Spring brought warmth, but danger had not left Windgrave. Josiah had grown more confident with Solar Titanium, yet rumors of a powerful enemy leader reached his ears. He followed the trail north, through abandoned streets.
There, in the market square, the figure awaited. Cloaked, aura shimmering with dark energy, they radiated menace. Josiah's pulse quickened. The Stand flared beside him, fists clenched, ready.
"You are the heir," the figure said smoothly, voice cold. "I've been waiting for you."
Josiah tightened his grip on his sword. "If you want the Jorwick legacy, you'll have to take it from me!" Solar Titanium mirrored his stance, ready for the first strike.
The leader moved with blinding speed. Dark energy struck, deflecting Josiah's initial Hamon-infused swings. Solar Titanium responded instantly, parrying and countering with devastating precision. Sparks flew, stone shattered, and the air seemed to ripple with the force of their clash.
The leader tested him, probing for weaknesses. Josiah adapted, learning to synchronize his sword, Hamon, and Stand in perfect harmony. Each movement became faster, sharper, more controlled. Solar Titanium moved as an extension of his will, striking before his thoughts could form fully.
Finally, the enemy withdrew, leaving a black sigil etched into the cobblestones. Josiah's hands were sore, his chest heaving, but he had survived. The encounter had been a warning—the true battle for the Jorwick bloodline was only beginning.
Josiah lowered his sword, Solar Titanium fading slightly beside him. "I'll be ready," he whispered. "No matter who comes next, we'll fight… together."