After lying on the ground for ten minutes, James gradually regained his composure. Feeling on the verge of explosion, he hoisted himself onto the 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 the cosmic energy present in the universe. By utilizing the human body as a vessel, it absorbed and refined this 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. The breakdown and subsequent repair of cells enhanced their strength, reinforcing James's resolve to persist on the path of self-improvement.
As he continued to absorb cosmic energy, the pain in James's body gradually subsided, replaced by a euphoric relaxation after the ordeal. He found solace in this comforting sensation, almost bringing tears to his eyes.
The tranquility was interrupted when the door creaked open. A seven-year-old girl with big eyes and a round face, named Clarice, cheerfully entered with a large bowl. Despite the age difference, she and James shared a special bond, akin to siblings, and she was one of the few constants in the ever-changing environment of the orphanage.
"Brother, have some soup!" she said, holding out the bowl.
The contents were 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 was rich in protein and fat, but to meet calcium needs, one would have to consume hundreds of bowls.
James accepted the bowl, savoring its warmth. "Thank you, join me," he gestured.
"Drink," Clarice grinned. "Brother, look, I lost another tooth!"
James raised his head, laughing. "Let me see! Oh wow, your missing front teeth look adorable!"
Clarice burst into laughter. "By the way, can you help me throw my teeth on the roof? I heard you can grow taller by doing that."
James smiled at her innocent belief. "Sure thing, but let's save that for later."
"Oh! Grandma Hana asked you to come; she wants to talk to you," Clarice added.
Nodding, James gestured towards the large paper bag on the table. "Take the contents to share with the others, and place the money under Grandma Hana's closet."
As the children in the orphanage grew older, they worked part-time jobs for pocket money. Mother Hana didn't object but preferred the money not be used to subsidize the orphanage. To avoid any discomfort, James discreetly instructed Clarice to place the earnings in Mother Hana's change closet after returning from work.
Once Clarice left, James stood up and proceeded to the study. Inside, a peaceful old woman sat on a rattan wooden chair in front of the bookshelf. Seeing James enter, Mother Hana raised her head, her expression stern.
James smiled and moved behind her, gently massaging her shoulders. "Mother Hana, it's late; why aren't you asleep? Who are you upset with? Tell me, and I'll help you deal with them."
Mother Hana took James's hand, pulling him forward. "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 her. "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."
"Hmph!" Mother Hana gave him an irritated look before sighing 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 replied earnestly. "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 him 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?"
Her eyes filled with tears unconsciously. Savings were dwindling, and sponsorships were nearly 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. Though she was reluctant to give up, the children 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 her softly.
Mother Hana playfully slapped him and smiled. "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, Steve Rogers, wouldn't dare to save the world alone—let alone you," she replied with a chuckle.
Captain America was a hero from World War II, and Mother Hana had grown up hearing tales of his bravery.
"Oh! I almost forgot why I called you," Mother Hana said suddenly. "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 held back when he saw the hope in her eyes. 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?" he added, raising an eyebrow.
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," James replied, feeling a flicker of hope ignite within him.