Meanwhile in the medical center.

Keith was in his own bed, in a lot of pain.

"You're lucky that I can heal. But it's going to take a while for me to fully heal from this." Keith groans.

"Don't worry. When you're fully healed. You and me is gonna have another round." Mako said as she smirked.

Keith just groaned in pain and suffering.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Back with the others, Anthony now receives the message from Elijah and the other leaders.

"Well, what does the big man say?" Ryan asked.

"It says: 'Hello Anthony. Hope you are doing well. Good news, we located all the drug labs in the DMV area. Bad news, this has absolutely zero Ultranationalists involvement.' Well shit..." Anthony says as Reeves raised a brow at the last line.

"How is 'absolutely zero Ultranationalists involvement' bad news?" Asked Miho.

"Because if the Ultranationalists aren't involved. Then what is causing this? It has to be a group of some sort." Anthony said as the other agreed. "Plus, it isn't a military problem meaning-"

Reeves eyes widen and twitch in fury, "Meaning we can't go in avenge my dead wife and baby girl because it considered a domestic issue?! So what you're saying is that we aren't allowed to help?!"

"Reeves! Calm down!" Miho ordered.

"No. Fuck that! I'm not sitting on my ass while these pieces of shit run around hurting people and families!"

"Austin..." Ryan said calmly.

"Shut up Cooper! My family is gone. So is everyone else's! This isn't some video game, we can't save everyone!" Reeves snapped.

Miho slaps Reeves in the back of his head, "That's enough! We aren't going to let this happen. If the police won't do something right . Then we will. Right now. You're acting like a child." She scolded him. "Yes, your family is gone. I can understand that you're furious and so are we. But right now we need you level headed as the leader."

"I agree with the Miho-sama. We need you level headed. And for the record, no one is blaming you." Mina said as everyone agreed.

Reeves took a deep breath, calming down, "Sorry. I just.."

"It's fine. It's not your fault." Igor said.

"But we need you calm and collected. Not angry." Karma added.

Reeves sighed, "You're right. Sorry."

"Don't apologize." Hyena said.

"Just don't lose your head, we're in this together." Summer said.

Reeves nods thankful for everyone's support, "So what now? We just sit and wait while law enforcement handle everything?"

Many thought about it as he was correct. That until Anthony said something that is both clever and a bit smart, "Military can't touch this situation due to well... being a domestic issue. But the police and federal agents can."

"Yeah so?" Eun-Jin said.

Anthony then looks at the Huntsmen and Huntresses, "And Huntsmen aren't allowed yet to deal with these crimes that are on UNE soil due to them not under jurisdiction."

"What are you saying Anthony?" Velvet asked.

"What I'm saying is that mercenaries and PMCs can do this without a warrant or police interference. Since it's their job. But they have to be careful not to draw attention from law enforcement."

"So, you're suggesting we send the mercenaries to handle it." Jaune said.

"That was my first thought but most are at Vacuo... unless." Anthony said placing a hand on his chin.

"Unless what?" Raven asked.

"If I recall, a certain PMC was hired by the US Government. Meaning they are authorized to deal with criminals here. They just can't have their face seen." Anthony then smiles wide, "And that certain PMC is my twin brother's security division in his company."

"Oh..." Reeves said as he catches on.

"What? What is it?" Shino asked.

"If Anthony's brother has a private military. Then his mercenaries would be more than willing to take the job." Harriet said as she grins.

"And they're authorized by the government. They could even take the lead. We'll provide support of course. But it should be fine." Ryan said.

"Actually I have a better idea." Anthony said as he smirks.

"What?" Mari asked.

"Remember the conversation I had with Wayne a couple weeks ago?"

Everyone did, "Yes..."

"Well, he was worried and sent me a message. Saying that if anything domestic happens here stateside. Come to his company Headquarters in Maryland. There we'll get custom-made weapons and exo-suits from him. Hide our identities while we ahem, 'fight crime'. And a place to stay. All free of charge. So what we'll do is take a trip there, tell him our situation, make temporary PMCs so that we'll won't be in trouble nor will the armed forces, and kick some drug pushers asses!"

