Hey guys! So here's the next chapter, but I wanted to clarify something: Steven DID watch the Nora video. In this fic, he disappears after he talks with Greg about the VHS tapes. Also, I apologize for how Steven is so angsty in this fic. It wasn't my intention to write him that way, it just kind of happened. I'm basing Steven's mood off of how frustrated he was this past Steven Universe season, and how reckless he was with Blue Diamond in regards to Greg's abduction. He'll probably get better later on in the fic, but probably not for awhile.

As for this chapter, Bismuth wakes up and has a pretty intense encounter with Mabel and Steven. This chapter's pretty intense in general, but the last part of this fic was pretty emotional to write. So I hope you guys enjoy it! Leave a comment or question in the reviews, if you like!

Disclaimer: I don't own Steven Universe, Gravity Falls, or Rick and Morty

Garnet was so relieved that she was back together, that Sapphire finally could see clearly again and could merge with Ruby. Garnet honestly wasn't sure how much longer they could have tolerated to be separated, and had no intention of separating for awhile. The fusion knew the timing was no coincidence, as the arrival of the Pines human family had somehow unified the discrepancies Sapphire was experiencing.

Clearing her throat, the tallest Gem spoke. "So this 'Rick Sanchez', is the one that Sapphire saw in her visions?"

"Yes." Ford nodded. "Based on what Peridot said, the Sapphires most likely experienced vision difficulties because of the uncertainties Rick introduced to each universe's timeline. Correct me if I'm wrong, but the reason why a Sapphire's vision is accurate is because it is the ONLY outcome laid out before her?"

"Correct." Garnet nodded.

"That would indeed explain the symptoms, and why they resolved after they returned to Homeworld." Peridot agreed.

"Yeah about that... is there really a whole planet of talking gemstones like you gals?" Stan asked, which earned him an elbow nudge by Dipper.

"Grunkle Stan!" Dipper hissed and then laughed apologetically. "Sorry... we're not as well traveled in other universes as Ford is."

"It's fine. Homeworld isn't anything to be impressed by anyways- unless if your on the receiving end of their weapons." Lapis shrugged. "Some of which would be useful in saving Steven?"

"Going to Homeworld is impossible." Pearl stated.

"Yeah Pearl... there are literally human beings from a different universe in our Moonbase- I think the word 'impossible' doesn't really apply here anymore." Amethyst stated.

"Besides these guys obviously have some portal device, couldn't Peridot just program it to go to a weapon's arsenal on Homeworld?" Lapis indicated to the Pines men. "I say we go in, grab as many weapons as we can, and go save Steven! And whoever that other human is."

"That is... not entirely insane Lapis." Pearl replied and looked down at Peridot. "Would you able to do that?"

"I would have to analyze the technology first and run a series of trials before considering, but I suppose since these invading humans came to our respective universe, adjusting their device should not pose any difficulties." Peridot rubbed her chin and turned to Dipper. "Tell me, what was your scientific method of teleportation?"

"Well first off, we're not invaders- we're here to save my sister, and second- I have absolutely no idea. Ford is controlling the universe hopping through his watch." Dipper admitted.

"Very well." Peridot turned her attention to the man. "You will work with me to adjust your device, so it can accommodate our trip to Homeworld. I agree with Lazuli and Pearl's sentiments- we will most likely need a greater arsenal."

"I don't know if more advanced technology would help us or not, actually." Ford interjected. "With Rick, his intelligence is so high that he most likely has a disruptor for any weapon from your Homeworld or on Earth. As crazy as this sounds, our best bet it to try and reason with Rick- if we go in guns blazing, then he'll vanquish us- period."

"No." Pearl replied bluntly. "He abducted Steven and your Mabel, he is our enemy and we need to be prepared."

"Agreed, which is why I'm telling all of you that entering his territory with weapons drawn is basically suicide." Ford bluntly matched.

"Geez Ford... isn't this guy just a mad scientist like you and McGucket?" Stan asked.

"No- he's far beyond that. Sanchez is far beyond any intellect I have ever known or met- he taught me about portals, infinite timelines, infinite universes, the multiverse- everything that would only exist in a science fiction novel. Do you know why he taught me this knowledge, Stan? Dipper?" Ford asked.

