Here's to Her (Private: Jim Lavay)

[Ava Blueblood]

A woosh of warm air brushed past her cheeks as the ship's cabin decompressed and its doors swung upwards. Ava pulled a single earbud out, wiped the sleep from her eyes and hopped out of the craft with a soft grunt, choosing not to wait for the ramp in her impatience. Delays on important flights were so familiar to her by now that she halfway expected them every single time, but to have a journey be delayed from midday to a ten o'clock arrival would sour anybody's mood. Instincts carried her along the platform, through the turnstiles and onward to the station's exit; she met with the glow of a shattered moon as the roof subsided and the star-spangled sky revealed itself. It wasn't as mood-lifting as the sun, she thought, but it was a fine sight.

The day was gone but the night was young, and as her dinner reservations had been replaced by microwaved aircraft food, all that she could think about now was getting her hands on a glass of bubbly and letting the day's memory fade away. At least her company for the night - her leader at Beacon and the one whose plans had to be blown off earlier - was still game to meet, although she was already experiencing a cocktail of feelings about it. Their talks had teetered post-graduation, they'd hardly got a word in with each other before life tore them in separate directions to separate parts of the world. Coming back to face it all - huntressing, the team fragmenting, where she and Jim were at together - it almost felt too 'real', and 'real' was the last thing that she wanted to be right then.

Still, she gathered herself and shot Jim a short text: "At the airport, reeks of cigarette smoke and businessmen. You close?" She slid the scroll into her jeans and hopped on to a raised ledge, head now somewhat raised above the crowd of suits and civvies pouring from the station.

[Jim Lavay]

Picking up his scroll Jim would see the alert that her transport had finally arrived. A long smile ran across his face as the anticipated moment was finally upon him.

The day itself had been a bit of a roller coaster starting with a massive flood of happiness when he heard Ava was returning. Too an incredibly sullen moment when he remembered why she had been up there. As well as everything in between as he thought about how life had essentially kicked them both square in the teeth right out of the gates. Of course, her a little more recently and directly. Though he couldn't help but be angry with himself that he couldn't have been there for her. Mama Blue was an incredible woman and Ava was so important to him. In his eyes he'd failed her. However, perhaps that was just a part of being a huntsman. "Nah..." He'd actually say out loud to himself as he got in his sisters’ car. It was only that way if you settled for it. With them both being back in Vale they could write their own future from here on out.

So, with that in mind Jim would head out and a few minutes later his scroll would buzz again. Hitting her with a quick text back he'd say. "Yup! Be there in like 5!" He wasn't used to driving a car, but it was easier than a bike so long as he remembered the vehicle took up the entire lane. So, pretty much right on time he'd pull up to the gate. The one fortunate part about her delay was that the place was far less crowded, so he was able to park for a moment.

Of course, the moment Jim actually laid eyes on her that whole roller coaster went out the door and it was all replaced by genuine relief. Walking right up he'd give her a giant hug and simply say. "I am so damn sorry, but I am so damn happy to see ya." Contrary to his normal laid back and silly self these words were genuine, and he'd give her a moment to respond before offering to get her bags.

As well as saying. "Wanna grab a quick bite still, drink, or just wanna crash? Also, I’m so sorry you got delayed, but better than having to tackle a Nevermore out of the sky." He did hope that little humor might help a touch. Either way, they hadn't actually talked about that part, but he already got permission from his sister to have her crash at their place for a bit.

[Ava Blueblood]

"Yup! Be there in like 5!"

And for five, she waited.

A few cars pulled in and out of the drop-off zone before she caught a glimpse of Jim's - or rather, Cassandra's. Not that she could tell the difference, nor did it play on her mind for very long.

Her chest tightened as he caught her in a hug and she hesitated, reciprocating with an arm around his back. She'd hide the pain in her eyes as best she could; for the last month, all physical contact had been under the pretence of mourning her loss. This should have felt different, but in truth, it didn't. "Me too, big guy," she replied, following up in her head with 'I'm sorry, too.'

She passed him her bags with a "Thanks" and stifled a yawn. "Well, we'd know a thing or two about Nevermores, huh?" Her shoulders relaxed ever-so-slightly as the tension began to ease, and the thought of a drink occupied her mind once more. "A drink, definitely." As she opened the car door and climbed into the passenger seat, she finally noticed that it wasn't his motorbike. "Cass trusting you with the wheels tonight? How brave." She let on a faint smirk. "Let's hit up a little hole in the wall, I don't think I can deal with drunks and disorderlies tonight. Let the Huntressing resume tomorrow."

