[Asch actually striking back instead of just playing defense surprises Cloud before he adapts. He can feel himself able to move faster without the weight and sheer size of the blade slowing him down, but he also can feel his blows lessen in power without the weight of the blade to drag them down. It's very strange, and more often than not Cloud is caught slicing from too far away, or not putting enough power behind his attacks.
His side and shoulder start to throb as well, and he reflects blankly that maybe he shouldn't have been so eager to practice today.]
[Action]
His side and shoulder start to throb as well, and he reflects blankly that maybe he shouldn't have been so eager to practice today.]