(Willa POV):
As the team and I returned to our dorm room after the exhausting mission, a sense of relief washed over me. Despite the chaos and uncertainty of the day, we had managed to successfully protect the town and defeat the Grimm threat. Now, all I wanted was to rest and recuperate from the events of the day.
I quickly changed into my pajamas and crawled into bed, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle over me like a heavy blanket. As I closed my eyes, I couldn't help but replay the events of the mission in my mind, from James's sudden appearance on the battlefield to the teasing banter with my friends on the bullhead.
But amidst the memories, there was a sense of warmth and comfort knowing that we had faced the challenges together as a team, and that we had come out stronger because of it. And as sleep finally claimed me, I allowed myself to drift off into a peaceful slumber, eager to face whatever challenges the new day would bring.
The next morning, I awoke to the sound of my alarm blaring, signaling the start of a new day. With a groan, I reluctantly dragged myself out of bed, feeling the lingering effects of fatigue from the previous day's mission. But as I glanced around the dorm room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of determination stirring within me.
Today was the first day of classes at Beacon Academy, and I was determined to make the most of it. Despite the challenges that lay ahead, I knew that with the support of my team and friends, I could overcome anything that came my way.
As I entered the common area, I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at the sight of James eating coffee beans with a spoon. "James, what are you doing?" I asked, a mixture of amusement and concern in my voice.
James looked up from his bowl of coffee beans, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Morning, Willa," he greeted me, his voice slightly muffled from the beans in his mouth. "Just trying to wake myself up before classes."
I couldn't help but chuckle at James's unusual breakfast choice. "Coffee beans for breakfast, huh? That's a new one," I remarked, shaking my head slightly.
James grinned sheepishly, swallowing his mouthful of coffee beans before responding. "Yeah, well water dilutes the flavor."
I laughed softly, shaking my head at James's dedication to his morning routine. "Well, whatever works for you, James," I replied, amused by his response. "Just make sure you don't overdo it on the caffeine."
James nodded, flashing me a grateful smile. "Don't worry, this is just my third bowl."
I couldn't help but widen my eyes in disbelief at James's admission. "Third bowl?" I echoed incredulously. "James, that's... a lot of caffeine."
He shrugged nonchalantly, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "It is what it is."
I walked over and took the bowl from his hands.
"Alright, that's enough caffeine for you," I declared, shaking my head with a smile as I set the bowl aside. "You don't want to be bouncing off the walls during class."
Then James used his semblance to swiftly reclaim the bowl from my hands, a playful smirk crossed his face. "Nice try, Willa," he teased, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "But I think I'll hold onto this for a little longer."
As Sonic and Alcides walked into the common area, they found me staring incredulously at James, who was holding onto his bowl of coffee beans with a mischievous smirk on his face. They exchanged confused glances, wondering what had transpired between us.
"What's going on here?" Sonic asked, his brow furrowing in confusion as he then spotted Shadow with his own bowl of coffee beans, adding to the perplexity of the situation.
"I'm trying to get his third bowl of coffee beans from him, so he doesn't have a heart attack," I explained with a chuckle, shaking my head at James's caffeine-induced antics.
Sonic blinked, processing the information, his expression a mixture of disbelief and concern. "Third bowl... Coffee beans..." he repeated slowly, as if trying to comprehend the sheer amount of caffeine James had consumed.
Alcides raised an eyebrow, glancing between James and his bowl of coffee beans. "Are you just eating just the beans?"
James chuckled sheepishly, nodding in confirmation. "Yeah, just the beans. Gives me a jolt without diluting the flavor with water," he explained, popping another handful into his mouth.
Sonic shook his head incredulously. "Just the beans... Wouldn't it be just crunchy?"
James grinned, unfazed by our bemusement. "The best things in life have a crunch."
I smacked him on the head, and retrieving the bowl of coffee beans from James once more, I couldn't help but chuckle at his playful antics. "Alright, James, that's enough caffeine for you," I said with a smile, gently swatting him on the head as I set the bowl aside.
James feigned a pout, but there was a twinkle of amusement in his eyes. "Aw, come on, Willa," he protested half-heartedly, rubbing the spot where I had lightly smacked him. "You're no fun."
I rolled my eyes playfully. "I'm just looking out for your well-being," I retorted, unable to suppress a grin at his exaggerated reaction.
Sonic and Alcides watched the exchange with amusement, sharing a knowing look between them. "Looks like James's caffeine addiction is getting out of hand," Sonic remarked with a chuckle, earning a playful glare from James.
