Disclaimer: I don't own Steven Universe, its characters, or its stories. However, Rebecca Sugar is free to use my characters and storylines if she so chooses…

A/N: Hello, fellow readers and writers. Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy reading. Well, we're starting to wind down; we have 4 chapters left! As such, things are going to get more dramatic and … harrowing. So, let's get to it; we have a lot to get through and time is running out. And here … we … go:

Steven Universe: Crystallize Red

Crystallization Complete

"Gosh, this really takes me back…" Greg said wistfully.

It was the morning of the showcase, and the task of setting up the stage was underway, placing it on the side of the car wash facing the beach. Greg was rigging up the lights and setting up the system speaker. Carnelian, meanwhile, tested the audio out of the speakers with Greg, playing all the backing tracks and making sure they were clear and in order, as well as familiarizing herself with a soundboard rented from Steven's friend Sour Cream, a device that allowed her to play all the parts of a song solo. All the while, they both made sure everything was connected…

Greg continued, "It's been so long since I've had to set up a show like this. Guess I have you to thank you for that, Tanzanite."

Carnelian chuckled and said, "Are you serious, Greg? No, I need to be thanking you, especially since you're basically the sponsor for this whole thing… Truly, from every mineral in my gem, thank you."

"You're very welcome… By the way, just out of curiosity, what are you planning to do with the money?"

"What do you mean?" Carnelian asked, confused, "I'm giving the money to you."

Greg reacted, taken aback, "What?! No, you don't have to do that. In fact, you shouldn't give it to me; I'm already wealthy."

Carnelian raised a disbelieving eyebrow. "Really? You're rich?"

"Hey, don't let my modesty fool you. I'm completely set for life over here."

Carnelian took a moment to accept the idea and pivot her thinking before deciding, "Um, okay, then… I'll give it to Steven."

Greg retorted, "My money is his money. I don't want or need much, so all that's left over (and there's a lot left over) is all his, when he's old enough." Carnelian looked away, a little lost, causing Greg to say, "Don't worry too much about it. You'll find something good to use it for."

Carnelian grew a small smile as a thought came to her, "Greg…? You're single, right?" That question actually made him snap his attention to her. "I mean, you're sweet and caring, you're a great father… It's been 14 years; have you ever tried or, at least, thought about … finding another love?"

Greg had to quickly shift his mind back to neutral before he could respond. "Hmm, yes, a few times actually. I think about it from time to time. I go on one or two dates every now and again. In the end, though, nothing's panned out. Any, uh…" Greg paused with a nervous laugh. "Any reason you ask?"

"Just asking, one widow to another. I've been thinking about it, and I think I have an answer, but I could always use another view. You've been through this longer, and you've been a big help to me since I first got here. I'd like your opinion on this."

"Oh, I think you just need to listen to your own heart on that. Not me or really anyone else can tell you what to do because everyone lives differently and everyone heals differently. However you feel, be honest about it and listen to it. There's your right answer."

"Hmm, well said… Thank you, Greg; that's what I thought… Seriously, though, we need to get you a girlfriend; you're too much of a catch to be twisting in the wind."

Carnelian then affectionately grabbed the smaller human in a headlock, causing him to laugh in mock-protest, and once satisfied, allowed herself to be lightly shoved away.

-XX-

Late afternoon had come, blankets had been laid down in front of the stage for attendees, and the time for the showcase was almost there, but there were already a few surprises. The showcase had 12 songs, syncing nicely with four upbeat, four somber, and finally four heavy, so Carnelian, minus the other Gems, was only expecting 12 people …but about 5 times that many showed up. Some of the people were ones who stopped before, of course, including the smitten boy and girl from a few weeks before. Some were the fellow wrestlers from the wrestling league including Mr. Smiley. Sour Cream had come along with his family including his mother Vidalia, who was apparently an old friend of Amethyst. Some of the beach shop owners even had mini-kiosks set up for vending: the Fry Family (the middle one in size and age kept pestering her with questions about the Diamonds but he only made wild assumptions with no real knowledge about what he was asking); the pizza shop that employed Stevonnie's Kiki; and the donut shop with the cute-as-a-button Sadie.

Carnelian appropriately had made changes to her outfit for the occasion: her hair was swept to one side with bouncing curls, and she changed her coat to a much lighter material, perfect for flying in the evening ocean breeze. Soon, the Crystal Gems arrived as well as Connie … the latter with guests, her parents! The youngest Maheswaran had her hair done up and wore a light dress with stylish pants underneath. Carnelian stepped down from the stage and went to meet them…

"Scarlet! You look amazing!" Connie called excitedly as the red quartz approached her family.

"You look incredible too, Connie." Carnelian then turned her attention to the girl's parents, saying as she shook their hands in greeting, "Dr. Maheswaran, Officer Maheswaran, I didn't expect you to stay for this, either of you."

Doug said with a smile, "Oh, no, we always make time when Connie has a performance."

Connie chimed in, "I told them it's only one song and it was unnecessary."

Priyanka then interjected, "Nonsense, we wouldn't miss this."

Carnelian simply said, "Well, I hope you enjoy the show."

