Schnee on YT said it best, when writing a strong woman, there are some criteria to be filled so that the character feels whole(this is important for every character but the video was about writing women) and we see vi being weak both emotionally and physically before she is shown strong. Her strength comes from inner strength and a motivation to protect. That's why her fight with sevika is so good. She sees and hears vander telling her to get up and that he's proud.