Queen Maeve seized an opening in Claire's defenses and lunged forward. Startled, Claire tried to retreat, but Queen Maeve struck her wrist with the hilt of her blade.
Claire cried out in pain, and her weapon clanged to the ground. Queen Maeve then swept out with a kick, knocking Claire to the floor and ending the fight.
"Claire, you've improved quickly, but your nature is still too kind. You lack aggression."
Queen Maeve held out a hand to Claire and said, "When I closed in on you earlier, you shouldn't have retreated. You should have counterattacked. The moment you backed away, the initiative fell into my hands."
"I'll improve next time."
Claire took Queen Maeve's hand and rose to her feet. She was not the sharp, formidable sort of woman, and her attacks were clearly lacking during combat.
"Claire, go back and properly reflect on this loss. Maeve might spare you, but other villains won't."
Andrew walked over and said, "Don't underestimate those villains. Any mistake you make could lead to your own death—or the deaths of civilians."
"I will never allow that to happen."
Claire promised loudly. She did not merely want to become a superhero; she wanted to become a superhero capable of protecting everyone.
Claire went back to reflect on the battle. Andrew handed Queen Maeve a bottle of water. She accepted it and smiled. "Director of S.W.O.R.D., Mr. Savior, you really are quite the romantic. Claire obviously carries your aura, and it's quite strong."
Andrew said righteously, "What do you mean by that? Are you flirting with me? Let me tell you, I'm a decent man. Of course, if you insist on forcing yourself on me, then as the Savior, I won't resist, lest I hurt you."
Queen Maeve immediately gave him the finger. Though she