Everyone thought about it.

"So what, we'll become superheroes or something?" Dae said.

"In a sense, yes. We'll be heroes to the public, but we'll have to hide our identities." Anthony said.

"I'm okay with that. What about you guys?" Miho asked the others.

"I'm cool with that." Jaune said.

"Me too." Said David.

"Yeah, same here." Eun-jin said.

"I'm in." Shino said.

"So am I." Yang said.

"Me too." Raven added.

"Why not. I'm down." Kang said.

"Me as well." Karma said.

"I'll go." Hyena said.

"Fine by me." Michael said.

"Sure, why not." Yukari aid.

"Count me in." Harriet said.

"You know I'll go." Mina said.

"Same here." Summer said.

"Me too." Ren said.

"I'm good." Pyrrha said.

"I'm okay with that." Coco said.

"Of course I'll join." Jie said.

"Count me in." Velvet said.

"I'm cool." Dae said.

"Well, guess I'm joining." Mari said.

"Guess that means I'll tag along." Felix said.

"So am I." Igor said.

"I'm in." Yejin and Elm said simultaneously.

"Sure, sounds fun." Miho said.

"I'm in." Reeves said.

"Alright! Looks like we're all in." Anthony said.

"But how are we gonna explain our disappearance and our new 'career'?" Taiyang asked.

"Leave that to me. I got a plan. It's gonna involve a lot of paperwork and a couple of favors." Anthony said.

"So, what will our new jobs be called?" Karma asked.

"Hm..." Anthony thought for a moment.

-------------------------------------------------

The next day, the group arrives at a huge office with many buildings and people around to the point some thought it was a city.

"Welcome to Renew Power company Headquarters." Anthony, Vincent, Kevin, Chris, Tyrone, and Aiden said gesturing the massive company complex.

"Holy fucking shit..." David, Igor, Ren, Jaune, Marrow, Blake, Yang, Coco, and Velvet said in pure shock.

"It's fucking massive." Mari said.

"How much money does this company make?" Pyrrha asked.

"Let's put it this way, it makes about 4.6 billion dollars a year." Vincent said.

"4.6 Billion?" Dae said in awe.

"Correct." Aiden said.

"Oumdamn... this headquarters makes the SDC headquarters look like a toy." Winter and Weiss said in unison.

"Yep." Anthony said.

"This company makes me wish I went into technology." Eun-Jin said.

"Well, it's never too late to go into a new field." Elm said.

"Anyway, let's get inside." Kevin said as the group entered the large building.

"I must say, your brother's company is very well organized." Pyrrha said as she saw how the interior was designed.

"He always had a taste for organization. Even as kids." Anthony said as the elevator doors open.

Stepping out of them was Wayne Graham Towson dress in his suit, "Anthony! Welcome home." He then hugged him, "Good to see you."

"Likewise bro."

"I got your call from both you, Dad, and Reaper." He turns to Reeves, "I'm sorry for your loss General. Your family will be remembered."

"Thanks." Reeves said sadly.

Wayne then looks at the others, "Nice to meet some of you all again. And to the new faces." He clears his throat. "My name is Wayne Graham Towson, CEO and Founder of Renew Power. One of the world's largest multi international companies. It is a pleasure to have you all."

"The pleasure is ours Mr. Towson." Miho said.

"Please, just call me Wayne. Miss..."

"Oh, it's Nishizumi."

"Ah, Miss Nishizumi. Well, please come in. I'll have one of my interns give you the tour. If you will." Wayne said as a woman comes up.

"Mr. Towson, the documents for the new product have been approved." She said.

"Perfect." He then turns to the group, "Well, enjoy the tour." Wayne was about to head back to his office when Anthony stopped him.

"Wayne... we didn't come here for a tour... we came here because... well I somewhat said it when I called."