Finally free from the crowd, she let out a loud exhale and sunk a little deeper into the seat. If it was Jim's car, she'd kick her feet up on the dash and make herself at home, but she had too much respect for the older Lavay to desecrate this car. "So, what's kept you busy since I left? It was a little after graduation, right?" Remembering that last fact stung a little bit, as did her next words. "I uh, haven't heard from Sierra or Shan in a while. And I guess that I made myself a little scarce, too." Her eyes fell, like a kid showing remorse for breaking a toy. "Sorry about that."

[Jim Lavay]

After the embrace Jim would smile for a moment and look down at the short huntress. He'd then simply say. "Don't worry, we've got this." With that he'd take the bags and put em in the trunk. Then once in the car he'd chuckle at the comment. He never felt right in a car they just seemed so confined for the big guy’s taste. Though her comment brought on far more of a chuckle. "Well, you know my family. I mean I would have probably asked for it anyway cause of the bags but let’s see here. Ivory stole my bike and then dropped it on the way. So now I'm taking Cass' car..." At a certain point he'd just shake his head and laugh. For as chaotic as they were he did love his family.

As for the rest of what Ava had to say Jim would simply smile and respond. "Sounds like a plan and don't worry I'll put it on the calendar. 'Start kicking ass tomorrow.'" He couldn't help himself as much as he wanted to be solemn in these moments her just couldn't. For so long the shorter Blue haired girl had been just such a positive force in his life.

Kicking the car into gear the pair would get underway Jim remembered a quiet spot where they could get a drink without too much bother. Her next comment brought on a bit of a despondent look. "Yeah, jeez it felt like such a whirlwind. One second the four us were kicking ass together. The next we all got separated. I can't even remember how it happened." Sighing and adjusting himself in the seat he'd continue. "My voluntentold assignment sucked. Long hours and crap benefits that they could only shuffle off on a fresh huntsman." Reaching over with his right arm he'd try to comfort her a bit. "As for the others. I'm guessing Sierra got wrapped up in her business again I haven't heard from her. Shana I've had a little contact with, but of course being in the military she can't tell me everything. Though I do believe she is trying to make her way back to Vale."

It would be at this point that Jim would kinda cut himself off and change topics. "...and there's nothing to be sorry about. I'M sorry that I couldn't break away from my assignment to get up there. Mama Blue was... was hell everything I hope to be." Coming up to a stop like he'd turn towards her and just simply say. "I'm so happy you're back Ava." Everything he had said thus far was sincere, but somehow those words felt even more so leaving his lips. Which meant that he just couldn't help but to hold a true smile after the fact.

[Ava Blueblood]

"Way too fast" she uttered in agreeance as he recalled the team's overnight split. Going from such a tight-knit unit in Beacon to loosely connected threads in the outside world was an eventuality, yet a part of her would always long for those good old days. She accepted his arm, locking fingers. "The fresh fish stuff is really that bad, huh?" she asked amusingly, part of her musing about what her own first assignment would look like.

In what would become a recurring theme that night, she tried to mask her feelings after hearing about the others. She was hoping that one of the others would have stuck around for a while, yet part of her knew that it was wishful thinking. With an exhale, she replied, a tame yet undeniable bitterness to her voice. "Gotcha, that makes total sense. I'm sure they both have a lot going on right now."

Hearing the words 'Mama Blue' floating through the car, she shied sideways as if to avoid them. As much as her pain was beginning to heal, every time she heard her grandmother's name, she could feel the bandages tearing away. His reassurance brought her away from that shell, and she let out a breath with a tame smile. "I'm happy to be back, too." Her words trailed off for a second, returning shakily. "Y-yeah, she was a total badass. 'It is what it is,' as she'd say. I think she'd throw me an uppercut if she caught us mourning about her right now." She laughed quietly, cutting through some of the tension in the air. "It's so weird, I just... always imagined her being around forever, you know? Now that she's gone, everything feels different. She was one of the reasons I became a Huntress, I wanted to be that person that makes other people feel safe just like she made me feel. Now that she's gone, I just feel so... fragile? Hesitant?" She shook her head and sighed with unrest. "I dunno, it's just put a lot of things into question, I guess."

A little ways up ahead, a poorly-lit bar shifted into view, lightly decorated with neon lights and 2-for-1 sale stickers. It was a quiet neighbourhood with the odd soul passing by every now and then, a nearby streetlight flickering and the gentle rumble of railtracks reverberating from the nearby travel network. The trademark stench of stale beer and cigarette smoke permeated the air; it was, unquestionably, a little hole in the wall.