Carnelian then checked and saw that the time was upon them. The red quartz nodded acknowledgment to the Crystal Gems before running over and dropping a kiss on Steven's head, and finally headed for the stage. Carnelian walked onto the stage to claps and whistles, having to keep herself from recoiling at that response, and smoothly walked to the microphone in the center of the stage…

"Good evening, Beach City!" The crowd of about 60 people cheered as she began, "Before we get started, I want to give a thank you to Mr. Sour Cream, who provided some equipment for me tonight." Carnelian motioned toward Sour Cream, and everyone turned and clapped for him. "I also have to give special thanks to one man in particular: he taught and trained me in all things guitar, and who also is taking new students. He's the main sponsor for the whole thing, and he personally helped me put together this whole set-up. He is the most responsible for making this all happen. Please, let's give him a round of applause … for Mister! Greg! Universe!"

Carnelian motioned toward Greg, and everyone applauded for him, as prompted. The elder Universe actually found himself growing bashful from all the attention. Still, Carnelian let the applause die down before continuing, "Now then… Thank you all for coming to listen to me tonight, and thank you to everyone who donated and contributed to tonight's playlist. So, without further ado…" The red quartz conjured up her guitar in a shower of white sparkles, drawing oohs and aahs from her audience, and turned the stage lights on with a thump of a sound, controlling them with a device on her arm. "Let's rock. This first one goes out to the one Mr. Smiley."

Carnelian started the showcase propped with the rapturous, warbling opening riff of Jimi Hendrix's 'Voodoo Child'. From the outset, Carnelian's skill and artistry on her instrument was evident. The songs sounded a bit different with one musician playing, but she was still mostly spot-on performing the riffs, chords, melodies, and rhythms. Her contralto also gave most of the songs a different feel, but she was still lively and energetic when needed, soulful and sincere mostly, and always bold and confident.

The next song was Guns and Roses' Welcome to the Jungle 'for Fryman', and immediately Carnelian bit into it with the song's reverberating and cascading riff. She couldn't scream as high as the original singer but communicated the feeling with a slight snarl in her voice. Then came Sammy Haggar's Can't Drive 55 for … Mayor Dewey?! Carnelian chuckled at that one, considering the raucous and defiant tune. When the time came for the defining '55!' shout in the chorus, Carnelian give a roar that made the audience upfront shake … and then clap once they recovered.

After she finished the song and let the clapping and whooping subside, Carnelian announced, "Now, this next song is for the one and only Sour Cream. And to help me play it, I have a special guest; everybody, please give a round of applause for Ms. Connie Maheswaran!"

Connie stood up with a deep breath and walked forward. The crowd clapped and several cheered for her, everyone warm and positive with a loud and distinct shout of encouragement from Steven that made Connie smile. Once on stage, Connie bowed to the audience, turned, and she and Carnelian bowed to each other. In all, Connie was holding herself together and outwardly showing well, but still… Her heart was still pumping; her knees and shoulders were ever-so-slightly trembling; and then her fingers started locking up. Just then, Carnelian whistled to the young teen to get her attention; with her hand over her 'heart', the red quartz mouthed a simple 'I'm here' and even gave a playful wink as punctuation. Connie giggled as she felt herself now relax, and raised her violin into positon.

Carnelian then announced, "Ladies and Gentlemen, to Sour Cream, this is 'G – Blast Version' by Go Shiina."

The song was a kinetic and soaring instrumental with Connie easing into it once the song picked up momentum. Connie managed to match and complement Carnelian, both guitar and violin flying high together. Then, in the middle came the violin solo. Connie's eyes drifted close as she played, the red quartz making all the lights center on her as Connie exquisitely drew the song forward. Soon, they came to the finale; the instrumental proper didn't have a definitive end, so the two of them had fashioned one. The duo played an escalating set of chords, held the last note of the highest one for as long as possible, and finally came to a forceful stop, the last note echoing out. In awe and appreciation, the audience burst into applause and loud cheers.

"Ladies and Gentleman, one more time, Connie Maheswaran!"

Carnelian then stepped to the side to allow Connie the center stage, applauding as well. With every fiber in her still frantically abuzz from the performance, Connie was a little overwhelmed as the crown continued applauding. She bowed to them again, turned again to Carnelian, and bowed to her as well. Carnelian responded in kind and added a smile and a thumbs up to the end. With that, Connie walked and stepped down from the stage. Steven naturally ran up, hugged her, and began gushing about her performance, Connie excitedly bantering right back with her best friend as they went back to the Maheswarans…

Carnelian then said, "Okay, everyone, I'm gonna take a quick 5-minute break. Don't go away; there's more to come."

A few got up for the brief intermission, but those who stayed actually got a little bit of a show. First, Carnelian had to 'change' into a new outfit; she was actually discreetly morphing her attire, but the audience didn't know, so her sudden changes with sparkling flourishes were just another part of the show. Carnelian slicked her hair back save for a prominent forelock near her left eye. She took her arms out of her coat, letting it hang on her shoulders, and connected the top with a small chain to keep it secure. She then stood her guitar and spun it in place to obscure that she was morphing it into acoustic shape. Finally, she took her guitar, sat down on the edge of the stage, dimmed and focused the lights on her for a more intimate feeling, the sun setting just then for wonderful timing.

Carnelian set her guitar in her lap and lowered the mic to her. "Thank you for waiting; we're heading into a more somber section right now, so let's break it down, shall we? This next one goes out to Mrs. Barb Miller: Pearl Jam's Dissident."

