"I am a Valkyrie," she says, with another wink. "I have to be fast and strong." Once that moment of pride is put aside, though, her tone of voice becomes more conciliatory. "You did well, though. You'll improve quickly, I think."

Then she reaches a hand up. One of her curls is now a few inches shorter. Her expression briefly screws up -- her hair will look uneven! -- but doesn't stay that way long. She smiles back at him, then she shrugs. "It will grow back," she says. "Perhaps I should trim the other ringlet, though. I'll look ridiculous, otherwise."