In a way, being a Vessel and being an <i>etoile</i> aren't so different. They both sacrifice their freedom for a greater purpose, though dancers do so at least a little by choice. As a ballerina, Saya shut herself away, too busy dancing to bother with a normal life. She convinced herself hard work meant misery. She accepted that a person could either choose greatness or happiness, never both. Now, as a Vessel, she can live how she chooses. She can make friends, and eat sweets, and study the katana, even if swordwork goes against her Gift. There's nothing to prove anymore, not with the Requiem coming. And even though that should scare her, Saya's never felt so free.

In a way, being a Vessel and being an <i>etoile</i> aren't so different. They both sacrifice their freedom for a greater purpose, though dancers do so at least a little by choice. As a ballerina, Saya shut herself away, too busy dancing to bother with a normal life. She convinced herself hard work meant misery. She accepted that a person could either choose greatness or happiness, never both. Now, as a Vessel, she can live how she chooses. She can make friends, and eat sweets, and study the katana, even if swordwork goes against her Gift. There's nothing to prove anymore, not with the Requiem coming. And even though that should scare her, Saya's never felt so free.