"Why? I thought you agreed to be his experiment." Dipper asked.

"He was bored." The answer clearly surprised everyone in the room, but Ford continued. "This man did want to use me for his experiments, but it wasn't in the pursuit of science or a great discovery- Rick was bored. Pure and simple. This man has the power to create and destroy anything he wants, and cares for nothing but his own indulgences. All of you need to understand this- Rick Sanchez is a sociopath. He abducted Steven and Mabel most likely for the simple reason of seeing our groups come together, or maybe for something less."

"So why wouldn't we go in with what the worst Homeworld has to offer?" Pearl gritted out.

"Life means nothing to Rick Sanchez- which means that if we arrive looking for war, he'll annihilate use before you even have the chance to use whatever abilities all of you have. This also means that he would kill Steven and Mabel without any hesitance, and would most likely do that in front of us for an added touch."

"Geez Ford... how the heck could yah get mixed up with this nutcase?" Stan asked.

"As I explained before, I was in a desperate situation and was desperate for more knowledge- I was impulsive and stupid, and I paid a terrible price. The same will be here, if we do it your way Crystal Gems." Ford pleaded.

Amethyst bit her lip and asked: "You said something about reasoning with this guy right? If he's as insane you said- why would talking it out even be an option?"

"Because he wouldn't see as a threat, and would therefore hear us out. As dangerous as he is, you can normally placate him if you allow him to be the one with the power in a situation. I'm not sure how this conversation will go, but I'll prepare myself for what's to come. This time, I'll volunteer to be a guinea pig or-"

"We're not leaving without you, Ford." Stan bluntly stated. "You got stuck out in the multiverse before- not gonna happen again."

"What do you suggest I do then?!" Ford exclaimed. "I have nothing else to offer!"

"Enough!" Garnet interjected. "It won't be necessary. Sapphire's visions don't indicate he'll need anything from you."

"Wait! You're getting visions?! How's Steven?! Has that Sanchez guy done anything to him?!" Lapis yelled.

"From what Sapphire sees... Steven nor Mabel are there. We seem to be talking to Sanchez, but that's all Sapphire can see before feeling pain. Our guess is that this man purposefully distorts his universe to prevent enemy attacks?" Garnet asked.

"That sounds like Rick." Ford sighed. "Does it look like we're discussing things civilly at least?"

"From the little we saw, violence seems to be a highly unlikely outcome." Garnet answered. "Everybody... I understand your anger and your frustration, but entering a fight we're clearly outmatched in with violence would abruptly end our journey. We need to follow Mr. Pines' lead."

"Fine with me." Amethyst shrugged.

"If the odds of our survival are that low, I would very much side with reason." Peridot nodded.

"I'll go along with it. But if he does anything to Steven in front of us- I'm drowning him." Lapis warned.

"...How can you be okay with this?" Pearl growled.

"Pearl..." Garnet sighed.

"No! This man altered our universe to make that disgusting archive exist! Essentially discrediting the rebellion! And making Rose Quartz shatter in such a way! Don't you dare tell me to approach this reasonably!" Pearl clutched her head.

"Pearl...?" Dipper spoke quietly, and then turned to Garnet. "What's she talking about?"

"The Crystal Gems were originally a rebel army led by fearsome Rose Quartz, and essentially forced Homeworld off Earth. While the rebellion ended in victory for the Crystal Gems, we had sustained heavy casualties and had to accept the natural consequences of war." Garnet answered. "A video archive essentially discredited everything we fought for, and disgraced out leader in the worst way. Among us, Pearl was closest to her... even loved her."

"Stop Garnet." Pearl growled and reached up to the gem on her head, pulling out a lance. "Let's find Rick Sanchez and rescue Steven! We can't stand around like this anymore!"

/

Steven couldn't believe his eyes as he looked at metallic gem Lion had just coughed up, and couldn't help feel like he was being suffocated. How and why did Lion swallow Bismuth?! What was she doing here?! Did Bill also plan for this?!

