Chapter 293

Evelyn meticulously inspected her rifle and ammunition before stepping onto the training field. Satisfied with her equipment, she took her position with steady determination.

"Fate has a twisted sense of humor," came a familiar voice beside her. Lillian Heinrich stood there, her smirk barely concealed. The instructors had randomized the groupings, throwing them together once more. Evelyn let out a dry chuckle. "The universe clearly wants to make this difficult for me."

Lillian's eyes narrowed. "Don't expect me to go easy on you this time."

The sharp report of gunfire shattered the morning air. Bullets found their marks with rhythmic precision as the instructors recorded each participant's performance. Lillian moved with practiced ease, her two years of training evident in every motion.

But the real surprise came from Evelyn. For someone with no prior firearms experience, her form was flawless. Her grip was steady, her focus unshakable. The instructors exchanged glances as she matched Lillian shot for shot.

When the results were announced, only three remained from their group of five. "Rosalie Axelson, 35 hits - pass." The instructor continued, "Lillian Heinrich, 46 hits - outstanding performance."

A murmur ran through the crowd as he turned to Evelyn. "Evelyn Vanderbilt..." He paused dramatically before announcing, "46 hits - outstanding."

Gasps erupted. "She matched Lillian?" "No way that's possible!" Chloe Lawson punched her brother Harrison's arm excitedly. "You barely passed your first assessment, and Evelyn aced it!"

Harrison scowled. "I was ten years old then," he muttered defensively.

The next challenge proved more demanding - ten rapid-fire rounds at 100 yards, requiring three hits per target in under two minutes. Evelyn lay prone, her rifle steady. After six successful targets, she felt an unnatural movement against her leg.

Her blood ran cold. A pit viper slithered across her boot, making its way toward Lillian. "Don't move!" Evelyn hissed, grabbing Lillian's shoulder.

Lillian turned, her eyes locking onto the venomous creature. Despite her tough exterior, primal fear took over. She jerked back instinctively. The sudden movement startled the snake, which reared to strike.

In one fluid motion, Evelyn drew her knife and plunged it into the serpent's body. She shoved Lillian aside just as the wounded creature broke free, sinking its fangs into the back of Evelyn's hand.

The instructors rushed forward, kicking the snake away. Screams erupted from nearby trainees as they saw the dead viper. Blood dripped from Evelyn's wound as she remained remarkably calm, assessing the damage with clinical detachment.