The next day was round two which is the doubles round of the 40th Vytal Festival Tournament Matches. Not a lot went on.

Except for the Atlas soldiers started speaking the same explicit language the UNE Marines spoke. Especially when doing vehicle maintenance. Even when you're already irritated at work and a minor inconvenience makes you genuinely crash out.

Want to see?

Harriet and Igor were seen fixing up a MRAP 4x4 at the vehicle depot. And the worse part is it's only 0930 in the morning and they didn't have any coffee.

"Come you motherfucker..." Harriet muttered mounting a bolt with a wrench.

"Careful, Hare." Igor warned as he was in the interior tightening the steering wheel. "You might-"

Harriet slips on the wrench punching the motor and dinging her head on the engine rail, "AHhH SHIT!!!"

"Блять! [Fuck!] You're alright, Harriet!?" Igor asked concerned.

But Harriet began to crash out, "OUMDAMMIT!!! SAME SHHHIIITTTT!!! SAME SHHHIIITTTT!!! DIFFERENT DAY!!!!"

Harriet's voice echoed through the depot, drawing the attention of a few nearby soldiers and mechanics. Igor quickly climbed out of the MRAP, his face a mix of concern and mild amusement.

"Harriet, take a breath. You okay?" Igor asked, approaching her.

Harriet, clutching her throbbing hand and wincing from the bump on her head, took a deep breath and nodded. "Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Just... this fucking thing is pissing me off."

"Here, let me take a look." Igor gently took the wrench from her and inspected the bolt. "Looks like it's just a bit stubborn. We'll get it."

Nearby, a couple of UNE Marines overheard the commotion and decided to wander over. Sergeant Brussett and Sergeant Kravchuk, fresh from their successful mission the day before, were in high spirits despite the early hour.

"Hey, need a hand?" Keith offered, noticing the MRAP's half-disassembled state and the frustration etched on Harriet's face.

"Yeah, that'd be great," Igor replied, stepping back to give Keith room.

Keith examined the situation, his practiced eyes quickly assessing the problem. "Ah, I see. These bolts can be a real pain in the ass. You just gotta show 'em who's boss." He grabbed the wrench and gave it a firm twist, the bolt yielding under his experienced grip.

Harriet watched, her frustration slowly melting away. "Thanks, K . I just... I haven't had my coffee yet."

Larry chuckled, handing her a thermos. "Here, got some extra. Might not be as good as Atlas brew, but it'll wake you up."

Harriet gratefully accepted the thermos, taking a long sip. "Thanks, L. I needed that."

As the group worked together, the atmosphere lightened. They exchanged stories and shared laughs, the camaraderie between the Atlas soldiers and UNE Marines growing stronger with each moment.

"Alright, let's get this baby running," Igor said, his hands moving deftly over the steering mechanism. "Harriet, can you pass me the torque wrench?"

Harriet, now in a better mood, handed him the tool. "Here you go. And thanks again, guys. I was about to lose it there."

"No problem," Keith said, giving her a reassuring pat on the back. "We've all been there. Just gotta keep pushing through."

With their combined efforts, the MRAP was soon back in working order. Harriet and Igor exchanged a satisfied nod, and the UNE Marines headed back to their own tasks.

"Guess it's time to face round two of the tournament," Harriet said, wiping the sweat from her brow.

"Yeah," Igor agreed. "But at least we know we've got some good backup if we need it."

Harriet grinned, her earlier frustration forgotten. "Damn right. Let's go kick some ass."

Meanwhile with Anthony and Blake having a conversation with Micheal about his relationship with his now ex-girlfriend.

"She sat there talking about I wasn't being romantic enough." He complained to his fellow American Devil Dog and Cat Faunus friend.

Anthony nodded in agreement and so did Blake, "That's petty." Anthony said as he drank some water from his canteen and Blake drank an energy drink.

"Exactly! I was like, 'Bitch I'm not romantic! I ate six cookies out of ya ass!'" That sentence alone made Anthony spit out his water and Blake coughed out her drink as Micheal continued. "So I don't give a fuck what she was talking about. I don't know where it was-"

"YOU WHAT?!?!?!" Anthony and Blake exclaimed.

Michael paused, looking between Anthony and Blake with a grin. "Yeah, you heard me right. Six cookies."

Blake, still recovering from her coughing fit, wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. "I can't believe you just said that."

