[ Balthier notices Alina's defensiveness. There's something odd in this relationship, but he's aware she's had her share of hardship and isolation. Still -- friend and overseeing military officer don't quite add up. ]

Kirigan, is it? So you've worked together often, I take it? Good to have someone you know and trust here -- I'll admit I'm jealous.

[ He's not being disingenuine, but he's definitely watching for how she reacts. There's something below the surface here, and what kind of pirate would he be if he wasn't good at finding hidden things. ]