Wayne nods, "I understand. Let's talk in my office. Follow me."

-------------------------------------

In Wayne's office.

"I'm aware of the situation, and I'm sorry. I heard about it from Dad and Reaper. How are you really doing General?" Wayne asked Reeves.

"Still pissed off and heartbroken." Reeves said.

Wayne sighs, "I understand. If the Ultranationalists didn't do it. Then who did?"

"We have no clue." Velvet said.

"Which is why, we want you and your PMCs help by well..." Anthony asked while looking at his twin with a knowing look.

Wayne smiles, "Ah, I see. Well, I'm happy to help."

"Wait, you will?" David said.

"Of course. Two drugged up madmen killed two innocent lives and now drugs are secretly being pushed under the nose of the law. I'm not some wealthy rich entitled prick like Jacques." Wayne said as Winter and Weiss smiled at the comment. "I'm a good person. Besides, you helped me out big time in Vale. Now it's my turn to return the favor. However, we'll have to hide your identities."

Miho looked at Winter with a 'You better have plenty of children from this man!' look. "Winnie when the whole conflict in Vacuo and this drug dealers revenge is over you better marry that young man.

Hearing this made Winter and Wayne blush, "Um..."

"She won't disappoint Great Aunt Miho. My sister is very loyal." Weiss said.

"Well, we'll see." Wayne said.

"Anyway, back to business." Jaune said.

"Of course." Wayne pulls out a tablet, "Now, we have 112 of my best PMCs in the DC area. 34 are patrolling the streets as a 'Police Reserve Force' and 78 are in the DC PD and FBI as 'special agents'. This is all done thanks to the president's order. So the others are here at the HQ and the surrounding city. 20 are training, 34 are doing other tasks, and 46 are guarding the buildings."

"Wow." Elm said in awe.

"How did you manage to get all those people?" Blake asked.

"Easy. The DC PD, the FBI, and the local police departments have been short staffed due to the Ultranationalists attacking cities. So President Clinton and Vice President Jacobs agreed that my company should create a new police reserve force. That's where my PMCs come in."

"Damn, good thinking." Taiyang said.

"That's not all. During your 'lawful' operations. We'll setup an old abandon factory as your base." Wayne said.

"That sounds like a great idea." Harriet said.

"Thank you." Wayne said.

"Anything else?" Jaune asked.

"Yes, your identities will be hidden on almost every CCTV cameras." Wayne said as he pulls out a USB stick and a flash drive. "This USB will be given to the Chief of the DC Police Department, the DC FBI office, and the White House. I will then tell them the situation, and they will give their consent to the use of force. This will make everything legal, and if you're caught the president will be able to pardon you for your actions."

"Nice." Summer said.

"Now for the weapons and clothes." Wayne said as he got up heading to the express elevator.

"I think I'll stick with my clothes, thank you." Miho said as Wayne looked at her.

"Well, alright. But you'll probably love what I have for you all." Wayne said as the elevator opens as he and everyone enters. Wayne placed his thumb on a fingerprint scanner, crouched a little to the eye and mouth scanner, and a voice rumbled, "Voice activation code?"

"Valkyrie. Wayne G. Towson."

After he said that many HMGs turrets with laser sights pointed at everyone else ready to fire and kill. "And guests."

"Guests confirmed. Welcome to the RP Weapons Development Facility. Please keep all limbs inside the elevator. You are now descending 3,541 feet underground." The voice putting the weapons away.

"Remind me never to rob you." Raven said towards Wayne feeling her 40 years of life flash before eyes... "Yang am I a bad mother?"

"What? No."

"I'm a bad mother aren't I." She deadpans.

"No, Mom. You're the best." Yang lied again

"I am a bad mother."

"Oh boy..."

"Welcome to the Weapons Development Facility. The most technologically advanced weapon and exosuit development facility in the world." Wayne said as the elevator opens.

