Rick and Haruko chapter 3: Good Rick Hunting (originally published on June 21, 2024)

AN: Hey, welcome back, everyone! How are you doing? You all look good, you all look good. Now, pardon me for taking so long, I've just had other business to do. Been watching TV shows, going to college, playing video games, all that jazz. But now I can finally set aside some time to finally get back to Rick and Haruko! When last we left off, the Flesh Curtains had their first big encounter with Medical Mechanica on the Boiling Isles, and Haruko has now learned that someone else wants Atomsk for himself. This does not please the future Vespa Woman one bit. What will happen when Haruko's relationship with Rick begins clashing with her crush on the Pirate King? Well, we'll have to see. But for now, let's get down to more crossovers!

--

Repre S. Entative glowered as he sat down in his office chair, still recovering from his altercation with the Flesh Curtains on the Boiling Isles a month ago with his organic arm in a sling, gazing at various holographic screens depicting the band's further escapades. On one screen, Haruko played doctor and forced three young female Galactic Federation officers to strip naked so she can touch them in uncomfortable places. On another screen, Rick is shown angrily shaking his fist at his ex-girlfriend Washu Hakubi, who returned her former lab partner's anger by threatening to cut his head off for science. Squanchy was playing a game of basketball against a cyborg basketball player, and Birdperson was meditating next to a silver-colored humanoid on a surfboard.

"I can't just sit idly by and watch them continue their chaos!" Repre yelled angrily while pounding the arm of his chair with his mechanical hand. "Ugh, if only I could somehow find a way to gain their trust! Maybe then, it'll be easier for me to find Atomsk." Just then, a Medical Machine entered his office. "Unit #4113, what is your request?"

"I wish to speak to you about our research on Neural Omnipotence energy." The Medical Machine answered coldly while presenting a video on a tablet it was holding. "Our continued project has seen fruit as we can now use it to deliver the factories and associated Pins to multiple alternate universes in an instant. Here is but one example we have from Dimension A-205."

The tablet showed an armada of Medical Machines and Medical Mechanica soldiers in Dimension A-205 fighting against an army of soldiers who were using fire-based abilities against them. "Our forces were ready to conquer this land and install another Pin, but everything changed when this so-called Fire Nation attacked."

"Does everyone in this dimension have fire powers?" Repre asked while stroking his chin with his mechanical arm.

"Not entirely." The Medical Machine continued. "This is a world where humans living in four nations display mastery in controlling one of the four elements: water, earth, fire, and air. Only a being known as the Avatar is adept at all four of them, but unfortunately, the current incarnation of the Avatar, the one who is supposed to end the Fire Nation's reign of terror, is reported missing."

"Interesting." Repre muttered, showing intrigue in the Four Nations' potential. "Fire up another portal! I want a word with whoever is leading this Fire Nation. Maybe we can strike up an alliance."

"But sir, your arm!" the Medical Machine urged the Representative Director. Still, he was too stubborn to listen as he stepped through an N.O. portal that brought him to Dimension A-205, right in the middle of the conflict between Medical Mechanica and the Fire Nation's army.

"Soldiers of the Fire Nation, we come in peace!" Repre declared as he made a grand speech to stop the fighting, putting his natural oratory skills to good use. "I am Repre S. Entative, representative director of Medical Mechanica. Today, I have come here to inform you and your military of the glorious purpose your empire and this entire world have been trusted with. I have planted a large Medical Mechanica factory on your land that will one day be very useful, and I must urge you to drop all futile resistance towards our rule."

"You must be the leader of these invaders." Zhao, one of the Fire Nation's generals, declared as he marched towards Repre with a hand covered in fire that he planned on attacking with. "The Fire Lord shall not take this lightly."

"Well, is the Fire Lord here with us right now?" Repre smirked as he gestured towards Zhao's forces being brought to their knees by the Medical Machines. "If you ever see your master again, tell him Medical Mechanica will always be watching. But in the meantime, men, fire when ready."

The Medical Machines silently obeyed and opened fire on the Fire Nation Soldiers as Repre left through another portal, leaving Zhao to grit his teeth in anger as he prepared to fight these invading machines.

Steven Universe Snake Eyes chapter 12: End of an Era (originally published on November 13, 2023)

AN: It's been almost three years, but at long last, we finally made it. The end of the Steven Universe: Alternate Future universe. What started as a shot at altering Future to include content cut from the original series, expanding on certain plotlines left hanging by show's end, and altering things to my own tastes grew into its own shared universe with so many characters I nearly lose track of on a regular basis and lore that I've practically built with my own two hands. To you, the lovers and dreamers who have been here the entire time from Steven, to the Black Pearls, to Black Rutile's trial, Little Homeworld, the Crystal Regime, and beyond, I thank you all for reading my take on Steven's universe and for all your support. By the time I finally post this, I think I might take a little break because is currently falling apart and they're so blissfully unaware of it. But don't take this as me abandoning you all, because I got tons more stories from the past and soon to come in the future for you all to read in the meantime. But I've done enough talking, it's time to close the book on this saga once and for all.

Synopsis: The final battle for the fate of all reality begins as Squamata possesses Nosiop to defeat the Crystal Gems and destroy the universe. As everyone fights for their lives to defend Serpentes and the cosmos at large, Steven learns one last important lesson.

--

"Enlightened warriors of clashing kinships come from afar to banish the Eclipse. Only when united in heart and mind can they stop the worlds from being aligned." The Lapidarist's prophecy was the only thing racing through the Crystal Gems and the Diamonds' heads as they stared at the fusion of Steven and Black Rutile standing tall and proud before them. The fusion was a tall, androgynous figure with curly hair and pink skin dressed in a traditional superhero costume while wearing Steven's shield and Black Rutile's sword, who gazed at their hands with an eager grin on their face.

"Awesome!" The fusion gasped in amazement at their new form before facing the others. "Hey, check it out, guys. We fused! Bet you didn't see that coming, huh?!"

"Uh, Steven." Connie said as she stepped up to the fusion.

"Black Rutile." White Topaz added.

"Is that still you in there?" they both asked.

"Of course, it's still me, Steven! Er, Black Rutile." The fusion declared, getting himself confused in the process. "Hm, what should I call myself?"

"Hey, can you make it quick?! You guys got a snake monster to fight!" Amethyst exclaimed before the fusion got an idea.

"I think I got it! You can call me Rutilated Quartz!" Rutilated Quartz introduced himself. "Isn't that awesome?!" He then turned to face Squamata, slowly leaving Serpentes. "Now, if you'll excuse me, this looks like a job for Rutilated Quartz." Before they could fly off into the air like the superhero they were dressed as, someone called out for him.

"Wait, Rutilated Quartz!" Ronaldo said as he raced up to the fusion and took a knee in respect. "A great warrior needs a great weapon, and that is why I bequeath to thee my Shining Finger Sword from Mobile Home Warrior Gatha." He then handed the blade to Rutilated Quartz, who took it and examined it for a moment while it glowed with a holy radiance, no doubt the Lapidarist's final gift to her children. "Give him a few stabs for me with that, okay?"

"I promise, Ronaldo." Rutilated Quartz smiled before returning and lifting into the air to face Squamata. As everyone on Serpentes's surface got further and further away from them, the combined thoughts of Steven and Black Rutile began emerging in their head.

"So, Black Rutile, are you ready for your first battle to save the universe?" Steven asked his new fusion partner.

"I have to admit, this is a little strange." Black Rutile replied. "But I'm willing to try anything once."

When Rutilated Quartz reached Squamata, the snake of darkness possessing Prince Nosiop was already preparing to devour the planet of Serpentes below him when he spotted Rutilated Quartz flying towards him. "Ah, the ultimate fusion, we meet at last." Squamata sneered at his opponent. "I must admit, you certainly kept me waiting. I thought Gem would be the warrior to slay me, but I guess the prophecy was wrong. Besides, look what you need to do to mimic even a fraction of my power."

"Well, I'm nothing like Gem, I am a warrior of awesome power who fights for love and for justice!" Rutilated Quartz introduced themselves while striking a pose. "I am Rutilated Quartz! And in the name of the moon, I'll punish you!"

"Heheheh, you're positively adorable." Squamata snickered evilly while baring his vessel's fangs. "I'm going to feed you your own heart." Squamata charged at Rutilated Quartz with a sinister laugh, who just smirked in response before racing into the final battle.

Steven Universe Snake Eyes chapter 11: The Ultimate Fusion (originally published on November 6, 2023)

AN: Happy tenth anniversary to Steven Universe. For my anniversary present, I bestow upon thee the penultimate chapter of not just Steven Universe: Snake Eyes, but also the entirety of Steven Universe: Alternate Future. It truly is a pain to let this story go after three years, but as a wise man once said, all good things must come to an end. With the plotline involving the development and redemption of Black Rutile now come full circle, it's time we finally address Steven's relationship with the Diamonds before they go off and save the universe from a planet-eating snake demon. It's going to take an awful lot of work to forgive beings as powerful as the Diamonds, but if Steven was able to accept Black Rutile's apology, then anything is possible, right?

