Why does Holly lie to Root about her magic being low?

Holly fears Root. She believes that he does not like her because she is a female who has earned Recon status. Holly takes Root's yelling as a sign that he wants her out of Recon. Root's face is often purple with rage, so it is easy for Holly to feel insecure in his presence. Holly wants to go on the new mission and prove herself which she will not be allowed to do if she tells Root that her power is low. He will also chastise her for not being prepared as a male would be.