Anthony, shaking his head in disbelief, leaned back in his chair. "Man, you really have a way with words."

Michael shrugged, unapologetic. "What? It's the truth. And if she couldn't appreciate my unique brand of romance, then that's on her." Michael continued, unfazed. "I thought it was romantic enough. Guess she didn't appreciate my culinary creativity."

Anthony wiped his mouth, still in disbelief. "Dude, that's... that's something else. I don't even know what to say to that."

Blake, finally catching her breath, shook her head in disbelief. "Michael, I think there's a difference between romantic and... well, whatever that was."

Michael chuckled, a bit of the tension easing out of him. "Look, all I'm saying is, I put in effort in my own way. Maybe it wasn't traditional, but it was from the heart."

Anthony patted him on the back, trying to offer some support. "I get it, man. Relationships are tricky. Sometimes, you just gotta find someone who gets your sense of... uh, romance."

Blake nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and who knows, maybe the next person will appreciate your unique approach more. Just... maybe don't lead with the cookie thing next time."

Michael laughed, finally feeling a bit better about the whole situation. "Yeah, lesson learned. Thanks, guys."

The three of them continued their conversation, the laughter and camaraderie helping to lighten the mood. As they talked, the bond between them grew stronger, the shared experiences and support reminding them that, no matter what, they had each other's backs.

But not a second too soon, shit had to happen again.

Blake's cat ears twitched under her bow, "Anyone here screaming?"

The two shook their head 'No' until...

"aaaAAAAAAHHHH!!!!" They looked behind and saw an Atlas soldier fell from a scaffold with a Mexican Marine looking up and down from a ladder and a bag of tools in hand as some people screamed in shock.

"Oh, hell no. Huh-uh." The Mexican Marine said as he climbed down to avoid the same injury as the Atlas soldier who is now twitching in pain as his Aura broke his fall.

"Well that happened." Anthony said unfazed.

"That looked painful." Blake cringed.

"Did anyone get on video?" Micheal said making the two raise an eyebrow at him. He looked at their reactions, "What? Shit happens."

"That's fair." The two said as Atlas medics rushed to the scene.

The scene at the depot quickly became chaotic. As the Atlas medics rushed over, the fallen soldier was still groaning, clearly in pain despite his Aura absorbing the brunt of the impact. The medics worked swiftly, checking for any serious injuries and preparing to transport him to the infirmary.

The Mexican Marine, now safely on the ground, muttered to himself, "I told that fool to be careful." He shook his head, clearly annoyed.

Blake's ears twitched again, picking up more murmurs from the onlookers. "Well, that's one way to start the day," she remarked, her tone a mix of concern and bemusement.

Anthony, always pragmatic, shrugged. "At least the medics are on it. Hopefully, he's just shaken up and not seriously hurt."

Michael, still holding onto his phone, scanned the crowd. "Hey, anyone actually get that on video? Might be useful for a safety briefing or something."

Blake rolled her eyes, though she couldn't help but smirk. "You're relentless, Michael."

"Hey, I'm just saying," Michael replied with a grin. "Safety first, right?"

As the medics carefully lifted the soldier onto a stretcher, a small crowd had gathered, their faces reflecting a mix of concern and curiosity. The Mexican Marine, now standing off to the side, approached Anthony, Blake, and Michael.

"That guy's lucky," he said, shaking his head. "Could've been a lot worse."

"Yeah, he is," Anthony agreed. "But let's hope he learns from this. Falling from that height without proper precautions is no joke."

Blake nodded. "Maybe they'll finally start enforcing stricter safety protocols around here."

Michael, ever the joker, added, "Or at least make sure everyone has their Aura fully charged before they start climbing."

Despite the tension, the incident served as a stark reminder of the dangers they all faced daily. It reinforced their camaraderie and the importance of looking out for one another, whether on the battlefield or in the relative safety of their base.

The next day was basically like the day before yesterday. Winners from the Doubles take a break/perpetration for the semifinal round of the Tournament Matches. Which is the Singles aka 1v1 round.

Right now at the UNE Marine Corps base, the Marines finally received something the army already has. Exoskeletons. 

The Exoskeleton is a wearable mobile machine that is capable of increasing many of the trooper's physical abilities, allowing for enhanced strength, increased movement and speed, as well as tactical purposes. The Exoskeleton changes warfare heavily, allowing for a wide variety of options as to how missions are completed and battles are finished, as well as general physical freedom within the battlefield.

