Yo, we are moving to the next saga featuring Joseph Joestar this time as the next victim is our bubble blowing hamon user, Caesar. I hope you will enjoy reading this new beginning of obsession.
-Outbreakgirl
May 13, 1918
It is raining tonight, a heavy shower that is watering everything it touches, including a chapel on the outskirts of a town on a hill. It is active inside, as a woman can be heard grunting and shouting in pain in one of the spare rooms. It is lit by candles; a middle-aged woman is lying in bed, sweating profusely, and she is in extreme discomfort. She is surrounded by nuns tending to her, there are some rushing in and out of the room carrying water.
Two middle-aged nuns pray silently to the mother's symbol, Mary, on the altar, with a young boy of ten years between looks worryingly at the symbol, then at the two women. "Sisters, they have been in there for a long time. Will mother be ok?" He asked them, very concerned.
"I am sure she will be okay, my child. Our Lord is watching over her." One of them said this while patting his crimson hair, but it still didn't dispel his worries, as he kept staring at the door, but he turned back to the statue of the mother and closed his eyes tightly. That was when a nun finally met with them.
"Sisters, it is finally done! She has given birth successfully!" She said with relief, as she has been by her side until now, and everyone's hard work has paid off.
"That is good news! Is it alright that we go and see her?" One of the sisters asked. When she nods, they lead the boy into the spare room to see his mother. There was joy all around, but there was still a bit of work to be done as they were still moving in and out of the room. The mother is still in bed, exhausted from her ordeal, but she turns to her son, who has walked in.
"...Santana?" She breathes lightly, looking at the boy. "Come closer, i'm alright." She beckons him as she raises her hand, and he obeys, grasping her hand.
"Mother, I was so scared. I prayed really hard for your safety." He said, gripping softly.
"I am sorry that I've worried you, but everything is okay now." She assures him, smiling even though she is weak. The nun walks in with the newborn in her arms, all clean and wrapped in white linen.
"Ringrazia il Signore Onnipotente, Signora Zeppeli, you have given birth to a little girl." The infant is still crying loudly; her cheeks are rosy, showing small circular off colored birthmarks on her face. Her eyes are yet to open, softly squirming in her warm cocoon. The nun handed over the daughter into the mother's arms, and this made her smile as she got to hold her baby for the first time.
"Thank you," She said to the nun, then cooed to soothe the child. "Look, Santana, you have a little sister now. Isn't she cute?" She held her close in a loving embrace, and Santana moves closer for a look at her face. "Your father will be happy when his eye will set upon her. I hope he comes soon." The baby has calmed down a bit, wiggling and cooing softly.
"I have thought of a name for her-Julia Antonia. Would you tell him that? I feel so tired at the moment…" She sighs; even though she wishes to hold her child a bit longer, she needs rest.
"Yes, mother, I'll tell him for you if you cannot." He told her, but noticed that her arms were becoming limp. "I'll hold her for you so you can rest." He volunteers as he carefully scoops the infant into his arms, and that is when she fell at ease and closed her eyes.
October 20, 1938. Verona, Italy
It is the early afternoon, and even during autumn, the weather is fair and sunny. Those outside are enjoying the Mediterranean bliss that is provided by nature. Two young women are walking on the sidewalk with brown woven baskets of groceries in their possessions. One of them is taking in the warm tropical air, smiling brightly, obviously the cheerful of the two as they take their stroll. While doing that, they come across a local bakery, just as the door opens and a young man walks out of the store with a brown bag in his hand. Because of it, he stumbles right in front of the ladies, and they almost collide with him.
"Ah oops!" He dropped a pastry from his mouth, frowning as good food has gone to waste. "Oh no! What a waste! Oh, never mind that, are you ladies ok?" He turns to the pair, a tall English man wearing a brown leather jacket
"It is quite alright, senior. We should've been paying attention." The blonde girl chirps, while the other is stoic and silent for now.
"Good, that's good! Sorry once again, but this is fortunate. I get to meet such beauties." He smiles and winks.
"Oh signore, i'm sure you say that to all of the girls."
"Only the ones who are as radiant as the sun." He gives a charming smile, which seems to have swooned the cheerful girl, but the other is still stoic.
"Excuse me, signore, we really have to get going." She said as she takes the other girl's arm and pulls her along, but the man quickly stops them.
"Ah, wait, wait! Could you give me directions? This is the first time I've been to this city, and I am terrible at directions. I am looking for the statue of Gloria, do you know where it is?" He asked them, and the cheerful girl was about to answer, but was pulled along by her companion.
"No, I am sorry, but we are in a rush. Good day." She said, as she tries to get away from the situation with this stranger, they do not have time to stand around. The man thankfully didn't follow them further, but as soon as she is certain that they are out of earshot, she sighs. "Suzi, we do not have the time to talk to strangers on the road."
"Aw, but he was super cute though. It is such a shame that such a man like that is left wandering Verona alone~" She swoons, looking back at him mounting his motorcycle.
"He can find his way himself; we need to get to the church." She simply said, as the women continued their way until crossing the bridge to reach the Cathedral on the other side. The Church of Santa Maria Matricolare is one of the city's catholic cathedrals, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The women open the door and walk inside, already greeted by a man standing near the door.