The other Gems never expected the music to affect them much. However, this selection of songs proved evocative for them, all the songs reaching them with their appropriateness and relation to their lives in some way or another. This was all helped by Carnelian's heartfelt singing as they were obviously apropos for her as well; she sang, felt, and meant every word.

First, Dissident was a lot closer to being upbeat with a lively melody and a shouting chorus. That did NOT obscure the fact that the song was about a rebel fighter being betrayed by a regretful loved one. Next up, 'for Vidalia', was Nothing Else Matters, a heavy and pained tune of commitment in spite of anguish … with a hint of obsession.

Just as she finished, Carnelian announced, "This next song is 'This Is Gospel' by Panic at the Disco for Ms. Kiki Pizza. Now, there's two versions of this song, but after talking to her, it was fortunate that the slower version was indeed the one requested. So, Kiki Pizza, this is for you."

This is Gospel turned out to be a twinkling introspective on the departed and departing, and Carnelian was understandably affected by it; she felt herself choking up as she played but kept herself singing unbroken throughout it. When she got to the second singing of 'If you love me, let me go', tears began rolling down her cheeks. Then, once she finally got through the whole thing, the audience applauded her as she wiped her tears away.

Then, for Peedee Fryman … came 'The Sound of Silence'. The resonance and connection for the Crystal Gems was simply eerie, Carnelian singing the rougher, more soaring version and expressing every emotion in the song thoroughly and emphatically. One verse even gave them shivers and made them look amongst themselves in disbelief, only amplified by Carnelian engaging in the looks even as she sang…

"And in the naked light I saw/ 10,000 people, maybe more. People talking without speaking/ people hearing without listening/ people writing songs … with voices never shared. And no one dared/ to stir the sound of silence…" Another line also stuck out but for different reasons, Carnelian growling it out and grinding down on it in the back of her throat. "And the people bowed and prayed/ to the neon god they made!"

Carnelian finally brought the song to a close and winded down the last line to a whisper of the last 'silence'. The audience was properly captivated and actually took a moment before applauding…

With another section done, Carnelian took another break, and with another break came another change. She connected her coat around her waist, flipped the top of it off, exposing her arms and shoulders and making her coat into a sort of half-cape. She shook and tousled her hair back into its natural wild state, and twirled her guitar into electric shape. Finally, she brightened the lights once again, and readied her soundboard; she was really going to need the latter.

"Ladies and Gentleman, this is our final stretch; we only have four songs left." The audience gave exaggerated moans of disappointment and started clapping again. Carnelian interjected this time, "Oh, stop; you're all too kind. Fair warning before I begin: these songs are a lot heavier and faster than the ones before, so if you need a buffer or if you prefer not to listen, that's understandable." Several adults and a couple of the older ones took that hint and put in earplugs. Carnelian didn't question oddity, and simply continued, "Okay, this next song is for Jenny Pizza. Now, Jenny…" She spotted Jenny in the crowd and spoke to her directly, "I don't know if you're pranking me or you honestly believe in me, but please understand if this version is a little slower than usual. Also, you all in the front row, if my hands come off during, please just toss them back here, so we can finish, okay? Ladies and Gentleman, this is 'Through the Fire and Flames' by Dragonforce."

Several people in crowd groan and/or sucked in air; they knew what was about to happen. For her part, Carnelian actually had to take a breath and shake and stretch her hands, wrists, and fingers before she could begin. Then, she had to start off with several very fast riffs and ramp up to the song proper. And thus, the speed section of the showcase was underway.

First, 'Through the Fire and Flames' was a ludicrously fast and frantic song, so fast in fact that it was hard to even hear the melody. Apparently, the song also had words, but Carnelian understandably opted against them to focus on the necessary finger and hand acrobatics. It was 6 minutes of blistering, mind-boggling, and chord-shredding work until she finally finished with a powerful riff. The audience applauded the exemplary work, with several of them standing as they clapped including Jenny … but Carnelian then made them laugh by shaking her hands and whistling to elude to the taxing hand work of the song.

Next, 'for Movies Jane' came Living Colour's Cult of Personality. Carnelian noticing Jane and Ronaldo Fryman exchange a knowing look as she began to play. The song itself was a faux-bragging but ultimately rebellious sprawling tune, but the instrumentation seemed rather tame comparatively … until a ripping, triumphant solo at the end. Then, 'for Sadie Miller' came 'Set the World on Fire' by the Black Veil Brides, which proved a very impressive play; Carnelian had two intricate guitar melodies to play and lay over each other, including a much quicker solo in the middle. Again, the Crystal Gems found unexpected aptness in the song with its call of 'We stand tall … Break the chains' and 'Fight for all you know/when you're back's against the wall/Stand against the lions'…

After she finished the song, Carnelian addressed the audience once more, "Everyone, this is the last song, and it's for Mr. Greg Universe because he's awesome and he knows I've been waiting to play this one… I want to again thank you. Everyone who helped me put this together: Greg, Sour Cream, Connie, Steven Universe, all of you… And I want to thank every one of you for coming to listen to me today. You all were incredible, and this is honestly one of the best days of my life. Thank you all so much." The audience clapped in response and reciprocated thanks. "So, finally, Ladies and Gentlemen, this is 'Sky Should Be High' by Daisuke Ishiwatari."

