Episode 3: Blake Joins the Beacon Podcast
The podcast intro music faded out, and the camera focused on Yang, who was lounging comfortably in her chair with her usual bright grin.
"Welcome back to The Beacon Podcast! I'm your host, Yang Xiao Long, and before we get started, I just want to say thank you for all the positive feedback on the last episode. I mean, you guys really came through—so many kind words about Weiss's story, her goals, and her thoughts on the team."
Yang leaned closer to the microphone, her grin turning mischievous. "That said, to those of you who decided to critique Weiss's comments about the SDC and her goals? Just remember…" Her tone lowered playfully. "I am her teammate, and I don't take kindly to people disrespecting my friends. Consider this your only warning."
She leaned back, laughing. "Alright, now that we've got that out of the way, let's move on to today's guest. I think you're gonna like this one. Please give a warm welcome to my teammate, my friend, and the biggest mystery fan I know… Blake Belladonna!"
The camera panned to Blake, who was sitting in her chair with a serene expression, fully engrossed in the book she was reading. She hadn't even glanced at the camera.
Yang raised an eyebrow, her grin widening as she whispered into the mic. "Uh-oh, looks like we've got a live reader, folks."
She leaned over and gently tapped Blake's arm. "Hey, Blake, we're live!"
Blake startled, her golden eyes widening slightly as she fumbled with her book. In a quick motion, she tossed it behind her chair and sat up straighter, her usual composed demeanor returning.
Yang burst out laughing. "Oh my gosh, you didn't have to throw it! It's fine, Blake, it's fine. I even put a blur on your book when the camera panned to you. You're safe from prying eyes… for now."
Blake let out a small sigh of relief. "Thank you. I'd rather not have the audience wondering about my reading preferences."
Yang grinned and turned to her computer, clicking a few keys. "Oh, speaking of that…"
The camera zoomed in slightly as Yang theatrically removed the blur effect on the book, revealing the cover of a well-worn mystery novel.
Blake's shoulders slumped, her ears twitching slightly under her bow as she sighed dramatically. "Wonderful. Now they're going to speculate endlessly."
Yang chuckled, leaning back in her chair. "Hey, they'll love it. You're just keeping them on their toes. Besides, who doesn't love a good mystery novel? Anyway, let's get back on track."
Yang gestured toward Blake. "For those of you who don't know her, this is Blake Belladonna, my teammate and probably the most reserved person I know. But don't let that fool you—she's also one of the smartest and most determined people I've ever met. And, if I may say so…" Yang's voice dropped into a playful tone as she pointed at Blake's bow. "She rocks that bow better than anyone else could."
Blake raised an eyebrow, the faintest smirk tugging at her lips. "Flirting already, Yang? We haven't even started."
Yang winked at the camera. "What can I say? It's part of my charm."
Blake shook her head with a small smile. "I should've known what I was walking into."
Yang laughed. "Oh, you knew exactly what you were walking into. Alright, Blake, let's get started. I want to talk about you, your experiences, and what it's like being on Team RWBY. Ready?"
Blake nodded, her expression calm but her golden eyes gleaming with quiet curiosity. "As ready as I'll ever be."
Yang grinned at the camera. "Buckle up, folks. This is gonna be a good one."
The screen briefly cut to the podcast logo, accompanied by upbeat music, as the episode got fully underway.
Segment 1: Blake's Experience on Team RWBY
The podcast transitioned back to Yang and Blake, with Yang leaning forward in her chair, her signature grin softening just a bit. "Alright, Blake, let's kick this off with something simple… or maybe not so simple. What's it been like being part of Team RWBY so far? And how does it compare to your life before Beacon?"
Blake's golden eyes flickered with thought, her posture straight but relaxed. "Being part of Team RWBY has been… different. In a good way," she added quickly, her tone careful but genuine. "It's been an adjustment, working so closely with others. I wasn't used to relying on anyone else, but being part of a team has taught me the value of trust and collaboration."
Yang nodded, her gaze warm. "Yeah, teamwork is kind of the whole deal at Beacon. So what was it like before? I mean, not to get too personal, but you were obviously used to doing things solo, right?"