But the Marines are getting the Mark I model while the Army uses the Mark III model.

"Like they said. 'Marines make do.'" David said as turned around for the suit to go on his back.

"I heard that the Navy has the Mark II model." Mari said as she took her turn.

"Special Forces got the Mark IV model. Can't blame them." Dae said as she adjusts her suit.

Anthony, Igor, Jie, Felix, Shino, Kang, Micheal waited in line for their turn as some UNE marines from various countries made comments about the Exo-suits.

As the line moved slowly forward, the UNE Marines were buzzing with a mix of excitement and trepidation about the new exoskeletons. Despite getting the older Mark I model, the thought of enhanced strength and agility was enough to raise everyone's spirits.

Anthony glanced at Igor, who was examining the exoskeletons with a critical eye. "What do you think, Igor? Worth the wait?"

Igor nodded thoughtfully. "Da. Even if it's not the latest model, it still gives us a significant edge. These things can make or break a mission."

Jie, standing next to Igor, chimed in, "I heard these exoskeletons can carry up to three times our body weight. Imagine what we can do with that kind of power."

Felix, always the realist, shrugged. "Yeah, but we also need to learn how to use them properly. One wrong move and you could end up injuring yourself or a teammate."

Shino, adjusting her helmet, added, "Training will be key. We need to be as comfortable in these as we are in our regular gear."

Kang, usually reserved, spoke up. "I've seen the Mark III in action. It's impressive, but even the Mark I can change the game for us. We just need to make the most of what we have."

Michael, who had been relatively quiet, couldn't help but grin. "I'm just looking forward to running faster and hitting harder. These suits are going to make us unstoppable."

As they finally reached the front of the line, a sergeant motioned for Anthony to step forward. "Your turn, Marine."

Anthony stepped up, and the technicians began fitting the exoskeleton onto him. He could feel the suit's weight settle onto his frame, but as it powered up, the weight seemed to vanish. He flexed his arms and legs, feeling the enhanced strength and responsiveness.

"This is incredible," Anthony said, moving around to get a feel for the suit. "Feels like I could lift a tank."

David, already suited up, walked over and clapped Anthony on the back. "Welcome to the future, Marine. Just remember, these suits are tools, not toys. Use them wisely."

Mari, now fully suited, tested the suit's mobility. "I can't wait to see what these can do in the field. Let's hope we get to test them out soon."

As more Marines received their exoskeletons, the atmosphere grew more electric with anticipation. Despite the older model, the exoskeletons represented a new chapter in their military capabilities.

Anthony looked at his fellow Marines, all now equipped with their exoskeletons. "Alright, let's get to training. We've got a lot to learn, and we need to be ready for anything."

With that, the group headed to the training grounds, ready to master their new gear and take on whatever challenges lay ahead.

The training grounds were abuzz with activity as the UNE Marines familiarized themselves with their new exoskeletons. The area was filled with obstacle courses, weightlifting stations, and shooting ranges, all designed to test and hone their skills in the enhanced suits.

Anthony and his team gathered at the starting point of an obstacle course, where Sergeant Reynolds was waiting to brief them. The sergeant, a grizzled veteran with years of experience, eyed the Marines with a mixture of skepticism and approval.

"Alright, listen up," Sergeant Reynolds barked. "These exoskeletons are designed to make you stronger, faster, and more resilient. But they won't do the work for you. You need to learn how to move in them, how to fight in them, and how to survive in them. Understood?"

"Yes, Sergeant!" the group replied in unison.

"Good. First up is the obstacle course. This will test your agility and coordination. I want to see you push these suits to their limits, but also maintain control. Anthony, you're up first."

Anthony nodded and stepped forward. He took a deep breath, feeling the exoskeleton respond to his movements, and then he was off. The first obstacle was a series of high walls to climb over. With the enhanced strength of the exoskeleton, he scaled them with ease, barely breaking a sweat. Next came a series of balance beams and narrow walkways, where the suit's gyroscopic stabilizers kept him steady.

As Anthony cleared the final hurdle, a 10-foot drop, he landed smoothly, the exoskeleton absorbing the impact. He turned back to his team, a grin spreading across his face. "Piece of cake."

Igor was next, and he tackled the course with the same efficiency. Despite his larger frame, the exoskeleton made his movements nimble and precise. He moved through the obstacles like a well-oiled machine, demonstrating the suit's capabilities.