Everyone knew something major was about to happen as Carnelian completely filled her soundboard with several fast and complex riffs. The song was a very fast yet artistically intricate sprawl, and Carnelian sang and played it with relish, verve, and indulgence. She rapidly switched the recorded riffs while matching them with her furious strumming, and sped impressively to the song's shining moment; the tune cut off into an acoustic piece near the end before ramping back up into the song. Carnelian tackled the whole sequence with personal vigor especially the powerful declaration of 'I'll! Ne-ver! Ev-er! Kneel! Down!' and finally hit the song's full stop with an emphatic spike.

The audience enthusiastically applauded, and Carnelian bowed to them in thanks. With her performance finished, Carnelian sent her guitar away and stepped off the stage to the audience. With a few people swarming around her, she thanked them, shook hands with them, and even took pictures with them. After a moment, the red quartz located Connie as people started to leave and approached her…

"Congratulations, Scarlet!" Connie happily exclaimed, "You were incredible!"

Doug added, "Yes, you were very cool. I'm glad we decided to take off to see it."

Priyanka then said, "While most of the music wasn't to my taste, your talent and artistry are undeniable."

"Thank you all so much; I'm glad you both stayed and enjoyed yourselves. And Connie…" Carnelian knelt down closer to her eye level. "Connie, this wouldn't have come off nearly as well without you."

Connie blushed slightly, speaking modestly, "Oh, it was just one song, and I was happy to help."

Carnelian persisted, "Still, you took the time and effort to help me, to rehearse with me, and work with me, even though you had other things to do, even though you didn't have to. To me, that means you more than deserve this…"

Carnelian reached into her coat, the Maheswarans confused about what was about to occur, pulled out and placed in Connie's hands … a significant stack of money! All three Maheswarans' eyes grew wide with shock.

Connie tried to protest, aghast "Scarlet, I can't-"

Carnelian interrupted, "Hold on…"

Carnelian pulled out a second stack of similar size and placed it on top of the first…

Connie protested, only more incredulous now, "Seriously, Scarlet, this—"

Carnelian again interrupted, still digging through her coat, "Wait for it…"

Carnelian pulled out two rolls of assorted bills and placed them with the two stacks, all three Maheswarans rendered speechless…

Carnelian explained, "This is all the currency I've made from this whole endeavor, from what I first started playing in front of the car wash all the way until tonight. I was always going to give you a portion, but most of it was going to Greg. Well, it turns out, Greg's wealthy, and since he's rich, that means Steven's rich too. So … that means everything goes to you."

Connie took a moment to compose herself before she could respond, and finally said as she lifted the money back toward Carnelian, "This is very nice, but there's no way I can accept this. This is yours; you earned this, and I helped you because you're my friend, not to get anything…"

Carnelian placed her hands under Connie's and spoke warmly to her, "Connie, that's why I want you to have this. You… Ever since I got here, you've helped me. You didn't even know me. I'm not even the same species as you. You didn't have any reason to do it, but … you gave me the kindness … the respect … the love and care that I needed, that I never thought I would get, that I didn't deserve. I can't thank you enough for that… And yes, you're smart and responsible, so I know you'll find something good to do with it, but… I'm not just giving this to you as some kind of payment; it's because you're my friend that I'm giving you this."

Connie looked to her parents, seeing the look of pride in their eyes, then turned back to Carnelian with a smile. "Uh, wow, Scarlet. I'm … glad I helped you so much. I promise I'll put this to good use."

Carnelian smiled back. "Like I said, I know you will."

The red quartz then hugged Connie, carefully as the girl's hands were still full, and stood back. The Maheswarans and Carnelian then bid each other farewell, and as the family took their leave, Carnelian overheard Connie talking about investments and savings. The red quartz couldn't help but chuckle at the girl's immediate responsibility…

Carnelian looked around for where they could've gone, and spotted them down near the water, smiling and waving to her, and walked over to them, her gems Sphene, Azurite, and Thulite. The three of them crowded around her, praising and congratulating her. Azurite met her first with a big embrace, they started raving about the show, and soon she was raving right back at them.

Somehow, Steven had lost track of Carnelian in between talking all the others about the show and seeing Connie and her family off. He soon spotted her rather animatedly talking and gesturing … to no one. The other Crystal Gems also noticed around the same time…

"Uh… What is going on there?" Peridot asking, voicing what everyone was thinking.

Steven responded with concern, "I don't know. She doesn't seem upset, but… I'll go check on her"

Steven approached her with the other Crystal Gems following behind but hanging back slightly. Carnelian did calm down slightly, but she was still distracted and preoccupied with whatever was happening right now.

"Hey, Tanzanite." Steven called to her, "How you doin'?"

The red quartz turned to him, and the look in her eyes made Steven flinch. She was looking at him but with a glazed, faraway look, almost as if she were entranced or hypnotized. The blissful, unaware grin on her face was really NOT helping and more than a little unnerving…

"Hi, Steven." Carnelian responded, seemingly unfazed, "Everything okay?"

"I hope so. Tanzanite… Are you okay?"

Carnelian chuckled and said, "Of course, I'm better than okay, excellent even. Why do you ask?"

