The thought remained unfinished as Bacari suddenly slid forward with amazing speed. He feinted high with the dagger, and as Will went to parry the knife, he flicked it to his other hand and slashed low, opening a tear in Will’s jacket, just scraping the skin as Will leapt desperately back out of reach.
Will felt warm blood trickling down his ribs. His reactions and speed had saved him that time. Just.
But the switch of hands had nearly caught him. Bacari was incredibly fast. It was like trying to parry a striking snake with his saxe – a snake that could switch direction in a heartbeat. He could try a throw, of course. But he had seen the Genovesan’s speed and he knew he would probably be able to avoid a thrown saxe knife.

Halt's Peril, Chapter 40