Blake hesitated, choosing her words with care. "Yes. Before coming to Beacon, I was… independent. I preferred working alone because it gave me control over the situation. But that also meant I carried everything—every decision, every mistake—on my own shoulders. It was… exhausting, in hindsight."
Yang's voice softened. "That sounds like a lot. Do you feel like being part of Team RWBY has helped take some of that weight off?"
Blake's lips curved into a faint smile. "Yes, it has. At first, I wasn't sure how to let anyone else in. I thought relying on others would only make things more complicated. But you, Ruby, and Weiss… you've all proven me wrong."
Yang smirked. "Of course we did. That's what teammates are for."
Blake's expression grew thoughtful. "Each of you brings something unique to the team. Ruby's optimism, Weiss's discipline, your… unshakable confidence. It's a balance I didn't know I needed."
Yang grinned. "Unshakable confidence? I'll take that as a compliment."
Blake chuckled softly. "It is. But seriously, being on this team has taught me that I don't have to carry everything alone. It's okay to share the burden with people I trust. And for that, I'm grateful."
Yang leaned back, her grin softening into a warm smile. "Aww, Blake, that's really sweet. I'm glad you feel that way, because we're definitely better with you on the team."
Blake nodded, her smile lingering. "Thank you, Yang. It means a lot."
Yang's eyes twinkled mischievously as she leaned forward again. "Okay, but if you had to pick one thing about Team RWBY that drives you crazy, what would it be?"
Blake tilted her head, her smirk returning. "Ruby's energy. She's endearing, but sometimes she's… a lot."
Yang burst out laughing. "Oh, that's fair. She's like a sugar-fueled tornado half the time."
Blake nodded, her eyes glinting with quiet amusement. "Exactly. And Weiss's… perfectionism can be overwhelming, though I know she means well."
"And me?" Yang teased, waggling her eyebrows.
Blake gave her a pointed look. "Do you really want me to answer that?"
Yang laughed. "Probably not, but I'm asking anyway."
Blake's smirk widened slightly. "You can be… relentless. You have a habit of pushing people out of their comfort zones, which can be both frustrating and—" She paused, her voice softening. "—helpful. You've challenged me in ways I didn't expect, and for that, I'm grateful. Most of the time."
Yang placed a hand over her heart dramatically. "Wow, Blake, that's practically a love letter. Should I frame it?"
Blake rolled her eyes, though her faint smile didn't waver. "Don't push your luck."
Yang chuckled, leaning back in her chair. "Alright, alright. I'll stop. But seriously, Blake, it's awesome hearing how you've grown since joining the team. We're lucky to have you."
Blake's expression softened. "Thank you, Yang. I feel the same way."
The two shared a warm smile before Yang glanced at the camera. "Okay, folks, that's just the beginning. Stick around—Blake's not off the hook yet!"
The screen briefly cut to the podcast logo with upbeat music, signaling the end of the segment.
Segment 2: Blake's Inspiration for Coming to Beacon
As the upbeat music faded, Yang leaned forward again, resting her chin in her hand. "Alright, Blake, let's get a little deeper. What inspired you to come to Beacon? Like, what made you decide to leave your old life behind and take the leap to becoming a Huntress?"
Blake's expression turned thoughtful, her golden eyes narrowing slightly as she considered her answer. She sat up straighter, clasping her hands lightly in her lap. "That's… a good question," she said carefully. "The truth is, my decision to come to Beacon wasn't an easy one. It wasn't something I planned for years or dreamed about when I was younger."
Yang nodded, her tone encouraging. "So what changed?"
Blake hesitated for a moment before speaking, her words deliberate. "I realized I wanted something more. I wanted to make a difference, not just for myself, but for others. The world is… complicated. There's so much injustice, so much suffering, and I thought that maybe, just maybe, I could help make it better by becoming a Huntress."
Yang tilted her head, her voice softer. "That's a pretty big realization. What made you think Beacon was the place to start?"
Blake's lips curved into a faint smile. "Beacon represented an opportunity—a chance to step into a new role, to learn, and to grow. It wasn't just about combat training or becoming stronger. It was about understanding how to protect people, how to inspire hope. And, honestly, it was about finding a new path for myself. One where I could leave some of my… past mistakes behind."