"Well, it's just… You're talking and acting very … excited over here."

"Of course I am. How could I not be after that? I couldn't wait to hear what they thought, what everyone thought."

"Really? And who are they?"

"Ha Ha, very funny, Steven. I'm talking to… I'm talking to…"

That prompt brought Carnelian's consciousness visibly come bubbling back like breaking the surface after being submerged. Carnelian blinked very hard and looked at Steven normally, to the young gem's relief … until obvious horror grew in her eyes next. Carnelian focused on Steven, realized everything she'd just said and felt, and went pale orange with her body going cold and terror on her face. She looked over … and of course Azurite, Sphene, and Thulite weren't there; they never were. She looked back to Steven and sees him and the other Crystal Gems looking very concerned about her. Her fallen teammates felt just as real as they did in life, and this time, her mind did not question it until it was pointed out to her. Carnelian couldn't help feeling she was losing her mind … and now everyone knew it too.

Steven repeated his growing worry, "Tanzanite, is something wrong? Are you going to be okay? Please, tell me."

Looking away for the young gem, Carnelian had to find her voice before she could respond. "Steven … to tell you the truth … I have no idea what just happened to me."

"You were talking to no one, and not the regular kind, like you thought someone was there."

Carnelian tried to stay steady, if for nothing else, for Steven's sake. "Right… Right, well … I'm okay now. I don't know whether it's stress or fatigue or something else, but… I'm okay now."

"Are you sure? If you need help, please tell us."

"No, no, I'm… I'll be fine. Just leave me with it for now. If it comes back, I'll let you know." Carnelian looked at the other gems to indicate the same thing to them.

Still very skeptical, Steven offered, "Well, alright, if you say so. We're going back to the temple; we'll see you there."

"Actually… I think I should go with you now. I already gave Sour Cream his stuff back, and the stage and other stuff can keep until tomorrow."

-XXX-

In the two weeks after the showcase, there were no 'visits' or really any other occurrences, and in the meantime, Carnelian really tried to keep herself pre-occupied most nights … but not tonight. Tonight was wrestling night; Carnelian was in the ring solo with the Purple PumAmethyst in her 'corner' for what was a big event … and Carnelian was the main attraction. According to Smiley, with the red quartz as the main draw, they had the largest ticket sales and gate earnings in the troupe's brief history. The whole place was packed to capacity tonight with quite a few people coming from quite far away. Some people from bigger productions even came to see her, and the guys and girls were helpfully sharing praise for Carnelian to these scouts.

All of this actually caught Carnelian off-guard, with just how much it warmed her heart, but she mostly just enjoyed that so many people had accepted her as one of their own. The event itself went brilliantly, with Amethyst helping Carnelian stay settled throughout but she too simply enjoying the event and seeing her sister successful. As proof, they kept the eager audience engaged, supportive, and helpfully raucous for the duration… 1! 2! 3!

"Here is your winner! And NEW BCW World Champion The Scarlet! Sable!"

The crowd applauded the result as Carnelian was handed her prize, an opulent trophy in the shape of a belt. The title belt itself was very nice if slightly too small, but the most important thing was happening all around her. The whole crowd was clapping and cheering, with seemingly no one leaving or dissatisfied. Amethyst had leapt into the ring as soon as the bell rang and was now jumping up and down and hugging Carnelian; she was so excited she almost slipped out of Purple Puma shape. All the while, Carnelian simply took in the moment; she embraced Amethyst tight around the shoulders, with the audience actually showing appreciation for the show of family togetherness, and whispered many thanks her purple quartz sister, Amethyst whispering praise back.

-X-

Unfazed by the cool breezy beach night around them, Carnelian and Amethyst were still buzzing, laughing, and joking as they headed back to the temple, happy and satisfied as they recounted the event that just happened. When they close, they saw Garnet waiting for them at the bottom of the steps. Steven was definitely asleep by now, so it was understandable the fusion would wait outside the temple.

"Looks like you two had fun." Garnet commented with a grin.

Amethyst exclaimed, pointing to the belt draped over Carnelian's shoulder, "You bet! Check it out! New Champ-ee-own!

"Congratulations…" Garnet said with a chuckle.

"Thanks." Carnelian replied, looking at her trophy, "I'm actually glad I earned this, surprisingly."

"Well, it sounds like your night's already been eventful. Do you think you still have energy to keep going?"

Carnelian responded without hesitation, "Sure, what's going on?"

Garnet explained, "Nothing yet, but I'd like you to go on patrol with me."

"No problem." Carnelian took the belt in her hands and handed it to Amethyst with both hands as if bestowing. "Sis, you mind keeping this with you? Hold it, guard it, keep it safe…?"

Amethyst received the belt. "Of course. You two have fun out there."

With that, the two set off… Carnelian and Garnet soon ended up on the Island, and again Carnelian again was struck by its beauty: its crystalline arches, large opened geode shells, silken streams, and vibrant flora. There's nothing really happening there, so the two sat next to one of it waterfalls and just talked. Interestingly, it gave Carnelian a chance to test a new way she found of getting Garnet to open up a little: she asked Ruby and Sapphire about each other and asked for stories about the two. In response, Garnet was forthcoming but her usual stoic self … until Ruby or Sapphire slipped into gushing about the other. The whole time, Garnet never brought up the incident from two weeks prior, and Carnelian was thankful for that. Eventually…

"Tanzanite… you're one of us now. If you're having a problem, please tell us."