[Jim Lavay]

Holding onto her hand he'd just chuckle at that initial comment and say. "Yeah." In response. Of course, his sister had warned him of such, but it was so tough to actually think about when you're progressing through Beacon. Each year there was more prestige and responsibility. The further along you went you got to take on tougher mission compete in tournaments that were televised. At a certain point one really did start to lose a little grasp. Even someone as humble as him. Of course, as he thought all this Jim would make sure to occasionally look over in her direction as they drove. Making sure to smile, nod, and silently comfort where it was possible.

As they started talking more Jim would feel his smile grow as she talked about Mama Blue. Though it would be tempered by her next comment. It was so tough, because even though he had lost so much it was all when he was really too young to grasp it. The only lose he had felt recently was his brother-in-law who certainly sucked, but... it wasn't anything like this. He didn't know him that well and while he respects his prowess it wasn't this icon that he looked up too. Still, he wanted to be as empathetic as possible and ultimately, he would just go with what he did best.

"Hey..." Nearly to the bar he'd pull over to park, but before he got out, he'd turn and say. "...first of you are the toughest person I have met, and I know what you're getting at. However, just think about everything we overcame. Think about all those tough scrapes we were in, and hell if we're being honest with ourselves at times perhaps a bit over our heads." Holding a smile and nodding his head so she knew he meant every word that he was say. "We got through it. You got through it because you've got toughness, grit, and an insane amount of talent. She may have been your inspiration, but it was you that did it, and it will be you that carries that legacy on. It'll be you someday that'll be telling old war stories to inspire the next generation, because that's who you are. You're the damn glue that held it all together!"

With that Jim would just smile and say one more. "I personally dunno where I would've been without ya, and I don't even wanna think about it, because we're back. You're back and now we’re about to write that next chapter of awesome war stories!" With a confident nod and even the starts of a grin as he'd hope that she would realize just how genuine he was being. From there he would completely follow her lead if she wanted to talk more here or just head in for that drink.

[Ava Blueblood]

Come to the end of his speech and she was grasping on to his every last word. "I don't think you know how much I needed that," she said, a heaviness weighing down her throat. "Thanks, Jim." Her ego was naturally stroked by some of the flattery, but the heartfelt message beneath all of that resonated where it needed to most, in the broken parts of her soul. To come to grips and cope with the loss was going to be an long, arduous journey, but she couldn't let that take away from past victories. The source of her strength was always within; Mama Blue only nurtured it. A comforting thought sprung into her mind, "You know, her flame never really went out. She just passed down the torch." For the first time that day, she felt ease slowly beginning to pass through her body. There would still be dark times, but at the very least, that night wasn't going to be one of them.

"And hey, easy tiger. War stories tomorrow, can't let this night go down in the books as the one where we get wasted, crash Cass's car and you get both your licenses stripped for a DUI." She turned to leave the car, looking back one last time. "I mean it. We're actual Huntsman, we gotta set an example for the kids or something. Stay in school, don't do drugs, yadda-yadda."

Bells jingled as the pub door swung open, magnifying the stench tenfold when the stale air inside mixed with the cool air outside. She mumbled something under her breath as her shoes stuck to the whatever dried-up cocktail had been spilled on the floor earlier, and surveying the room, the three people inside didn't appear to be in high spirits either. "This place seem a skosh drab to you?" Despite first impressions, the interior looked presentable at least, with an almost steampunk-inspired interior of exposed piping and mechanical decorations sprawled throughout. It wasn't the worst place in Vale, she supposed. "Alright, pick your poison, I'll take one of whatever you're having." She slid onto a nearby barstool, deciding against the boothes which looked like they hadn't been cleaned for a week. "So, talk to me about this 'assignment' they had you on. Tell me that some Grimm were involved, at least?"

[Jim Lavay]

It was hard to prevent himself from smiling as Ava started to respond. Even her wasn't foolish enough to know that this meant everything was instantly better. Though, it did feel good to know that she was opening up. So, without piling too much more on top Jim would just simply say. "I love it and always remember that, because I meant every single word of it." Tensing his hand for another moment to help drive the point home one more time. Of course, the moment the blue haired huntress went into the next statement he also couldn't help from laughing a bit. "Heh... I uhh... I don't know..." He'd start to laugh as he looked out the front wind shield. "Maybe that perfectly on brand for the Lavay's. Ivory wrecks my bike, I scuff up Cass's car..." Of course, the whole time he was grinning. "...but alas you're right, we have to at least act 'semi' responsible these days."