"Welcome back, ladies." He greeted them warmly. He is a very buff man with a long dark handlebar mustache. If he wasn't wearing robes, no one would believe that this massively built individual is a priest. "Here, let me get these for you, you can tell me about your discovery when I return. " He took the grocery baskets from them and walks away.
"Well, I better go and do some chores. I'll see you soon!" Suzi smiles as she hums cheerfully, walking away, leaving the main alter and the woman alone. She sighs and turns towards the empty rows of benches, and she decides to sit and give a momentary prayer to the Virgin Mother. She sits in the front, closing her eyes as she waits.
"The Verona Cathedral is an exquisite place; I am glad I took a detour."
A familiar voice interrupts her, causing her to turn to face the man she had mate earlier, giving her a smile. "Hello, little nun. Fancy meeting you here."
She looked at him with surprise and disbelief, but she turned away from him.
"I didn't find the Statue of Gloria, so I decided to take my sightseeing somewhere else…and lo and behold I have found this famous cathedral instead. The architecture is something else! I have heard that the renovation was during the 15th century renaissance, and you can tell by a glance. I just had to see such marvel, but what a surprise that I found you here."
"It must have been fate that we meet again, and so soon as well! I haven't properly introduced myself last time, allow me to do so now. Jorgen Pendleton at your service. May I have the pleasure of learning yours?"
The young woman grumbled. "Well, Signore Pendleton, I am but a simple Novitiate."
"Oh, come now. I won't bite, I just wish to start a conversation with such a beautiful lady." He snaps his finger as if an idea came to him. "I know, how about I give a guess? I am good at those" He pokes the sides of his forehead in concentration. "Let me see…hmm…it is a youthful name, not necessarily Italian…maybe latin in origin. Does it start with a J?"
She kept a calm face, then shook her head. "No, not even close, signore."
"What?" He pouts, but then brightens up again. "Ahh, no no, I think I have hit the mark! Its a J…Janice, Jessica, Jodie, Johanna…" He guesses, trying to hit the mark.
"Ugh, you are starting to annoy me. Can you go someplace else?" She asked curtly to him. It doesn't seem to bother Jorgen and he still smiles.
"Okay, okay, I am sorry. I am just trying to get to know you. To be honest, I find you interesting. So I came with an offer, how would you like to come with me to the Accardi Villa?" This has gotten her attention, piquing her interest a bit. "I have been invited by a business partner to mingle in his Verona villa and I lack a beautiful partner to go with. What do you say, my dear?"
"Oh?" After thinking on it for a few moments, she gives him an opportunity. "Fine. I guess I'll accept since you asked so nicely.
This made him smile widely. "Very good, you will not regret it! I'll come for you tomorrow morning at nine, and i'll doll you up for the big night." This has certainly brightened up his day as he stood up. "I must be leaving, but it is certainly a pleasure…but it will be more so if I have your name. Pretty please?"
"...it's Julia…"
"So I was right after all, It did start with a J." He grins as he walks out of the cathedral at last.
The novitiate watches him go, a strange fellow this Jorgen Pendleton. She has to report this, and speaking of which, the priest returns.
"Come," He said, waiting for her to join him as they walked together. Making sure that there are no other ears, he spoke once again. " What have you discovered?"
"Nothing much on the outside, at least at first. I think I have found a way to get close to Vicenzio Accardi. The opportunity was there, and I took it. It involves entering the mansion as a date to this prancing, nosey foreigner."
The priest frowns as he looks concerned. "Are you sure that is alright?"
"It would be less suspicious this way, Accardi has his home locked down tight. He will be showing off his latest collections and the mask will be there. I'll figure something out." Julia is determined to see this through,
"Very well, just be careful. I know that you are an exceptional warrior, but I don't want anything bad to happen to you."
Julia nodded. "Don't worry, Master Messina, I will be fine, I promise." She assures him, but it doesn't dispel his worries completely. She is a young woman going into unknown territory by herself. He had helped train her in martial arts, so it's not like she cannot defend herself in dangerous situations.
"I certainly hope so, you have to be prepared for anything." He warns her, she understands as they would separate for now. She doesn't know what to expect for tomorrow, or who this Jorgen Pendleton is, but she will use this to her advantage.
October 21
Julia is standing at the front gates of the cathedral, as she is waiting for Jorgen to arrive like he said he would. Like yesterday, it is a sunny day and warm, hardly a cloud in the sky. Right on time, a loud motorbike pulls up, as the young Pendleton turns to her and smiles. "Hey, Julia! Glad you decided to wait for me." He grins, as he gives her a helmet for her protection. "Get in the back, love, and we'll be on our way. How about a spot of breakfast to get things started?
"I have already eaten, signore Pendleton." She said
"Ah, never mind that then, we'll visit the shops to get you dolled up!" He offered his hand to get her on his bike as soon as was ready. She didn't take it, but did get herself in the back seat and she held onto his shoulder as he started the engine and rode off. They are heading downtown, where the majority of shops are. He parked in front of a clothing boutique shop, taking off his helmet and putting it on his seat.