"Of course. The same goes for you all as well with me."

Garnet put a hand of support on Carnelian's shoulder. "We're here for you, no matter what."

-X-

After the event with Amethyst and hanging out with Garnet afterward, Carnelian headed out the next day with Pearl, at Pearl's request, and so they ended up in the strawberry battlefield. It was a lovely sight, rolling hills covered in lush green shrubs dotted with ripe red fruits. Weapons were planted atop several hills and were now enveloped by the overgrowth. The whole are seemed suspended in constant sunset that painted the sky a muted pink. In the distance, there were floating islands with huge hanging roots underneath, as if they'd been ripped out of the ground and hung in midair.

Carnelian was in awe of this place and asked to know more about it. Pearl, thus prompted, launched into lavish, almost mythic retellings of the battles here, all of them with her beloved Rose Quartz at the center. Carnelian found herself captivated simply by Pearl's reverence and rapture over it all. Eventually, when Pearl paused to take a breath after another tale, Carnelian picked up on something…

"Seems like this was a regular conflict spot." Carnelian looked at the planted weapons differently now. "That sure is a lot of death here."

"Yes… Yes, there is…" Pearl's voice and attitude took a downturn as she registered the observation. "I'm sorry. I get carried away here because this place reminds me of Rose and all the incredible things she could do and that she did. Then, I remember all the pain and suffering that occurred here, that we suffered, that we heaped on others… That wanes my pride in it all a great deal."

"I understand; I feel the same about many of my battles especially with corrupted…" Carnelian looked around the strawberry fields again. "It's truly a shame too; this place is so beautiful, only to be stained with tragedy."

"Well… There is something we can do; it's kind of why I asked you here today."

"Oh?" Carnelian watched as Pearl walked a little ways away.

Pearl suddenly turned back to her more bashful and fidgety, although, rather than being anxiety, she actually being coquettish. "Well, I was hoping… if you didn't have other plans… and if you were willing…" Pearl then offered her hand. "Would you please fuse with me?"

Carnelian gave Pearl a smoldering, half-lidded smirk, and took Pearl's hand. The two engaged in a light playful waltz, Pearl giggling when Carnelian dipped her, until Carnelian twirled Pearl back into her arms. A large bloom of light naturally followed, morphed into shape, and … Rubellite was back.

Steven warped to the strawberry battlefield looking for a specific person. Something was weighing on his mind … something that was always in his mind. It came and went often but now it was looming large within him lately. There was a key difference now, however: now there was someone with insight and maybe … answers. The young gem looked all around, only to see no one. Garnet said that she was definitely here but there was no sign of her. Steven only heard faint music and so went in that direction.

"Tanzanite?!" Steven called out. "Tanzanite?"

The music was getting louder, so he was getting closer, and he came to recognize the instrument being played as one used a lot in Lonely Blade. Very soon, he finally came upon an impossible-to-miss occupant: Rubellite, sitting cross-legged, eyes closed in obvious peace and contentment. She was playing an interesting kind of Asian harp, picking the strings like a guitar but it laid flat in Rubellite's lap, with the music produced being more ethereal and dream-like. Steven immediately went starry-eyed and grew a wide smile.

"Rubellite! You're back!" Steven exclaimed, overjoyed.

Rubellite looked up and sent her koto away when she saw him. "Oh, Steven. My little gem."

Steven ran up and hugged the fusion, just able to get her kneecap. Rubellite, in turn, very gently and tenderly put her hand on his back and laid a very small kiss on top of his head, a small kiss from her still touching his entire head.

"I'm so happy to see you again. Is everything okay?"

Rubellite gave a small laugh. "Everything is just fine. I'm just enjoying a lovely day. How are you doing? What brings you out here?"

"I was looking for…" Steven then remembered why he came to this place and thought differently of it. "You know what? It's okay. It's not that important."

"It was important enough for you to come all this way… Steven, if it's important at all to you, then it's important to me."

"Well, I was looking for Tanzanite, but you're here. I can always talk to her later."

Rubellite giggled. "Tanzanite is here… Go on, Steven; I'm listening, sweetie."

Steven's voice and attitude turned heavy. "It's… It's kinda personal … and kinda painful. It might upset Pearl too, and I don't want to hurt her."

Rubellite's voice lightened as Pearl came forward. "It would hurt me more if you couldn't come to me with something. Anything you say to Carnelian, you can say to me. I'll be fine, so please talk to me."

Steven hesitantly nodded, and Rubellite scooped him up onto her lap, making a 'nest' with hands with the larger hands under him and the smaller hands surrounding him. Steven sat down and took a deep, skipping breath as he tried to calm himself. He tried to combat the tightness in his back and body, a growing heat all over him, and a tingling discomfort in his hands and feet from nervousness. Finally, he prepared to let it out with no idea what reaction he would result.

"Well, Tanzanite… It's about my mom. It's … something I've been thinking about a lot lately. I can't ask her and… I know you can't give me a perfect answer. But you're a quartz like she was, and Pearl and Garnet and Amethyst even say you remind them of her sometimes. So… Maybe you can … give me an answer that's … 'close', I guess?" Steven paused again to compose himself and press the pain in his chest down. "What I want to know is why. Why did she have me? What did she want? What did she think I could do? Why… Why would she give up everything and everyone … so I could be?"