So, with that thought Jim would step out of the car and roll his shoulders to stretch out. Following her into the bar her would instantly see and even smell the less-than-ideal place. Which again drew a laugh. "Heh, uhh... well... when you're a broke kid in the industrial district uhh... sometime your expectations and evidently memories are a bit lower than usual." Once he'd say that he couldn't help from actually taking a moment to really laugh. Sliding up alongside her in the next barstool he'd order them a pair of lagers and a couple shots. As they came Jim would slide over his card and tell em to keep the tab open. "This nights on me." He'd say with a nod and not much question in his voice.

As they waited for the drinks to arrive, he'd look to her and smile. "Ugh, it was a pain. If I'm being honest. I was escorting a group of contractors trying to do some sciency-geological stuff. There was some scare about something and these guys needed to go out into the field. I'll be honest a lot of the detail of what they were doing were lost on me. However, despite being in a 'relatively' low traffic area. I basically never got more than a few hours of sleep each night." Sighing lightly Jim shrugged. "...but yeah, there were few Grimm. Nothing crazy and everyone was okay. So, I guess over all a win. However, since they were cheap, they only got me. So yeah... long hours, crap pay, good times." Normally, he would have turned the question around on her, but he decided to hold off for a moment and let that come out more organically.

A few moments later the drinks would show up. Picking up the shot he would look to Ava and hold it out. About to say something Jim would instead give her a reassuring nod letting her take lead on the cheers.

[Ava Blueblood]

Her eyes went wide with surprise when he handed his card over, though she toned her shock down to a curious gaze. She stopped herself short of making any remarks; at the end of the day, it was nice that he didn't have to worry as much financially anymore, and she wasn't going to belittle him by drawing attention to any of his past financial woes. "Sure. I got us next time."

Ava would listen with intent as Jim summarised his first assignment, sympathising with him as he talked about the scientists and the conditions of the mission. From the way he described it, she wasn't sure that it was so bad, although the sciency stuff would have flown right through head too. Mouthing a 'yikes', she tried to reassure him. "Not great, not terrible, I guess. It's good that everybody made it out alive, at least." She noticed the bartender coming around with the drinks. "You made some connections in the biz, anyway. Maybe that'll lead to something exciting in the future?" Her tone lacked confidence, for it seemed like a dead end.

She'd pick up a shot and raised it to his, pausing for a moment as she thought up a toast. "Here's to... her. To Mama Blue. Hope you're giving 'em hell, wherever you are." A quick clink and down the hatch it went, her eyes pinching tight as she slammed her fist against the counter. "Motherfucker," she managed, shaking her head a little as the burn coursed through her throat. After taking a second to recompose herself, she howled a "whoop!" and shoved the glass aside, garnering a funny look from the barkeep.

"So, we are not students anymore." She leant against the counter with folded arms, turning to face him. "It's still so hard to believe. Feels like yesterday that we were ripping it up in Mt' Glenn and tearing up the Academy Gardens. Shit, how much property damage are we responsible for again?" The barkeep came and swept up the empty shot glasses, to which she nodded gratefully. "Anyways, I guess that I should start looking for some assignments, already building up a nice little gap in my resume. With the whole uh, funeral thing, seeing Mum and Dad and everybody, there wasn't a whole lot of time to think about work in Mantle." She brought the pint glass closer, stopping it just short of her lips. "You got anything exciting lined up? My schedule is clean if you need a partner." It was a shot in the dark, but you miss the ones that you don't take.

[Jim Lavay]

Putting the shot back and slamming it down Jim would wince for a second. Then of course chuckle for a second at their mutual discomfort. Rail liquor at a dive bar it was a good chance that it came out of a plastic bottle. Either way, he'd quickly grasp for the beer, and add. "...and here is too us, and the future."

Allowing Ava second for that. Jim would take the drink and thankfully wash down the shot. He'd then circle back to her previous comment and say. "I mean maybe. I suppose I did well, but I don't know most of them were so in their work they barely noticed I was there most day." Laughing again he'd then listen to the rest of what she had to say. Adjusting himself as well and shaking his head at the reminiscing. "Heh, sure aren't, and I mean. Let's not worry about those kinds of details. Luckily out at Mt. Glenn we can just blame the Grimm. As for the school, Wellll...." He couldn't help laughing and rather innocently shrugging his shoulders as a massive grin shined through.