Synopsis: In a last-ditch effort to save all reality, the Diamonds must fuse together in order to stand a chance. However, Steven still has some baggage with the other Diamonds to deal with.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Steven

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond, Gem

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Samantha Newark as The Lapidarist

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl

Grace Rolek as Connie

Jennifer Paz as Lapis

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Matthew Moy as Lars

Zach Steel as Ronaldo

Atticus Shaffer as Peedee

Ron Perlman as Inner Steven

Aurelio Voltaire as King Cobralan Jormagundr

Jason Marsden as Prince Nosiop Jormagundr

Shirley Millner as Queen Constricta Jormagundr

Cissy Jones as Princess Naja Jormagundr

Keith David as Pyth

Henry Rollins as Captain Boa

Kari Wahlgren as Envyrno

Nicole Sullivan as Sylvia Spectre

Peter Cullen as Titanium

Steve Blum as Sheriff Spiegel

Dominic Armato as Captain Gearfeet

Wally Wingert as Rigby Starglow

Ray Porter as Squamata

Tim Curry as Velhallen Beo

Featuring Elton John as Stars

Weird Al Yankovic as Stevaldo

And Jack Black as Rutilated Quartz

--

Steven was still processing what he had heard earlier. Him fusing with the Diamonds? Perish the thought! Sure, he was always up for helping others, even former enemies. Still, after all that the Diamonds had done to him, his family, and most of the known universe, it was way more challenging for Steven to accept that they were coming to him for help rather than him coming to them. He needed some time to think about this while everyone was preparing for the final battle with Squamata.

"So now they want my help after all they've done to me?" Steven angrily muttered to himself while pacing around the throne room. "Oh sure, I've allowed Black Rutile to repent, but it's going to take more than just saying sorry to make up for thousands of years' worth of genocide!"

"Problems, Steven?" Inner Steven asked from within Steven's mind. "Frankly, I'm quite surprised that those Diamonds are asking you for help for once instead of you asking them. And they couldn't have picked a worse time to do it, too."

"And now I have to fuse with them in order to save the universe!" Steven agreed with his darker half. "While I'm more than happy to find a way to stop Squamata once and for all, I'm not sure how this can work, given all my baggage!"

"Worst case scenario, the fusion fails astronomically, and we all die." Inner Steven proclaimed. "Just being realistic here. But then again, no one ever listens to the darker impulses of the self. And speak of the devil. Look who it is!"

Just then, Black Rutile stepped into the throne room, obviously still adjusting to her reforming into a Crystal Gem after sacrificing herself to protect Steven. In addition to the blank spot where her diamond symbol once was now being filled by the star of a Crystal Gem, Black Rutile's cape was now replaced with an all-white trenchcoat with pink details and a star on the back, dark gray trousers, and her original green visor to replace her red one.

"Hello again, Steven." Black Rutile awkwardly greeted. "It's me again, Black Rutile. I always come back and all that. Something the matter?"

"Go ahead; I'm sure you can trust her now." Inner Steven advised while figuratively shoving Steven towards his former enemy. "If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."

"So, Black Rutile, how are you adjusting to things?" Steven asked Black Rutile.

"I'm slow to adjust, like always." Black Rutile replied. "Love the new look, though. So, you have to fuse with the Diamonds to save reality, huh?"

"Exactly." Steven added sourly. "You know how fusions must involve total cooperation between its components to stay fused? Yeah, I don't think that's possible between me and the Diamonds."

"I can totally understand where you're coming from." Black Rutile stated. "I felt utterly betrayed by the Diamonds, too, but if they could give me a second chance, then surely you can do the same to them!"

"But you're different!" Steven exclaimed to his now-former enemy. "You were at least able to recognize that you hurt me and are working to make amends for that. They're focusing more on everybody else they hurt and always act like they've been friends with me from the beginning!"

"You're kind of vindicating one of the reasons I hated you right now." Black Rutile snarked. "The universe doesn't have to revolve around you, you know! You have to consider everyone else in this world, too!"

"Yeah, maybe I can be selfish, but at least I don't have an entire planet forced to worship me, or else they'll die!" Steven argued. "Why can't they just focus on what they did to me for once?!"

"Because it's not as simple as you think, Steven." Black Rutile stated with her arms folded. "This kind of stuff gets messy, and everybody's got issues, especially the Diamonds." She then looked down at where her diamond symbol used to be, nostalgically reminiscing on her time as a member of White Diamond's court. "And sometimes, they screw up. But that doesn't mean they won't just pretend like it didn't happen." Black Rutile offered a tender pat on Steven's shoulder. "Try to cut the Diamonds some slack. They may not always get it right, but they're trying. That's more important than you think."

"Wait, I think I got an idea!" Steven exclaimed in realization while he ignored Black Rutile. "What if I don't need to fuse with the Diamonds to save us all?!"

"You have got to be kidding me." Black Rutile grumbled with a facepalm. "Okay, fine, let's see whatever harebrained scheme you have, I guess."

Steven Universe Snake Eyes chapter 10: Crossroads (originally posted on October 30, 2023)

AN: And now, the moment I've wanted to write for so long ever since I first started conceiving of this grand finale: the redemption of Black Rutile. Normally, trying to turn a proud psychopath who was not ashamed to say she regretted nothing good would be a very hard thing to do, but after all the emotional beatdowns she suffered throughout this story, Black Rutile might as well need one. But while many might say Zuko from Avatar: The Last Airbender had the best redemption arc, I'm actually taking a different route for Black Rutile's that is heavily based off of Megatron's portrayal in the twilight years of the original Transformers IDW comics. Anyone who read those comics should be very excited to see what I have in store for Black Rutile. Otherwise, prepare to feel a lot.

Synopsis: After Nosiop throws her out, Black Rutile starts rethinking her views.

Cast:

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Zach Callison as Steven

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl, Yellow Pearl, Blue Pearl, Volleyball, The Black Pearl Brigade

Grace Rolek as Connie

Shelby Rabara as Peridot, Squaridot

Jennifer Paz as Lapis, Laz, Zuli

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper, Dalmatian Jasper

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Christine Baranski as Hessonite

Olivia Olson as Citrine

Avi Roque as Cinnabar

Della Saba as Aquamarine

Charlyne Yi as Eyeball

Christine Pedi as Holly Blue Agate

Casey Lee Williams as Cat's Eye

Jinkx Monsoon as Emerald

Kari Wahlgren as Pyrope

Melissa Fahn as Demantoid

Hayley Kiyoko as Morganite

Idina Menzel as Amazonite

Halsey as Tanzanite

Mia Barron as Apatite

Awkwafina as Kyanite

Allison Janney as Pyrite

Zehra Fazal as Zoisite

Lena Hall as Bloodstone

Jodie Whittaker as Xenotime

Gina Torres as Andesine

Barbara Dunkelman as Amber

Kristen Schaal as Howlite

Catherine Tate as Lepidolite

Cissy Jones as Princess Naja Jormagundr

Henry Rollins as Captain Boa

Neil Flynn as Aescul

Samantha Newark as The Lapidarist

--

"Okay, how long do we have until Squamata leaves Serpentes and devours the rest of the universe?" Pearl asked as she, Garnet, Hessonite, Citrine, Aquamarine, Cinnabar, Andesine, Captain Boa, and Aescul watched a holographic image of Squamata continuing his rampage against the Slytherophidians.

"I'm betting not long." Hessonite proclaimed. "He'll eventually get bored and move onto another planet. Worst case scenario; he'll consume Earth or Homeworld next just to spite us."

"We need to act quickly." Garnet proclaimed stoically. "If Squamata succeeds in destroying this universe, there's no telling what kind of destruction he'll wreak upon other universes as well."

"It truly pains me to see Nosiop fall this far," Boa said mournfully of his prince's status. "I wish I could've informed Cobralan of this earlier."

"It's okay, Boa, we all didn't know," Aescul responded comfortingly before he turned around to find Black Rutile standing behind him. "Oh hey, I forgot you were still here!"

"Oh, hello, Black Rutile." Pearl greeted the Rutile. "Don't mind us. We're busy thinking of a way to save the known universe and beyond here. Just run along and play while we work here."

"But I can help!" Black Rutile continued urging the group. "Nosiop told me everything there is to know about Squamata, so unless you all want to die, I suggest you listen to me if you want to live!"

"Black Rutile, dear." White Diamond said calmly as she suddenly appeared behind her former subordinate. "They're making it clear that they're not interested in your help right now. So please, go run along and play by yourself while we sort things out."

"What are you, my mom?" Black Rutile scoffed as she stormed off in a huff. "Fine, but don't come crying to me once heads start rolling!"

"Someone needs an attitude adjustment," Aescul murmured at Black Rutile while watching her walk away.

"I think it's because we refused to believe her about Squamata," Garnet replied. "Perhaps she has been telling the truth and wants to change, but we'll just have to wait and see."

"I'll go talk to her." Cinnabar offered herself up and began following Black Rutile. "I've been her apprentice for centuries; I know her more than anyone else in this room."

Steven Universe Snake Eyes chapter 9: Let the Endgames Begin (originally published on October 23, 2023)

AN: We only have about three to four chapters left before I can finally close the book on Alternate Future once and for all and finally move onto other stories that I've left to collect dust for months to years on end. When last we left off, Squamata has been unleashed from his tomb and now plans to devastate the entire universe around him and beyond. Is there any way that the Crystal Gems can stop possibly their toughest foe yet? You'll just have to read on and find out as Alternate Future reaches its climax.

