Chapter 32: Of Orphanages and Mysteries

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DROP SOME STONE

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As she entered the dating scene, the class's esteemed female scholar, who valued both looks and courage, deemed only the most handsome and courageous boys worthy.

But as Gwen and James bantered that morning, the foreign girl, unafraid to love or hate, couldn't abide such nonsense.

Turning to face each other, Gwen sought to convey her resolve through her gaze.

James, having just listened to Peter, also turned his head simultaneously.

Their eyes met.

One gaze was affectionate, while the other sported a finger lodged in a nostril.

James chuckled, withdrawing his finger. "Just an itch, nothing more."

"You sure don't need it!" Gwen whipped out her phone. "Hey, Dr. Connors—no, no class yet. What? Seriously? Okay, I'll be there after school."

'I must be crazy!'

Gwen turned to Jessica apologetically. "Sorry, Jess, something important came up tonight. I might not be able to hang out."

"Really? That's too bad..." Jessica inwardly praised, 'Thank you, Dr. Connors, you're a lifesaver! And this James... Tsk, Peter's really got his work cut out for him.'

James felt awkward in class, sensing Gwen's eyes on his fingers.

They're clean, okay? Or maybe you're more interested in my middle finger, wondering if it's longer and thicker than yours, and—

Wait, that's not appropriate.

Even though he wasn't a typical seventeen-year-old boy, James's yearning for romance paled in comparison to his desire for strength.

For now, he didn't want to make things awkward. Even when he regained his former self, he'd still maintain his strength and continue training with the Zodiac Suitcase at night.

Seeing those two dazed individuals last night gave him a familiar feeling. Perhaps he'd uncover their identities again and solve the mystery of the Zodiac Amor Box.

James left school alone after a lackluster class.

With Peter on a date with Jessica, James wasn't in the mood for heroics. With nothing else to do that afternoon, he opted to visit the orphanage.

His previous part-time job was on hold, the $1000 he earned from the wrestling gym enough to tide him over for now. He contemplated other money-making ventures, realizing sitting idle wasn't sustainable.

At the orphanage, Mother Hana was absent from the hall. Inquiring with the children, James learned she was sick.

Inside, Mother Hana lay weakly on the bed, greeting James with a smile.

"I'm under the weather, but don't worry. I've got medication from the doctor; I'll be fine after a few doses. Since you're here, can you pick up the medicine for me later? Clarice can accompany you; I trust her."

"Sure thing, I'll handle it," James assured her.

After chatting with Mother Hana, James left the room and headed toward Chinatown with Clarice.

"Have you spoken to Miss Potts lately?" James asked as they walked.

"Miss Potts seemed troubled. When I called her last night, she sounded exhausted," Clarice replied.

Though Miss Potts didn't adopt Clarice, she treated her well and often checked in on her.

Clarice regarded Miss Potts as a sister, empathizing with her struggles.

"Well, just keep in touch. You're doing great, even if you can't help her right now, don't stress about it," James advised.

As they conversed, they arrived at "Lao Wang Chinese Medicine Shop" in Chinatown. Established by Lao Wang's father, the shop had been serving the community for decades.

Though familiar with the shop, upon entering, they found a young man behind the counter.

In his twenties, with a trim build, the young man exuded a spirited aura.

James felt a pang of tension upon seeing him—the young man was clearly skilled.

The young man's eyes lit up upon spotting James. "Here for a checkup or medication?"

Curious, Clarice piped up, "We're picking up medicine for Grandma. Who are you? Where's Grandpa Wang?"

The young man crouched down, smiling. "You're adorable. What's your grandma's ailment?"

"Our grandma runs the 'Children of the Stars' orphanage. The prescription's from Mr. Wang Chu, already prepared," James explained.

Although the young man was jovial, every movement hinted at martial prowess.

James, versed in martial arts himself, recognized the aura of a fellow practitioner. In the Marvel universe, encountering martial artists wasn't uncommon.

The young man chuckled sheepishly. "Sorry, I'm used to this back home. I'm Zheng. Just arrived from China to assist Uncle Wang Chu. Feel free to call me Zheng Ge."

"I see," James scratched his head.

"Brother Zheng, where's Doctor Wang?" Clarice inquired.

"My uncle left a few days ago for something urgent. I'm holding down the fort while he's away," Zheng Ge explained with a grin. "I've got the prescriptions ready. Let me fetch your medicine, Master James."

"Thanks," James expressed his gratitude.

After returning to the orphanage with the medicine, James took the bus back.

His interaction with Zheng Ge was brief, but the encounter left James slightly concerned. Both Mother Hana and Doctor Wang Chu had an air of mystery about them.

Of course, it was just a passing thought—James wouldn't dwell on it too much.

As night descended, James sat atop the Zodiac Suitcase, preparing to meditate. Without Peter, he wasn't keen on patrolling alone. Right now, his priority was to enhance his strength.

Cross-legged, he removed his shirt and began channeling cosmic energy.

After yesterday's ordeal, his strength surged once more, but it came with considerable strain. Without restoring himself to peak condition, he risked hidden injuries if he continued training.