Meanwhile Mabel was just as confused as Steven, poking the gem curiously. She didn't understand what Steven was freaking out about- yeah it was a lab created material, but it wasn't going to kill them or anything. Besides, his pet most likely just swallowed the material out of boredom or hunger. If he was worried about his cat getting sick, it was most likely resolved now.

"I figured you'd get hungry eventually." Mabel petted the big cat. "Now do you see that this place is bad news?! I mean- your lion was so nervous he ate a rock!"

"Lion couldn't have got that from anywhere in here! I didn't bring any of the Crystal Gems with me- let alone Bismuth! Oh no... is Jasper in there too boy?" Steven was on his knees, practically hyperventilating.

"Uh Steven... you're not making any sense. It's just a rock. He'll probably throw them back up like this one." Mabel reassured.

"You don't understand!" Steven snapped. "That's not a normal piece of Bismuth! That's a living being!"

"Okay... I think you've officially been in here too long." Mabel said awkwardly.

"Didn't I explain what the Crystal Gems were?! This is what happens when their stones become damaged- they revert into them!" Steven explained and the gem suddenly started glowing, forcing Steven to feel the familiar sensation of a Gem about to take form. "Oh no... why?!"

Mabel got behind a chair nearby, and was in awe at the scene before her- the glowing Bismuth piece had started floating and started taking the form of a broad figure. When the light eventually faded, a blue skinned woman with rainbow hair had appeared. Mabel noted she was much too tall to be human, and found her blacksmith apron and overall appearance very cool.

The girl also had to admit that even with all her experience with Weirdmaggeden, she found the Crystal Gems idea a bit farfetched- especially with the way Steven described them. So to actually see one in person was incredible. She couldn't help but feel privileged, overwhelmed, and excited- it was a whirlwind of wonder and amazement. 'This must've been what Dipper felt every time he discovered something supernatural.'

"What the?!" The Crystal Gem's voice brought Mabel out of her stupor. Mabel's breath caught when the Gem turned to face her, initiating a staring match. Neither of them said anything at first, and were clearly trying to determine whether or not they were in the presence of an enemy. Remembering what Steven said about the Crystal Gems, Mabel slowly got out from behind the chair.

"Are you a Crystal Gem?" Mabel asked hesitantly.

"Yeah. What about it?" The Gem rose a brow.

"Hi! My name's Mabel Pines, I'm from Pidemont, California and am in my second year of middle school! I don't like school but I love my pet pig Waddles, and REALLY want to get back home!" Mabel stuck out her hand. "What's your name?"

"Uhh... Bismuth." The gem answered awkwardly, slowly reaching out her own hand and was surprised to see the human girl shake it. "...Of the Crystal Gems. I take it you're not an enemy and that we're not on Homeworld or Earth?"

"No! Definitely not! Although, I don't know where we are either. I doubt it's Earth though." Mabel answered. "Look... I'm not entirely sure what's going on around here, but I've essentially been kidnapped with your friend Steven and-"

"Steven?" Bismuth interrupted and started looking around. "Steven Universe is here?"

"Yeah. He's the one who told me about the Crystal Gems." Mabel looked around too. "Though it was weird... after Lion spit you out, he started really panicking for some reason. Seriously, with what we're up against- we'll need all the help we can get. Speaking of which- Steven where are you?!"

"Probably hiding? Not too different from Rose- always hiding behind something." Bismuth's expression hardened. "You said I was spit out by that pink cat?"

"Well a Lion, but yeah." Mabel was growing nervous. "Steven didn't know he swallowed you."

"I bet." Bismuth snorted and started looking around the room, and after finding nothing under the bed or desk- she moved on to the rest of the house.

"Uh... where are you going?" Mabel asked.

"Looking for a coward." Bismuth said without looking at her.

"Wait you mean Steven?! What are you going to do to him?" Mabel bit her lip.

"Something I should've done the moment I met him, and something you don't need to concern yourself with." Bismuth narrowed her eyes down the hallway. Mabel's eyes widened and blocked her way in the hall, making the girl realize just how large the Gem was compared to her. Bismuth narrowed her eyes, "Move."

