Tess set her jaw. Phoenix was telling her to be more careful with her powers and her life. It was a tired cliché, she didn't need anyone's guidance or training to survive. She had lived on the cruel streets with no one to help her besides occasionally the streetwise hobo offering her some toiletries and a fire's warmth come nighttime, but even that was only temporary. Tess was as self-sufficient as anyone. 

"I understand," she told Phoenix. "But I don't think what you're saying necessarily applies to me. Crime doesn't wait, so why should I?" the statement sounded like a broken record from corny action movies, but it was still true. Her green eyes bore into Phoenix's mask. The glare wasn't menacing or hostile, it was signifying her evolution from being a little fan girl to fully realizing the responsibility that came along with her powers. The two were by no means equals — Phoenix was far more accomplished and elegant than her in most if not all categories. But she was no longer that little girl asking for an autograph, but seriously discussing her abilities with another hero. 

"I appreciate your concern for my well-being, and I'm glad that you brought me here. Really, this place is..." she admired the quiet and beautiful surroundings another time before continuing, "...amazing. But I need to get back to Gwen, she's probably worried about me. Can I have a ride?" she asked Phoenix. It was selfish to throw all this at her so quickly, especially because of the generous hospitality Rose had offered her, but she needed to get back to her best friend.