Chapter 11

Chapter 11

Natasha let out a soft chuckle, "If only it were that easy to gain their trust. They wouldn't have evolved into what they are now in less than five years, surviving against the backdrop of New York gangs."

'Yes, you'll be alright when you return.'

"Okay." Natasha concluded the call, extended her hand, and patted the driver's seat, "Jimmy, let's head back."

In the orphanage, James found himself at a pivotal juncture. As he continued to absorb, the surrounding natural air rushed toward him frantically, forming even a cyclone.

Even Mother Hana and Clarice, not on the same floor, sensed the strangeness in the air.

The cyclone finally ceased after an unknown duration, and under the night sky, a resounding phoenix cry echoed through the darkness.

Seated cross-legged on the Zodiac amor chest, James's upper body shirt turned to ashes, consumed by a layer of red fire.

The red fire gathered, slowly transforming into a majestic, bright red giant bird adorned with golden flames. Examining the back pattern in the mirror, James was moved.

The shape of this back pattern was ethereal. The eyes seemed ready to burst back to life; even if it were to scream out and rush forward the next second, James wouldn't sense any discord.

"I just don't know what kind of bird this is."

James was certain the back pattern depicted a sacred bird with fire attributes. Yet, mythology presented limited options, like the Golden Crow or Phoenix.

A layer of golden-red fire flashed on the firebird, leaving James somewhat dizzy. As the flame receded, the firebird gradually vanished, revealing James's realization.

It was the legendary Vermillion Bird!

Extending his palm, a spark ignited, seemingly calm but harboring a latent violence. This was the Vermillion Bird's back pattern in action, controlling the flames generated by the natural aura. However, with James's current ability, generating flames proved a limited feat.

Regardless, James could now be deemed a half superhuman, possessing the initial power of self-preservation in this world.

The condensed back pattern of the Zodiac knight remained normally hidden and invisible, only revealing itself when stimulated by power to significantly enhance the user's physical attributes. A thoughtful setting, or else James would be wary of undressing, risking an inadvertent explanation of the origin of his unique back pattern.

As Clarice opened the door, she spotted James admiring his impressive back in the mirror.

After multiple strengthenings, Le Xia's body exhibited distinct muscle lines—though not bulging, it radiated a masculine beauty.

The 7-year-old Clarice, oblivious to certain connotations, simply thought her brother had become stronger. If only she were a decade older, she might have sustained herself by just swallowing her saliva.

"Brother, what are you...what are you doing?" Clarice sniffed, "What's that smell?"

James checked himself, confirming an odor. Wondering about his enhanced body's purging process post-washing the marrow and cutting the bone, he realized it wasn't due yet.

""Anything to do with me?" James grabbed a towel, poised for a wash. "If you've got something, make it snappy. My aroma might latch onto you."

"Huh!" Clarice wrinkled her nose, "Grandma Hana's waiting for you in the study. I'm leaving now, big bug, hum~"

Clarice stuck out her tongue and fled.

After a shower, James donned a white vest, nodding in satisfaction at the mirror.

The simple white vest showcased muscle contours, not overtly ostentatious—just handsomely so!

Entering the study, Mother Hana was visibly taken aback. Peering over her reading glasses, she carefully examined James's body.

"Smelly, it's cold. Why just the vest? Do you want a cold? Go back, cover up. I can't afford the hospital bills."

"Grandma, I'm fine, I'm strong. Look!"

James mimicked the postures of TV bodybuilders, trying to showcase his beautifully defined muscles.

To Grandma Qiong'an, merely 60 years old, he looked no different from the second fool under Mother Hana's constant pressure. James donned his coat, succumbing to the pressure.

"Alright, Grandma, what's up?"

Seated cross-legged on the wooden stool, James spoke. Since acquiring the Zodiac amor Box, he'd grown accustomed to this sitting method.

Mother Hana closed her book, "Here's the thing..."

Representatives from Stark Industries visited the orphanage, led by a female senior manager. After understanding the orphanage's situation, she generously donated money and food, spending time with the children before departing.

Before leaving, the lady approached Mother Hana with an adoption proposal, specifically for Clarice. Mother Hana, recognizing the depth of James and Clarice's bond, hesitated to decide alone.

"So many children here, why focus on Clarice?" James felt uneasy. Clarice shared a unique bond with him, and he intended to keep her close.

Mother Hana, sensing James's reluctance, offered reassurance, "I know you and Clarice are like siblings. I'm afraid of separating you two. Instead of agreeing directly, consider it carefully."

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