Synopsis: The race against time begins as the god of snakes Squamata breaks free from his prison and Steven rallies the royals & fighters to save reality.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Steven

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl, Mega Black Pearl

Grace Rolek as Connie

Zach Steel as Ronaldo

Atticus Shaffer as Peedee

Jennifer Paz as Lapis

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Aurelio Voltaire as King Cobralan Jormagundr

Shirley Millner as Queen Constricta Jormagundr

Ray Porter as Squamata

Samantha Newark as The Lapidarist

Jason Marsden as Prince Nosiop Jormagundr

Tim Curry as Velhallen Beo

Crispin Freeman as Mr. Manco

Sam Witwer as Torius Vosania

Anna Akana as Dionna of the Sands

Christopher Lloyd as Batsputin Vosania

Peter Stormare as Reximillian

Elizabeth Maxwell as Vigrid

James Earl Jones as Wobbla the Butt

Barrett Wilbert Weed as Ezlipsia

Anthony Stewart Head as Solaris Noctua

John Mulany as Flipso

AJ Michalka as Stevonnie

Ted Leo as Steg

Della Saba as Aquamarine

Charlyne Yi as Eyeball

Christine Pedi as Holly Blue Agate

Casey Lee Williams as Cat's Eye

Avi Roque as Cinnabar

Gina Torres as Andesine

Jinkx Monsoon as Emerald

Kari Wahlgren as Pyrope

Melissa Fahn as Demantoid

Awkwafina as Kyanite

--

As the Lapidarist meditated within her chambers, she suddenly heard a noise, followed by an evil, bellowing laugh. "I have turned hundreds upon thousands of worlds to dust in the name of darkness and devastation until I was robbed of my glory." Squamata roared from outside the castle. "I will stride across the bones of my enemies and bask in the glow of pure evil, for all of existence shall be mine to consume!"

"I knew this day would come." The Lapidarist said fearfully before she vanished from her sanctuary in a blinding flash of light. When she reappeared on Serpentes's surface, the already-panicking Slytherophidians were confused at the giant glowing humanoid's sudden appearance, making them wonder if she would team up with Squamata to destroy their world. "I can see you, Squamata!" the Lapidarist yelled for the snake creature to hear her. "I've been guarding this planet where you've been sealed for eons, and I will not let you destroy it or any other world!"

"Ah, Rebeugar, the last of the Lapidarists, we meet at last," Squamata replied with a dreadful sneer. "Who would've guessed we would be laid to rest on the same planet? No matter. I will finish what I started all those years ago and eliminate you, the sole survivor of my creators. First Serpentes, then the universe, and then the multiverse, and possibly beyond." Just as Squamata had made his threat, he suddenly received an electric shock to the face courtesy of Yellow Diamond. "WHAT?!"

"Die, monster!" Yellow called as she stood firmly against the God of Snakes with Blue and White Diamond beside her. "You do not belong in this world."

"It is not by my hand that I am free to smite the universe as I did in days long past." Squamata declared while presenting his heralds, Prince Nosiop, Pyth, Velhallen Beo, Mr. Manco, and Torius Vosania. "I was released from my confinements by mortals who wished to pay me tribute in exchange for assisting them with their own plans."

"That is correct, Squamata." Nosiop proclaimed. "Now, enough talk! Fight us, grand Diamonds, and die for your sins!" Squamata and his heralds charged at the Lapidarist and the Diamonds, with Squamata assuming a different form that transformed him into a shadowy mass of fog with eyes all over his body.

The god of snakes lunged at the Lapidarist with a hiss and bit her with his neck, trying to poison her with the venom in his fangs. However, he was stopped at the last moment when Stevonnie came to the Lapidarist's rescue by slashing off one of Squamata's fangs.

"What is this human doing here?!" Squamata roared as he looked down on Stevonnie and Mega Black Pearl standing up to his tremendous fury. "Wait, that is no mere human."

"A fusion of a human and a Gem? Inconceivable!" the Lapidarist agreed in alarm.

"Stay back, everyone; Mega Black Pearl and I got this covered!" Stevonnie declared before turning to the other fusion. "Ready, MBP?"

"Always ready for a fight!" Mega Black Pearl responded with a grin.

"How does everyone keep moving so fast?" Blue wondered as Squamata realized who he was up against.

"The scion of the Crystal Gems and the Diamonds, it seems," Squamata smirked while looking down at Stevonnie. "We meet face to face at last. Though, I did not expect you to come out to me as a fusion, and especially with a human." He then looked down at his heralds. "Velhallen, Torius, Manco, you know what to do. The rest of us shall take care of these Diamonds."

"It shall be done, my lord." Velhallen Beo declared as he clashed his sharpened claws with Stevonnie's sword while Torius and Manco sought revenge on the Black Pearl Brigade. "I have heard so many stories about you and the Crystal Gems, but never would I live to see the day I'd face one myself!"

"Who even are you?" Stevonnie asked before taking a big swing at Beo's chest. "I don't think I ever heard of you before, or most of the other heralds, for that matter."

"I am but a humble ex-Universal Lord who was robbed of my royal birthright by the confounded Batsputin Vosania!" Velhallen revealed his backstory to his fused opponent. "After being locked away by the Coalition of Galaxies for my numerous crimes, I discovered the awesome power of Squamata and figured that with him by my side, I could take back my rightful place as ruler of the Twilight Zone!"

"Not on our watch!" Mega Black Pearl declared before mightily swinging at Beo with her spear. High above the fusions' battle with the heralds, the Lapidarist used her phenomenal cosmic powers to keep Squamata at bay. At the same time, the Diamonds fought back against Nosiop and Pyth, now cosmically empowered by their exposure to the godlike snake.

"You will be returned quietly to where you belong, Squamata." Yellow declared. "We heard about how you crave nothing but death and destruction to every being with a pulse."

"Then again, you aren't so different, Gem creatures." Squamata retorted with a sneer. "You claim you're trying your best to change your ways, but I feel it isn't enough. Perhaps you could throw all that away and join me as my heralds."

"We will never join you!" Blue yelled while firing a blast of pure emotion to bring Squamata to his figurative knees. Still, Squamata felt absolutely nothing at all before tackling Blue to the ground and trying to bite her, only to get blasted away by White.

"Ah-say-into-pie, oppa-maybe-uppen-die!" Squamata then turned his attention to White and breathed fire in her face, causing her to fall over in shock. "You have no hope of defeating me in my current state! I will only grow stronger by the minute unless this ultimate fusion appears and stops me once and for all."

"Squamata is right; I cannot hold him forever!" the Lapidarist exclaimed. "We need to retreat now!"

"Yes, run while you still can, fools!" Nosiop exclaimed. "But you'll still be leaving us to run amok across this wretched world and the rest of the cosmos soon!"

"Wow, he really is kind of like me." The Steven part of Stevonnie muttered to themselves as they, Mega Black Pearl, the Lapidarist, and the Diamonds, made their escape, contemplating what Inner Steven had said to Steven earlier.

Steven Universe Snake Eyes chapter 7: Gods and Monsters (originally published on October 9, 2023)

AN: And so, we enter the biggest bomb I've ever dropped in one of my stories since I revealed that Haruko Haruhara was saved from her destroyed home planet by Rick Sanchez and eventually betrayed him for Atomsk before meeting Dipper and Mabel Pines. The origins of the Gem race has been one of the biggest mysteries in all of Steven Universe with tons of fans giving their own ideas on it, even as far back as the first season. I've pondered that too sometimes, but there are some parts of the series that are best left to the imagination. Well, until now that is! In this version of Steven's universe, the story of Gemkind shall finally be revealed for all to see, and you all have front row seats to a glimpse at a whole universe's worth of backstory and quite possibly the biggest threat Steven will face yet.

Synopsis: Steven and company meet the creator of all Gemkind and learn of an evil far greater than Black Rutile.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Steven

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl

Aurelio Voltaire as King Cobralan Serpentes

Shirley Millner as Queen Constricta Serpentes

Neil Flynn as Aescul

Henry Rollins as Captain Boa

Jennifer Paz as Lapis

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Grace Rolek as Connie

Tom Scharpling as Greg

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond/Gem

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Peter Cullen as Titanium

Frank Welker as Tungsten

David Kaye as Steel

Corey Burton as Chromium

Bumper Robinson as Gold

Scott McNeil as Iron

Jeffrey Combs as Mercury

Hailee Steinfeld as Zinc

Jason Marsden as Prince Nosiop Jormagundr

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Keith David as Pyth

Matthew Moy as Lars

Zach Steel as Ronaldo

Atticus Shaffer as Peedee

Cissy Jones as Princess Naja Jormagundr

Enuka Okuma as Rhodonite

Kathleen Fisher as Fluorite

Erica Luttrell as Padparadscha Sapphire

Ashly Burch as Rutile Twins

Jeff Bennett as Murinus/The Sheriff

Featuring Samantha Newark as The Lapidarist

And Joel Grey as King Serpentes I

---

The date, 420,000 years ago. The place, the prehistoric planet that would someday become Serpentes, the capital of the Slytherophidian empire. Before it would become the mighty metropolis that thrived on forcing species from across the universe to compete, Serpentes was a small scattering of snake people colonies dotting the planet's countryside, all under the shaky rule of one monarch, its namesake king Serpentes the First. Serpentes typically spent time away from his subjects on expeditions to explore the planet and learn its history, as he proclaimed himself a scholar. But there was one discovery that would change not just the history of his home planet but the entire universe as well.

"Found anything yet, sire?" a Slytherophidian dressed as a cowboy asked while spitting into a bucket. "We've been out here for weeks and still haven't found any ancient ruins and all that! Might I suggest we quit the tomb raider business, cut back on searching uncharted lands and temples of doom, and go home already?"

