Reports came from the east side of Windgrave: merchants and citizens had been attacked, black feathers scattered, faint energy signatures similar to Hamon lingering at each scene. Josiah followed the trail, Solar Titanium hovering close, fists ready.
The streets were empty at first, silent except for the wind brushing past broken shutters. Then, from the shadows, three figures emerged, moving with coordinated precision. Each wielded a weapon infused with faint, dark energy.
Josiah didn't hesitate. He struck first, Solar Titanium moving like lightning, fists colliding with enemy weapons with explosive force. Hamon flowed through his attacks, amplifying each strike. Sparks flew, debris shattered, and the ground shook beneath the intensity of the confrontation.
The enemies moved faster than usual, dodging, weaving, and countering with skill that suggested training or instruction. Josiah realized these encounters were trials—the leader's unseen hand was testing him, pushing him to grow stronger.
He adjusted mid-fight, combining Solar Strike with Hamon bursts and feints. Solar Titanium mirrored every subtle motion, striking with lethal precision. Each clash revealed new weaknesses in both the attackers and himself.
Finally, the enemies retreated, leaving a black sigil burned faintly into the cobblestones. Josiah knelt briefly to examine it, feeling the lingering energy of the Stand used to etch it. His eyes narrowed. Whoever was behind this wasn't just observing—they were calculating, learning, and preparing for something far bigger.
Josiah stood, muscles trembling from exertion, yet a fierce determination burned within him. "We're ready," he whispered to Solar Titanium. "And we'll get stronger, no matter what comes."
The night stretched on as he continued training, combining jumps, spins, and Hamon bursts in intricate sequences. Solar Titanium moved instinctively, reacting to the slightest motion in perfect harmony with his will. Josiah knew the real challenge was still ahead—the master manipulating the shadows was yet to reveal themselves.