Julia took off her helmet as well, as she looked at the shop and its display of clothing. She follows him inside the place, and Jorgen greets an old woman at the counter. "Hello! I would like a party gown for this lovely lady. Is it possible?"
The woman adjusts her glasses as she looks at Julia. "Hmm…of course, signore. I have plenty of options for her to try, come this way." The seamstress walks over to the collection of dresses. "I have plenty to offer, which would you like, signorina?"
Julia stares at the clothing, her eyes scans for a moment until it rests on an orange flowy dress. "I like this one."
"This one? Excellent, try it on and see if it fits." She took the orange dress and guided her to the dressing room in the back. "This is made of satin, loose for free movement, and comfortable hugging around your figure. Why don't you give it a try." She opens the curtains and allows the girl to enter before closing. "Do tell me if it needs adjustments if you like it."
Jorgen obviously couldn't join her, so he sits on one of the lounge chairs as he waits. "So, my dear Julia, while we are here, why don't we get to have a bit of a chit chat…" He spoke loud so she would be able to hear. "Sooooo…is Verona your home?" He asked, waiting for her to answer, but she remained silent. "Its a lovely city, it's my first time here and everything seems lovely so far. I have also experienced new things." He shifts his legs as he crosses them. "For instance, ink squid spaghetti, I didn;t know such a thing existed! I admit, I was flabbergasted, but I was pleasantly surprised at how good it was! It is certainly a surprise for sure."
"Signore Pendleton…" Julia interrupted him.
"Please, call me Jorgen."
"While I appreciate that you find enjoyment in Verona, I do not need to hear about it."
"Ouch," He chuckles, grinning as he leans back. "Well then, how about we switch over to you. For a cute little nun, you have such an icy demeanor."
"Ugh…" Julia groans quietly. "If you have a problem with it, then you should've chosen someone else."
"Oh no, I think that you are the perfect choice. I can tell that you are something special, that's why I chose you as my date…you must have felt something for me too, right?"
"Whatever do you mean?"
"You accepted my invitation; my charm must have worked that it sparked a fire in you~"
The curtains open slightly as her face pokes out. "Signore, Vincent Accardi is an art contributor, and I enjoy some of his work. This is a perfect opportunity to meet with him…so I must give my thanks to you." She ducks back into the room. A few moments later, she exits wearing her casual dress. "The dress is fine; it fits very well."
The seamstress returns, as she looks pleased. "Excellent, my dear. If it's to your satisfaction, I can prepare it for departure. All there is left is the matter of payment."
"No problem, i'll pay for the dress." Jorgen stated proudly, heading to the counter to pay the lady. After the transaction is done, the duo exits the boutique as they will return for their purchase later. "That wasn't so bad. Now then, we must go to our next destination, what do you say about jewelry?"
Julia nods, following him to the jewelers across the street. It is a fancy place, and various jewelry are on display. Unlike the boutique, this place has some customers. She doesn't mind it, as her focus is on the jewels.
"You can choose whatever you like, how about a three-piece set?" Jorgen points at the cases containing bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.
"Alright…" She took her time as she observed the gemstones and came across a set of pearl jewelry. "Pearls, simple but elegant."
"Oh, you like pearls, eh?" Jorgen nods. "We can take this right away, I think these would look good on you." He grins, as he points at a pair of silk white gloves. "Look, they even sell gloves to go along with it! We should treat ourselves!"
She wanted to protest this, but she kept her mouth shut to make their time here go faster. They reach the register to purchase the pearls and silk gloves, as the young Pendleton took care of it, as their purchase is now wrapped in an elegant box before they left, and now he is talking about getting new shoes as well.
Inside of the nearby shoe shop, Julia fumbles when trying on white high heels, wobbling as she takes a few steps forward as she isn't used to wearing such shoes.
"This is ridiculous, I cannot walk around in these! Ah!" She lost her balance and fell forward, only to have been caught by Jorgen who held her close.
"Be careful, my little sunflower! We wouldn't want you to have a terrible spill." He teased, and helped her on the bench so she could sit. "Okay, maybe we should stick to flats." He said, scratching his chin.
"That is a good idea, I don't know how other women are able to walk in those…" She mumbles, taking off the high heels and placing them back in the box, leaving her bare feet exposed to the carpet. She turns to the female staff member and politely requests for flats, and she comply and went to find the shoes.
"Oh, time certainly flies, doesn't it?" He checks his watch, it's half past eleven. "After this, we should have some lunch! Is there a favorite place you frequent? If not, then I know a really good place that serves seafood and it's quiet."
The clerk comes back with the box of shoes, and Jorgen takes the box and gets on his knees. Even then, he is still tall as he is in front of Julia as he presents the shoes. They are white with yellow sequins, and the young man examines them before he puts it down near her feet.
"See if this suits your fancy, love." He ushers her to try it on, and she slides her feet into the shoes, and they are a perfect fit. She stood up and walked fine as she tested them out.
"Great, at the very least I won't trip over myself." She mumbles, taking off the shoes as she is satisfied with them.