"Holy Oum!" Everyone shouted as they looked at the massive place.

"It's fucking massive!" Ruby yelled.

"Wow..." Weiss, Winter, and Yukari said in awe.

"Fucking sweet..." Hyena and Jie said.

"It's fucking epic!" Coco and Velvet shouted.

"Damn, that's a lot of weapons." Taiyang said.

"Yeah..." Summer said as a bit of drool fell out of her mouth.

"It's beautiful." Eun-Jin and Dae said in awe.

"Fuck." Mari swore.

"Sweet." Elm and Harriet said.

The group walked towards the armory where the armorer is at sorting pistols from present to past. He was dressed in a black tux with a red bowtie. He turns and greets Wayne, "Good afternoon, Mr. Towson." He said in a deep Italian accent.

Wayne nods as the man moves to look at Anthony, Vincent, Kevin, Chris, Tyrone, and Aiden remembering the boys, "It's been a long time."

"It has. How are you?" Anthony asked.

"Doing well. Still getting those calls from the ex-wife." The man said.

Wayne goes serious asks, "I'd like a tasting."

Summer and Ruby now saw the thing hanging around the man's neck is a tastevin, used by a Sommelier for tasting and judging various wines. And since Wayne asked for a 'tasting' meant this man was a Sommelier for guns.

The man nods and heads over to a door opening it, and everyone saw rows of shelves containing hundreds, if not thousands, of firearms ranging from shotguns, rifles, SMGs, pistols, machine guns, submachine guns, sniper rifles, assault rifles, light machine guns, carbines, and handguns. All neatly organized and color coded.

"I know of your past fondness for the German and Swiss varietals but I can wholeheartedly endorse the new breed of Austrians. Glock 34 and 21 Gen 10." The Sommelier said as a convertor belt brought the pistols in front of everyone. "Recontoured grips. Flared magwell for easier reloads and I know you'll appreciate the custom porting."

Everyone tested out by aiming and reloading feeling the weight and power of the pistols. They all liked the way the gun feels in their hands.

"It's nice." Velvet said.

"Feels solid." Elm said.

"Nice grip." Taiyang and Weiss said.

"A good weight." Winter said.

"A solid weapon." Harriet added.

"It's amazing." Eun-Jin said.

The Sommelier nodded at their compliments, "What's next?"

Summer was the first to speak understanding the lingo, "How about something, Robust. Precise." She asked.

The Sommelier eyes said it all as he repeated "Robust. Precise." Then raised a brow, "You're in for a treat." He opened the door and pulled out a shelf with the weapons he wanted, "AR-15 Mk III. 11.5-inch. Compensated with an ion-bonded bolt carrier. Trijicon accupoint with one-six magnification. Suppressor by Gemtech."

"Oh, shit." Ruby whispered.

"Damn, it's gorgeous." Coco said.

"That looks badass." David said.

"It's nice." Taiyang and Ren said.

"Looks powerful." Jaune added.

"Not bad." Igor and Pyrrha said.

"Oum, I can't wait to use it." Summer said while licking her lips.

"Could you recommend something big, bold?" Qrow asked as the Sommelier smirks.

"May I suggest, the Benelli M4 Mk III?" Hearing that perked up the Marines as they have the Mk II. So what's the Mk III like? The Sommelier type a few buttons as the semi-auto shotguns came on the convertor belt. Some picked the gun as the Sommelier explained, "Custom bolt carrier release and charging handle. Textured grips should your hands get... wet. An Italian classic."

"Holy shit, I want it." Taiyang, Karma and Raven said.

"Same here." Michael and Marrow added.

"Oum, I want one." Qrow and Yang said.

"So do I." David and Shino.

"Me too." Elm and Tyrone said.

It was then that Mina ask something that nobody but few ask for, "Dessert?"

The Sommelier's surprised face says it all 'FINALLY! Not a lot of people asks for dessert anymore, but here's someone who truly appreciates it.' as he sighs. "Dessert." He says in a happy tone as he brought out a large case opening it to show a large amount of different and freshly made knives. "The finest cutlery. All freshly stoned."

