Final answer:
The word 'the' refers to a specific person mentioned earlier. The phrase 'the first person to arrive' denotes Noelle as the individual who reached a particular location or event before anyone else, indicating promptness or eagerness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase "the first person to arrive" refers to an individual who arrives before all others to a specific location or event. In the context provided, it would likely refer to a character named Noelle who is part of the narrative. This expression is commonly used in literature and everyday language to denote someone's promptness or eagerness by being the earliest to be present.