Standstill Bonds

Chapter 44 ~ Laying low

In a hidden location, an abandoned warehouse a short couple of km beyond the main city, Pucci erupted in furious frustration. His plan to rattle Jotaro had crumbled, thanks to the unforeseen interference of an ally with golden hair, a figure whose name remained elusive to him. His subordinates, Aoi and the hooded man exchanged hesitant glances, all too aware of their failure.

"Father Pucci," Aoi began, his voice trembling. "We underestimated them. The young boy and that ally of his, they caught us off guard. We didn't have a chance to-"

"I don't want excuses!" Pucci's voice snapped like a whip, silencing Aoi instantly. The priest's fingers clenched into a tight fist. "Do you realize what this failure means? Jotaro having those discs again means that rat of a girl he cares so much about is safe, he has his confidence back. You imbeciles, this could jeoperdize everything! Ankoku, your torturing stand should have taken care of them no problem, what in God's name happened?!"

Ankoku let out a controlled breath, replying calmly, attempting to redirect the focus.

"Father Pucci, before I explain, let me say that our priority now should be regaining your full power without attracting attention. Exposing ourselves prematurely could be disastrous. It should also be noted that when me and Aoi were going to face off against young Hiroshi and his friend, it was barely a blink of an eye and we were both beaten to fucking pulps on the floor, I'm sure it was Jotaro who stepped in, had he had longer with his time stop we'd probably both be dead."

Pucci nodded, pressing his hands together at his forehead, taking a moment to compose himself. Sensing his master calming, Ankoku continued delicately. "His new ally, whatever his name is has some type of ability, when he hit me not only did he hit me hard, it also stopped Cruciare's ability as though it never happened. Hiroshi was at death's door one second, then standing as if untouched the next. I fear, Father Pucci, that if this is a stand that can truly reverse effects as I previously said, it could be a drastic enemy to Made in Heaven."

Pucci recognized the urgency of adapting to this unforeseen challenge, he was determined to reassert his control over the unfolding events. If he could at least lie in wait until his stand reached Made in Heaven and activated its effects without being found, he would still achieve his Heavenly Plan. He knew Ankoku was right, as much as he desired to strike back, the timing had to be perfect.

-

Back at the Kujo household, Jotaro's room served as a visual map of the relentless pursuit of Pucci, adorned with photos, notes and leads that seemed to multiply with each passing day. The mounting frustration etched across Jotaro's face was palpable as he paced back and forth, contemplating the elusive priest's whereabouts.

A soft knock on the door interrupted Jotaro's restless thoughts and the door creaked open, revealing Josephine, "Guess who?" she chimed with a small smile.

Jotaro rubbed the back of his neck, giving her a quick nod. Josephine took a long look around, the messy map of clues, it seemed to be a visual show of the chaos in his mind.

"Mr. Jotaro, you've been at this for days. At least take a short break, clear your mind."

Jotaro sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I can't afford to take breaks kid. Every day he eludes us is a step closer to activating Made in Heaven. We can't let that happen."

She nodded in understanding, but her concern persisted. "I get it, but you won't be any good to anyone if you burn yourself out. We'll find him, but you need to take care of yourself too."

Jotaro glanced at the photos on the wall, frustration still etched on his features. Responsibility rested heavily on his shoulders, the safety of not only Josephine but the entire world at stake. "I can't let him slip away...not again, I won't stop until we find him. The consequences are too great."