Chapter 30 Enigma's Dilemma

30 Enigma's Dilemma

Nine months had passed since the auction at Biddersnest, and life had settled into a new rhythm for James and the elf twins, Elamenor and Erren. They were outside, deep into their training session under the bright sky, the air filled with the sounds of nature.

"Keep a calm mind, hold your breath, keep your focus on the target, and fire," instructed James, watching Elamenor closely. The young elf, a picture of concentration, pulled back the string of his bow, the arrow poised to strike. With a deep breath, he released, sending the arrow soaring through the air to strike the target dead center. A bullseye.

"Impressive," James nodded with approval, "but not enough. Keep practicing, and you might surpass me in archery."

Elamenor smiled, a glint of determination in his eyes. "I will not just surpass you, but also surpass big brother," he declared confidently.

In the months that had passed, Adams had taken time to train the twins as well, building a bond with them that was both familial and inspiring. Elamenor had witnessed Adams' prowess and sought to emulate it.

Erren, standing nearby, chimed in with a grin, "You can never beat big brother. He's the best at everything, and I want to be like him when I grow up."

Elamenor glanced at his sister, who had such admiration and respect for their big brother that it seemed boundless.

Linda, who had been watching the training session from a distance, approached with baby Jameson, now toddling at her side. Though Jameson couldn't yet speak properly, his giggles filled the air with joy.

"Sigh, you're getting too obsessed with your fascination for him," Linda teased Erren with a playful smirk. "You have to follow your big sister's advice and never grow up to be like him. But I guess you won't listen to her, right?"

Erren crossed her arms and pouted slightly. "Humph, I don't see what's wrong with big brother. He's the coolest person I've ever met."

Linda grinned, delighted to have sparked a reaction. "So you're saying we aren't cool, huh, Erren?" She put on a mock pout, feigning offense.

Erren laughed, her eyes bright. "You're all cool, but not as cool as big brother!"

Linda's smug expression faltered, replaced by a look of exaggerated defeat. "Sigh, I guess you're a lost cause," she said, giving up with a laugh and settling onto a nearby bench, watching the others as she played with Jameson.

James gestured for Linda to take the children inside, ensuring their safety in case of a confrontation.

Now facing Enigma, James asked, "Why are you here?"

Enigma regarded him with curiosity. "I see you trained those kids, judging by your words," she observed. She had never encountered children so fearless and composed, even when faced with an opponent they couldn't hope to defeat. It was astonishing, especially considering they had yet to start cultivating their powers.

James studied her, trying to recall where he had seen her before.

Enigma continued, "Please, don't take this the wrong way. I was just looking for Adams. Is he around? I'd like to talk to him."

James remained silent, still trying to place her face.

"Ah," James said suddenly, recognition dawning. "Aren't you the owner of Biddersnest Auction House?"

Enigma arched an eyebrow, intrigued by his deduction. So, he was merely trying to remember her identity. She sighed, relieved.

Jessica stepped forward, her voice calm and diplomatic. "He's not around. He went to the Beast Empire. What do you want? I could pass on a message for you."

Enigma shook her head. "Oh, no need. I'll come back when he returns from his trip."

With that, she disappeared from their view, returning to her apartment with more questions than answers.

Watching her depart, Jessica sighed, understanding Enigma's plight. "She doesn't even know she's already fallen for him," she remarked quietly, recognizing the signs of Enigma's struggle with newfound emotions.

Back at the inn, life returned to normal, with James guiding the twins in their training and Linda watching over them with affection. Yet, the encounter lingered in their minds, another chapter in the unfolding story of their lives.