Miho picked up a knife, testing it by feeling the sharpness, and was amazed how the knife cuts through air like butter, "My, this is a good blade. What's the edge retention like?"

The Sommelier grins, "I assure you it'll stay sharp and keep cutting."

It was then Anthony and Vincent asked for a specific dessert, "Quick takeout dessert?"

The Sommelier grin widens, "Certainly." He pulls out a small case showing off throwing knives and knuckle dusters, "Customized and balanced."

"Awesome." The two brothers said.

"You two are good with throwing knives?" Reeves asked.

The two grab a knife, flipped it, and threw it at a target scoring a perfect 100. "That answers your question?" Vincent said.

"Impressive." Weiss said.

"Yeah, that was impressive." Blake added.

"Okay, I think we have our weapons." Reeves said. He turns to the Sommelier, "Can we have some extra magazines and ammo."

The Sommelier nods, "Very well." He then looks at the other group, "And for the ladies and gentleman?"

"We'll take these." Winter and Weiss said as they chose the Glock 34 Gen 10 pistols.

The Sommelier nodded, "Do enjoy. And if you ever need to order anything, here's the number." He said giving a calling card to the group.

"Thanks." Anthony, Kevin, Vincent, Chris, Tyrone, and Aiden said.

After picking a couple of guns, the group enters a room with suits and other clothes in it. "Whoa." Jaune and David said.

"Damn." Pyrrha said.

"I think died and gone to Heaven..." Coco said as her Fashion Diva kicks in.

A Indonesian man mesaruing a suit saw the group and greet Wayne in Indonesian, "Halo, Tuan Towson. {Hello, Mr. Towson."

Wayne shakes his hand, "Hai, Budiwati. {Hey, Budiwati.}"

"Apakah Anda memerlukan setelan baru untuk saudara-saudara Anda dan tamu-tamu Anda? {Would you be in need for a new suit for your brothers and your guests?}" Budiwati asked Wayne and he nodded. "Akan saya cari. Saya akan menemukannya segera. Saya bertemu dengan anda nanti. Saya senang bertemu anda, Wayne. Tuan. Pria itu telah mencapai puncak dan memiliki kehormatan berdiri di antara orang-orang terpandang di dunia. Mengapa tidak melihat anda lagi? anda menjadi seperti kakek anda. anda harus makan lebih banyak dan berlatih sebelum anda melawan orang-orang Ultranationalist. anda sudah tua. anda ingin mempertahankan kepribadian anda, ya? {Yes, I'll find them. I'll see you later. I'm glad to meet you, Wayne. You've reached the top and have the honor to stand amongst the most distinguished people in the world. Why haven't I seen you again? You've become like your grandfather. You should eat more and train before you face the Ultranationalists. You're getting old. You want to keep your identity, yes?}"

Wayne nods, "I will, Budiwati. Thank you."

Budiwati bows and looks at the large group, " Follow me. I need your measurements."

"Sure." Summer said.

"This is the coolest thing ever." Coco said.

As he and others started taking measurements of the group. Budiwati asked them what the new outfit will be for, "Tell me, is this a formal event or a social Affair?"

"Social." Reeves answers.

"And is this for day or evening?"

"We need one for day and one for night."

"In what style?"

"American."

"How many buttons?"

"Two."

"Trousers?"

"Tapered."

"How about the lining?"

Wayne answers this one with a grin, "Tactical."

"Very well. Is the jacket single- or double-breasted?"

"Double."

"Shall I assume that you'll need a special fabric."

"That would be perfect."

Budiwati gestures to a wall with a suit with the lining and next to it a Kevlar vest. Wayne pulls out his Desert Eagle and empties a mag into the one with lining. Everyone's eyes widen.

"Holy shit!"

"What the fuck?!"

"Oumdamn!"