Yang nodded slowly, her grin softening into something more genuine. "That's really inspiring, Blake. It's not easy to leave the past behind and start over, but you've done it. And you're making a difference already."
Blake smiled slightly, her voice quieter. "Thank you, Yang. I'm still figuring things out, but being at Beacon has shown me that I made the right choice. I've met people who've challenged me, supported me, and helped me see the world in new ways. It's not perfect, but it's… better."
Yang leaned back in her chair, her grin returning. "Better's a good place to start. And hey, if you ever feel like you need a reminder of why you're here, just look at the team. We've got your back, no matter what."
Blake nodded, her golden eyes meeting Yang's with a glimmer of gratitude. "I know. And for that, I'm grateful."
Yang smirked, her tone lightening. "Alright, enough serious talk—for now. Let's keep this going, folks. There's still a lot more to uncover about the mysterious Blake Belladonna!"
The screen briefly cut to the podcast logo as upbeat music played, signaling the next segment.
Segment 3: Blake's Craziest Moment at Beacon
As the upbeat music faded, the screen returned to Yang, who leaned forward with a curious grin. "Alright, Blake, let's hear it. What's been the craziest moment during your time at Beacon? Something that really amazed you—like one of those 'I can't believe that just happened' moments."
Blake tilted her head, her golden eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "Hmm… that's a tough one. There have been a lot of wild moments at Beacon, but I think I have one that stands out."
Yang leaned in eagerly. "Ooh, do tell."
Blake straightened slightly, her tone calm but laced with quiet excitement. "It was during one of our early sparring sessions in Professor Port's class. He paired me with Nora for the match, which… I'll admit, I wasn't thrilled about."
Yang grinned knowingly. "Oh no. Nora? That's already a recipe for chaos."
Blake nodded. "Exactly. At the time, I didn't really know much about her, other than the fact that she was… loud. And strong. Really strong. I figured I'd just stay on the defensive, wait for her to wear herself out, and then make my move."
Yang smirked. "That sounds like a solid plan. Did it work?"
Blake sighed, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Not even close. The moment the match started, Nora charged at me like a lightning bolt. She was swinging Magnhild around like it weighed nothing, and I could barely keep up. I've fought Grimm, I've fought skilled opponents—but Nora? She was like a whirlwind."
Yang laughed. "Yeah, that checks out. So, what did you do?"
Blake's tone grew more animated, her hands gesturing slightly as she spoke. "At first, I tried to dodge, thinking I could outmaneuver her. But then she started using Magnhild's grenade launcher mode to cut off my escape routes. I was completely on the defensive, and I could tell she was having fun with it."
Yang grinned. "Nora does love a good fight."
Blake continued, her voice carrying a mix of exasperation and admiration. "I realized I had to change tactics. I started using my semblance more creatively—leaving shadow clones to throw her off and using Gambol Shroud's ribbon to disarm her. And for a moment, it seemed like I had the upper hand."
Yang raised an eyebrow. "Wait, you disarmed Nora? How did that go?"
Blake smirked. "About as well as you'd expect. She just… picked up Magnhild with one hand, spun it around, and smiled at me like I'd challenged her to a game she was born to win. I knew I had to come up with something fast, so I decided to take a risk."
Yang leaned forward, intrigued. "What kind of risk?"
Blake's eyes glinted. "I used Gambol Shroud's ribbon to swing directly at her, dodging her next attack by the narrowest margin. I managed to land a strike—barely—and for a second, I thought I'd won."
Yang tilted her head. "And then?"
Blake sighed dramatically, though her faint smile remained. "And then she grabbed the ribbon mid-swing, spun me around like a rag doll, and sent me flying into one of Port's trophies."
Yang burst out laughing. "She what?! Oh my gosh, I can see it. Nora just casually yeeting you across the room like it's no big deal!"
Blake chuckled softly. "It was… humbling, to say the least. But here's the crazy part: that match ended up helping me in the long run. It taught me how to adapt, how to think on my feet in ways I hadn't before. Nora's unpredictability pushed me to get creative, to anticipate the unexpected. And honestly? It made me a better fighter."