"And you'll be able to dance in them, i'm sure you'll do fantastic!" He stood up, but she groaned as she wasn't looking forward to dancing. Once again, the Englishman pays for the shoes and they walk outside and they walk along the sidewalk. "We have the dress, jewelry, and shoes, and after we have a spot of lunch, we'll head over to the salon."
Julia sighs as she is tired, she is no stranger to shopping as Suzi forces her on trips sometimes, and even then, it is bothersome since she doesn't keep track of the latest fashions. "And now i'll spend hours sitting in a chair while
"Hey, come now. There is nothing wrong with enhancing natural beauty." He teased her, giving a wink which made her frown. "Aw, what's wrong? You would look more lovely with a smile. You are such a cool beauty, your sunny hair, chartreuse eyes, those cute marks on your cheeks, you are certainly the whole package."
Her cheeks become slightly red, but she turns away so he wouldn't notice. "W-What are you saying? Don't say such nonsense…"
She scolded him, but the duo took a short scroll towards the canal and into a seafood restaurant where they are seated on a table in the outside patio where they can see and enjoy the view. She cannot deny that the place is lovely, as they are waiting on their meal, Jorgen is staring at her as she is casually watching the streets.
"So Julia, while we are here, how about we get to know each other." He shifts to lean closer. "If you don't mind, I would like to ask you a question….what is your favorite color?"
"Seriously? Is that the best you can come up with?" She asked disappointingly.
"Don't give me that look, it's best to start with the small stuff, right?" He then had a thought. "No wait, let me take a guess…it's orange?" He took a wild guess and grins. "You also seem like a sunflower type of girl, right? There is a subtle hint of it around you, it is a lovely fragrance."
"Is that right?" She tilts her head, it doesn't seem like she believes him.
"Yes, you look radiant in the sun. So it makes sense since you have an affinity for sunflowers….and maybe water as well?"
Julia didn't say anymore when their food arrived, a plate of steaming mussels on top of white wine risotto sat in front of her. She then begins the lord's prayer in silence before she touches any of the utensils. There are also limonata sodas on the side for both of them, and when she is finished with her prayer, she does have a question. "Hm, tell me, signore Pendleton, do you practice divination? You seem to have keen insight."
"Oh? I suppose I have had a knack for intuition for as long as I can remember. I'm very talented as you can see. It has helped me out plenty of times, you have no idea." He took a bite of his food, enjoying it immensely. "Ok, i'll take another guess….you are a Taurus, I am sure!"
Julia says nothing on that as she decides to change the subject. "Enough about me, I am a simple woman of faith."
"But even the simplest of flowers hold wondrous beauty, I want to know much about you, dear Julia."
That look on his face is cheerful, but he does seem genuinely interested in speaking with her, like he is a lovestruck fool. They continue to converse throughout their meal and leave when they are finished, and Jorgen continues to speak. He was laughing loudly, enjoying his time before he felt a rough shove on his shoulder when they passed three men, looking to be young men and troublemakers.
"Watch where you are going, idiota!" The guy who bumped into him slurs his voice, also carrying a bottle in his hand and he takes a swig. They look to be delinquents, young and dumb that are having a good time with the alcohol in their possession. Jorgen chuckles a bit, as he doesn't seem annoyed.
"Sorry chaps, it won't happen again." He said, trying to apologize and leave the situation.
"Ohh…look at this signorina here~" They then turn their attention to Julia, who doesn't look amused at the situation. "Such a cute face, why don't you ditch this cazzo and let us show you a good time?" She scowls at them, turning around as she intends to ignore them, but they are still being a pest. "Come on, teroso, what do you sa-ah!"
When he came closer to reach out to her, his wrist was gripped by Pendleton who painfully moved it away from her by bending it backwards. Julia turns to his face, and it is a new expression that she hasn't seen from him: anger. The delinquent cries out in panic and pain, while his buddies stood in disbelief at first.
"Hey, cazzo! Let him go!" One of them threatens him, but jumps when his blue eyes turn at him, piercing into his soul. "W-what a minute! We'll leave! Just let him go!" He then turned to pleading now, which finally made Jorgen lighten his expression and release his wrist, although the young delinquent is still reeling as he held his broken wrist.
"Oh? That's great!" He is smiling once more. "You know, it is rude to harass a young lady when she is clearly not interested. Let this be a lesson." He is firm in his words, as he ushers his companion away from them as they tend to their injured friend.
The nun was surprised what transpired, she certainly didn't take him for a fighter. "You…know martial arts?"
"I am sorry if I have frightened you. I do know quite a bit since living in New York City. It's a dangerous city, so it pays to learn self-defense." He explained softly, a bit embarrassed still for being aggressive in front of her. They quickly leave the scene before more trouble arises, and it was quickly forgotten as they arrive at the salon.
"Greetings! Oh, you are that handsome young man!" The beautician is a woman with heavy makeup, walking up to the new customers. "You come for the appointment?"
"Yes indeed, it's that time!" He turns to Julia. "I won't be in the salon, I have other business to attend to while you are being taken care of. My chauffeur will come to take you back to the boutique to get ready for the party. You won't be apart from me for very long, I promise." He winks, carrying the goods that he bought with him as he departs from her. Julia watches as he leaves, but finds it strange that he already had an appointment booked for her, but she doesn't question it as the beautician drags her to a chair.
