Chapter 4

Chapter 4

After lying on the ground for ten minutes, James gradually regained composure. Feeling on the verge of explosion, he hoisted himself onto the Zodiac amor chest, crossing his legs to initiate a body-warming technique embedded in the chest's memory.

This cultivation method, inherited from the Zodiac Knights, harnessed cosmic energy present in the universe. By utilizing the human body as a vessel, it absorbed and refined cosmic energy, fortifying the individual. 

One of the immediate benefits of channeling cosmic energy was its ability to invigorate injured cells and facilitate the repair of bodily damage. 

Without this refining method, James's previous recklessness amounted to a form of chronic self-destructive behavior.Breaking down and subsequently repairing cells enhanced their strength in some manner, reinforcing James's resolve to persist on the path of self-improvement. 

With the continuous absorption of cosmic energy, the pain in James's body gradually subsided, replaced by a euphoric relaxation after the ordeal. 

James found solace in this comforting sensation, almost bringing tears to his eyes. 

As the door creaked open, a seven-year-old girl with big eyes and a round face, named Clarice, cheerfully entered with a large bowl.Clarice and James shared a special bond, akin to siblings, despite the age difference. 

She was one of the few constants in the ever-changing environment of the orphanage. 

"Brother, have some soup. 

"The bowl contained bone soup infused with Chinese herbs, emitting a tantalizing aroma. Mother Hana had consulted an old herbalist in Chinatown for the recipe, aiming to provide essential nutrients, albeit lacking in calcium. 

Bone soup, while not a potent source of calcium, boasted rich protein and fat content. To truly meet calcium needs, one would have to consume hundreds of bowls. 

James, still seated on the holy suitcase, accepted the bone soup, savoring its warmth. 

"Thank you, join me," he gestured. 

"Drink," Clarice grinned, "Brother, look, I lost another tooth."

"Sucking~" James raised her head, "Hehe, let me take a look. Oh, my missing two front teeth are so beautiful.

"Clarice burst into laughter, "By the way, brother, can you help me throw my teeth on the roof? I heard you can grow taller by doing that.

James smiled when he heard her saying that 

"Shaking her head, Clarice added, "Oh! Grandma Hana asked you to come; it seems she has something to discuss with you."Nodding, James gestured towards the large paper bag on the table, saying, "Take the contents to share with the brothers and sisters, and place the money under Grandma Hana's closet.

"As the children in the orphanage grew older, they worked part-time for pocket money. Mother Hana didn't object, but she preferred the money not be used to subsidize the orphanage. To avoid discomfort, James discreetly instructed Clarice to place the earnings in Mother Hana's change closet after returning from work. 

With the instructions given, James stood up and proceeded to the study. A peaceful old woman sat on the rattan wooden chair in front of the bookshelf. 

Seeing James enter, Mother Hana raised her head, her expression stern.

James smiled and moved behind Mother Hana, massaging her shoulders. 

"Mother Hana, it's late; why aren't you sleeping? Who are you upset with? Tell me, and I'll help you deal with them. 

"Mother Hana took James's hand, pulled him forward, and scolded straightforwardly, "Mischievous child, don't interrupt me. Don't think I don't know you've been secretly putting money in my closet.

"James sat down in front of Mother Hana, "So, you knew it was me. As expected, nothing escapes your eyes. I was afraid you wouldn't accept it, so I didn't tell you. 

""Huh!" Mother Hana gave James an irritated look, then sighed helplessly, "I haven't been doing well, making you all suffer. 

""Mother Hana, you've done more than enough. Without you, we might have starved in the streets.

"James and Mother Hana shared a comforting moment, "The orphanage is in this state, and as the older sibling, I should help share the burden. You can't do all the work alone!

"Mother Hana looked at James with concern."I appreciate all the help you've provided, but you're still young. You come back late every night; what if something happens to you? What will become of us in the future? 

"The old lady spoke, her eyes filling with tears unconsciously. Her savings were dwindling, and sponsorships were almost exhausted. Some orphanages might not have enough to eat. 

If things didn't improve, they might have to appeal to society, hoping capable families would adopt the children. 

Although Mother Hana was reluctant to give up, the children in the orphanage were like her grandchildren, yet she had no other options. 

"Don't worry, Mother Hana; we'll get through this. And you don't have to worry about me; I'll always be safe. 

"James reassured softly. 

Mother Hana playfully slapped him, saying with a smile, "You're just boasting; I know you too well. 

"James grinned, "Mother Hana, you don't know, I might save the world one day. 

""It's not boasting; even Captain America, Steven Rogers, wouldn't dare save the world alone—just you. 

"Captain America, a hero from World War II, had a story that resonated through generations. Mother Hana grew up hearing tales of the Captain. 

"Oh! I almost forgot why I called you," Mother Hana remembered, "Will you help me write a letter? I heard there's a big company doing charity work. I have a mailbox here; you can write them a letter and see if we can get some help. 

"James initially thought of voicing his skepticism, but seeing the hope in the old woman's eyes, he held back. He couldn't bear to crush her enthusiasm for helping the orphans.

"Alright, I'll write it. But seriously, who names their company 'sank'?" 

Isn't it Stark Industries?

Mother Hana shrugged, "How would I know? Old Will heard it from someone. He knows the executives inside, so it should be correct.

""Uncle Will? Okay, then I'll give it a try."