Snow Follower's main goal was to satisfy his interest, for that, he was willing to give Nessa time to get stronger, and even during the fight, he was not in a hurry to show his full strength.
Snow Follower acted slowly, allowing Nessa to adapt to his abilities and movements, however... it wasn't enough to close the real gap in their power.
The outcome was predictable - a wide gash across Nessa's chest, and only her sturdy body separated her from death.
Nessa's mind filled with the realization that she lost again, that once more it was Snow Follower and all gone at the true humiliation from the monster.
Nessa tried not to show it, but since she knew that she was stronger than all the humans and K0-Phantoms, as well as being the only hybrid, made her arrogant. There was pride inside her, as Nessa realized that she was better than the others.