teeth and the sound he made sent a shiver straight to her core. Then she examined gliding her nails over the back of his neck, which caused Erend to run his fingers delightfully down her back. The sensation had her toes curling in her boots. After a minute or an hour, Aloy couldn’t say, they pulled apart gently.

Erend looked at her with such desire in his steel eyes that Aloy wondered how she had waited so long. He brushed a loose tendril of hair back over her ear. “Aloy. I know what I’d like, but I have to ask—what do you want?”

“I want to try this. I want…” Aloy put her head on his chest and breathed in all that was Erend. He was comfort and calm—he was everything she fought for. “I want to be with you.”

She felt him pull her tighter against him. “I want you too. I just—”

“What?” Aloy tilted her head to look up at him.

Erend paused as he thought. “I’m worried that I’ll mess up somehow—I’m not sure how to do this.”

Aloy relaxed at his admission. “I don’t either.” Her lips turned up in a teasing grin. “Though I did think that between us you’d be the one who knew what they were doing.”

Erend looked down at her, and his face turned serious. “Aloy, I’ve never been in a long-term anything. Between the Freebooters and then the Vanguard—well, I’ve had a few women share my bed, but that’s about it. You’re the first and only woman that I’ve ever wanted more with.”

Aloy tilted her head in surprise. “So…you’ve never had a relationship?”

“No. Never wanted it either—until you first walked down that mountain,” Erend said genuinely.

“That long?” Aloy said, somewhat astonished.

Erend shrugged. “What can I say, you’re very captivating.”

“You knew you wanted me from the first time we met?”

“Well, I was attracted to you, hence the awkward flirting. But it wasn’t until Meridian that I knew you had my heart.”

“Meridian?” she asked, curious.

“Yeah, as soon as we pushed the canisters of blaze out the window, I knew you were the woman for me.”

Aloy laughed. “We can be dangerous together.”

“I like to think of it as being resourceful.” Erend grinned wryly.

Aloy snorted and leaned back into him. She could hear the Quen moving outside and knew it was time that they got moving. “I guess we should leave soon.”

“I guess,” Erend said with less enthusiasm as he rested his chin on her head.

Aloy reluctantly pulled away. “I’m going to go find Alva and say goodbye. The Sunwing is perched on the landing up the path—do you mind loading our things?”

Erend stroked her arms. “Got it.” He leaned in for a quick kiss that ended up lasting another few minutes before they were able to wrest away.

Aloy left Erend to finish packing and went to find Alva. The woman was sitting with a plate of untouched food in front of her as she worked on combing through the data they had collected yesterday.

Alva started speaking as soon as she spotted Aloy. “This is incredible. What we found…I think…I think it’s actually going to help my family.”

“That’s great Alva, I’m glad it worked out,” Aloy said.

“I still have some work to do. But—anyway I’m sure you need to get going.” Alva stood as she swiped off her Focus.

“Yeah, Erend and I should probably move on.”

Alva raised her eyes in a question.

Aloy blushed at the implication. “Yes, we talked, and...yes.”

Alva let out a squeal as she swept Aloy up in a hug. “I knew it.”

Aloy squirmed in embarrassment, but luckily Alva didn’t ask for details.

“I’m happy for you two,” Alva said as she let Aloy go.

“Um, thanks.”

Alva, sensing Aloy’s embarrassment, changed the subject. “Do you need some food?”

“Sure,” Aloy quickly responded.

Alva packed her up some food and together they walked to where Aloy had sent Erend. He was grumbling at the machine when they walked up, but had most of their belongings tied to the back.

Erend walked up to the pair, and Aloy handed him the bowl of food that Alva had given her. His eyes lit up as he dug in. “Thanks.”

Alva commented, “Thank you, Erend. For everything.”

Erend lifted his head as he swallowed a bite of food before responding, “Anytime. You know where I’ll be.”

“With Aloy,” Alva said with a giggle.

Erend’s eyes widened, but before he could say anything, Aloy stepped in front of him and gave Alva a quick hug. “We’ll keep in touch.”

“Yes, I’ll keep you updated.” Alva turned, and with a final wave, disappeared down the path.

Aloy faced Erend, who was finishing eating, when her Focus alerted her of an incoming call. She motioned at Erend to continue what he was doing and then walked away a little to answer it. After a few minutes, she returned.

“Who was that?” he asked.

“Beta.”

“Everything okay?”

“She’s leaving for a week to go to Plainsong. Zo wanted to show her around—thinks it would be good for Beta to get out for a bit.”

“Makes sense. The girl has barely been out since we got her back.”

“I know.” Aloy couldn’t keep the concern out of her voice.

“Zo will watch out for her,” Erend said confidently as he walked toward her.

“I know,” Aloy sighed. “I just worry I’m not doing enough.”

“The woman who saved the world—twice—and is currently going for a third is worried she’s not doing enough?” Erend raised his brow as he softly rubbed her arms.

Aloy shook her head and wrapped her arms around his middle. “Okay, I get it. Beta will be fine.”

“Beta will be fine.” Erend leaned down and kissed her forehead.

He turned from Aloy and picked up the final package to tie on the back of the machine.

“What’s in there?” Aloy asked.

“Plum wine,” Erend said with a smirk.

Aloy raised her eyes. “I didn't think you enjoyed it that much.”

Erend shrugged. “It’s a bit sweet, but it reminds me of you. I figure we can…you know, share it again.”

“Like…our drink?”

Erend turned to her with slight trepidation. “Yeah…is that stupid?”

“No! That is—that’s perfect.” Aloy beamed at him, and he looked bashfully at her.

Once the Sunwing was loaded, Aloy climbed on the machine and Erend lifted himself behind her. He didn't waste any time wrapping his arms around her waist. Aloy leaned back into him and soon they were soaring east.

Aloy called over her shoulder, “Are you needed at Hidden Ember right now?”

“No,” Erend said in her ear. “Why?”

“How about we detour to the Base?”

“The Base? Okay, but why?”

Aloy grinned as she altered course. “It’s empty.”

“Oh.” Aloy could feel him tighten his arms around her as he whispered in her ear. “I’ve got the wine.”

Aloy let out a breathy laugh as she leaned back into him. She was looking forward to some new discoveries at the Base.