Rubellite wanted to cry, Pearl and Carnelian moved to tears as well, their little one's feelings striking right into their hearts. They never knew he felt this way, this doubt, suffered this pain… They were just as upset at themselves for not noticing sooner. Still, they had a question to answer. Rubellite scoured her mind about something they'd never considered before, looking for reasoning or a thought process. Soon, the fusion found a thread and decided to follow it…

Rubellite's voice deepened slightly as Carnelian came forward, and answered, somber and thoughtful, "Well, Steven… Like you said, I can't really speak for Rose Quartz personally one-to-one, but I'll do my best to get you close… You see, from the time we're seeded to the time we emerge to the time we stop, us quartzes are told we are warriors; we're conquerors; we're ravagers; we're … destroyers. We're … supposed to be killers. But your mother… From what I know of her methods to her powers—she uses a shield, generates impenetrable bubbles, cried healing tears, you give healing kisses—to her very essence, she was a caregiver, a protector, a lover. And to be told every day for many millennia that suffering's all you're good for, I can only imagine … how painful that must have been.

So, she rebelled. And, because she didn't want anyone else to feel how she did … she convince many gems to go with her. But then … the war. So many gems on both sides were cracked and shattered, and then most of the survivors fell to the corruption. After all she fought for and all she believe in, in the end it only led to more destruction. That would be very harsh for her to think of herself by the way; the love, the inspiration, the hope she gave, and the chance to be free are all worth fighting and dying for … but I doubt that gave her much solace as she and the others picked up the pieces…

But then … she found out that you were possible, that she could make the process happen and someone as good as you would be the result, so … when she found a human she loved and circumstances were right … she did it; she finally managed to actually give life, instead of take it away… And it was you! And she didn't give anything up; she gave it all to you. Every time you love yourself, that's her loving you too. Every time you love Pearl, Garnet, and Amethyst, that's her loving them too. Every time you love Greg, that's her love for him too. You reaching out to Peridot and Lapis meant the same as if she welcomed them herself.

As for what she wanted … she wanted you." Tears began flowing from Rubellite's right eye. "You are already your mother's wildest hopes and dreams, just by being you. Everything you've accomplished and everything you will do is already more than her greatest expectations. She gave everything she had and everything she could because she loves you and always will. And we all love you too and always will."

His eyes wide, tears streaming down his cheeks, Steven spoke, touched, "Wow. I… Thank you. I hope… I think you're right. I'm glad I asked."

Rubellite then noticed her own tears. "Oh, Pearl… It's okay; I just… I always suspected, but hearing it, saying it aloud. It…" Rubellite sighed as she wiped her eye. "Thank you for letting me stay; I feel a little better too." The fusion then got herself together again. "So, was that good? Are you feeling better, Steven?"

"So much better." Steven said, wiping his eyes, "Thank you … Rubellite."

Rubellite lovingly replied, "My pleasure, sweetheart."

Rubellite lifted him and gave him another small kiss. Steven kissed her cheek in return, and hugged her head, to the fusion's delight.

-XXX-

Gathered in the barn, Peridot and Carnelian were putting the finishing touches on the machine, the red quartz helping the technical gem in her own way: lifting the machine so Peridot could work under it, holding things close that needed soldering, clamping things that needed to be closed, and things of that nature. Peridot was just making a few final adjustments on the inner workings…

"And … done. In theory as least. Now, to activate and test it."

Lapis, who had been standing by watching the whole time, then spoke up, "Hold on. I think Steven should be here when we fire it up for the first time proper."

Carnelian added, "Yeah, imagine the look on his face…"

"Hmm… I hate giving presentations without proper beta testing beforehand…" Peridot said, slightly miffed. However, she then saw the excitement of the other two and relented, "Bur there are other ways to test it without a full startup."

Lapis then offered, "Great. I'll get everyone."

With that, Lapis flew off as Peridot and Carnelian started manual diagnostics… Soon, all the Crystal Gems had gathered in the Barn, with Carnelian and Peridot in front of the now-covered machine…

Peridot started, "To our fellow Crystal Gems, Carnelian and I have a special instrument to show you, the newest implement in our ongoing fight against the corruption."

On cue, Carnelian stepped aside and pulled the sheet away to oohs, aahs, and whistles…

Steven said, optimistic and encouraging as always, "This is pretty cool, you guys. So, what does it do?"

Carnelian pointed out, "Well, that's the most important part. This is a rejuvenation machine, the same as a rejuvenation room but able to bring a poofed or injured gem back to a full health in a third—"

"A sixth!" Peridot quickly corrected.

Carnelian looked at Peridot in pleasant surprise before changing her statement. "—a sixth of the time. This gives us a second means of recovery, so we don't have to lean on Steven as much. But that's not the best thing or most important reason we brought it to you. Peridot…"

Peridot visibly perked up as she took over the explanation, "Yes. We just completed an upgrade to this machine that allows it to run full, intensive diagnostics on any gem including internal imaging of a gem's makeup in real time."

Connie inquired, "Wait, so we can see what's going on inside a gem?! And we use it on one of the corrupted…"

Steven let out a deep gasp as he realized, "We actually see what the corruption does to them! Then, we can find a way to help them!"