Yang smiled warmly. "That's actually really cool, Blake. I mean, it sounds like you got tossed around like a sack of potatoes, but still—cool."
Blake smirked. "Yes, well, I'm sure it was entertaining for everyone watching."
Yang laughed. "Oh, absolutely. I wish I'd been there. But seriously, I love that you turned that chaotic match into a learning experience. That's what Beacon's all about, right?"
Blake nodded. "Exactly. As crazy as it was, I'm grateful for it. And I've never underestimated Nora since."
Yang chuckled. "Smart move. She's a wild card, for sure. Alright, folks, you heard it here—Nora Valkyrie is not to be trifled with. Stick around, because we're just getting started!"
The screen briefly cut to the podcast logo with upbeat music, leaving the audience amazed at Blake's ability to find growth in even the craziest situations.
Segment 4: Throwback Time
As the screen faded back in, Yang leaned toward Blake with a mischievous grin. "Alright, Blake, I've got something for you. I recently uploaded a random video, and I think you're gonna find it hilarious. Wanna check it out?"
Blake raised an eyebrow, her expression calm but curious. "A random video? Sure, why not?"
Yang clapped her hands together, her grin widening. "Great! Let's do this. And for everyone watching, this is gonna be gold."
The camera zoomed out to a wide shot, revealing Yang and Blake seated in a cozy corner of the Beacon Dorm Building Rec Room, a TV screen mounted on the wall behind them. A few students were scattered around in the background, lounging on couches or playing games, glancing curiously toward the recording.
Yang picked up a remote, pointing it at the screen. "Alright, behold the brilliance of teenage Yang Xiao Long."
The screen lit up, and a video began to play. It showed a 13-year-old Yang standing in front of her house, proudly displaying her Ember Celica gauntlets. Her hair was tied back in a messy ponytail, and her grin was just as wide and confident as it was now.
"Okay," Teen Yang said in the video, striking a heroic pose. "This is the first test of Ember Celica. Let's see what these babies can do!"
Blake tilted her head slightly, her golden eyes narrowing with interest.
In the video, Teen Yang raised her arms, aimed at an imaginary target in the distance, and fired both gauntlets simultaneously. The force of the recoil sent her flipping backward like a spinning top, slamming flat into the side of her house with a loud thud. She slid down the wall, landing in a crumpled heap on the ground.
The camera shook slightly as whoever was recording stifled laughter. Then Teen Yang groaned from her spot on the ground, rubbing her head. "I didn't expect that."
The video paused, freezing on Teen Yang's disheveled expression.
Blake blinked, her lips twitching as if she were fighting back a laugh. Finally, a small chuckle escaped her. "That… was something."
Yang leaned back in her chair, grinning proudly. "Come on, Blake, I saw that smile. You liked it, didn't you?"
Blake shook her head, though her smile lingered. "It was amusing, yes. I'll admit, I didn't expect that level of… enthusiasm."
Yang laughed. "Oh, you haven't seen anything yet. Wait until you see Ruby's test video."
From the background, Ruby's voice suddenly rang out, sharp and panicked. "Don't you dare, Yang!"
Yang burst out laughing, glancing over her shoulder. "Oh, come on, Rubes! You gotta share the embarrassment—it's only fair!"
Ruby's head popped into frame from behind a couch in the back of the room. "I mean it, Yang! Don't even think about it!"
Yang waved the remote teasingly. "We'll see."
Blake glanced at Ruby, her calm demeanor betraying a faint smirk. "I have to admit, now I'm curious."
Ruby groaned loudly, disappearing back behind the couch. "Traitors. All of you"
As the laughter settled and Ruby disappeared from the background, still muttering about traitors, Yang turned back to Blake with a curious look. "Alright, Blake, I've got another one for you. Let's say you never decided to become a Huntress. What do you think you'd be doing right now?"
Blake tilted her head slightly, her golden eyes narrowing in thought. "Hmm. That's a tough question. Honestly, I've never thought much about what I'd do if I weren't training to fight Grimm. But I suppose, if I had to imagine… I'd probably be doing something involving books."
Yang grinned. "That tracks. What are we talking about? Librarian? Author? Running your own little bookstore with a cat-themed coffee shop on the side?"
