Loki took a knee, and bowed his head just in time. So close was the ominous hum of the passing blade that the hairs on the back of his neck stood on end, electrified. No time was wasted in following up, however, and, as he rose, his upended weapon climbed in a sweeping arc to draw a line from groin to sternum on the looming alien. At this distance, her wounds would be superficial, but with one step forward, he turned it into a killing stroke.