A week later we open up to the Mistral Base to see many of the marines.

Mostly the USMC.

Celebrating the birthday of the United States Marine Corps.

And due to the base's location being in a climate similar to Vietnam, warm climate of the region allowed for a more relaxed dress code, with many Marines opting for just their shirts or going shirtless. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and relaxation.

Some Marines were dancing to music playing in the background, while others sat around, playing cards, and enjoying a few drinks. Laughter and cheers filled the air as they shared stories and memories.

Anthony, Chris, David, Yang, Nora, and their teams were in the midst of it all, enjoying the celebration and taking a moment to unwind after their recent adventures. The sight of Marines coming together to mark this special occasion was a reminder of the strong brotherhood and sisterhood that defined their service.

Flags and banners adorned the base, displaying the Marine Corps emblem with pride.

We see Miho and Tomoe walking together and watching the US Marines celebrating.

Tomoe: Ara~Ara~ 海兵隊は間違いなく楽しんでいます。 {The Marines are surely having a blast.}

Miho:*nodded* アメリカ海兵隊がこのように祝うのをここ何年も見たことがありません。 高橋さんはどう思いますか？ {I haven't seen the US Marines celebrate like this in years. Takahashi-san, what do you think?}

Tomoe: 確かに、それは素晴らしいことです。 アメリカ海兵隊の誕生日は、彼らにとって非常に特別な日です。 私たちも楽しむことができることを嬉しく思います。 {Indeed, it's wonderful. The birthday of the United States Marine Corps is a very special day for them. I'm glad we can enjoy it too.}

Miho: はい、私もそう思います。 彼らの勇気と奉仕に感謝しています。 {Yes, I feel the same. I'm grateful for their courage and service.}

As they watched the festivities, Miho and Tomoe couldn't help but appreciate the spirit of unity and camaraderie that the Marines displayed on this occasion. It was a testament to the bonds that military service forged among individuals, regardless of their backgrounds.

As they continued walking, Miho spotted Dustin chatting with his son and daughter Pavel and Bula.

Miho has been keeping a watchful eye on the USMC General and USAF since the Gulag Mission. She's paranoid as hell, and she suspect of everything when something isn't right for her.

She cannot be exactly blamed, her paranoia saved her life more than once, and she learned to trust her 6° sense and intuition.

She took not he's in his Woodland MARPAT uniform instead of his Service Uniform.

Dustin saw her looking at her and approach her while drinking a cup of coffee.

Dustin:*stoic* Feldmarschall Nishizumi.

Miho:*stoic* Генерал Уокер.

Dustin raised an impressed eyebrow as she spoke fluent Russian to him. Miho slightly did the same when he spoke fluent German.

Their exchange showcased their language skills and mutual respect for each other's abilities. Miho and Dustin had developed a unique relationship over the course of their missions and had come to understand and appreciate each other's strengths and quirks.

Dustin: Your Russian is impeccable, Feldmarschall.

Miho: As is your German, General. It's essential to be adaptable in our line of work.

They shared a brief nod, recognizing the truth in her words. The world of covert operations demanded versatility and the ability to navigate through various languages and cultures.

Dustin: I trust you've been keeping well since our last mission?

Miho: As well as one can be, considering the circumstances. How about you and your family, General?

Dustin's expression softened as he glanced over at Pavel and Bula.

Dustin: They keep me on my toes, that's for sure. But I wouldn't have it any other way.

Miho nodded in understanding, a subtle acknowledgment of the sacrifices and challenges that came with their chosen paths.

Miho: I understand completely. We must cherish the moments we have with our loved ones.

Their conversation continued, filled with a shared understanding of the complexities of their lives as military leaders and parents. It was a rare bond formed amidst the chaos of their world.

Just then, a couple of Marines and Miho's battalion approached the two leaders with beer and cups.

Dustin: Something wrong?

US Marine: Nothing, sir. It's just that many of us including Ooarai Battalion(Miho's battalion name). Were suggesting to have a drinking contest.

Kobi: And were thinking having you, Feldmarschall Nishizumi, Captain Towson, Captain Fernandes, Major "Jester" Moreau, 1st Lieutenant Gram, Colonel Akiyama, Colonel Takebe, Colonel Isuzu, and Colonel Reizei.

Both Dustin and Miho looked at each other and shrugged and nodded at them in agreement for the drinking contest.

A drinking contest among seasoned military leaders was not a typical occurrence, but it seemed the Marines and Miho's battalion were in the mood for some friendly competition.

Dustin: Very well, if that's what everyone wants.

Miho: Agreed. Let's make it interesting.

The Marines and Miho's battalion cheered at their acceptance. The idea of a drinking contest involving such esteemed leaders was sure to be a memorable event.