"No, Murinus, there has to be something we're missing. I know it!" Serpentes muttered to himself while examining the map in his hands. "We just need to keep looking!"

"Look, Your Highness, I can totally get your eagerness to explore, but I'm happy with just kicking back and letting you do all the work." Murinus said before turning his tail into feet and kicking them on a rock. "Hey, do you see a light somewhere over there?"

"A light? Where?!" Serpentes excitedly replied while gazing out into the horizon. "By Jove, I think you're right! We must go there immediately!" To the king's delight, he could see a faint beam of light ejecting from an ancient temple hidden in the distance. "Come along, Murinus!"

"Me and my big mouth," Murinus said to himself as his king dragged him along toward the temple as the beam got even brighter the closer they got. Upon arriving at the temple, the beam of light was at its absolute brightest, and Serpentes couldn't be more excited.

"Hm, I must say, this would make a nice castle to live in." Serpentes mused as the duo entered the temple, which was filled with crystals and rocks jutting out of the walls and the ceiling. But the most peculiar inhabitant was a large, crystalline being gently clutching a bubble housing a strange gemstone. "And who might you be?"

"Almost there, my child. Almost there." The being whispered to her bubble before she turned to discover Serpentes and Murinus in front of her. "More snakes? You shouldn't be here."

"Do not worry, giant woman. We come in peace." Serpentes calmed the being down. "My name is Serpentes, the king of the Slytherophidians. And this is my companion, Murinus. Say hi, Murinus."

"Howdy." Murinus tipped his hat to the giant woman. "Say, what's that you got in there, madame?"

"Oh, this?" the giant said, presenting the gemstone inside her bubble to the two Slytherophidians. "I've been working on it for the past couple of eons. I call it Gem. It is an advanced lifeform that possesses extraordinary powers unseen by mortals, but I'm not sure how I can test it to make sure it won't harm anybody with how powerful it is."

"Then, why don't I help you take care of it?" King Serpentes offered his assistance. "Maybe I can set up a way for it to grow and control its powers so that everyone can watch and see how strong it is."

"That is a wonderful idea, Serpentes." The giant agreed with the king and shook his hand, sealing the deal.

"By the way, I don't think I ever got your name," Serpentes said.

"My name?" the giant replied. "My name has been lost to time, but you may call me the Lapidarist."

Steven Universe Snake Eyes chapter 6: Folie a Deux (originally published on October 2, 2023)

AN: And now, the moment you've all been waiting for. We've been building up to this for two years now, but at long last, Steven and Black Rutile finally go head-to-head once again. And this time, there will be nothing holding them back in their fight to the death, except for their own inner demons. Steven refuses to fight and kill for entertainment but deep down, he's resisting the urge to go all out. Meanwhile, Black Rutile is incredibly eager to kill Steven once and for all, but that doesn't stop her from having her own second thoughts about everything. This, I believe, makes their dynamic so well-written, though I might be bragging here since I was the one who created it. But enough stroking my ego, we're officially at the halfway point of Snake Eyes now, so let's begin!

Synopsis: Steven and Black Rutile have their long-awaited rematch. Meanwhile, Nosiop begins his plot for universal conquest.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Steven

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl

Tom Scharpling as Greg

Grace Rolek as Connie

Jennifer Paz as Lapis

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Della Saba as Aquamarine

Charlyne Yi as Eyeball

Christine Pedi as Holly Blue

Casey Lee Williams as Cat's Eye

Aurelio Voltaire as King Cobralan Jormagundr

Jason Marsden as Prince Nosiop Jormagundr

Keith David as Pyth

Shirley Millner as Queen Constricta Jormagundr

Henry Rollins as Captain Boa

Neil Flynn as Aescul

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Ron Perlman as Inner Steven

Christopher Lloyd as Batsputin Vosania

Anna Akana as Dionna of the Sands

Peter Stormare as Reximillian

--

"Okay ladies, everyone into your cells!" one of the Bismuth guards at Revanche 666 yelled as the Rutile Rebels were ordered to their assigned prison cells in the aftermath of their attempted takeover of Little Homeworld. "This will be your home for as long as it takes for you to change your ways and finally accept that you lost."

"So that's how it is, huh?" Black Rutile muttered as she glumly sat down in her cell and gazed at her feet. Everything she had worked so hard from the moment Steven came out as the so-called son of Pink Diamond was all made entirely pointless once again. And even worse, it wasn't even Steven who ruined her plans this time, but instead his disgusting human friends. That was one of many things she hated about Steven. Despite how toxic he was towards others, Steven always knew how to gather allies, whether they were former enemies he convinced would agree with him or simple-minded creatures he could mold into his slaves.

Of course, Black Rutile wasn't any better, but at least she knew how evil she was and loved it. But now, her love of manipulating others to her whims had been used against her thanks to some choice words by the Crystal Gems to turn her allies' collective backs on her. And now, as she heard her subordinates converse among themselves, Black Rutile had one question to ask herself.

"Is this still worth it?"

Steven Universe Snake Eyes chapter 4: Climbing the Ladders (originally posted on September 18, 2023)

AN: We're just about two chapters away from the end of this story's first half. Afterwards, it'll be non-stop action, revelations, and drama from here on out, and you have no choice but to come along for the ride! Kind of like me for the past near three years now. Look at me, I was only a college freshman when I published the first chapter of Alternate Future, and now I'm a senior writing out the epic finale to this alternate universe. Funny how time flies, huh? I feel so old.

Synopsis: The Gems fight for survival against fellow unwilling warriors from far and wide.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Steven

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl

Tom Scharpling as Greg

Grace Rolek as Connie

Zach Steel as Ronaldo

Atticus Shaffer as Peedee

Jennifer Paz as Lapis

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Della Saba as Aquamarine

Charlyne Yi as Eyeball

Gina Torres as Andesine

Barbara Dunkelmann as Amber

Kristen Schaal as Howlite

Avi Roque as Cinnabar

Aurelio Voltaire as King Cobralan Serpentes

Jason Marsden as Prince Nosiop Serpentes

Keith David as Pyth

Kari Wahlgren as Envyrno

Peter Cullen as Titanium

Terrence C. Carson as The Decimator

Beau Billingslea as Sheriff Spiegel

Steven Blum as Deputy Edward

Dominic Armato as Captain Gearfeet

Wally Wingert as Rigby Starglow

Frank Welker as Tungsten

David Kaye as Steel

Corey Burton as Tungsten

Jim Ross as Jiross

Michael Buffer as Michauffer

Peter Linz as Heckler #1

Dave Goelz as Heckler #2

Nicki Minaj as Sugilite

--

Far from where the Crystal Gems were situated in the Ouroborium, the remaining Rutile Rebels had been given their own quarters to rest before they were sent out into the Contest of Champions to fight. While everybody was conversing among themselves about battle strategies and how they could use the contest to their advantage, Andesine was sitting in silence, her hands clasped together as she sat contemplating their current situation before Cinnabar walked over to her. "Andesine, is something bothering you?"

"As a matter of fact, there is," Andesine said as she got up and made an announcement. "It's about Black Rutile! For months on end, her leadership has proven to grow more inept the more time she spent on Earth, but now she just up and abandons us to be abducted by these Snake People! And when she finally comes for us, she teams up with Steven of all people! STEVEN!"

"Actually, I believe they call themselves Slytherohphidians." Eyeball corrected Andesine. "Though I highly doubt you care."

"You're right, I don't," Andesine said. "What I do care about is that she is no longer fit to lead us, which is why I nominate myself to take her place! I have the centuries of experience, the tenacity, the manipulativeness, and the best army I could ever have at my side!" The rebel Gems began cheering for their new leader. "That's what I needed to hear!"

"But what about me, Andesine?" Cinnabar asked the bigger Gem. "I'm just as experienced as you, plus I was Black Rutile's apprentice back in the day!"

"You certainly display your fair share of good leadership qualities, but your numerous failures against those Pearls say otherwise," Andesine replied with a hand on Cinnabar's shoulder. "I on the other hand managed to deceive those Gems into believing I surrendered, and they fell for my lies hook, line, and sinker!"

"Anyone else cares to debate?" Howlite challenged the Rutile Rebels.

"You know, now that I think about it, Andesine is a way better leader than what Black Rutile has become." Aquamarine realized. "I will follow you to the ends of the galaxy, the universe even!"

"Let's hear it for the Andesine Armada!" Amber hollered, prompting the other members of the newly renamed rebellion to start cheering for their new leader.

"ALL HAIL ANDESINE, ALL HAIL ANDESINE, ALL HAIL ANDESINE!" the Andesine Armada chanted in jubilation while Andesine ate it all up, and Cinnabar was left worrying if the attention would get to her head.

Little Homeworld Life chapter 18: De-Clustering (originally published on April 24, 2023)

AN: Yeah, this is going to be a pretty heavy episode because we'll finally be bringing back the Cluster by taking it apart and reintroducing some of its components back to society, just as Yellow Diamond promised back in Homeworld Bound. No doubt we'll explore how these Gems will react to the world they'll be brought back into and how they'll react to the whole Pink Diamond debacle, which Black Rutile will no doubt take advantage of to gain new minions. And how will the Crystal Gems deal with this as well, especially when one of their own who was a part of the Cluster will be convinced to join Black Rutile? Not good, I suppose.