As expected, Steven was overjoyed, running up and hugging Carnelian's leg then hugging Peridot tightly about the neck. Lapis was overjoyed simply at seeing Steven so happy. Pearl looked to Garnet with hope, and when Garnet smiled and nodded back, her heart leapt…

When Steven finally let go of Peridot, Carnelian continued, "Now, we ran some tests, and it is operational, but we wanted to save the first time we brought it online … for you."

"Finally!" Peridot exclaimed. She then went over to the machine's console and started typing and flipping switches. "Now, stand back … and prepare to be impressed."

The Regen machine soon buzzed to life with a rising tone and a rhythmic set of beeps, clicks, and hums. It then lit up and started showing many electric graphs and readings and stats. Meanwhile, the Crystal Gems didn't notice another machine coming to life. In a pile with the others in a corner of the barn, one of the eyes blinked to life and started looking around… The Crystal Gems looked in awe at the new device … until it suddenly started blaring an alarm. All its lights turned red and began strobing, and a map on screen showed a pulsing circle, indicating a presence…

Amethyst asked for everyone, "What's going on? Why's it freaking out?"

Pearl asked as well, "Peridot, what does that alarm mean?"

Peridot answered, not looking back from working at her screen, "It's an alarm for corrupted gem activity, specifically when one is nearby."

Amethyst called her whip. "What?! Where?!"

Peridot said, "That's what I'm trying to decipher… It's indicating that it's coming from inside the barn." Everyone was alerted and started looking around. "Trying to pinpoint its location, and…"

Peridot stopped and looked around until she saw Carnelian… She slowly turned back to machine and started typing again… Only more confused, Peridot slowly looked at Carnelian again, and this time, the red quartz noticed…

Peridot hesitantly reported, "It's reading that the corrupted gem is standing where you're standing … Carnelian."

Carnelian let a disappointed groan. "Well, that feature was a cool idea, but looks like it was a wash."

Peridot argued, "No, it's saying you're the corrupted gem."

Carnelian argued back, "And, I'm obviously not. That means the machine must be wrong."

Peridot persisted, "No. We both checked it multiple times, its inner workings, its connections, everything, and we both know there's nothing wrong with it."

Carnelian bristled, "But that's impossible. Alright, look, you said Jasper got corrupted when she fused with a corrupted gem, right?" She then turned to the others. "Pearl? Amethyst? I've fused with both of you a bunch of times now. Do you feel any different?"

Pearl said quickly, starting to worry, "No, I'm completely fine."

Really not liking where this was going, Amethyst said, "Yeah, I'm all good; a little freaked out by what's happening right now."

Peridot grew troubled by the argument and her findings. "I'm not saying it makes sense. But I've double and triple checked its findings, re-ran its search, and checked again. It's definitely detecting something from you. Sure, there are multiple anomalies in its configuration, but it's definitely the same signature."

Carnelian was getting worried now. "No, it… It can't be. How? When could it…?"

Carnelian quickly tried to recall everything she'd done in recent memory, and even started thinking all the way back to her Homeworld service. Then, she recalled a seemingly innocuous occurrence before she left … while she was meeting White Pearl. She looked at the others in stunned shock, making the rest of the Crystal Gems very worried now.

During the whole deliberation, something else was afoot. The reactivated eye scanned the surrounding gems, located and identified Carnelian. It then drew a specific, hidden gun and took aim! Garnet quickly realized something was wrong, looked over, saw the eye preparing to attack, and ran over … a moment too late. The eye fired just as she got there. CRUNCH! Garnet smashed the gun and then the eye.

"UGH! What in the…!" Carnelian looked around, irritated and offended, for whatever hit her in the back.

With the Crystal Gems looking back and forth between them, Steven called out, "Tanzanite, are you okay?"

Carnelian clenched her eyes and rubbed her forehead in seeming ache. "Steven, I'm fine… I'm always … taking things … that aren't mine."

Very alarmed now, Amethyst asked, "Uh, Carnelian … are you okay? You're scaring us now."

Her eyes still closed and rubbing the back of her head, Carnelian was speaking clearly and normally but was terrifyingly unintelligible, "Connie, there's no reason … to bring things forward … especially when no one heard … their footsteps the first time."

The Crystal Gems were definitely terrified now. Carnelian finally opened her eyes again … with a very confused look which quickly transitioned into one of pure terror, even though she was not looking at anyone. Slowly, she started nodding … when her eyes rolled back into her head. She went completely rigid, fell back, and hit the ground with a terrible thud. Her whole body constricted and seized so forcefully that she was trembling. The back of her head repeatedly slammed against the floor. An unholy groan of pain and effort was crushed out of her.

The Crystal Gems all rushed over and knelt by her sides, and tried to help … but they couldn't. They called to her, but she couldn't hear. They couldn't hold her because she was still powerful enough to crush them if they got caught. They couldn't turn her over to reach her gem. Eventually, the episode seemed to pass, and Carnelian went limp from fatigue, her body so spent that shoe couldn't but relax. The Crystal Gems were frightened and frantically trying to revive her, but Carnelian laid motionless, her eyes left in a half-lidded vacant stare.

To Be Continued…

A/N: …? …! …?!