Chapter 30 Unfortunately, even the longest road ends. Despite Ryder's slow pace, we reached our destination after three hours. I slid off his back, marveling at his lack of fatigue. "Uncle, no wonder you didn't get altitude sickness. You didn't even breathe heavily after all that walking." He touched my forehead, relieved. The fever was gone. "I told you to go to the base for training, but you refused. Regret it now? If you'd trained, you wouldn't be so weak." The word "base" still stung, even after all this time. "While we're in the Northwest, I'll train with you every morning." "No way! I refuse!" I bristled. "Your physical condition is poor. If you collapse again during the research, it will delay the project." Ryder knew how much I cared about this collaboration. After a moment's hesitation, I agreed. But I added firmly, "Gradually. No intense training from the start." Ryder's temples throbbed. After years of training, he'd never encountered someone negotiating their training regimen. But she was his girl, so he could only say,"Mm." Ryder was a man of action; training began the next day. At dawn, he arrived at our meeting point, carrying various items: a hot water bottle (I get cold easily), gloves (for push-ups), and a scarf (to protect my face while running). He was merciless with the training program but meticulous in his preparations. However, his face darkened when he saw Ethan Fuller behind me. Ethan Fuller, wearing an army coat, grinned with a challenging look."Good morning, Colonel Landon." Ryder's voice was low."My training plan is only suitable for Claire." "No problem. My uncle set up a plan for me; I'm just training with Claire." Simon Jones, trailing behind, approached nervously and greeted Ryder. Ryder:"..." His breath hitched. He glared at Ethan Fuller."A young, strong man like you needs this... delicate training? You're frail?" Ethan Fuller narrowed his eyes, understanding the implication. The old man was subtly insulting his physique, < Chapter 30 "Claire, are you alright? I've finished two exercises, and you haven't even finished those push-ups." You're the one who's not alright!" I was on my thirtieth push-up, gritting my teeth. "I bet I'll finish my next exercise before you finish those one hundred push-ups." "Bet!" I didn't believe him. "Fine. Loser makes breakfast for a month." Ethan Fuller's eyes gleamed.