Disclaimer: I do not own Steven Universe.
A/N: One of 2 one-shots that have been on my mind. This one was the shortest of the two. It's probably my shortest chapter ever, but I really like the idea.
Ruby.
Sapphire.
Pearl.
All stood by the rebel leader's side.
One as a guard newly hired for the sole purpose of protecting the Quartz.
One as a prophet, long since gifted to the Quartz.
One an ever devoted confidant to the beloved former Diamond.
All stood together as dreamers craving better lives than they had led so far.
Victory was near. Sapphire had promised them this, though she herself could not see how such a feat was to be achieved. Blindly moving forward, the battle raged on.
Harsh cries and the sickening clanks of metal went unnoticed; however, through these familiar noises the three could not ignore.
Shattering.
Such a horrific sound.
Every time she heard that noise Ruby's eyes would instinctively search for that single figure.
It should have been Rose.
Instead, a sapphire was whom she cared for most.
"Watch out!" Sapphire called.
Crimson eyes blinked, broken from their spell to return their focus to the assigned task.
A golden gem was lowering their weapon upon their beautiful leader.
With one small and swift movement Ruby drew her gauntlet, pushing it forward into the opposing gem.
*Poof*
The red gem sighed, that was too close.
Pearl scowled, wondering, What need did her Rose have for such a guardian? This ruby could barely even concentrate on her assigned task. "Keep your eyes forward and your attention completely on Rose." She scolded, "Your fondness is noted but please believe Sapphire is fully capable of taking care of herself." Pearl did not notice the irony in her words as she drew nearer to her own affection, sword drawn in protection.
A sudden wave of heat could be felt around the group.
"I know that!" Ruby snapped back, not daring to look back. She cringed at the thought of what faces the noble blue gem might be making.
Never would Ruby have guessed the usually stoic gem, in the midst of destruction and chaos, had found a reason to smile.