Marvel Knight of Zodiac

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As she ventured into the dating scene, Gwen found herself grappling with the expectations of her peers. The class's top female scholar, who valued both looks and bravery, had set her sights on only the most handsome and courageous boys. But as she and James exchanged playful banter that morning, a foreign girl—unafraid to love or hate—couldn't help but roll her eyes at such pretentiousness.

Turning to face each other, Gwen sought to convey her resolve through her gaze. James, having just finished listening to Peter's latest antics, also turned his head in her direction. Their eyes met—one filled with warmth, the other sporting a finger lodged firmly in a nostril.

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

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

*'I must be crazy!'* Gwen thought, turning to Jessica apologetically. "Sorry, Jess, something important came up tonight. I might not be able to hang out."

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

James felt a wave of discomfort wash over him in class, acutely aware of Gwen's gaze lingering on his fingers. *They're clean, okay? Or maybe you're more curious about my middle finger—wondering if it's longer and thicker than yours, and—*

Wait, that's not appropriate.

Even though he didn't fit the mold of a typical seventeen-year-old boy, James's yearning for romance was overshadowed by his desire for strength. Right now, he wanted to keep things casual. Even if he regained his former self, he would still prioritize training with the Zodiac Suitcase at night.

The memory of those two dazed individuals from the night before lingered in his mind. Perhaps he would uncover their identities again and solve the mystery of the Zodiac Amor Box.

After a lackluster class, James left school alone. With Peter off on a date with Jessica, he felt no inclination for heroics. With nothing else to fill his afternoon, he decided to visit the orphanage.

His previous part-time job was on hold, and the $1,000 he earned from the wrestling gym was sufficient for now. However, he knew that remaining idle wasn't a sustainable option.

Upon arriving at the orphanage, he found Mother Hana absent from the hall. After asking the children, he learned that she was feeling unwell. Inside, he found her weakly resting on the bed, but she greeted him 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, could you pick up the medicine for me later? Clarice can accompany you; I trust her," she said, her voice soft but steady.

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

After chatting for a bit, he left the room with Clarice, who was eager to accompany him.

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

"Miss Potts seemed troubled. When I called her last night, she sounded exhausted," Clarice replied. Although Miss Potts hadn't adopted Clarice, she treated her well and frequently checked in.

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

Before long, they arrived at "Wang Chinese Medicine Shop" in Chinatown. The shop, established by Lao Wang's father, had served the community for decades.

As they entered, they found a young man behind the counter. In his twenties, he had a trim build and exuded an energetic aura that made James feel tense—this young man clearly had skills.

His 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, a smile on his face. "You're adorable! What's your grandma's ailment?"

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

Though jovial, the young man's movements hinted at martial prowess. James, having trained in martial arts himself, recognized the aura of a fellow practitioner. In a world filled with superheroes, such encounters weren't uncommon.

The young man chuckled sheepishly. "Sorry, I'm used to this back home. I'm Zheng. I just arrived from China to assist Uncle Wang."

"I see," James replied, scratching his head.

"Zheng, where's Doctor Wang?" Clarice asked.

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

"Thanks!" James said, appreciating the gesture.

After returning to the orphanage with the medicine, James took the bus back home. His interaction with Zheng had been brief, but it left him feeling slightly uneasy. Both Mother Hana and Doctor Wang had an air of mystery about them. *But it's just a passing thought—no need to dwell on it,* he reassured himself.

As night descended, James settled atop the Zodiac Suitcase, preparing to meditate. With Peter off on a date, he wasn't keen on patrolling alone. For 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. He knew that without restoring himself to peak condition, he risked hidden injuries if he continued training.