Chapter 261

The massive gates of the elite training facility in Swallow County slowly creaked open, revealing the sprawling military base beyond. The sleek black Patton glided through the entrance, carrying its two passengers into the heart of the compound.

Evelyn Vanderbilt stepped out of the vehicle first, her eyes scanning the regimented rows of soldiers drilling in the distance. Oliver Lawson followed close behind, adjusting his sunglasses against the bright sunlight.

A muscular figure approached them, accompanied by a striking woman in a crisp uniform. Chloe Lawson's short hair peeked from beneath her beret, giving her an androgynous charm that somehow enhanced her beauty. "Evelyn!" she called out, breaking into a jog toward the newcomers.

Oliver cleared his throat pointedly. "Ms. Vanderbilt is here for training," he announced before Chloe could ask questions.

Chloe's eyebrows shot up. "Has Nathan lost his mind? Bringing her to a place like this?" Her voice carried equal parts concern and disbelief.

"It was Elder Master Goldmann's decision," Oliver explained with a helpless shrug. Chloe's mouth opened and closed several times before she finally gave up protesting. 'Elder Master Goldmann's orders... He's pushing her too hard. She's so refined - how will she survive this?'

"By the way, Evelyn," Chloe said, brightening as she pulled the man beside her forward. "This is Oliver's and my brother, Harrison."

Harrison Lawson studied Evelyn with open curiosity. Chloe's frequent stories about Nathan's mysterious wife had piqued his interest long before this meeting. He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Vanderbilt."

"Just call me Evelyn," she replied with a small smile. "I'm just another trainee here for the next two weeks."

Chloe exchanged a doubtful glance with her brother. Few civilians lasted more than a few days in their intensive program, let alone delicate society women. "Our training regimen is... rigorous," Chloe warned carefully.

Evelyn's response came without hesitation. "I'll manage."

Chloe couldn't help but grin. This woman truly was Nathan's chosen partner!

"Ms. Zoe, let me show you around the facility."

"Thank you," Evelyn replied, following her guide.

Once they were out of earshot, Harrison turned to his brother. "What's Elder Master Goldmann thinking? She looks like she'd break in a stiff breeze. This isn't some finishing school."

Oliver sighed. "His orders were clear - no special treatment. Not even from you. She either completes the training satisfactorily or..." He left the implication hanging.

Harrison nodded slowly. So it was a test of character.

Meanwhile, Chloe led Evelyn through the women's barracks. The female cadets snapped to attention as they passed, saluting Chloe's superior rank.

They arrived at a shared dormitory - simple but clean, with two neatly made beds and basic amenities. The air conditioning hummed softly, a small luxury in the otherwise Spartan accommodations. Two sets of training fatigues lay folded on the second bed.

"Chloe! What are you doing here?"

A pigtailed girl carrying a water jug nearly dropped her load at the unexpected visitors. Chloe beckoned her forward. "This is your new roommate. Rachel Dixon, meet Evelyn Vanderbilt. Rachel's our youngest recruit - been here three months."

Rachel extended a slightly damp hand. "Hi! Everyone calls me Rye. You can too!"

Evelyn shook the offered hand firmly. "Just Evelyn is fine."

"You two get acquainted," Chloe said, already backing toward the door. "If you need anything, ask Rachel or come find me." She thumped her chest with mock solemnity, her eyes twinkling with amusement at playing the helpful guide.