Everything is different about this - so many changes, so many firsts.

First time with Asil. First time with someone who actually [i]cared[/i] about her. Enough to respect the bundle of neurosis that made up her personality and [i]adapt[/i]. To put her needs ahead of theirs. To see her boundaries and not just plough over them in pursuit of something that they wanted from her.

First time seeing the spirit world. Even here, in the arena, there are geists that dot the landscape - Look! There's one whose job is manage the leaves on a tree. And there's one measuring the flow of the river! One more that is [i]literally[/i] watching grass grow. And that's not even getting into the six over there who only exist to broadcast various unintelligible noises (maybe they're saying something in Zaldarian?). It's a whole new world with plenty to explore. Best of all, it's right here; no need for expeditions or equipment!

First time, also, entering an arena with someone she's actually [i]met[/i] on the other side - not just a picture she's read about and studied. Although their discussion at the Gala had been brief - it felt different to be facing off against someone who had watched her dance. Who had joined in a discussion about theology. Who was family to someone she ... well, maybe friend was too strong a word - but someone she'd certainly had a connection with.

As for what greeting this all led to?

"Hey Kiriala!" calls Isabelle, taking a moment to wave to her opponent. "Glad you all made it off the Crystal station safely. How's Mira doing?"

First time for that, too, I guess.

It's amazing what changes can be wrought in a short time.