"Okay, we should get things started, tesoro! Your findanzato has already paid for our full beauty course, and we will make you the most bel fiore that will walk into the streets!"
"F-findanzato?" Julia shook her head in denial, she has never been so flustered, in which the woman giggles at her blushing face.
"Oh, he isn't? I would love to snatch a young stud like that, if only I was 15 years younger…plus he has money!" She pouts teasingly. "But I can see the way he looks at you, it was so sweet. Don't worry, you are in good hands!"
The novice has no choice but to be subjected to having her hair washed, mixed with soothing and scented shampoo and conditioner. After that, it is carefully dried for at least a long while before they move onto styling it into a wavy fashion, something that she isn't used to. Her hair was short and somewhat straight, but thanks to the stylist, it looks elegant as the waves are silky and clean.
She is then moved to a counter where makeup is displayed. A middle-aged woman swerves in her chair to look at her newest customer. "Sit down, bella, let's start with picking out what you prefer. Foundation, eyeshadow, blushes, you name it."
Julia looks at the products before her, thinking about it before she has chosen what she likes. Once again, Suzi used to practice on her to get her to become more feminine, but she wasn't really interested in such things. She is a warrior, dedicated to her craft, she doesn't have time for such things. For this one time, she does this for herself.
"Excellent choices, now let's start with the foundation." The artist starts applying the makeup on her. Taking her time to dust the brushes, eyeliner, and dark scarlet lipstick on her. "And…there we go! You look wonderful, take a look." She presents a mirror to view her face, and the young woman is honestly stunned on how she looked.
"Ah…this looks so well." She said, wanting to touch her cheek, but didn't as she feared it would ruin her face. The pink blush, subtle eyeshadow, and full lashes have been done. She even likes the shade of red on her lips. "Thank you so much, I don't know what else to say." This brings a smile on the older woman's face at another job well done.
"Miss Julia?" an older man walks into the salon, looking around for a bit until the one he is looking for makes herself known. Giving a bow. "Lord Pendleton has sent me to escort you to your destinations. Have you finished your business with this place?"
She nods, since she is properly dolled up, she has to go back to the boutique. The chauffeur leads her to the vehicle, a black Cadillac limousine and opens the door to the backseat. She must have been in there longer than she thought, as it is the late afternoon, time certainly flies. Julia has never been in a fancy looking car, it is comfortable and the ride, while short, is smooth. The door opens again as they are in front of the clothing store.
After entering, the old seamstress welcomes her. "Welcome back, signorina. The dress the young man purchased is ready, and also drop off your other accessories whenever you are ready." She once again leads her to the dressing room where the dress is waiting for her.
Hotel
Jorgen straightens his tie, looking at the mirror to see his reflection. He is wearing a white tuxedo for the occasion, he sighs as he doesn't like wearing such a thing, but sometimes it is necessary. The young nobleman is satisfied for now, and rests in the lobby of the hotel. While playing with his silver pocket watch, waiting for his ride, pleasant thoughts made their way in his mind on the little novitiate. "Mmm…"
"My lord," His mind snaps into reality as the chauffeur is in front of him. "The car is ready for you."
"Right," He stood up, and quickly headed for the exit. After pushing open the doors, it was as if he was struck by lightning as soon as he could see Julia standing near the limousine stretching her arms. The orange dress is flowing, made of satin and with large straps on her shoulders, exposing her neck which shows of a necklace of pearls.
"Ahem, my lord." The chauffeur nudged him out of his dazed state, which Jorgen composed himself as he approached the lady.
"J-Julia…" He clears his throat, trying not to be a bumbling fool. "You look….wow…uh…"
"Signore Pendleton, you look well." She complemented, looking at his suit. "So you can look distinguished, now shall we get going to the villa?" She turns, as the door is already open for them to climb into the limo. He took her gloved hand gingerly, seeing the pearl bracelet on her wrist. He helped her inside before getting in himself, door closing afterwards.
"Julia…what I am trying to say, is that you look amazing. I was just dazzled on how lovely you are."
"I am glad you believe so, it's not often that I am dolled up as you say. My friend often tells me that I am too much of a tomboy." She admits, lightly playing with her right earring.
"I see, haha. Tonight, you'll show them what you are made of." Encouraging as that was, she tries to get her head straight, as this is about business, not pleasure.
The Cadillac drove through the streets of Verona, then pulled up to their destination, Accardi Villa. It pulls into the courtyard, waiting for the other cars to drop off their passengers. "Nervous?" he asked her. "Don't be, i'll be at your side." He assures her as the door opens on his side. He steps out, offering his hand to her, which she takes as she exits the vehicle.
"No problem, I want to see the displays. Is it possible?" She asked him, taking his arm as they walked together up the smooth brick path.
"Yeah, you might even meet the man." He smiles, as the wide open doors welcome them inside the villa. The guests are gathered around the displays of art, paintings and artifacts. Julia is looking around, searching for something or someone specific.
"Is that so? DIdn't you say you have some business with signore Accardi?"