It would be to the next point where Jim would initially shake his head. Hopefully reassuring her. "Hey, don't worry about that. I'm 100% positive that there are plenty of huntsmen that take time off before getting started. I'm pretty sure even Cass and her team took a little time before jumping into it." With a nod he was about to say more, but that was when Ave made that comment. He couldn't help himself as he quickly said. "Hell yeah! Beacon's best partners back together? Absolutely!"

Allowing himself a moment to calm back down Jim would then say. "As for a job I actually might have something. I've been searching around and while I don't have all the details yet. I'll make sure that there's room for two." He would wink and then a moment later he'd sigh. Holding a handout, he'd chuckle beneath his breath. "Alright, I gotta get sappy one more time, though before we see how high we can get this tab." A smile running across his face as he just simply said. "I hope we don't have to be away from each other anymore. Next time something comes up. Hopefully not for a good long time, but next time. I'm a be there no matter what. That's a promise."

[Ava Blueblood]

The woman couldn't hold off a smile when Jim accepted her offer, a casual "You know it" slipping out as he described them as Beacon's best partners. She listened with intrigue as he explained that he might have a bite on something; did he have a contact? Was he being scouted already? The wink sent her eyes into a roll. "Look at you, getting out there already." Quickly following up, she replied, "But, yeah, that sounds great. Hit me up when you have the deets."

The sappy talk had her conflicted. There had been so much of it recently from relatives and friends of the family alike that it became exasperating in Mantle, and she shifted uncomfortably, tensing up in her chair when he began, unsure what to expect. When she heard the genuine tone with which he spoke and the pure intention behind those words, she couldn't feel any wrong way about him, and she eased up with a half-smile, setting down her beer. "You're such a soppy dork, you know that?" Reaching across to shove his shoulder gently, she left her hand halfway across the counter. "This was... something that I needed to do by myself. I wouldn't have felt right if I'd taken you along. S-sorry, but it's the truth."

A hint of sadness crept in as she continued. "I ran away because it was easier than being vulnerable with the team, and with you. Things have never been that hard for me before. It's still so hard a month later, I mean, does it ever get better?" A second of silence passed as she tried to gather her disorganized thoughts. "I'll be by your side for you, no matter what. I just... my head's a mess, I need more time before I can say the same for when things get hard on my end." She pulled her hand away, unable to face him in the eyes. "I get that's probably not what you wanted to hear."

[Jim Lavay]

"Yeah..." A sigh found its way through his light chuckle. "...I know we all have our faults." His laughter grew a bit as she shoved him. Reminded him of better times at Beacon when they were off following one of his silly or crazy ideas. That and the earlier eye roll pretty much encapsulated it all. Well, most of it. As his hand reach out to grasp on to hers that was the final piece of the puzzle. Silly, boneheaded, but caring. All those words could be used to truthfully describe him. The final one being directed at the girl across the table from him more than any other.

The more Ava spoke the more he could feel her sadness. After so many years even someone as often dense as him had learned how to read her. So, when she pulled her hand away, he didn't fight to grasp it... not yet. Instead, Jim would smile and say. "No, perhaps not, but it's what you needed to say." This time keeping his hands stretched across the table he'd continue. "Ava, you can take as much time as you need. I care about you and I will no matter what form that takes. If you need to do this on your own, I'll respect it, but I hope you know that I will always be here for you. We're teammates, friends, partners, we've been through hell and back together. Saved lives, done the impossible. Yet..." He'd pause a moment to really make sure he was looking at her when he said this finally part. "...yet none of that even comes close or shows how I really feel about you. So, no matter what I'll care about you. Always will." He'd hold a half smile as the girl really did mean everything to him.

Taking a moment to catch his breath Jim would finish with. "As for does it get better? Well, I was I guess 'lucky' in a way. When I went through my loss, I was too young to understand it. However, and by no means would I ever pressure you to, nor would I even bring it to her on me own. Though Cass thinks of you like a little sister too. Maybe she could give you, her story." Lowering his head into a slight nod he would be sure to add the disclaimer. "Though I totally understand if it's just another voice. So again, no pressure." Looking up again he'd smile. "As for what I know. I know you'll get through this because I know you!" Realizing he had been talking going on a minute or two straight he couldn't help but to chuckle slightly. "S-sorry, I uhh... I promise that'll be the last monologue. At least for tonight." All the while his hands would remain there. Though he'd wait for her and while he hoped she would take them. He'd understand if she didn't.