Blake chuckled softly. "Something like that, maybe. I've always loved reading, so it wouldn't be too far off. I think I'd enjoy being a writer—creating stories that spark curiosity and imagination the way books always have for me. Or perhaps translating older texts and preserving them. That kind of work appeals to me."
Yang's grin softened. "Yeah, I can totally see that. You'd be the quiet, mysterious author who only shows up to book signings once in a while, then vanishes back to wherever you're writing your next masterpiece."
Blake smirked. "It does have a certain appeal. But I don't think I'd enjoy staying in one place for too long. I'd probably still find a way to travel, even if I wasn't a Huntress."
Yang nodded. "Alright, so world-traveling bookworm. That's pretty cool. But what about something completely different? Like, something no one would expect from you?"
Blake raised an eyebrow. "Such as?"
Yang leaned back, thinking for a moment. "I don't know… what about being a teacher? Or, ooh, a martial arts instructor? You're crazy good with Gambol Shroud—imagine passing that skill on to other people."
Blake's expression shifted to one of genuine consideration. "I suppose I could see that. I do enjoy helping others improve, especially if they're willing to learn. Though I imagine I'd have to develop a lot more patience for it."
Yang laughed. "Yeah, you'd definitely need a bit more patience. But I bet you'd be awesome at it. Your calm, no-nonsense vibe would totally work in a classroom or a dojo."
Segment 6: Wrapping Up and a Little Truth
The screen faded back to Yang, who leaned forward toward the microphone, her grin a mix of amusement and resignation. "Alright, folks, before we close out today's episode, I've got a little announcement. Turns out, this is gonna be the last time we host The Beacon Podcast here in the dorm Rec Room."
Blake raised an eyebrow, her calm demeanor curious. "Why's that?"
Yang sighed dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. "Apparently, Professor Goodwitch caught wind of the podcast being recorded here and gave me a little… ultimatum. Something about the Rec Room not being an 'appropriate space for this kind of endeavor.'"
Blake chuckled softly. "In other words, she doesn't want you disturbing the other students."
Yang shrugged with a grin. "Basically. She told me if I want to keep this going, I'll have to find somewhere else to record. So, for the next episode, I'm thinking we either do it outside—get a nice scenic vibe—or we cram into Team RWBY's dorm room and see how that goes."
Blake tilted her head thoughtfully. "There's a spot near the gardens that's quiet and has good lighting. It could work if you want something outdoors."
Yang's grin widened. "Ooh, that's a great idea. Thanks, Blake. I'll definitely take that into consideration. Who knew you'd be so invested in this little podcast of mine?"
Blake smirked. "Someone has to keep it from devolving into complete chaos."
Yang laughed. "Fair enough. Alright, that's it for today, everyone! Huge thanks to Blake Belladonna for being here and sharing her insights, her stories, and her totally amazing ideas for where to record next. I'll see you all next time—wherever we end up filming."
Yang leaned back, her hand hovering over the button to end the recording, but Blake's voice stopped her.
"Wait," Blake said, her golden eyes narrowing slightly as a sly smile played on her lips. "Before you end it… I have a question for you."
Yang raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What's up?"
Blake's smirk grew. "Back when we talked about the Beacon dance, were you really jealous that I asked Sun to go with me?"
Yang froze, her cheeks flushing slightly as she waved a hand dismissively. "W-What? Me? Jealous? Pfft, no way! Why would I be jealous? Sun's great! Totally cool guy. Why would I care who you went with?"
Blake's smirk didn't waver. "Mmhmm. That's very convincing."
Yang crossed her arms, leaning back with an exaggerated scoff. "I'm serious! I wasn't jealous! Not even a little bit!"
Blake chuckled softly, leaning forward. "If you say so, Yang."
Yang pointed at the camera with mock indignation. "And don't any of you viewers get any ideas! I wasn't jealous. End of story!"
Blake's quiet laughter continued as Yang quickly pressed the button to cut to the podcast logo, the upbeat music playing as their voices could still faintly be heard in the background:
Blake: "You're terrible at lying."
Yang: "Am not!"
The screen faded to black, leaving the audience with a smile and plenty to speculate about for the next episode.