"Yes, but a bit of fun doesn't hurt anyone. Besides," He turns to her, lifting both of her arms. "I want you at my side for a while longer." He kissed her knuckles, giving a charming smile. Julia lightly gasps, feeling flustered again. This fool is showing such affections in public.
"I…" She fumbles on her words, looking into his blue eyes then she quickly turn away. "Signore Pendleton…um…"
"Love, I told you there is no need for formalities, just call me Jorgen. Pretty please?"
"Fine…Jorgen."
After staring at each other for a few more seconds, he does let go of her. They have an art collection to see. Julia pretends to be interested into these pieces, her eyes wanders around and so far she doesn't see what she is looking for, until she looks up at the interior balcony to finally see the owner of the villa, Vincent Accardi himself.
He is standing near the railing, looking down at his guests as he flicks his long blue bangs from his face as he peers down. He leaves the balcony, walking away to descend the spiral staircase to join his guests, and she turns to Jorgen. "There he is." She said softly. Jorgen follows her eyes, and he nods.
"Pretty arrogant if you ask me…" He pouts looking at him, such a flaunty guy.
"How about we say hello? It's not every day that one gets to meet with a famous art collector."
"Agreed…I guess I have to meet with him anyway." He leads her to Vincent, as he is already surrounded by his admiring guests as he is presenting a large painting hanging on the wall.
"This piece will definitely be displayed soon enough. In two weeks, it will be enjoyed in Verona for all to see!" With that, Accardi received oohs and aahs as they gave a small applause.
"Mr. Accardi." Jorgen confidently approached him, getting his attention.
"Oh? Who might you be?"
"Pendleton, You know…"
"Ah! So we meet at last! I am delighted that you have arrived at my villa!" His attention turns to Julia. "And who is this marigold rose?"
"Julia, signore Accardi. It is a pleasure to meet you. I adore your work, I just had to have this chance to meet you." She started to put on the charm, flashing her eyes at him.
"You flatter me, signorina! Such a charming rose in my home that appreciates the arts." He took her hand into his. "Everything you see here is of my own creation or purchased from various artists. Ah, if you are interested, there is a few more things to show you since you are signore Pendleton's date."
"Oh would you? That would be fantastic!" She smiles , hoping that he would show her. She needs to know where the stone mask is,
"Ahem! Mr. Accardi," Jorgen cuts in, having an almost annoyed look but is masking it with a smile. "This is my date, you would try and steal her away for yourself?"
"I am sorry, signore! She is such a lovely rose, I couldn't help myself." He chuckles. "But now that you are here, I suppose that we can get down to business. Is that alright?"
"Before that, I was promised that I would see your other collections. Could you please show them to me? I was wondering if there are sculptures?" Julia pleads sweetly with him.
"So demanding! I suppose that it wouldn't hurt." He nods, and the collector leads them upstairs and into an office. Inside are displays of various paintings and medium sized sculptures are in glass casings. Julia peeks at them, until her eyes focus on the desk as there is a display case which contains a stone mask shaped of a humanoid figure with fangs. She found what she is looking for, but she still have to play the part of an admirer.
"Signore, this mask…" She trails off.
"It looks gaudy if you ask me." Jorgen frowns, as he takes notice.
"Do you like it? This was collected from Mexico, and no one else has seen it until now. This will soon be bought by other clientele, so drink it in." Accardi grins as he places a hand on top of the glass. "Now then I am sorry signorina, but I must discuss things privately with this gentleman. Enjoy the party outside."
She sighs, as Jorgen frowns a bit when he turns to her. "Sorry, i'll finish things as soon as I can." He once again lifts her hands. "Just endure without me for a while, okay?"
She nods, as she leaves the two men and lets them do their thing. Now that she knows that her objective is here, she has to move quickly. She avoided the crowd as she stuck to the second floor for now. Julia quietly moves to the corridor and is testing the doorknobs to see if they are locked. She opens one, and quickly enters the room, and it is a guest room. On the bedside table is a telephone, and she picks up the receiver and dial the number pn the rotary.
"Father Messina!" Suzi Q's signsong voice causes the attention of the older man, turning to face her. "Julie is on the phone, she said it is very important."
"Oh? Then i'll see to it. Thank you, Suzi." He said as he headed towards the backrooms of the cathedral. After entering the office, he goes to the desk where the phone receiver is on the surface and picks it up. "Julia?"
"Master," She greeted from the other side. "The plan worked, I am inside of the villa. I saw the mask, it's definitely here." She confirms.
"I see, excellent work. Is it possible to get it?"
"I'll do my best, I just have to be creative. I'll be fine."
"Like I said before, you have to be careful. Take the mask and get out as soon as you can. If you have no other choice, you retreat." He warns her, still worried.
"Of course, master. I promise."
"Good, I want you to come back safe no matter what."
Julia is checking over her shoulders, making sure she is alone. "I will return with the mask. I have to go now."
She hung up the phone, and sat on the bed to think. "Okay, how am I going to do this?" She murmurs, rubbing the sides of her forehead. When she was in the office, the windows were ajar, which would give her the perfect opportunity to sneak in and take the mask. She stood and, and opened the window. Since the room is two stories from the ground, it's no problem for her. She vaulted over the seel and landed on the ground, ending up in the backyard.