[Ava Blueblood]

When the tips of his fingers entered her peripheral vision, she tilted her head to the side to partially face him. She didn't say anything after he finished with a heavy-hitting line, 'none of that even comes close or shows how I really feel about you'. Her eyes fell. She felt undeserving of such decorum. As confident and egotistical as she was, public displays of affection - verbal or physical - were one of the things she was not comfortable with. In that instant, she had to decide between reciprocating, icing him out even more, or succumbing to her instincts and running away. Again.

She reached over. "... I'll always care about you, too." He was the one thing that made sense to her. She couldn't go into her new life without letting him know that. "I'm... I'm not gonna run anymore. God knows you deserve better, I care about you too much to do that to you. Just... gotta deal with that voice inside that screams for me to leave as fast as I can when shit gets tough." She smiled faintly. "That's what Mama would have said. Face all the crap head-on." When he mentioned that Cass might be somebody to discuss loss with, she perked up. The older Huntress was practically a sister to her and she valued the Lavay's wisdom above all others. Knowing how discreetly Cass would treat their conversation, she began to feel some of her stress alleviating. Maybe this wouldn't be so difficult after all?

Ava managed a laugh as Jim made the promise of making it has last speech, agreeing with a nod. She grabbed two shots from the drinks tray. "Alright, let's make a vow. For the rest of the night, no more heavy topics, monologuing, breaking-down-in-the-middle-of-a-bar type stuff." Passing one of the shots over, she'd raise hers in the air toward him. "Agreed?" Whatever his response the woman would uphold her end of the bargain, making short work of the drunk juice and wincing in regret.

The harsh noise of static rang the room as the barkeep switched on the TV behind the bar. Unfussed by the jarring sound, he seemed to flick through each channel until one produced a watchable image; a news channel. Sighing in discontent, likely hoping for sports or some other asinine drivel, he walked away, leaving the calm voice of a news anchor to read out the next day's weather forecast.

"A week of rain? What else is new." She rolled her eyes, turning away from the screen. "S-so, are you staying at Cassie's at the moment? I kinda just realized that we can't go back to the dorm anymore. I mean, I guess we could but chances are we're gonna scare the living crap out of some first years if we try." Chuckling with amusement, she continued. "I actually don't have a place to stay. Yet, anyway. Was kinda planning on just hitting up a hotel tonight and figuring that out tomorrow, or something." She scratched her neck awkwardly, hoping not to come on too strongly, "Or, uh... if it's not too much trouble, could I..?"

[Jim Lavay]

Grasping onto her hand as it was offered the smile on his face growing. Not in a pitying way or as if he was about to burst into laughter. Instead it was just a look of genuine happiness. Despite what she had gone through Jim could feel that she didn't want to let go and that felt amazing. So, when she finished that initial comment, he'd reply with a shortened. "Damn right, and you don't have to do it alone. You and I can take on any challenge. It's what we do!" With an affirmative nod he'd let that topic rest for the moment.

Of course, as she ordered those next shots and made that comment Jim would let a few laughs slip out. "Agreed! I can definitely drink to that and too new beginnings." Perhaps it was a touch cliché, but honestly, it's what both of them needed. A fresh start on their new lives as hunters righting wrongs and kicking as much ass as they needed. At least from his perspective that sounded like just about the perfect thing. However, some those happy thoughts were washed away for the briefest of moments as he took down another one of those shots. "Ugh... heh..."

When the bartender start switching channels his eyes would be momentarily stolen by the scratching sound. The weather report drawing a similar reaction from him. "Bleh, looks like it..." While speaking his attention returned to her. The moment she started going into the next comment. One of his hands would raise and he'd chuckle a little bit. Though he was forced to laugh for a moment at the idea of booting some poor first years out of their dorm. However, once that passed, he'd say. "Don't worry Ava, I already asked before I even picked ya up. You'd be more than welcome to shack up with us for a bit. In fact, Cass is actually pretty excited to see you again. She's been going on and on about it quite a bit. Heck she might be almost as happy to see you as I am."

After that Jim picked up the beer and took another swig washing down what remained of the shot. His naturally positive demeanor seeming to be returning in full force. As he just sighed comfortably. "Then tomorrow assuming we're not too hung over I can fill ya in a little more on the prospect I've found. Though if we need the day, meh... it's no hurry." Of course, a fair bit a chuckling as well as an over the top shrug followed the comment.

[Ava Blueblood]

As she whispered a hushed "Yes," all signs of awkwardness faded in an instant. "Cass is such a life-saver! I wanna hug her butt so much. Remind me to pick her up a bottle of merlot on the way back." Part of her was surprised that he was so prepared for her return to Vale, having sprung it on him quite suddenly, but the other part knew that it was classic Jim; behind all of that goofiness and charm was one of the most considerate, thoughtful people that she knew. "Thank you, for like, the third time. That's one less thing to worry about tonight."