"Whoa."

"Shit."

"That's a fucking bulletproof suit!" Jaune shouted.

Wayne grins, "Yep."

"So, the whole time we were in Vale, you were wearing a bulletproof suit." Clover said.

Wayne nods.

"Holy fucking shit!" Felix, Kang, and Fox shouted.

"Wait, can you get us all bulletproof vests and suits?" Reeves asked.

"Already have that ready." Wayne said.

"Fuckin A." Ruby, Neptune, Sun, and Aiden said.

Budiwati takes what was in the suit that Wayne shot at, "Silicon carbide discs. Ceramic matrices. Accompanying laminates. Cutting-edge body armor. We just sew it between the fabric and the lining. Zero penetration. However..." he cringes placing a hand on his chest as if he experienced this before. "quite painful I'm afraid."

The others nod.

"Well, that's one way to do it." Winter said.

"Yeah." Weiss added.

"Now, let's get your suits done." Budiwati said.

The group began to feel a buzz of excitement and anticipation as they prepared to get outfitted in what was essentially the ultimate combination of style and utility. Wayne, leaning casually against a desk, smirked at the reactions of his comrades.

As Budiwati and his assistants moved swiftly to measure and craft the tactical suits, he explained further, "These suits will give you an edge. Stylish enough to blend into high-society functions or urban environments but tough enough to withstand unexpected... hostility."

Anthony chuckled, "Blend in? If this isn't screaming 'badass vigilante,' I don't know what is."

Miho raised an eyebrow, "I'm not sure this is subtle at all, but I appreciate the craftsmanship."

"Subtlety is overrated," Karma quipped, inspecting one of the prototypes.

Meanwhile, in the Suit Lab

The group was divided into sections, each receiving their tailored suits. Wayne's team worked with a precision that spoke of years of refinement and military-grade professionalism.

Budiwati's instructions flowed smoothly:

He advised Elm and Harriet on the flexibility enhancements in their trousers, perfect for those with more athletic combat styles.

Weiss and Winter were shown discreet, reinforced pockets designed to carry Dust vials without compromising the sleek lines of the suit.

Mina and Yang, with their combat-heavy approach, were offered gloves lined with knuckle reinforcements for close-quarters brawling.

For Miho, Budiwati nodded approvingly as she selected a subdued dark-green suit that emphasized tactical efficiency over flashiness. "A lady of practicality, I see. This will serve you well."

"You could say that," Miho replied, testing the weight of the fabric and feeling impressed.

Ruby, meanwhile, had stars in her eyes. "I feel like I'm in a spy movie! Do you guys have hidden grappling hooks?"

Wayne grinned, holding up a watch-like device. "We might."

Final Touches

Budiwati walked down the line of the team, handing out small but critical extras.

To Reeves, a belt containing quick-release attachments for extra magazines.

To Anthony and David, combat boots with steel reinforcements and hidden compartments.

To Velvet and Coco, lightweight tactical scarves with anti-snag properties—stylish and useful.

"Alright, team," Wayne clapped his hands, "Now that you look the part, let's talk gear."

The group followed him into another section of the lab, where an array of exosuits awaited them. Wayne gestured to the sleek designs, each fitted with modular parts for individual needs. "Pick one that fits your combat style. These will amplify your strength, speed, and durability."

Yang couldn't help but whistle. "Man, if only I had this during the Vytal Festival."

Velvet touched the frame of one exosuit, her hand brushing against the reinforced plating. "This feels... amazing. It's like tech and combat armor had a baby."

Wayne's Final Briefing

Once everyone was suited up, Wayne addressed them with a serious tone. "You're entering a shadow war. No recognition, no medals, no press. This mission is about stopping the spread of chaos before it spirals further. You'll have my PMCs as support, but on the ground, you're the point team."

Reeves nodded, his earlier anger and grief now focused into a laser-sharp determination. "We'll do whatever it takes."

Wayne stepped forward, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Then let's get to work."