Random headcanon time cause this game will not leave me alone for anything buuuuut…
Picture Aloy, Zo, Kotallo, Erend and Varl heading back to Plainsong, just to reup on supplies and then head right back to base. Naturally, Kotallo gets shit for being a Tenakth within their borders and Zo gets shit for allying herself with several outlanders. None of them particularly care (they’re all used to getting shit at this point so it’s just another shrugged off nuisance) and just go about their business…until some incredibly brave and stupid soul decides to mock Kotallo for his injury and who claps back? Instantly at that?
Not Aloy.
Not Varl.
Not even the loud mouthed Erend…
but Zo.
Zo reacts like someone lit a fire under her: marching up to the idiot who would dare insult a warrior in such a way, immediately proclaiming, “say that again and I’ll bury you in the dirt like the bitter seed you are.” The whole squad is a little shook but not surprised, GAIA even comments on her courage and defense of others. Calling her admirable. They leave shortly after but everyone’s a little shaken, mostly Kotallo who wasn’t anticipating her coming to his defense.
Needless to say he and Zo get a little closer after that event. Kotallo even shows up to spar with her and Erend when she invites him. Later on, Zo uses her focus and teaches him about the land gods and their sacred history while Kotallo gives her fighting tips and enchants her with old tales of his prowess.