"Hey, it's not an addiction, it's a lifestyle choice," James quipped, though there was a hint of sheepishness in his tone.
Alcides chuckled, shaking his head in mock disapproval. "Well, let's hope you can survive the day without your coffee beans," he teased, earning a good-natured chuckle from all of us.
With a glance at the clock, I realized we had only 15 minutes before classes started. "Alright, everyone, let's finish up here and head to our first class," I announced, trying to rally everyone into action.
James reluctantly relinquished his hold on the bowl of coffee beans, though not without a playful pout. "Fine, fine," he relented, pushing himself up from his seat and before he brushed his hands through his hair.
We exited the dorm room and made our way through the corridors of Beacon Academy, I couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation bubbling within me. The halls were alive with the chatter of students, the energy palpable as everyone prepared for the day ahead.
Arriving at our classroom a little earlier then expected, we sat down in the 3rd row, as we waited for Professor Port to arrive and start the class, I took a moment to glance around the room, noticing two teams missing.
A sense of curiosity tugged at me, when might Team Rwby and Team JNPR grace us with their presence. Weiss should know better than anyone the importance of punctuality, and Jaune, well he's Jaune, but Pyrrha should keep in him check. I exchanged a glance with Sonic and Alcides, silently communicating our shared concern.
As the minutes ticked by, the classroom filled with students, but there was still no sign of Team RWBY or Team JNPR. As Professor Port made it to the from of the class room about to start class, but right as the bell rings the two missing teams busted through the door."
"Sorry we was late professor, we kind of slept in," Ruby apologized breathlessly, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she hurried to her seat.
Jaune followed closely behind her, his expression sheepish. "Yeah, sorry about that," he added, scratching the back of his head nervously.
Professor Port raised an eyebrow, his stern gaze sweeping over the late arrivals. "Being punctual is a crucial aspect of being a Huntsman or Huntress. I trust this won't happen again."
Ruby and Jaune nodded fervently, their expressions contrite as they settled into their seats.
Professor Port then cleared his throat before speaking, "Monsters! Deeeemons... Prowlers of the night! Yes, the creatures of Grimm have many names, but I merely refer to them as prey! Ha-ha!"
Pure Silence was heard
Professor Port's attempt at humor fell flat, the awkward silence hanging heavily in the air as he paused, waiting for a response that never came.
Clearing his throat awkwardly, Professor Port pressed on, undeterred by the lackluster reaction. "Uhhhh... And you shall too, upon graduating from this prestigious academy! Now, as I was saying: Vale, as well as the other three kingdoms, are safe havens in an otherwise treacherous world! Our planet is absolutely teeming with creatures that would love nothing more than to tear you to pieces! And that's where we come in. Huntsmen! Huntresses..." he said as he winked at Yang at the end.
I couldn't help but exchange a bewildered glance with Sonic and Alcides at Professor Port's antics. "Individuals who have sworn to protect those who cannot protect themselves! From what, you ask? Why, the very world!" he said promptly.
One student decided to take pity on him, " Ayyyy-yep!" he shouted standing up with his fist in the air. Everyone stared at him, before he sat back down as he did everyone turned their attention back on Professor Port.
"That is what you are training to become. But first: A story. A tale of a young, handsome man... Me! When I was a boy.." he said as you could feel everyone in the room just zone out, I looked over at James, and saw him.
Professor Port launched into his tale, I couldn't help but exchange a knowing glance with Sonic and Alcides. It seemed we weren't the only ones finding it difficult to stay engaged in his rambling anecdotes. James, with his stack of books, seemed to have found his own way of passing the time amidst the professor's monologue.
I stifled a chuckle, realizing that James had likely come prepared for the possibility of a less-than-engaging lecture. His resourcefulness never ceased to amaze me. While Professor Port droned on about his youthful exploits, I couldn't help but admire James's ability to stay focused on his studies, even in the face of such distractions.
Glancing around the classroom, I could see that most of my classmates were struggling to maintain interest in Professor Port's story. Some were doodling in their notebooks, while others seemed to be on the verge of dozing off. It was clear that his teaching style wasn't resonating with everyone.
As Professor Port reached the climax of his tale, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief, "The moral of this story? A true Huntsman must be honorable! A true Huntsman must be dependable! A true Huntsman must be strategic, well-educated, and wise! So, who among you believes themselves to be the embodiment of these traits?"
Before I could process, James used his semblance secretly to put my hand in the air. I shot James a bewildered look, silently questioning his actions. He merely grinned mischievously, "Payback for stealing my breakfast."