She walked a short distance before she found the window she was looking for, still open as she hoped. After taking a breath, she raised her right hand as a crackle of energy flowed through it, then a bubble formed around it, growing until it was the size of a soccer ball. A few seconds later, she was floating in the air upwards until she reached the window, but she made sure that she was well hidden. She can hear the voice of Jorgen and Vincent as she peeks carefully. The two men were still talking with each other.
"...I see, so it's the Germans that have taken claim of this mask." Jorgen said
"That's right, money is money after all. Italy and Germany are getting along these days, so the exchange will go smoothly. Even they appreciate art." Accardi shrugs, standing up. "But enough about that, you have something to show me, right? "
She could see the glass casing of the mask was still on the desk. She has to get it, but cannot risk it with the two men still there. While they are rambling away, a blessing comes when the two men's business is coming to a close, but the door opens and a maid peeks her head out. It was then that she fully opened the door and reveals a blonde man in military uniform.
"Speak of the devil, here is the buyer!" Vincent points to the man that came inside. "Mr Stroheim, thank you for coming!" He greeted the stoic looking man who is tall and straight. "I was just finishing business here, you'll get what you came for."
"Good," He said, as he turned to the glass case. "If you'll excuse me, I would like to collect my purchase." He walks over to the stone mask, marveling at it. "Ah yes…this mask is very important indeed." He smiled with glee, as he was going to touch the surface of the glass. "Let me get a closer inspection." He removed the glass door out of that way and grabbed the mask and inspected it.
"Ah, pardon me for intruding," Jorgen pipes up. "What is so special about this mask? You seem to be very ecstatic for a mask made of stone."
Stroheim frowns, turning his attention to the man. "That is none of your business. Worry about yourself."
"Well, it must be worth something. Now i'm intrigued!"
Annoyed, the man puts the mask on the desk and stomps up to Jorgen, threateningly jabs his chest.
"Listen here, it is not for sale! I have purchased this and I will not be handing it over to anyone, especially a nosy punk like you." He growls, staring him down, but Jorgen feigns being scared. Vincent tries to calm the German down.
In the meanwhile, the hiding Julia uses this distraction to grab the mask. She lifts her left arm and summons a large bubble, blowing it so it can enter the room. It floats over to the desk, swallowing the mask inside of it. Regardless of being heavier, the weight of the object did not pop the bubble as it fell on the surface of the orb. She held out her arm, summoning the bubble back towards her, but shouting caused her to be distracted.
"Hey! What is this?" Stroheim turns around to see his mask being carried by a huge bubble. His attention then turns to the window, where a woman is floating in the air. "What?" This stuns him, but only for a moment as he tries to reach for the bubble, only to suddenly get knocked to the side as Jorgen shoulder tackles him on the ground. The young man then races to the bubble, holding it on his side as he then runs to the window.
"Great doing business with you!" He teased the two men before he dived at Julia, which surprised her as he managed to hold onto her in an embrace. This causes them to descend, but still slowly until they land on the ground.
After the initial shock wore off, Julia pushed the Englishman off her which caused him to yelp.
"Hey!" He pouts at her. "A fine way to give gratitude!" She ignores him as she quickly picks up the mask, then pulls at his collar.
"If you don't want the Germans to get their hands on you, get up and run!" She ushers as she lets go and runs.
He quickly follows her as the two are trying to get ahead of their pursuers, as they can hear shouting behind them as they go to the front of the villa, only to stop as men in military uniform are already there, trying to stop them. Stroheim burst through the front door, yelling in his native language at his men.
Julia didn't stop her sprint, she posed for battle, waving her hands in front as bubbles emerged from her skin. "Hamon!" With the power of the sun in her disposal, the bubbles became projectiles as they rocketed at the soldiers, hitting them on various body parts which caused them to fall over in pain, giving them an opening.
"I knew it! Damn you, Hamon warriors!" Stroheim shouted in anger, and now he was determined to follow them as they dashed into the front courtyard.
"My lord, over here!" The Pendleton chauffeur is close by, waving the two as he already has open for them to enter into the Cadillac. As soon as they are in, the car speeds off away from the villa. However, Stroheim wouldn't let them go that easily.
"Get up, you idiots! We have to follow them and get that mask! We won't let them get away!" He quickly raced towards the nearest military jeep.
"Wow! Bloody hell, that was something!" Jorgen is trying to catch his breath as is glued to the seat, then turns to Julia. "Love, you shot bubbles from your hands! How on Earth did you do that?" He asked her, as the woman was holding the mask, feeling its surface. It is the real thing,
"Signore, take me back to the cathedral, it is urgent that we get there as soon as we can." She told him, as her face had urgency.
"Sure thing, but you still haven't answered my question. What was that power? Why is it so important to take that mask?" He asked, a bit more firmly this time.
"My lord! We are being followed!" The chauffeur warned them as several jeeps were in view behind them, chasing the car through the empty streets. Julia notices, clicking her tongue as she goes to open the door, which made Jorgen surprised.