US Marine: We'll set up a table and get everything ready, sirs and ma'am.

With that, the preparations for the drinking contest began, as tables and chairs were arranged, and an assortment of drinks, from beer to whiskey, was brought out. It promised to be a lively and spirited competition, a rare opportunity for these military leaders to let loose and bond over more than just their professional duties.

10 minutes later~

Marines and Ooarai Battalion:*cheering* GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!! GO!!

We see Dustin, Miho, Anthony, David, Jester, Gram, Yukari, Saori, Hana, and Reizei were on their 15th shot of whiskey. With neither side giving up.

USMC Major Marcus "Jester" Moreau

Even Saori and David are drinking straight from a keg.

It was a testament to their endurance and camaraderie, as they continued to match each other shot for shot.

The crowd's cheers grew louder with each round, and it was clear that this contest was becoming a legendary event at the Mistral Base. The leaders, fueled by both alcohol and friendly rivalry, were determined to see who would emerge as the ultimate victor in this unconventional competition.

Miho:*drunk* Think you can beat a German, Ivan-Ruskie?

Miho said to Dustin.

Dustin:*drunk* What you say, Kraut? I don't understand losers.

He said as drinks a whole vodka bottle.

Anthony and Yukari were seen drinking a whole bottle of Rum.

The cheering from the Marines and Ooarai Battalion only grew louder, egging on their leaders to push their limits even further. It was a celebration like no other, a testament to the unbreakable bonds forged in the crucible of military service, where moments of camaraderie and competition provided a welcome respite from the rigors of duty.

Miho clearly drunk but holding on smirks at Dustin.

Miho:*drunk* Say, how bout this. My battalion and myself vs you and a battalion Marines in a massive spar brawl?

This got everyone quiet with some looking at each other unsure what to think.

Dustin clearly drunk but holding on lifted a finger, drinks a beer bottle, looks at his fellow Marines, and opens his mouth....

Dustin:*drunk* COME ON YOU SONS OF BITCHES, DO YOU WANT TO LIVE FOREVER?!?!?!?!!?!!

He smashes the empty beer on the ground as all Marines and Ooarai Battalion yelled a warcry that could probably heard from Vale.

Dustin and Miho:*drunk* LET'S FUCKING GOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!/LASST UNS VERDAMMT GOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

The challenge was set, and the atmosphere was electric as Miho and Dustin, both clearly intoxicated but filled with competitive spirit, rallied their respective troops for a massive spar brawl. It was a chaotic spectacle of camaraderie, fueled by alcohol and adrenaline, with Marines and Ooarai Battalion members joining forces and charging into battle with wild enthusiasm.

The clash of fists and camaraderie echoed throughout the base, a testament to the unbreakable bonds forged in moments like these. It was a celebration of unity, a display of sheer exuberance that would be remembered by all who witnessed it. In that moment, nationalities and ranks didn't matter; they were all warriors bound by a common purpose, having the time of their lives.

In the center of the massive brawl, amidst the chaos and cheers, Miho and Dustin found themselves face-to-face, ready to spar using mixed martial arts (MMA). They both sported cheeky grins, fueled by a combination of alcohol and competitive spirit.

The crowd circled around them, forming a makeshift ring, and the Marines and Ooarai Battalion members watched with bated breath. It was a clash of styles and backgrounds, a battle of East vs. West, and everyone was eager to see who would come out on top.

Miho, with her disciplined and precise movements, struck first with a lightning-fast jab, followed by a quick roundhouse kick aimed at Dustin's midsection. The General, though intoxicated, displayed remarkable agility as he dodged and countered with a powerful takedown attempt.

As they grappled on the ground, both fighters showed their MMA skills, attempting submissions and transitions. Miho's technical prowess clashed with Dustin's brute strength and resilience. The crowd roared with excitement, and bets were placed on who would emerge victorious.

Despite their inebriation, Miho and Dustin's competitive spirit burned brightly. They exchanged punches and submission attempts, both refusing to give in. It was a back-and-forth battle that seemed like it could go on forever.

Anthony and Yukari were in the midst of their own sparring match within the massive brawl. They were evenly matched in terms of strength and skill, making for an intense and exciting showdown.

The two combatants moved with precision and agility, their strikes and counters a testament to their training and experience. Anthony's Marine Corps background and Yukari's tactical expertise were on full display as they exchanged blows, kicks, and grapples.

Their movements were fluid, and it was clear that they were both skilled fighters. Anthony's powerful punches were met with Yukari's quick and evasive maneuvers. Each of them tried to anticipate the other's next move, creating a thrilling back-and-forth contest.