"No! You have to listen to me! Me and Steven were kidnapped to this weird place by a Triangle demon-god thing, and we need to work together to get out of here!" Mabel explained.

"Then I'll free us after I take care of this." Bismuth pushed Mabel aside slightly, before continuing forward, only for Mabel to get in her way again. "I'm not telling you again- move."

"Listen! Whatever your mad at Steven about, I need you so somehow put that aside for now so we can figure out a way to escape from here and get home!" Mabel pleaded again.

"Put it aside...?" Bismuth gritted, and suddenly slapped Mabel to the side. Bismuth wasn't surprised when she saw Rose's room open and pull Mabel in- it was only logical for Rose to return to her sanctuary. "You're normally smarter than this Rose... I'll say this- you're a better comrade than her, but you're only a fraction of her intelligence. You got lucky the last time we met!" Bismuth laughed. "And this time... I'm not making any mistakes." Bismuth morphed her arms into hammers and started pounding at the door.

Meanwhile, Mabel was rubbing her cheek from the impact. That wasn't the first time she was hit by someone, but she could swear that those darned unicorns kicked with less strength than Bismuth.

"Here." Mabel saw that Steven was sitting beside her, holding an ice pack. "That's gonna leave a mark. I'm sorry."

"It's not your fault." Mabel sighed, nursing her cheek. "I'm sorry I didn't believe you about that Crystal Gem."

"I panicked and left you out there alone with her, knowing she was mad at me." Steven said evenly.

"Yeah... what's she so mad about anyways? I thought you said the Crystal Gems fought to protect Earth and stuff?" Mabel asked.

"They did." Steven nodded. "But... they lost a lot and are forced to remember it occasionally. Bismuth was a memory my mom wanted to leave in the past, because she didn't know how to handle her at the time. Just like how she left the aftermath of the Gem War to me, because she didn't know or want to deal with the fallout. All these issues from the Gem War started with my mom, but all ended up on me- I hate it."

"Is that why you started seeing Bill?" Mabel asked.

"I'm supposed to be my mom's successor, and I barely know anything about her." Steven answered. "And whenever I find out something new about her, it sometimes can turn really ugly. Bill was the only one who told me I could escape it, that I could change everyone's fate."

"Like Bismuth?" When Steven didn't answer immediately, Mabel spoke. "Steven... your lion probably stowed Bismuth away for a reason, and we need to figure out a way to reason with her to get her on our side. But for me to help you do that, you have to tell me what happened between you and her."

"...Just promise me one thing, and I'll tell you everything." Steven said.

"What?"

"Don't compare me to my mom."

/

Pearl was distraught and was refusing to accept the idea of negotiation, when all she wanted to do was find this man and destroy him. She knew she would be violating Rose Quartz's principles, but her son was abducted by him and they could not afford to be soft.

"Pearl! You're not thinking clearly!" Garnet shouted. "Put your weapon away, or we're leaving you here."

"You wouldn't!"

"If it meant insuring Steven's life, that Mabel girl's life, and the lives of everyone here- of course I would, and Rose Quartz would do the same." Garnet pointed out.

Gritting her teeth, Pearl conceded and put her weapon away. "If this man is as insane as Ford says, what would stop him from shattering us all the moment we approach him?"

"Oh, that won't be a problem." Ford reassured. "Sanchez will most likely be inebriated with some kind of alcohol, so his slow reaction times will guarantee at least some interaction."

"If I have to drink this guy under the table, consider it done!" Stan spoke up.

"That's not gonna help anyone Grunkle Stan." Dipper sighed, and turned his attention to Pearl again. "I want to get this guy too, believe me. But we can't rush in and risk Mabel and Steven's safety, so for now... work with us?"

"Yeah Pearl- be more of a team player!" Amethyst smiled.

"I concur." Peridot nodded. "Larger groups will statistically have an increased chance of victory."

"I'm going along with this since Steven needs help, but I'll be tag teaming Pearl in the first attack if this guy asks for it!" Lapis stated firmly.

Garnet looked around their group, and asked: "So we're all in agreement?"

After a moment, Pearl sighed. "Fine. Lead the way Ford."