Her shoulders relaxed as the first shot had started to work its magic, helped along by the second shot. Chasing it with a mouthful of beer, she was only able to make an 'mmm' sound as Jim brought up the morning after. "Right, we shouldn't... sorry," she covered her mouth to burp. "We shouldn't overdo it tonight, I have to be up early tomorrow - got an appointment to get ol' reliable over there serviced." She pointed towards the trunk window, where her coveted shield - Prae - shimmered in the blinking streetlight. "How about a little one-on-one action after that's outta the way? Been a since I've kicked your ass." She let on a confident grin and couldn't stop herself from laughing afterward.

A little later and the last of her pint was finished. It went to her head twice as fast as usual, not helped by the aircraft food that probably had negative nutritional value, and she could feel the seal getting ready to break. "Hey, I need to hit the bathroom. Can you grab me a Red Bullhead when the guy comes back over? Caffeine's my secret hangover cure." With a hop, she was on her feet and already halfway across the room before shouting back at him, "And not in jägerbomb form!"

[Jim Lavay]

"Yeah of course." He would quickly say in response to her comment. As for her gift idea Jim would hold that smile and say. "Aww, that's really nice I know she'd appreciate it. Though she would never expect it. Well, she might expect the hug. However, the wine would definitely be awesome." Which would of course make the gesture all the more appreciated. "Yeah, we can stop on the way home and grab something really quick if you'd like." After the comment he’d take another swig from the beer and continue to relax in his seat.

When Ava mentioned getting something service, he suddenly said. "Oh! that's right I'll have to remember to show you. I got a new side arm. The thing packs a hell of a punch!" After that blurting out, he'd then address the rest. "That all said, hell yeah we should do that. Though we'll probably have to find an open field. I don't know if Beacon would let us use their facilities anymore after what we did to them." A good laugh followed the comment as several memories flew back into his mind. A wink would then quickly follow as he said. "Hmm, though maybe you're on to something. Let me make sure you're hung over so I can win!" Again, he'd laugh. "...but seriously sounds like fun, and I can give ya a ride to the shop if you need as well." It would be evident that he wasn't just saying that to be nice. It would be nice to continue catching up.

Finishing his beer at the same time Jim would nod and say through some laughter. "Right a Vodka Red Bullhead then?" Grinning he'd lift a hand, so she knew he was kidding. He’d rather not be on the receiving end of one of her signature shield slams before their duel. Then as she was gone, he would order the drink as well as a pair of waters. He always found air travel to dehydrate the hell out of him. All of which would be present by the time she got back. Though as she arrived his eyes would be glued to the screen as the news had switched to a late breaking story. "Hmm..." It would seem that something might be developing outside of the city. Though, there wasn't much information yet. So, he'd look back to Ava when she showed. "Heya, got your drink. Plus, a water, in case you needed it." Attempting to be slightly responsible himself, Jim would take a nice drink of his own water.

[Ava Blueblood]

'A new sidearm? Always full of surprises.' All the talk of sparring brought back her fond memories of their training sessions in the academy gardens, she'd laugh at how they always seemed to get away with it; or more likely at how the school never had enough proof to pin the property damage on them. She laughed at the hangover comment, waiting til he'd finished to respond. "Come on, as if a hangover would stop me kicking your ass." The offer of a free ride was received with a thankful nod.

"Soooo funny!" She shouted after his vodka comment, raising him a rude gesture just before turning a corner. Shortly afterward she came face-to-face with the bathroom, or rather, what appeared to be a walk-in closet with a sink, toilet, half of a broken mirror and some unidentifiable liquid splashed across the floor, causing each step to be accompanied by a stomach-turning squelch. "... Gross."

Oddly enough, she conducted her business in an orderly fashion and arrived back at the bar a minute later, leaving a thin trail of toilet-water footprints. "Is it seriously that hard to mop up the flo..." Catching Jim staring at the TV, she trailed off and quickly found herself fixated on the scene too. Sitting down, she put together bits and pieces - reports of a Grimm herd a ways out from city walls, concern for citizen safety, yadda-yadda. It was far from a red-alert but with Huntsman in high demand elsewhere and the school broken up for the summer, there was a non-zero possibility they'd be called on. Grabbing the energy drink, she shot him a "Thanks" and downed a mouthful, realizing they might need to sober up fast. "So much for kicking off my career tomorrow. Have they mentioned anything about needing more numbers?"