"Wait! What the hell are you doing?" He shouted, trying to grab her arm, but she snatched it away.
"Stay inside the car, Jorgen. I'll handle this." She hangs out for a moment before she flips on top of the car, using the power of Hamon on her feet so it will be magnetized. From here, she can see at least three jeeps tailing them, and she acted quickly. Summoning more dense bubbles, she changes their shape to resemble balls of spikes, and drops them on the road. This caused the tires of the jeeps to bust, making them spiral out of control and crash into each other.
Julia watched as the pursuers were no longer following them, sighing in relief. That changed when a light blinded her, as a jeep came speeding down the alley and slammed itself right into the side of the Cadillac. It caused the vehicle to swerve wildly until it crashed into a pole. The novitiate was thrown off the roof, but acting quickly, her body was covered in energy to cushion the impact as she fell onto the street, rolling to a stop. Thankfully, nothing is broken on her, but she is bruised all over and her dress is ripped and dirty.
After gasping for air, she looks up at the wrecked cars, and Stroheim kicks open the door of the jeep he was driving, stumbling out as he is getting his wits about him. His head is dripping blood, so he tosses his hat away, revealing his blonde locks. His attention turns to Julia, as he walks over her.
"Hamon users, you've been the thorn at our side for too long." He growls, trying to keep balance. "I'm sure that there are others around this city, where are they? I won't take it easy on you just because you are a woman."
She didn't say a word, but was on her stomach, looking up at the approaching German. He pulls a pistol from his holster, pointing it at her. "I guess it doesn't matter, your meddling has ended. I, Rudol Von Stroheim, will be your executioner."
"Stop right there!" At the shout, Stroheim turns back to see Jorgen, standing there as he is injured. He tore off his jacket, leaving his vest. "You certainly have the balls to come here and point a gun at a lovely lady, why not try me on for size…"
"You..." He grits his teeth, turning his gun on him. "You helped her, were you in on this as well?"
"Heh, anything for the attention of such a beautiful flower, have you ever done crazy things for affection?" He chuckles.
Impatient, Stroheim is willing to fire his gun right at the injured nobleman, and he cocks the gun, but he gasps in pain as something hits him in the back of the head before he could fire a round, causing him to fall forward and drop the gun. He is unconscious afterwards. Julia used the distraction to hit her target with a bubble, and she hit her target right there. Jorgen approached her, groaning as he moved as he winced a bit.
"Hey love…are you alright? You gave me such a fright when you went onto the roof. That was insane, you know. You could've been seriously hurt…or worse…" He lightly chided her, kneeling down to see that she was bruised. "Oh, see? You shouldn't be in this condition, let me help you."
"Wait, Jorgen, you are injured…you have to seek medical attention. You were in a collision." She suggested, as she looked into the man's face as he was smiling down at her. It made her hesitant as there is something about the way he looks at her. It made her uneasy as it has a mixture of relief and joy and something else. "...Jorgen…"
"Shhh, its alright." He coos, pressing a gentle hand on her cheek. "I know you must been in pain, but i'll take care of you."
He helped her up as best as he could given his condition, and he held her close to his chest.
"Never mind me…I have to get the mask back to the cathedral…huh?" She turns to see the state of his clothing, they are more wrecked than she thought, and his collar is ripped, leaving his left shoulder exposed. She could see something there, the angle of it looked familiar to her, but she couldn't see it where she was. "Jorgen…who are you, really?"
"Huh? What do you mean?" He asked her, slightly tilting his head.
"Back at the villa…you have taken a risk to help me escape. Why? That was stupid of you to get involved."
"Ah, well…as I said before; affection makes one do foolish things." He shrugs, and this made Julia confused. "I have truly grown fond of you, love. You interest me to no end, that is why I did all of this really. For you to feel the same as I feel towards you, is it working?"
She pushed him away, almost stumbling and winced. This caused him to fall on his back, groaning as the impact did not do his injuries any favors.
" What is the meaning of this? It sounds as if you already have heard of me, though I don't think we have met before the bakery. Are you some kind of spy?" She demands answers, but Jorgen simply laughs.
" Oh Julia…you caught on pretty quickly." Familiar crackles of energy surround him as it mends his wounds, and he effortlessly stood up. "Surprised I can use Hamon? It really was a pain to not just snatch you away, but it would be a wasted effort. I knew you were after that dingy mask, it was the only way to get you away from your allies. It worked like a charm, now you are all mine."
Julia's hardened look amuses him, then she spoke more firmly. "I won't ask again, who are you?"
He smirks. "Okay fine, since I owe you that much. I was getting tired of playing this Jorgen fellow anyway." He turns around, showing her his back as it is visible by the light of the street lamp. She could see it, his exposed shoulder revealing a star shaped birthmark right there, which made her blood drain as she saw it.
"You…you are…a Joestar?" She could believe it as she said it. The proof is right there in front of her.
"That's right, the one and only Joseph Joestar."
Italian Translations:
Ringrazia il Signore Onnipotente: Thank the almighty above
Cazzo: a naughty word
Tesoro: Darling
Findanzato: Fiance