Jude blocked the next strike but felt the impact rattle through his bones. This wasn't like fighting an enemy. This was something else entirely.
This was fighting himself.
The realization sent a spark of adrenaline through him. Every move the other him made was precise, calculated. There was no wasted motion, no hesitation. He moved like someone who had already mastered everything Jude was still struggling to perfect.
Which meant Jude was at a disadvantage.
The other him didn't let up. He pressed forward, his attacks relentless. Jude barely managed to keep up, dodging and deflecting, but he knew he wouldn't be able to hold out forever.
He needed to change the rhythm.
Jude feinted to the left before pivoting sharply, throwing a kick aimed at his opponent's ribs.
The other him caught it effortlessly.