As if on cue, a proximity alert was sent out to all nearby Huntsman in range of where an attack would happen, pinging their scrolls at the same time.

"Yellow Alert: Licensed Huntsman required for prevention of possible breach in the south-east sect of the agricultural district. Priority over non-critical missions with zero threat to civilian lives. Grimm numbers stable, previously observed rising."

[Jim Lavay]

Throwing a playful little wink in response to her comment. "Oh, trust me, I remember being on the bad end of that shield. Don't you worry." It was the little interactions like this that made him feel good. As if maybe just maybe they might just be able to pick up right where they left off. Of course, he knew it would take more effort than that, but it was an effort he was willing to make.

When Ava got back Jim wouldn't notice her trail or discontent. At least not at first, and just when he was about to comment on it that alert went off. Pulling his scroll out he'd chuckle and read the message. Then with a nod of his head. "Looks like you called it." Giving her a playful nudge with a long smile. "Should be just like the old times! Well... you know except for the part where hopefully a professor doesn't chew us out for something after the fact." Aside from the laughter he sounded genuinely pumped at the idea. The pleasant smile would hopefully affirm that message. Especially since it was only a yellow it shouldn't be too big of a deal, so who knows they might even have just a little fun.

Taking a little lien out of his pocket he'd toss it on the counter and smile. "Thanks, and please keep the change." With that Jim would slam the rest of his drink and roll his neck. "...and hey worst case we're gonna get to sleep well tonight." Shooting a quick text off to his sister telling her that they were gonna respond to the alert. As well as an assurance that he would keep her car well out of the warpath.

Once that was sent, he'd pocket the scroll and look to Ava one more time. "Well, shall we?" Then with a hand and a playful bow he would allow her to lead the way out.

[Ava Blueblood]

She had to find her balance after the nudge, a painfully obvious sign that they'd had a few. The woman took it as a sign to neck the rest of the energy drink and it promptly disappeared with one long guzzle, followed by a burp which she covered with her sleeve. "Shit, imagine if a professor responds to the call? Some of them definitely thought we'd end up as drunks, I refuse to prove them right a month after graduation." With that, she made short work her water, entrusting her bladder would hold up until they could get to the rendezvous.

While Jim was handling the tab, she set a marker on her scroll's map and took a second to quickly scan any missed messages. One from 'The Matriarch' - Ava's Mother - reminding Ava to let her know when she was with Jim and to give him a hug for her, and a voicemail from 'Aiden' - Ava's Father. She tried to hide it, but her eyes fell slightly. The Huntress shot a quick reply to let her mother know that she was okay and put the scroll away, leaving the voicemail for later. Catching the end of Jim's remark, she chuckled and replied, "You know, I might need to re-schedule the repair shop tomorrow morning. Between the flight and this, I'm set to sleep for a week."

Rolling her eyes at his overly courteous gesture, she tipped her head and led the way out of the bar, holding the door open for a couple of seconds until he followed after her. Without thinking to ask if he could open it first, she went to grab her shield from the car and was surprised to find it unlocked, the door giving way with a tug. "Wow. How on Remnant you got Cassie to sign off on borrowing this car, I'll never know."

Reunited with her shield, all she could do was look down at it in awe and savour the moment. The Huntress just knew that she was exactly where she was supposed to be, doing what she'd always wanted to do; protecting lives and making the world a slightly safer place. "This feels... so, so good. We made it, Jim." With a smile that bordered on gleeful, she looked to the man and gave him a ready nod. "Let's do this."

[Jim Lavay]

With a long chuckle Jim would just drop his head and shake. He just couldn't help but see that mental image of getting scolded on the battlefield by a professor. It was almost surreal, but hopefully that was as far as it got.

On their way out the door he'd tell her. "Ehh, I think we'll deserve a little sleeping in. So, no biggie..." With that as they got to Cassie car, he would make sure his sword was still secure to the top. Her comment about borrowing his sister’s car drew another laugh from him. "Well, let’s just say the house will be nice and clean for a week or two." Looking over to see that look on her face that was the Ava he remembered. The one that was always ready to charge head long into a fight. Even better was seeing that weapon in her hand. It was truly in this moment that it all felt right.

With all those feelings there really wasn't much affirmation needed, but he couldn't help giving a nod. "Hell, yeah we did!" He almost said that they should go show the doubters that they were wrong. However, this was a positive moment and his tone mirrored it as her said. "Let's go show everyone who had faith in us that they were right. Let's go kick some ass!" Soon at those words left his mouth it was game time!