Chapter 2: Enter the Rejects

There were certain things that had been long established among Gems. On missions every Gem had a function and a purpose, and it was extremely important to get the job done at any cost. At times a mission would become an amalgam of clashing personalities, but most managed to set their differences aside to accomplish their task. However, there was a small percentage that actually craved conflict mixed with a dash of chaos. Not a whole lot of chaos, but just enough to make things entertaining. A couple of those types sat near an off-world warp pad. The pair made up the security detail for certain off-world mission. One had red-violet skin with smoky undertones. Though not very tall she did have an imposing build, and her severe hairstyling of a mohawk contributed to an impression of aggression. The dark colored eye patch over her right eye gave her a mysterious and dangerous air. Next to her sat a smaller Gem with a fiery attitude bold and brash enough to make up for her lack of height. She was build solid and everything about her screamed that she was a fighter.

The two Gems seemed to have a certain comradery with each other. The slightly larger Gem laughed at some inside joke as the red Gem pulled a small, slender object from her pocket and pressed it against the gem in her left hand. A tiny spark emanated from the palm on her hand, then she put the object between her lips and took a long drag before passing it to her partner.

"Yo, Spinel, I'm tired of waiting for the Gems we're supposed to be escortin'! I'm ready to get goin'!"

"Just chill, Ruby," came the one-eyed Gem's cool reply as she casually blew a few smoke rings. "They'll be here soon enough. You know those intellectual types rarely pass up an opportunity for research."

"Well, I call bullshit on that. They should at least have the decency to be on time. I hate waiting on their snotty asses!"

Without missing a beat Ruby took back the cigarette, forcing smoke out her nostrils giving her the appearance of an angry bull ready to charge. She absolutely hated waiting for anyone or anything. Patience was a virtue completely foreign to her. Yet her partner, Spinel, managed to balance out Ruby's impatience with her cool attitude. The pair had just about reduced the shared fag to ashes when a passing Gem called to them in a jeering tone.

"Well, would you look at that. A couple rejects slacking off as usual," the sickly yellow Gem sneered as she chuckled. Ruby scoffed as she sneered right back.

"What the fuck are you laughing at?" she growled.

"What's the matter, Ruby? Can't take a joke?"

"Sure I can, but that's a sorry excuse for a joke. Last I checked a joke is supposed to be funny…kind of like your fucked up face."

The arrogant expression on the yellow Gem's face was immediately replaced with an angry scowl.

"I don't know who you think you're talking to!"

"I don't see why not, since I'm looking right at YOU, ya fuckin' idiot!"

By now Ruby was on her feet and ready to fight. Her antagonist retreated hastily mumbling something about not having time for rejects. Spinel was doubled over with laughter as Ruby continued to call out all kinds of insults after the condescending Gem. The still laughing Spinel pulled the feisty Ruby onto her knee.

"Ruby, you are a fuckin' riot! I can never get bored hanging around you!"

"Oh yeah? Well, I didn't do it for your entertainment, Spinel. She deserved a tearing into, and more." Ruby emphasized her last statement as she punched her fists together. Her partner tapped her on the side to get her attention.

"Looks like the brainy ones are finally here."

"It's about damn time," Ruby grumbled as she stood at attention.

"Eh, too bad. It would have been interesting to watch you rip that Gem a new one."

"Shut the fuck up, Spinel…"came Ruby's retort with a smirk. She was so relieved that the mission could finally move forward.