All eyes in the classroom turned towards me, I couldn't help but feel a flush of embarrassment creep into my cheeks. I hadn't anticipated being singled out in front of the entire class, especially not for a question as loaded as this one.
Professor Port's gaze landed on me, "Well Ms. Schnee let's see if you have what it takes. Go get changed into your combat gear and join me here, to face your opponent."
(Small time skip.)
(James POV):
As Willa entered the room, her confident demeanor belied the nerves I could see flickering in her eyes. Her apology to Professor Port was delivered with a steadiness that betrayed her inner apprehension.
"I had a new combat suit after mine got damaged yesterday," she explained, her voice clear and resolute.
Professor Port nodded in understanding, his gaze assessing her carefully. "No need to apologize, Ms. Schnee. It's important to ensure you're properly equipped for combat," he replied, his tone gruff but not unkind.
Willa nodded in acknowledgment, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Thank you, Professor," she said, her gratitude evident in her tone.
As she joined Professor Port, at the front of the classroom I had a good look at her new combat outfit.
Her new combat suit hugged her curves in all the right places, emphasizing her strength and resilience. The sleek design spoke of practicality and functionality, yet there was a subtle elegance to it that caught my eye.
I found myself unable to tear my gaze away from her, my heart beating just a little faster as I took in the sight of her standing there, I was feeling a new emotion, all I could explain it by was a warmth through my body.
Apparently Sonic noticed me staring, because he nudged me with his elbow, breaking me out of my trance. I turned to him, raising an eyebrow in confusion at his knowing expression.
"Looks like someone's got a crush," he teased, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.
"A Crush? What's that?" I asked him confused.
He noticed my confusion, and he chuckled softly before explaining, "A crush is when you have strong feelings of admiration or affection for someone. It's like... when you can't stop thinking about them, and you feel all warm and fuzzy inside whenever you're around them."
"Oh." I replied dumbly, trying to process Sonic's explanation.
Sonic grinned knowingly, nudging me again. "So, what do you think of Willa?" he asked, his tone teasing.
"She, nice, fun to be around, and all around amazing person." I responded, my voice trailing off as I struggled to put my feelings into words.
Sonic chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Sounds like you're smitten," he remarked, giving me a playful nudge.
I shook my head, denying Sonic's playful accusation. "It's not like that, she's just a friend."
Sonic raised an eyebrow, his grin widening. "Sure, James. Whatever you say," he replied, his tone teasing but gentle.
We then turned our focus back onto Willa, and Port as he approached a cage.
(3rd POV)
"Are you ready, Ms. Schnee?"
Willa nodded firmly, her gaze steady as she met Professor Port's eyes. "Yes, Professor. I'm ready," she replied, her voice steady and determined.
Professor Port grinned, his eyes twinkling with excitement as he gestured towards the cage. "Excellent! Let the match begin!" he announced as he used his weapon to cut off the lock.
As the cage door swung open, a Boarbatusk emerged, its tusks gleaming in the light as it snarled menacingly at Willa. You could see the tension mounting in the room as everyone watched with bated breath, waiting to see how Willa would handle the challenge.
Willa didn't hesitate, her movements swift and decisive as she sprang into action. With a series of graceful leaps and agile dodges, she maneuvered around the Boarbatusk's attacks, her focus unwavering as she assessed her opponent's strengths and weaknesses.
As the Boarbatusk lunged forward, Willa countered with a precise strike, her sword connecting with the side, and bouncing off, not even making a scratch.
The Boarbatusk roared in frustration, its tusks thrashing as it attempted to land a blow on Willa. But she was too quick, her reflexes honed from years of training allowing her to evade each attack with ease.
With each passing moment, Willa's frustration grew not being able to make any damage.
"Willa, target the stomach. There's no armor underneath." James said giving her some advice.
She seemed to get angry and shouted at him, "James, you aren't helping!"
He flinched slightly at Willa's sharp response, surprised by her sudden outburst.
"I-I'm sorry, Willa," James stammered, feeling a pang of guilt at having upset her. "I just thought..."
But before he could finish my sentence, Willa's attention returned to the Boarbatusk,
As the Boarbatusk lunged forward once again, Willa met its attack head-on, with her semblance making it fall on it's back.
As the Boarbatusk was momentarily stunned by Willa's semblance, she seized the opportunity to strike. With a swift and precise movement, she plunged her sword into the creature's exposed stomach, eliciting a pained roar from the Grimm.
The room erupted into cheers and applause as Willa emerged victorious, her determination and skill evident to all who witnessed her triumph. Professor Port nodded in approval, a proud smile gracing his features as he congratulated her on her performance.