Synopsis: The Diamonds pay a visit to Earth to disassemble the Cluster. However, some of the Gems they restore don't take too kindly to the new status quo.

Cast:

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Della Saba as Aquamarine

Charlyne Yi as Eyeball, Navy, Doc, Leggy, Army

Christine Pedi as Holly Blue Agate

Casey Lee Williams as Cat's Eye

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno Hall as Pearl, Yellow Pearl, Blue Pearl, Volleyball

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Jennifer Paz as Lapis

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Jinkx Monsoon as Emerald

Hayley Kiyoko as Morganite

Melissa Fahn as Demantoid

Kari Wahlgen as Pyrope

Amy Sedaris as Teal Zircon

Martha Higerada as Topaz

Shanelle Grey as Sally Grove

Matthew Rhys as James Brenner

Jon Wurster as Marty

Christoph Waltz as Francis von Bowling

Olga Kurylenko as Rasputina

Diedrich Bader as Lennie

Wayne Knight as Milton

Andrey Batt as Konstantin

Edward Furlong as Pavel

Seth Green as Leo

Featuring Idina Menzel as Amazonite

Halsey as Tanzanite

Mia Barron as Apatite

Gina Torres as Andesine

And John Mulaney as Flipso

--

"HAHAHAHAHAHA! AHAHAHAHAHAHA!" the Rutile Rebels laughed uproariously as they sat down to watch an early version of "The Pink Beast of the Bay" sent to them by Marty, and they were in hysterics over the mockery over how Steven's monstrous mental breakdown was depicted.

"I don't see why Pearl refused to participate in this motion picture; this is amazing!" Black Rutile guffawed in delight as she watched the Crystal Gem be an unwilling leading lady and costar to the always overdramatic Christopher Cage. "I haven't had this much fun in ages, not just because of the Steven mockery!"

"Me too!" Aquamarine snickered. "I could watch this over and over again!"

"But didn't that Marty fellow say he needed to return this copy soon?" Holly Blue said as the movie reached the end and the credits began to roll. "Or maybe we could download our own copy of the film." Just then, the Rebels heard a very loud rumbling from outside. "What was that?"

"Oh no, is Teal Zircon getting up to shenanigans again?" Cat's Eye complained while stroking Blake in her arms. "I'm still getting all those bugs out of my hair from last time."

"Uh, guys, I think you need to see this." Eyeball said, looking out the window to find the Diamonds' ship landing near Little Homeworld. "Do you think they're finally coming for us?"

"If so, then finally." Cat's Eye proclaimed. "This is the big one; this is it! Do you hear me, Homeworld, I'm coming for you!"

"Oh, don't be so overdramatic, Cat." Holly Blue rolled her eyes in annoyance. "We should go outside and see what the Diamonds want. Who knows? Maybe they've come to apologize for their unfair treatment of us."

"I highly doubt it." Black Rutile stated as the Rutile Rebels walked outside to find the Crystal Gems talking with Yellow, Blue, and White Diamond. "You there, Gems! What's going on?"

"Oh, Black Rutile, long time no see." White Diamond greeted Black Rutile with a strained smile. "We were just discussing with the Crystal Gems about taking the Cluster apart and giving all the Gems that are a part of it a new lease on life. We feel like it's one of the only things left for us to do to fully atone for our crimes."

"Well, there are still a few crimes against me you refuse to apologize for." Black Rutile muttered.

"Would you like to assist us?" Pearl asked Black Rutile. "We'd like to make this a community effort, so that means you have to join in too."

"Of course I'll help. Just let me confer with my posse for a bit." Black Rutile answered before turning to her minions. "You all see what's happening here, right? We could collect whatever Gems are taken out and convince them to join us! It's brilliant, brilliant, brilliant!"

"Great idea. We just need to lay low until the time is right; then we can convince them." Aquamarine agreed. "I'd say we should start with three. Anyone else?"

"Yeah, three sounds like a reasonable number." Holly Blue said.

"That song said it's the magic number, after all." Eyeball added before the rebellion turned back to the Diamonds.

"We accept your offer." Black Rutile declared, hiding the fact that she was once again plotting behind everyone's back.

"Excellent." Garnet smiled. "We'll get to work as soon as everyone else hears about this."

The Black Pearl Brigade chapter 14: Light the Way (originally posted on July 11, 2022)

AN: We're officially at the climax of Season 2 and the entire series everybody! Man, I've been waiting ages to say that. Only just this chapter and the two-part grand finale are left till I can end this story and move onto greener pastures. Though I'm kind of debating on if I should take a longer break since I have school and other stories to write, or maybe if I should change my release schedule. Eh, doesn't matter right now! Onto the chapter!

Synopsis: Hessonite and George have a lead on Cinnabar's current whereabouts in the aftermath of Torius's attack on Cavenousya.

Cast:

Deedee Magno-Hall as The Black Pearl Brigade

Avi Roque as Cinnabar

Awkwafina as Kyanite

Allison Janney as Pyrite

Kimberly Brooks as Dalmatian Jasper

Zehra Fazal as Zoisite

Lena Hall as Bloodstone

Sam Witwer as Torius Vosania

Dee Bradley Baker as Bobbite, George, Elaine, Cosma

Christine Baranski as Hessonite

Olivia Olson as Citrine

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Nicole Sullivan as Sylvia Spectre

Kathleen Barr as Púrén

John DiMaggio as Uranus Brickhead

Rob Paulsen as Saturn Brickhead

Featuring Alex Newell as Mozanite

--

It had been a rather grueling past few hours for Cinnabar. Just today, she and her new companion Torius Vosania had plotted to murder his brother Batsputin, ruler of Cavenousya and one of the Universal Lords. Zoisite had been sent to Cavenousya to enact the assassination, but unfortunately for her, the Pearls had caught wind of the plan and were hired to be Batsputin's bodyguards. Not only that, but Batsputin's majordomo had an insidious plot of his own. Everything started crumbling apart when Zoisite exposed herself during a meeting of the Universal Lords and tried shooting Batsputin down in the resulting battle, only to injure Torius by accident and force him to call for retreat.

This enraged Torius like no one's business. He had not only lost his chance at finally beating his brother at something, but it was all thanks to one of the Gems who he believed pledged loyalty to him. This could not stand one bit, so Cinnabar and her colleagues needed to be removed. However, they were far quicker than he imagined and managed to escape his wrath via one of his ships. Where they were going, he had no idea now.

"Is everyone still emotionally well after that harrowing experience?" Kyanite asked her fellow Gems while the ship they hijacked flew farther and farther away from Torius's warship. "Raise your hand if yes."

"We're all fine, Kyanite. It's that I fear Torius Vosania may have become a liability to us." Cinnabar declared as she piloted the ship. "He has the intelligence, the charisma, and the military might for sure, but his demeanor is that of a pouty child who can go berserk at the slightest hint that things won't go his way. It's a wonder we've gone this long without him tearing us apart."

"So, where do we go from here, Cinny?" Pyrite asked her superior. "Go find Black Rutile and ask for her help?"

"No, I can do this by myself." Cinnabar rejected the con-artist's suggestion. "We just need to play our cards right. Perhaps if we manipulate both sides against each other, I can proceed with my greatest plan yet completely uninterrupted."

"Ooh, pray tell, what could the plan be this time, boss?" Dalmatian Jasper wondered sarcastically. "What, are we going to carpet-bomb Homeworld?"

"You serious?! That's where all my stuff still is, in the Scientific District!" Bloodstone exclaimed in horror. "Plus, that's what Black Rutile will take over once this is all done! Are you planning to betray her?!"

"No, I would never!" Cinnabar replied hotly while turning around to yell at Bloodstone. "I'm planning to pit both Torius and the Pearls against each other one last time, and when the time is right, I can seize control of the Vosania Syndicate and use their resources to conquer Homeworld!"

"I like the sound of that, Cinnabar." Zoisite agreed confidently with a fold of her arms. "Now, how will we pull this one off, if I may ask?"

"Simple, with a little misdirection." Cinnabar replied before opening up some communication channels. "Someone, please help us! We are under attack by a band of thugs; please come save us!"

"Excellent theatrics, my dear." Pyrite complimented her master's acting as the message went through. "Now we wait until someone picks up, and we can just proceed to the next part without anyone noticing!"

"Which reminds me, what do we do next?" Kyanite wondered.

"Simple." Cinnabar declared while setting a course for a familiar world. "We plan a breakout."

The Black Pearl Brigade chapter 6: Hard as Stone (originally published on April 18, 2022)

AN: And so, we end our introductions to all our main characters with the leaders of both sides. For the entirety of BPB up until this point, Cinnabar was shown as a cold, logical commander who inspired fear and respect in her subordinates and did not tolerate failure, not unlike her sister in arms Black Rutile. In comparison, Cap has yet to receive such characterization, just being the leader of the Brigade and not much else. That shall all change here! With an all new army of minions made from concrete and old Crewniverse drawings that got them in trouble with fans in the past, tensions are sure to run high!

Synopsis: Bloodstone unveils a new breed of super soldiers made from concrete to rid Cinnabar of the Black Pearl Brigade.

Cast:

Deedee Magno-Hall as The Black Pearl Brigade

Avi Roque as Cinnabar

Lena Hall as Bloodstone

Dee Bradley Baker as Concretes

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Awkwafina as Kyanite

Allison Janney as Pyrite

Kimberly Brooks as Dalmatian Jasper

Zehra Fazal as Zoisite

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Kathleen Barr as Púrén

--

A couple of hours after Cinnabar's campaign on Sergione-29, the acting leader of the Rutile Rebels had now returned to Revanche 666 with her bodyguard Kyanite by her side, where Bloodstone eagerly awaited them. "Oh Lord Cinnabar, it is an honor to show you the fruits of my labor! If you would just step this way to my laboratory, please."