The crowd that had gathered to watch Miho and Dustin's MMA spar took notice of Anthony and Yukari's battle. Cheers and shouts of encouragement filled the air as the spectators enjoyed the spectacle of two skilled fighters going head-to-head.

Despite the chaos of the brawl around them, Anthony and Yukari were locked in their own world, testing their limits and pushing each other to excel. It was a display of strength, skill, and camaraderie, fitting for a celebration of the Marine Corps' birthday.

David and Saori found themselves engaged in a fierce sparring match amidst the chaos of the massive brawl. Their kicks were powerful and precise, showcasing their impressive leg strength and martial arts abilities.

Each of their strikes sent shockwaves through the air as they exchanged powerful kicks and blocks. The crowd watched in awe as David and Saori displayed their agility and technique, delivering a thrilling and evenly matched bout.

Their kicks were lightning-fast, and it was evident that they were both highly skilled in hand-to-hand combat. David's disciplined training and Saori's determination drove them to give their all in the friendly sparring session.

As they continued to spar, their movements became more fluid and dynamic. David unleashed a series of high kicks and spin kicks, while Saori countered with acrobatic flips and agile dodges. It was a mesmerizing display of martial arts prowess.

The spectators in the crowd cheered on the two fighters, appreciating the skill and dedication they brought to the impromptu sparring match.

Jester and Hana found themselves locked in a grappling contest in the midst of the massive brawl. Their strength and determination were evenly matched as they vied for control.

They grappled and wrestled with one another, each trying to gain the upper hand. Jester's background in hand-to-hand combat and Hana's exceptional physical conditioning made it a thrilling and intense showdown.

The crowd surrounding them watched in anticipation as the two fighters showcased their grappling skills. They executed throws, takedowns, and submission holds with precision and technique. It was a battle of wits and strength, with neither willing to concede defeat.

Jester and Hana's competitive spirit drove them to push their limits, and their movements were a testament to their training and experience. The crowd cheered them on, appreciating the skill and determination on display during this impromptu sparring match.

As the brawl raged on around them, Jester and Hana continued their grapple with unwavering focus, determined to prove their prowess in hand-to-hand combat.

Gram and Reizei engaged in a fierce street-fighting style sparring match within the chaotic brawl. They demonstrated their gritty determination and raw combat skills as they exchanged punches, kicks, and elbows.

Their fighting styles were unorthodox, drawing inspiration from various martial arts and street brawling techniques. It was a brutal and intense contest, with neither fighter willing to back down.

They weaved and dodged through the crowd, landing powerful strikes and blocking each other's attacks with precision. The onlookers were in awe of their skills as they showcased their ability to adapt and counter each other's moves.

The brawl continued around them, but Gram and Reizei remained focused on their showdown. It was a battle of resilience and toughness, with both fighters pushing their bodies to the limit.

Their fists flew, and the sound of impact echoed through the air as they traded blows. It was a thrilling display of street-fighting prowess, and the crowd cheered them on, appreciating the raw intensity of their sparring match.

As Gram and Reizei continued to exchange blows, it was clear that their determination and skill were evenly matched.

The massive brawl continued for a while, with Marines and members of the Ooarai Battalion sparring, laughing, and enjoying the friendly competition. As the minutes passed, exhaustion began to set in, and fighters started to slow down. It was evident that the sparring had taken its toll on everyone.

Eventually, one by one, the combatants began to tire out. Miho and Dustin's MMA match reached a point where both were too exhausted to continue, and they ended up embracing in a show of mutual respect.

Anthony and Yukari, despite their impressive stamina, had also reached their limits and decided to call it a draw. They exchanged a friendly pat on the back and joined the crowd to watch the remaining sparring matches.

David and Saori's kickboxing spar had turned into a comical dance as their legs wobbled from exhaustion. They shared a hearty laugh and decided to end their match with a draw, leaning on each other for support.

Jester and Hana's grappling contest concluded with both fighters locked in a stalemate. They couldn't help but chuckle at their inability to gain an advantage and decided to end the match as friends.

Gram and Reizei's street-fighting style sparring had turned into a brawl of epic proportions, but they eventually found themselves too fatigued to continue. They exchanged high-fives and joined the others in the laughter.

As the medics and corpsmen arrived to tend to minor injuries and provide water, the atmosphere shifted from intense combat to camaraderie. Marines and Ooarai Battalion members shared stories of their experiences, praised each other's skills, and celebrated the Marine Corps' birthday with newfound friendships.

It was a memorable and unforgettable celebration, a testament to the strong bonds that had formed between these warriors from different worlds. As the sun began to set, they continued to enjoy the festivities, knowing that they had forged connections that would last a lifetime.