"Well done, Ms. Schnee! You've demonstrated excellent strategy and quick thinking in the face of adversity," he praised, his voice filled with genuine admiration.
She then realized she screamed at James, as the bell rung. She turned to apologize but it was too late he was gone. She looked at Sonic and Alcides, who looked at her with concern. They could see the conflict in her eyes as she struggled with her emotions.
"Willa, are you okay?" Sonic asked, his voice gentle as he placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
Willa sighed, her shoulders slumping as she shook her head. "I don't know, Sonic. I just... I let my emotions get the best of me back there," she admitted, her voice tinged with regret.
Alcides nodded understandingly, his expression sympathetic. "It's okay, Willa. We all have moments when our emotions get the better of us," he reassured her, his tone comforting.
Sonic squeezed her shoulder gently, offering her a supportive smile. "I'm sure if you go and explain, he'll understand," he said reassuringly.
Willa nodded gratefully, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Thanks, guys. I'll go find him and apologize," she said, determination shining in her eyes.
With that, Willa hurried out of the classroom in search of James, her heart heavy with regret for her earlier outburst. She knew she needed to make things right with him, to apologize for letting her emotions get the best of her.
She looked all around campus, and when she found him, she saw he was talking to Coco. She then saw him smile and then hug her. She couldn't deny the twinge of hurt she felt seeing him with someone else, especially after their earlier interaction.
She started to cry at the sight, feeling a mixture of sadness and frustration welling up inside her. How could he move on so quickly after their argument? Did their friendship mean nothing to him?
She walked away, back to the dorm room.
(James POV) (Right after the bell rung):
As the bell rang signaling the end of the class, I quickly excused myself from the room, feeling a mix of emotions swirling inside me. Willa's outburst had caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for inadvertently upsetting her.
As I made my way through the bustling corridors of Beacon Academy, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at me. Willa's sharp words echoed in my mind, and I couldn't help but wonder if I had crossed a line by offering her advice during the combat demonstration.
Lost in thought, I barely noticed Coco approaching me until she was standing right in front of me, a warm smile on her lips. "Hey, James," she greeted me, her voice cheerful as she fell into step beside me.
I returned her smile, though my mind was still preoccupied with thoughts of Willa. "Hey, Coco. What's up?" I replied, trying to push aside my concerns for the moment.
Coco raised an eyebrow, noticing the furrow in my brow. "You okay there, James? You seem a bit distracted," she remarked, her tone laced with concern.
I sighed, running a hand through my hair as I struggled to find the right words. "Yeah, I'm fine. It's just... something happened in class, and I think I upset Willa," I admitted, feeling a twinge of guilt as I spoke.
Coco's expression softened with understanding, her gaze gentle as she reached out to place a comforting hand on my arm. "I'm sure it's nothing, James. Willa knows you didn't mean any harm," she reassured me, her voice soothing.
I nodded, grateful for Coco's words of reassurance. "Thanks, Coco. I hope you're right," I replied, though a part of me couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered within me.
"Don't worry me and Velvet had many arguments, even before we started to date."
As Coco shared her own experience with disagreements and reassured James that it was normal, James felt a bit more at ease. He appreciated Coco's perspective and the reminder that misunderstandings happen in any relationship, whether it be friendship or something more.
"Thanks, Coco. I guess I'll try to talk to her and clear things up," James said, feeling a bit more determined now to mend things with Willa.
Coco smiled encouragingly. "That sounds like a good plan. Just be honest with her, and I'm sure she'll understand," she advised.
Feeling a weight lift off my shoulders, I couldn't help but feel grateful for Coco's understanding and support. Her comforting words had helped me see things from a different perspective, and I knew I couldn't have asked for a better friend.
"Thanks, Coco. I really mean it," I said, sincerity ringing in my voice as I pulled away from the hug, offering her a genuine smile.
Coco's warm smile mirrored my own, and her reassurance filled me with a sense of comfort. "Of course, James. Anytime you need someone to talk to, I'll be here," she replied, her voice filled with genuine warmth as she gave my arm a reassuring squeeze.
As Coco and I parted ways, her words echoing in my mind, I couldn't shake off the lingering unease regarding my interaction with Willa. Despite Coco's reassurance, I knew I had to address the issue and make things right with her.
Determined to clear the air, I made my way back to the classroom to see if she was still there.
As I returned to the classroom, my heart sank at the sight of the empty room. The desks were cleared, and the chairs pushed in, indicating that everyone had already left. A heavy feeling settled in my chest as I realized that Willa had likely departed as well, still upset over our earlier interaction.