"Enough bootlicking; I only want results." Cinnabar stated chillingly.

"Yes, ma'am!" Bloodstone gave a nervous salute and led the way to her lab, with Cinnabar and Kyanite following behind. Along the way, Cinnabar made a stop at the brig section of Black Rutile's base, where some of her minions were imprisoned for their failures in stopping the Pearls. Pyrite nonchalantly waved her cane about like a conductor's baton, while Zoisite laid on her bed and gazed up at the ceiling of her cell. But for Dalmatian Jasper, as soon as she locked eyes with her master, the Jasper growled with fury and glared at her.

"If we didn't swear to serve you with our lives, we'd find a way to break out of here and help the Pearls stop you!" DJ roared angrily, though her master was nonplussed. "Maybe when you're stuck in a cell someday, you'll see how we feel!"

"Oh, quit your crying, DJ. I'm sure you'll get a second chance at some point." Cinnabar replied, snapping her fingers to order some Jaspers to throw Kyanite in a cell of her own. "But in the meantime, I already have plans to replace you."

"Wait, replace?" Kyanite exclaimed while her cell door closed behind her. "But I'm your bodyguard; I can't be replaced like this!"

"Oh, don't worry Kyanite, I'm just making a change of plans." Cinnabar turned to Kyanite with a grin. "Unfortunately, you won't be playing a part in those plans. But I'll try and find a way to squeeze you into future events somehow."

"She's right; I'm sure she'll have a use for us again somehow." Pyrite tried to ease the tension in her typically smarmy fashion. "You got to always look on the bright side of life."

"Yeah, a real bright side indeed." Zoisite chirped sarcastically.

--

A few minutes later, Cinnabar was seated at a desk in front of Bloodstone, standing next to one of the stone warriors she caught a glimpse of earlier. "Okay, Bloodstone, show me what these Concretes can do."

"I would be delighted to." Bloodstone replied before she turned to her Concrete. "Concrete, you may begin the demonstration."

"Hmm." The Concrete nodded and lifted its cobblestone fists to the air, doing some shadowboxing and smashing the ground beneath it, to Cinnabar's mild intrigue. Next, the Concrete was surrounded by turrets that began firing at it, yet the supersoldier showed no signs of damage. Instead, the bullets bounced off the beast and flew all over the lab. The third ability it demonstrated was the power to shapeshift into a boulder and roll around at will before changing back to its normal body. Finally, its mouth opened up to reveal a laser beam that fired straight above Cinnabar at a target.

"I'm impressed, Bloodstone. You made a perfect soldier right out of the gate." Cinnabar smiled, satisfied with the demo's results. "How did you do it?"

"Well, I learned from some of the misfires we made during the testing process." Bloodstone nervously said before she proceeded to show off said misfires.

The first failed prototype turned into its boulder form and glitched out, rolling around and crushing some of the Peridots in its path before transforming back. Looking down at its Gem, the Concrete then changed its hand into a massive spike and stabbed itself in the chest, causing it to shatter.

The second one, which Cinnabar guessed to be an even bigger failure than the last one, tried taking off its head like a helmet, but that caused it to accidentally poof. It was what made Cinnabar happy that they managed to make the third one successful, to begin with.

"Yeah, we all make mistakes, as they say." Bloodstone declared. "So, how many do you fancy, Cinnabar?"

"I want five of them produced, one for each member of that Brigade." Cinnabar ordered. "And make it snappy. We're wasting daylight here!"

With a proud salute, Bloodstone raced away to oversee the production of more Concretes while Cinnabar turned to the successful prototype, who looked down at its master while Cinnabar looked back with a sinister smile.

Steven Universe Alternate Future chapter 31: Love Like You (originally posted on October 25, 2021)

AN: At long last, the second to last stop on this Final Fantasy VII Remake/Zack Snyder's Justice League-inspired ride before it's all over. I feel like I've said this way too many times, but it's been an honor entertaining you all and addressing some of your complaints about Steven Universe along the way. But now, we are just about ready to stop, for now at least, and see where the epic anime-inspired final battle against Black Rutile takes us.

Synopsis: Everyone comes together to save Steven and the Earth.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Steven, Ultimate Steven

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl, Volleyball, Yellow Pearl, Blue Pearl

Tom Scharpling as Greg

Grace Rolek as Connie

Shelby Rabara as Peridot, Squaridot

Jennifer Paz as Lapis, Laz, Zuli

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper, Cherry Quartz

Dee Bradley Baker as Lion

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Della Saba as Aquamarine

Charlyne Yi as Eyeball, Ruby

Erica Luttrell as Sapphire, Padparadscha Sapphire

Larissa Gallagher as Bluebird Azurite

Lin-Manuel Miranda as President Eduardo Suarez

GZA as Major General Wade Grant

Wendie Malick as Vice President Theresa Maxwell

Tim Curry as General Lloyd Waller

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Susan Egan as Pink Diamond, Rose Quartz

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Aparna Nancherla as Lemon Jade, Nephrite

Matthew Moy as Lars

Enuka Okuma as Rhodonite

Ashly Burch as Rutile Twins

Kathleen Fisher as Fluorite

Christine Baranski as Hessonite

Olivia Olson as Citrine

Ron Perlman as Negative Steven

Jinkx Monsoon as Emerald

Kari Wahlgren as Pyrope

Melissa Fahn as Demantoid

Kate Micucci as Sadie

Indya Moore as Shep

Ian Jones-Quartey as Snowflake Obsidian, Bixbite

Michelle Maryk as Larimar

Auli'I Cravalho as Orange Spodumene

Tara Platt as Heaven Cubic Zirconia, Earth Cubic Zirconia

Tara Strong as Grossular Diopside

Kimiko Glenn as Blue Chalcedony

Phillipa Soo as Chrysocolla

Anika Noni Rose as Watermelon Tourmaline

Aimee Carrero as Moonstone

Amy Sedaris as Teal Zircon

Featuring Susanne Blakeslee as Pietersite

And Jessica Nigri as Orange Moonstone

--

Little Homeworld was in total disarray. What was once a peaceful, lively town for Gems on Earth to live in peace in was now crushed to near pieces by a rampaging monster that dashed across the settlement, and its inhabitants were left to help each other out and pick up the pieces.

"Hello-ooo, Cubic Zirconias!" Teal Zircon yelled as Cherry Quartz and Snowflake Obsidian picked up rubble to help her look for Gems scattered from the monster attack. "Just holler if you haven't been poofed!"

"We're stuck over here!" the Heaven Cubic Zirconia yelled for help.

"Please, someone get us out of here!" the Earth Zirconia added.

"Don't worry little guys, we're coming!" Snowflake exclaimed, racing over to where she last heard the tiny Gems and lifting up some wood that the two were buried under before scooping them up in her hands. "How's it snowing?"

"Terrible." The Heaven Cubic Zirconia groaned. "Sometimes I wonder why even bother staying on Earth if we're always in danger."

"That's what I want to know too!" Emerald replied as she and Pyrope helped carry Laz and Zuli away from some wreckage, followed by a Flower Buddy straggling behind. "Just what was that monster? I don't think Black Rutile ever mentioned one during my time as her advisor."

"This must be one of those Gem monsters the Gems fought back in the day!" Zuli deduced. "We gotta help them!"

"But where did it come from?" Demantoid asked before Bixbite's claw burst from the remains of Bismuth's forge, giving the green Gem a scare before the crab-like Gem cut away the wreckage she was buried in.

"I don't know," Bixbite replied. "You think Black Rutile might have something to do with it?"

"Possibly." Emerald answered. "She already did betray most of her rebels, so chances are she sent out the beast to get rid of us for good."

"Regardless, we have to do something." Squaridot said. "I'll try and send a message to Lars and Hessonite. Hopefully, they can give us some help." As the Peridot began to search for a communication module, the other residents of Little Homeworld began to gather up and make a plan.

"Okay, so we're all in agreement that we're headed to Beach City to give the Gems a lift, right?" Larimar suggested.

"Yeah, pretty much." Orange Spodumene declared. "But I don't think any of us either fought in years or fought at all."

"We'll do it." Laz declared with Zuli, Emerald, Demantoid, and Pyrope behind her.

"Black Rutile left us behind," Emerald started.

"So I think it's time we get a little payback." Demantoid finished for her taller comrade.

"Blue and I will stay behind in case any more trouble comes." Yellow Pearl bravely stated.

"Just go and save the Earth." Blue Pearl added.

"Thanks, Pearls." Orange Spodumene nodded to the former servant Gems. "Come on Gems, for our new home!"

"For our new home!" the other Gems cheered and raced off for the inevitable battle.

Steven Universe Alternate Future chapter 30: Be-All, Cure-All (originally published on October 18, 2021)

AN: Only three chapters left everyone. This one, Love Like You and finally The Future. I can't believe how much of a journey this has been for me as both a Steven Universe fan and a writer, but the destination can be just as satisfying as they say. It all started with proposing ideas for this in a Lapidot Discord server I'm on during a conversation about how Cartoon Network's grip on the show made certain things feel wasted, but now I feel like I'm close to fulfilling all of them. Once again, I just want to thank you all for sticking by me for almost an entire year.

