[ Another argument is on the tip of Ori’s tongue, a desire to be insistent that Beatrix’s contributions during the fight were great and significant and saved them. They all had parts to play, that night. She knows it doesn’t feel like it, because she’s grappling with those feelings, too. That she should have been stronger, should have been tougher. But now they know what it’s like to face someone who’s been engulfed in their own nightmares and, spirits forbid, they’ll be able to do better next time.

She doesn’t voice any of it, however. Beatrix has already expressed that she’s had enough of Ori’s sentimentality for the day, and she’s going to respect that boundary.

And so at length, she nods understandingly. ]

Take your time. I’m not exactly raring to go right at this second, and Diluc wants to make sure that I’m fully recovered before we even think about beginning.

But, for what it’s worth, I think you’re both fantastic swordsmen. I’ll never forget how you fought when we first met, you know.

[ …Okay, maybe she can be forgiven for a little bit of sentimentality. This time, at least, it only manifests as nostalgia. ]