Regret gnawed at me like a relentless beast, cursing myself for not acting sooner to resolve the misunderstanding. I knew I had to find Willa and apologize before things worsened between us.
With a sense of urgency driving me forward, I hurried out of the classroom and began scouring the campus for any sign of Willa. I checked all the usual spots she frequented, but there was no trace of her. Panic began to grip me as I realized she could be anywhere on the vast campus.
Rounding a corner, I spotted Sonic and Alcides walking together, their expressions serious as they conversed in hushed tones. Relief flooded through me as I rushed over to them, hoping they might have some clue as to Willa's whereabouts.
"Sonic, Alcides, have you seen Willa?" I asked urgently as I approached them.
They exchanged a concerned glance before turning their attention to me. "No, she went looking for you after class," Sonic replied, his brow furrowing with worry. "We haven't seen her since."
My heart sank even further at the news, guilt weighing heavily on me. I knew I had to find Willa and make things right, no matter what it took.
"Thanks, guys. I'll go look for her," I said determinedly, determination shining in my eyes as I turned to leave.
I looked all around the campus, but then I saw Yang and Ruby,
Yang and Ruby were walking together, their animated conversation echoing in the quiet courtyard. I hesitated for a moment before approaching them, my heart pounding in my chest as I mustered the courage to ask for their help.
"Hey, Yang, Ruby," I greeted them, my voice slightly shaky with nerves.
They turned towards me, their expressions curious as they took in my troubled demeanor. "Hey, James, what's up?" Ruby asked, her tone filled with genuine concern.
I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves as I explained the situation. "Have you two seen Willa around? I've been looking for her everywhere, but I can't seem to find her," I admitted, my voice tinged with worry.
Yang exchanged a concerned glance with Ruby before turning back to me. "Last time we seen her, she looked to be crying and walking towards the dorms."
Concern etched across my features, I thanked Yang and Ruby for their help before hurrying towards the dorms. The image of Willa in distress weighed heavily on my mind, driving me forward with a sense of urgency.
As I approached the dormitory building, my heart raced with anticipation, praying that I would find Willa safe and sound. Pushing open the door, I scanned the common area, hoping to catch a glimpse of her familiar figure.
But, no luck I then heard whimpering coming from her bedroom.
Entering her bedroom, I found Willa sitting on her bed, her shoulders slumped and tears streaming down her cheeks. My heart clenched at the sight of her in such distress, and I knew I had to do something to comfort her.
"Willa..." I called softly, stepping closer to her with caution.
Startled, Willa looked up, her tear-stained eyes widening in surprise as she saw me standing there. She quickly wiped her tears away, attempting to compose herself despite the obvious emotional turmoil she was experiencing.
"James... what are you doing here?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she struggled to control her emotions.
"I came to find you," I replied gently, my heart aching at the sight of her distress. "Are you okay?"
Willa shook her head, a fresh wave of tears welling up in her eyes. "I thought you were hanging out with your new friend Coco. She seemed interested in you when she first met you." she said a little bitter.
As Willa's words hung in the air, I felt a pang of guilt wash over me. It was clear that she saw my interaction with Coco, and she had misunderstood the situation. I quickly moved to reassure her, kneeling down in front of her to meet her gaze.
"Willa, listen to me," I began, my voice gentle but firm. "Coco is just a friend. Yes, we talked for a bit, but it was nothing more than that. I learnt that she's dating Velvet, and we were just catching up. She gave me some advice that's all."
Willa's expression softened slightly at my explanation, though the hurt still lingered in her eyes. "But I saw you two laughing and hugging," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.
I reached out, gently taking her hands in mine, wanting to reassure her of the truth. "I'm sorry if it looked like something more, Willa. I should have been more mindful of how my actions might be perceived," I admitted, my voice filled with sincerity.
Willa's gaze softened as she met my eyes, a flicker of understanding passing between us. "I... I overreacted," she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. "I let my emotions get the best of me, and I lashed out at you. I'm sorry, James."
I squeezed her hands gently, offering her a reassuring smile. "It's okay, Willa. We all have moments when our emotions get the better of us," I reassured her, my tone gentle and understanding.
Willa nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Thank you for understanding, James," she said softly, her voice filled with gratitude.
I reached out, gently brushing a stray tear from her cheek. "I'll always be here for you, Willa. No matter what," I promised, sincerity ringing in my voice.
Willa's smile widened, her eyes sparkling with emotion.