Synopsis: The Gems have got Steven back, but now they need to know how to fix him as Steven fights with his inner self.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Steven

Ron Perlman as Negative Steven

Estelle as Garnet/Sitcom Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst/Sitcom Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl/Sitcom Pearl, Volleyball

Tom Scharpling as Greg/Sitcom Greg

Grace Rolek as Connie

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Jennifer Paz as Lapis

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper

Susan Egan as Rosemary DeMayo, Rose Quartz, Pink Diamond

Lin-Manuel Miranda as President Eduardo Suarez

GZA as Major General Wade Grant

Wendie Malick as Vice-President Theresa Maxwell

Tim Curry as General Lloyd Waller

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Aparna Nancherla as Lemon Jade

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

--

We're a normal family,

In a normal neighborhood

Starring Steven DeMayo

No lies or betrayal here,

Everything is all good

With Greg DeMayo

Yes, everything is nice and friendly here

No time to shed a tear

And Rosemary DeMayo

How long can we keep it together?

A little Mayo's all we need!

"A Little Mayo's All We Need was filmed before a live studio audience." An offscreen voice announced as Steven woke up one morning to discover that something didn't seem right. This didn't seem like his bedroom, but it did at the same time.

"What am I doing here?" Steven asked himself just as the door opened.

"What are you doing here? That's a silly question!" Greg declared as he stepped into Steven's bedroom, eliciting cheers from the audience. "Morning Scthu-Ball, wakey wakey eggs and bakey!" The audience then started laughing.

"Dad, I had the weirdest dream last night." Steven said. "My mom was an alien war criminal who started a war that nearly destroyed the Earth, and now I was forced to make up for all the horrible things she did as her half-alien son."

"Wow, guess we should stop having chili for dinner so often with dreams like that." Greg remarked, causing the audience to laugh again, much to Steven's confusion. "Come on down, Mom's making breakfast."

"Wait, Mom?!" Steven exclaimed while getting out of bed. "But, she's dead! She gave up her physical form to give birth to me!"

"Well, she's bound to do that at some point when you're older." Greg shrugged with a grin. More laughter, which made Steven even more creeped out. "Now up and at 'em, don't wanna be late for school!"

"School?" Steven muttered as Greg left the bedroom before pulling up his shirt, revealing a belly button where his gem should be. "Wait, am I human?!"

"Indeed." Steven's inner voice boomed and took the form of his shadow. "This is what you always wanted, correct? Living a normal human life as a normal human boy in a world where Gems never existed. Well, I gave you your wish."

"Well, what about everyone else?" Steven asked his silhouette.

"Don't fret, they're still outside fighting your body, but your mind is perfectly safe here." The shadow purred before it slowly took the form of the more muscular Steven from when he fought Jasper. "My advice, just give in to the dream world you always wanted."

"I, uh…" Steven stuttered before the shadow returned to normal, and he finally decided to go downstairs for breakfast. However, he was in for a big surprise in the kitchen.

"Good morning my little starlight!" Steven's mother, who bore a striking resemblance to Rose Quartz, greeted her son with a big hug and a kiss, eliciting aww's from the audience. "How did my rosebud sleep last night?"

"Like a log!" Steven robotically said like a script was being forced into his head.

"Well, all little logs need a healthy breakfast to start their day." The fake version of Rose stated before handing him a plate of pancakes and scrambled eggs. To Steven's surprise, the scrambled eggs spelled out a message saying "GIVE IN STEVEN."

"Uh, Mom, Dad, have you ever had those times where a voice inside of you tells you to give in to something?" Steven asked his parents while eating breakfast.

"Well, a voice certainly told me I made the right choice marrying your mom." Greg smiled. "Right Rosemary?"

"Of course, Greg." Rosemary smiled back and the parents kissed.

"Okay, this is starting to get a little sappy." Steven muttered to himself. "Mom, do you remember anything about the Diamonds? The Crystal Gems? Anything?"

"Yeah, he's had this dream last night where you were an alien who forced all this trauma onto him after your death." Greg explained to his wife. "Maybe tonight we should have meatloaf for dinner."

"Oh, I would never do that to you!" Rose gasped. "I only want the best for my little boy."

"Yeah, the best." Steven laughed nervously. "Well, guess I should get ready for school. Can I be excused?"

"Sure you can kiddo." Greg agreed and let Steven leave the table.

"This is only a dream; this is only a dream." Steven muttered to himself on his way back to his imaginary bedroom. "A dream taking the form of a sitcom, of all things."

"But is it still a fantasy?" the Negative Steven pondered while suddenly appearing in a family picture featuring Steven as a toddler. "Or could it be real life?"

Steven let out a yell as he stumbled back, catching the attention of his imaginary parents. "Steven, you alright up there sport?"

"Never better Pops!" Steven once again said automatically before he covered his mouth. "It's like this world is taking me over."

Steven Universe Alternate Future chapter 29: Made Me Realize (originally published on October 11, 2021)

AN: As there are now only four chapters left till we reach the end Alternate Future, I just want to say right now that all the support means the world to me. 30 reviews, almost 15,000 views across the world as I write this, one fan on Tumblr wanting to make a webcomic adaptation, I don't think any of my other stories received this much attention before! But anyways, enough with the tears of joy, let's get on to some regular tears of sadness.

Synopsis: While captured by the rogue Gems, the Diamonds recollect how it all led to this. Meanwhile, the Crystal Gems are held captive by the United States Army.

Cast:

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Lauren Ash as White Topaz

Della Saba as Aquamarine

Charlyne Yi as Eyeball, Navy

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Aparna Nancherla as Lemon Jade

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl, Volleyball

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Jennifer Paz as Lapis Lazuli

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper

Lin-Manuel Miranda as President Eduardo Suarez

GZA as Major General Wade Grant

Wendie Malick as Vice President Theresa Maxwell

Grace Rolek as Connie

Tom Scharpling as Greg

Dee Bradley Baker as Lion

Susan Egan as Rose Quartz/Pink Diamond

Zach Callison as Monster Steven

Jinkx Monsoon as Emerald

Christine Pedi as Holly Blue Agate

Hayley Kiyoko as Morganite

Featuring Tim Curry as General Lloyd Waller

Steven Ogg as J. Edgar Hoover

Mike Pollock as Harry S. Truman

Avi Roque as Cinnabar

With Alex Hirsch as Lawrence Abrams

And Keith Olbermann as Kent Whitman

--

"Good afternoon America." Newscaster Kent Whitman greeted his viewers before getting onto the hot topic of the day. "Just a few hours ago, a message to the world by a being calling herself Black Rutile called for the apprehension of a group of alien rebels known as the Crystal Gems, causing uproar across many countries for their relation to the disappearance of the ocean and more recently, the appearance of a strange pink monster that has emerged in the Delmarva town of Beach City."

"-It's because of her that this monstrosity plaguing the Earth at this moment is running amok and the Crystal Gems have done nothing to stop it, or her for that matter." Black Rutile's message was played again.

"According to this Rutile character, the Crystal Gems are in league with another Gem known as Pink Diamond, whom she claims is the source of the monster problem." Kent stated. "And on that note, we now go live to Lawrence Abrams, reporting from the Crystal Gems' current location at Area 42. Lawrence, what can you gather from there?"

Steven Universe Alternate Future chapter 27: I Am My Monster (originally published on September 27, 2021)

AN: Ooh, this is gonna get good. Steven goes from tired boy to Pink Godzilla, and no one knows what to do! Is all hope lost, or can the Crystal Gems find a way like they always do? Who knows? But we know the government will finally decide to get their hands dirty with a giant monster.

Synopsis: Steven's issues reach their boiling point and he goes out of control.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Monster Steven, Watermelon Stevens

Estelle as Garnet

Micheala Dietz as Amethyst

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl, Volleyball

Grace Rolek as Connie

Tom Scharpling as Greg

Shelby Rabara as Peridot

Jennifer Paz as Lapis

Uzo Aduba as Bismuth

Dee Bradley Baker as Lion

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Aparna Nancherla as Lemon Jade

Noël Wells as Black Rutile

Hugh Jackman as Beckham Jordan

James Monroe Iglehart as Coach Matt Monroe

Karen Fukuhara as Makoto Fuji

Michelle Creber as Chloe

Kacey Musgraves as Yvonne

Neil Flynn as The Officer

Pierce Brosnan as Bane Jones

Neil Flynn as The Officer

Laura Post as Gloria DeMayo

Maurice LaMarche as Thomas DeMayo

Casey Robertson as Neil Michaels

Featuring Lin-Manuel Miranda as President Eduardo Suarez

Wendie Malick as Vice President Theresa Maxwell

GZA as Major General Wade Grant

John Hodgman as Secretary of State Finn Ward

Phil LaMarr as Secretary of Defense Benson Quintel

David Tennant as Secretary of the Treasury Ben Darwin

Ashleigh Ball as Secretary of Agriculture Tulip Dennis

Gary Cole as Attorney General Clarence Page

Alan Tudyk as Secretary of the Interior Craig Levin

Ryan Reynolds as Secretary of Health Benjamin Rouleau

Brenda Song as Secretary of Transportation Juniper Winick

Sam Marin as Secretary of Housing Steve Peters

Jeff Bennett as Secretary of Energy Edward Daniels

Lily Tomlin as Secretary of Education Beatrice McHale

Romi Dames as Secretary of Veteran Affairs Chloe Chong

Ben Diskin as Secretary of Homeland Security Nigel Warburton

Jimmy Smits as Secretary of Labor Victor Molano

And Clancy Brown as Secretary of Commerce Eugene Quartey

--

The people of Beach City thought they were going to have a nice, normal day today. However, since they lived alongside the Crystal Gems, there was no doubt trouble was on its way. Loud stomping could be heard all over town, followed by an ear-piercing roar.

