That might have been a problem with the Dust of months ago, who himself would've reacted swiftly and decisively. Not that he'd have hurt her, but pulling out a glowing-runed blade and parrying the stick with enough force to create a shockwave was not a great way to meet someone.

No, other reflexes kicked in instead; by the time the stick reached where it would've bonked Dust's head, said head is no longer there as he half-rolls, half-vaults past her in a sweep of cloak and tail, coming back to his feet on the other side of her.