Jie, Felix, Shino, Kang, and Michael followed, each showing their own unique strengths. Jie was incredibly fast, darting through the course with speed that was almost inhuman. Felix's precision was unmatched, as he navigated each obstacle with meticulous care. Shino showcased her agility, while Kang's brute strength was on full display. Michael brought a balance of all attributes, moving through the course with practiced ease.

Sergeant Reynolds watched them all, nodding in approval. "Not bad, Marines. Not bad at all. But this is just the beginning. Next, we'll move on to the weightlifting station. I want to see what kind of power you can generate with these suits."

At the weightlifting station, the Marines took turns testing the limits of their exoskeletons. Anthony hoisted a massive barbell that would have been impossible to lift unaided, feeling the suit's servos and hydraulics amplify his strength. He completed several reps before stepping aside for the next Marine.

Mari approached the weights, her eyes gleaming with determination. She grasped the barbell and lifted it effortlessly, her muscles barely straining under the suit's power. "This is amazing," she said, setting the weight down gently. "I could get used to this."

Dae, ever the perfectionist, took her time adjusting the suit's settings before attempting her lift. When she finally did, she moved with a grace and precision that belied the exoskeleton's bulk. "These suits aren't just about strength. They're about control," she said, demonstrating a perfect lift.

As the Marines continued their training, it became clear that the exoskeletons were more than just new equipment; they were game-changers. The increased strength and agility they provided would make a significant difference in the field. But with great power came the need for great responsibility and skill.

After several hours of intensive training, the Marines gathered for a final briefing. Sergeant Reynolds addressed them, his tone serious but hopeful. "You've all done well today. These suits will give you an edge, but remember: they don't replace your training, your instincts, or your teamwork. You are Marines first and foremost. Use these tools wisely, and they'll keep you alive out there. Dismissed."

As the group dispersed, Anthony looked around at his team, feeling a renewed sense of camaraderie and confidence. They had a lot to learn, but they were ready to face whatever challenges came their way.

With their new exoskeletons and their unbreakable spirit, the UNE Marines were more formidable than ever.

Later that evening, the UNE Marines were getting more attention as the Exo-suits caught many eyes. Especially Atlas.

Thankful, each exoskeleton has a built owner system. Meaning, if it ain't the owner. An electric shock of 50,000 volts will hit the thief. If that doesn't work. A built-in tracker is in with a bio scan to identify the person and track the location. And if THAT doesn't work. Self-destruction of the small fusion core will explode.

The core is as small as a shotglass, but if used as an explosive. Has enough bang to take out a city block.

Trust me. Don't fuck with the Unified Nations of Earth. We will fuck you up harder then the IRS with Tax Evaders.

As of right now, Glynda was patrolling Beacon grounds with Lieutenant General Dustin Walker. Who wasn't wearing an Exo-suit. She glanced at the 6'6", 50 something, empty gray colored eyes, never smiles, African-American, Russian, stoic, married man.

He glanced back when Glynda focused back ahead.

"What is it, Professor Goodwitch?" He asked without any emotion.

"Nothing in the slightest, General Walker." Glynda answered back.

After her brief exchange with Walker, Glynda's mind wandered to the exo-suits. The security features were impressive and ruthless—an electric shock deterrent, a bio-scan tracker, and a self-destruct mechanism powerful enough to decimate a city block. It was a stark reminder of the UNE's resolve and the lengths they would go to protect their assets and maintain superiority.

As they continued their patrol, the duo approached a group of students who were gathered near one of the training fields. Among them was Team RWBY, their curiosity evident as they discussed the exo-suits they had seen earlier.

Yang, always one to speak her mind, called out as Glynda and Walker approached. "Hey, Professor Goodwitch! What's the deal with those new suits the Marines are wearing? They look badass!"

Glynda stopped and turned towards the students, her expression softening slightly. "They are indeed impressive, Miss Xiao Long. The exo-suits are the latest in UNE technology, designed to enhance the physical capabilities of the wearer significantly."

Ruby's eyes lit up with excitement. "Do you think we'll get to try them out? They could be really useful in our training!"

General Walker, who had been silent up until now, finally spoke, his voice deep and authoritative. "The exo-suits are classified military equipment. They are not toys for experimentation. Only trained UNE personnel are authorized to use them."