Yellowtail and Sour Cream were the first to notice since they were closest to the water while listening to music on Yellowtail's boat.

The roaring tipped over a trash can Onion was hiding in while Vidalia was painting.

Before anyone knew it, a massive, pink lizardlike monster has suddenly emerged from behind the lighthouse and let out another nasty roar.

--

"And that should do it." Peridot declared as she and Bismuth repaired the swimming pool's chain-link fence that the Topiary Stevens broke through earlier that day.

"Hey, is it me, or is the sky getting darker?" Bismuth wondered aloud before she could hear something roar.

"What was that?!" Peridot yelled as she jumped up in fright.

While flying above Little Homeworld, Lapis could spot a giant pink monster standing in front of the Crystal Temple. "What?!" With no time to lose, she zoomed back down to her fellow B-team members to tell them what was up. "Guys, we gotta get to the others quick! There's a giant monster on the beach!"

"A giant monster?" Peridot exclaimed. "When was the last time we ever fought one of those?"

"No time to talk, we have to help Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl, quick!" Peridot declared before the three made a break for the Warp Pad.

--

Far away from Beach City on the halved Mask Island, a Watermelon Steven spied on the pink draconic beast through a pair of bamboo binoculars and raced to tell the rest of his kind.

When the Watermelon Steven reached its village, it was greeted by its fellow star-bellied Watermelon Stevens meeting with another group of Watermelon Stevens with eye black beneath their eyes. The two watermelon tribes turned towards the new visitor, who quickly explained in its native language what it saw.

The elder of the star-bellied watermelons stepped forward and began a garbled conversation with the leader of the eye black-wearing watermelons. As soon as the conversation ended, the pair shook hands and explained to their respective tribes what they were going to do. The tribes gasped at the idea of doing such a thing, but in their juicy insides, they knew they had no choice.

--

"Mr. President, our satellites have picked up a little problem in Delmarva." A black man in Major General attire declared, stepping into the Oval Office as a Hispanic-American man in a suit and tie turned around in his chair and a middle-aged pantsuit-clad woman filed her nails.

"What seems to be the problem, Major General?" President Eduardo Suarez asked Major General Wade Grant.

"It's a monster attack, sir." Wade proclaimed before handing over a tablet showing a bird's eye view of Beach City, and the large beast that had emerged. "Approximately five minutes ago, this rose-colored creature emerged from a small beach house in Beach City and has been doing nothing but roar ever since. But if we don't act fast, it could cause widespread destruction to our country and beyond."

"So we're basically facing off against a kaiju here?" Vice President Theresa Maxwell quipped. "I've seen the movies, just use nuclear power or giant robots."

"But that could just make things worse!" Eduardo exclaimed at the thought. "We must confer with my cabinet! Surely, they'll have the answer!"

Steven Universe Alternate Future chapter 25: Homeworld Bound (originally posted on September 13, 2021)

AN: Here it is everyone, the beginning of the final part of Steven Universe Alternate Future. Before we proceed, I just want to thank all of you for sticking by my side since December of last year and for all the comments & reviews I've been given. It really means the world to me that I'm getting this much attention. But enough heartfelt thank yous, let's get on with the heartbreak.

Synopsis: Afraid that his out-of-control powers will hurt his friends, Steven sees the Diamonds for help.

Cast:

Zach Callison as Steven

Sarah Stiles as Spinel

Aparna Nancherla as Lemon Jade

Patti LuPone as Yellow Diamond

Lisa Hannigan as Blue Diamond

Christine Ebersole as White Diamond

Estelle as Garnet

Michaela Dietz as Amethyst, Chert

Deedee Magno-Hall as Pearl, Volleyball, Aubergine Pearl

Kimberly Brooks as Jasper, Flint

Olivia Olson as Citrine

Christine Pedi as Holly Blue Agate

Hayley Kiyoko as Morganite

Charlyne Yi as Navy

Casey Lee Williams as Cat's Eye

Amy Sedaris as Blue Zircon

Ron Perlman as Steven's Inner Voice

--

The past few minutes have been some of the worst minutes of Steven's life. Not only did he accidentally take a life, but it was a life he was so sure he'd try to change in the past to little success. And now, the death of Jasper would weigh heavily on his shoulders as he dipped the shattered gem he was holding into the essence-infused bathwater.

"I'm sorry." Steven sobbed quietly while his tears dropped into the bathtub below him. Suddenly, as if the tears began reacting to the water, the Diamonds' essences began to glow at once and were absorbed into Jasper's gem, allowing the Gem warrior to regain her physical form and re-emerge in the bathtub.

"You-you shattered me." Jasper gasped while examining her broken horn and the breaks in her stripes before looking straight at Steven.

"I'm sorry, it was an accident!" Steven tried to apologize to Jasper. "I should've stopped, I just wasn't thinking!"

"No you weren't." a voice echoed in Steven's thoughts as Jasper stepped out of the bathtub and took a knee.

"I bow to your strength," Jasper declared while bowing her head in recognition of Steven's strength. "my Diamond."

"No!" Steven gasped in horror at what he's done.

"Ooh, this should be interesting." Steven's intrusive thoughts purred with intrigue at this new development.

"Are you in there Steven?" Pearl asked for Steven while knocking on the bathroom door.

"What's going on?" Amethyst added. "If you got any urges you want to let out, just don't gross Pearl out and make a mess of things."

"Amethyst, read the room." Garnet scolded the small Quartz. "Steven, please come out. We're sorry if you felt like we were intruding a few days ago, but you still need to talk to us somehow."

Just then, the three Gems heard footsteps as someone approached the other side of the door and hopefully cleared the way. But instead of Steven opening the door like they expected, it was instead Jasper.

"Wait, Jasper?!" Amethyst yelled in shock.

"What were you doing in there?" Pearl asked. "And where is Steven?!"

"Right here." Jasper answered, stepping aside to reveal a despairing Steven behind her as she gave the Diamond salute of old.

"Where have you been Steven?!" Amethyst asked Steven as he silently walked away and went up the stairs.

"You can't just disappear for three days and not tell us where you went!" Pearl cried out. "Words could not describe how absolutely scared we were for you! And now Jasper pops up out of nowhere and we're supposed to be okay with this?!"

"My Diamond can do as he pleases, peons." Jasper barked at the Crystal Gems. "He doesn't need you around anymore, just like how you don't need him around."

"Why are you calling him that?!" Amethyst yelled at Jasper before she began following Steven. "Steven!" she cried before shooting the bigger Gem a glare. "Just because we're sisters doesn't mean you're safe from the verbal thrashing I'm gonna give you soon."

"Like I care." Jasper rolled her eyes while the four Gems tailed Steven to the Warp Pad at the conservatory. "You've spent your lives following a liar yet when my Diamond refuses to reveal the truth, that's when you decide you need answers?"

As Steven was about to step on the Warp Pad, the Gems tried yet again to stop him. "Steven, wait!" Pearl yelled.

"You don't need to go." Garnet stated. When Steven decided to finally make a reply, he just sighed as he turned pink and began to form a barrier that separated him from the four Gems behind him.

"What the heck is going on!?" Amethyst screamed in shock before she, Garnet, and Pearl began banging on the shield.

"You guys, I know you want to help, but this is where it's gotta stop." Steven declared. "This whole time, I've been avoiding the only people in the universe that can help me now, so nobody follow me."

"I was right, he doesn't need you anymore!" Jasper laughed tauntingly before her pride soon turned to shock.

"You should stop following me too, Jasper." Steven said to the big Quartz, breaking her heart as she sorrowfully watched her Diamond abandon her yet again. "Go on and do something better with your life."

"Steven, before you go, please remember." Garnet urged Steven with a hand against the pink barrier. "We will always be your family."

"You never were." Steven growled as his shadow seemed to gain a mind of its own before he teleported away on the Warp Pad, the warp stream giving off a strange black aura before shutting off.

"Of course my Diamond doesn't want me anymore." Jasper bowed her head in shame and strolled off, but the Gems weren't done with her yet.

"Oh no you don't Jasper, you got some explaining to do!" Amethyst shouted while chasing after her Gem sister. "What were you doing in the bathroom, and what made you call Steven your Diamond?"

"Don't even bother asking me." Jasper sighed before she began to sing. "I tried teaching him a little tip, just three little words: get a grip. But thanks to him, I finally see, those words really do apply to me." As Jasper retreated into the bathroom, Amethyst and Pearl could barely hear her beginning to cry.

"Never seen her this emotional before." Garnet remarked. "And we've never heard her sing before either."

"I think we should just give her some space for a bit." Pearl suggested and realized what she just said. "Wow, that's the first time I've ever said that about Jasper, of all Gems."

"You think Steven meant what he said about us not being his family?" Amethyst asked as she sat down on the couch.

"I'm not sure." Garnet answered. "But there was something about him that I felt is taking control at the wrong moments, poisoning his mind even. Hopefully, he doesn't let this go out of control."

Guys, Yellow and Blue Diamond’s fusion has been leaked!