Blake, ever the observer, noted the security features Glynda had mentioned earlier. "I heard they have some serious security measures. How effective are they, really?"

Glynda glanced at Walker, who gave a small nod, allowing her to elaborate. "The security measures are extremely effective. The owner recognition system ensures that only the designated user can operate the suit. Any unauthorized attempt will result in a 50,000-volt shock. If the suit is stolen, a built-in tracker will locate it, and as a last resort, the fusion core can be set to self-destruct, ensuring it doesn't fall into enemy hands."

The students exchanged impressed and slightly apprehensive glances. Weiss, always the pragmatist, asked, "What's the range on the tracker?"

Glynda replied, "The tracker can locate the suit anywhere on the planet. It's a vital feature to ensure that such powerful technology doesn't get misused."

The conversation was interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps. Another group of UNE Marines, led by Captain Samantha Carter, joined them. Captain Carter, a seasoned British Royal marine with a sharp intellect, saluted General Walker before addressing the group.

"General, Professor Goodwitch, we've just finished a routine check of the perimeter. Everything is secure," she reported.

Walker nodded. "Good. Keep me updated on any developments."

As Captain Carter and her team moved on, Glynda and Walker resumed their patrol. Glynda couldn't help but feel a mix of admiration and concern for the UNE Marines. Their presence at Beacon was both a blessing and a reminder of the ever-present threats in their world.

General Walker's deep voice broke the silence. "Professor Goodwitch, do you believe your students are prepared for the realities of war? The threats they face are unlike anything they've encountered in their training."

Glynda considered his question carefully. "Our students are exceptionally talented, General. They are trained to handle Grimm and other dangers, but the kind of warfare the UNE deals with is on another level. It's...a different kind of threat."

Walker nodded, his expression unreadable. "War changes people, Professor. It hardens them. Your students are strong, but they will need more than strength to survive what's coming."

Glynda's mind flashed to the faces of her students, their youthful enthusiasm and determination. She knew Walker was right, but she also knew that the bonds they shared and the lessons they learned at Beacon would be their greatest assets.

As they continued their patrol, they passed by the vehicle depot where Harriet and Igor were still working on the MRAP 4x4. Harriet, now with a bandage on her forehead, was in better spirits despite the yesterday morning's mishap.

"Professor Goodwitch, General," Harriet greeted them with a nod.

"Everything under control here, Bree?" Walker asked.

"Yes, sir. Just a few minor repairs. Nothing we can't handle," Harriet replied confidently.

Igor chimed in from under the vehicle, "We'll have this baby running smoother than a greased weasel in no time."

Glynda couldn't help but smile at the Marine's and Atlasian's resilience and camaraderie. "Carry on, then," she said, and they moved on.

Their next stop was the shooting range, where a group of UNE Marines were testing the exo-suits' capabilities in a combat scenario. The sound of gunfire echoed across the field as targets were obliterated with precision and efficiency.

1st Lieutenant Marcus Donovan, a tall, imposing figure with a calm demeanor, approached them. "General Walker, Professor Goodwitch, would you care to observe the demonstration?"

Walker nodded. "Proceed, Lieutenant."

Donovan signaled to his team, and the Marines began a coordinated assault on a series of moving targets. The exo-suits allowed them to move with incredible speed and agility, their shots hitting the targets with unerring accuracy. Glynda watched in awe as the Marines demonstrated the full potential of the exo-suits.

"Impressive," she murmured.

Walker glanced at her. "These suits give us an edge, but it's the training and discipline of the Marines that make the difference."

The demonstration ended, and Donovan's team regrouped, their faces flushed with the thrill of the exercise. "These suits are a game-changer, sir," Donovan said. "They make us faster, stronger, and more efficient."

Walker nodded. "Indeed. But remember, Lieutenant, the suit is only as good as the person wearing it. Never rely solely on the technology. Your skills, judgment, and teamwork are what truly matter."

As the evening grew darker, Glynda and Walker made their way back to the main building. The campus was quiet, the day's activities winding down. Glynda felt a sense of relief but also a nagging worry about the future.

"General, do you think we're ready for what's to come?" she asked softly.

Walker paused, looking out over the horizon. "We have to be. There's no other choice. But with allies like Beacon Academy and the strength of our Marines, I believe we stand a fighting chance."

Glynda nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. Together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead, united in their resolve to protect their world from the darkness that threatened it.