Superman/Steven Universe:
The Shield of Hope
(Note: Sorry for the wait everbody, my first semester of college has just started and I am busy with papers, projects, and what not. But I will not stop writing for either of my stories and I'll hopefully be able to release a couple of one-shots too. But For now enjoy the next chapter of this series.) :)
Chapter 14
Clark Kent's Apartment, Metropolis, Saturday Afternoon
"For the last time Lola I don't think I'll need any backup for this" Clark said as he walked around his apartment phone to his ear
Clark was walking around barefoot, wearing a pair of jeans and a short sleeve undershirt, his glasses sat atop his head.
"Yes I am aware it could be a trap… well for one I can handle myself and two I think they are good people" Clark said as he walked past his bed, his cape and T-Shirt on it
"You saw what happen back there, they helped me, they saved Mr. Luthor, and everyone else in that building. Maybe our first meeting was a really bad coincidence, there's a lot more to them and this could be my only way to get answers. The Star Labs robbery, that ocean city, Luthor's project Crystal they are all connected somehow" Clark said as he heard a knocking at the door
With a quick scan of his X-Ray vision he saw an elderly man with a cane standing outside his room.
"No I don't think the gems are connected to Luthor….. They seemed just as surprised by his unveiling as everyone else was" Clark said as he walked toward the door, putting his glasses over his eyes and picking up an envelope on a table
Clark opened the door to meet the elderly gentleman
"Time to pay the rent Mr. Kent" the elderly man said
"I got it right here Mr. Reeves" Clark said handing the envelope to the man
"On time as always, you're a good kid Clark. A lot better than the other riff-raff hanging around here paying a week late, playing that loud music, and being nuisances. You always so kind and quiet" Mr. Reeves said with a smile
"Well most of my time consists of writing for the planet or watching TV. I'm glad you caught me now, I'm gonna be out for the rest of the day Mr. Reeves" Clark said
"You should relax Kent, especially after what happened a few days ago" Mr. Reeves said concerned
"I told you like I'm telling everyone, I'm fine" Clark said a bit defensively
"This city is getting crazier and crazier by the day flying men, magic woman, monsters you'd think we're turning into Gotham. Well either way have a nice day Mr. Kent" Mr. Reeves said walking away from the door
Clark quietly closed the door, put his glasses on his head and then returned to his phone
"Lola, Lola calm down it wasn't anything dangerous it was my landlord….. Yes I am sure he is not a spy… because he's in his 80's" Clark said as he walked to his room and sat on his bed
"But, back to the topic at hand. I've been thinking ever since the battle back at Lexcorp the gems know that I'm Kryptonian, they knew from our first meeting. I think they recognized the crest they seemed to be scared of it, and to be honest you've been very curious about them ever since I told you about them after the fight at the ocean city. Lola I want you to be honest, do you know who they are, are they connected to Krypton" Clark asked seriously
The room was silent for a few seconds when there was another knock at the door and Clark got up to answer it.
"It's just Mr. Reeves again, and don't change the subject. I want an answer Lola….. I think that because of what I just listed and the fact that Pearl….." Clark said as he opened the door
But standing there wasn't the Elderly Mr. Reeves, instead it was Lois Lane hands on her hips and a small smile on her face.
"Howdy Smallville got anything planned for today" Lois asked with a wave. Lois was wearing a black skirt that went to her knees, black flat bottom shoes, and a short sleeve white dress shirt with a purple vest over it.
Clark let out a panicked yelp as he jumped back and quickly put his glasses over his eyes.
"O-o-oh Ms. Lane- I-I wasn't expecting you today-here-at my home. H-how can I help you" Clark said trying to compose himself
Lois gave him a quizzical look then sighed "Well first you can invite us in Kent" Lois said
"Us?" Clark asked
"Hey CK, Happy Saturday. Sorry your about to spend it working" Jimmy said apologetically. Jimmy was wearing a green beanie letting some of his orange hair pop out, a pair of green cargo jeans, and red T–shirt that says "I'm everyone's Pal" with a thumbs up under it.
"Oh Jimmy's here to" Clark said failing to hide his nervousness
"Don't sound so disappointed Kent. So are you gonna let us in, or do you have something to hide" Lois said playfully making Clark sweat
"Uuuummm…. S-sure come on in, make yourself at home. Just give me a sec I need to handle something" Clark said opening the door
"Does it involve that phone" Lois said pointing to the phone in Clark's hand, he flinched in realization
"Ah-Oh right! Mom hey sorry, I have to call you back. I will send you those photos right away, love you bye" Clark said rushed as he ended the call and then ran to his room, Lois and Jimmy walked inside his apartment
"Hey was Clark always that tall, I mean he's taller than us, but he seemed really tall right now?" Jimmy asked
"It's just the doorway Olsen, these older building were built for smaller people" Lois said walking inside
Clark was currently wrapping his cape around his shirt into a ball within a reasonable speed. Then Lois peaked into the room and Clark hid the ball behind his back
"Did we catch you at a bad time Smallville?" Lois asked
"Oh I was just doing some cleaning up, I was going to go out a little later" Clark said as he looked behind Lois. His broom closet was slightly open
"Hey are these your folks?" Lois said as she walked to his nightstand and picked up the photo
"Yes, yes they are" Clark said as he dropped the ball behind his back
With Lois out of the doorway, Clark then kicked the clothes ball allowing it to slide under his bed, out his room, then into the closet.
"They look like good, simple people. With how you turned out what else could be expected, must've been happy when they brought you back from the hospital" Lois said examining the photo not noticing what Clark just did
"Actually Lois, I'm adopted. Achoo!" Clark said and then faked a sneeze creating a gust of wind to shut the closet door. Jimmy was looking at Clark's DVD's and didn't note the door slamming behind him.
"Adopted, wow I didn't know." Lois said surprised
"Yeah I didn't either till a bit later down the line. Is there something you want to talk about Lois" Clark asked
"Oh right come in to the Kitchen" Lois said walking out of the room, Clark let out a relieved sigh as he followed
"Alright now get this, we got a lead on those Crystal Gems" Lois said excited
"What Kind of lead?" Clark asked, and then Lois snapped her fingers
"Well while I was searching for Beach Cities near Metropolis, I remembered something. There's this other blog online I was competing with called "Keep Beach City Weird", that also reports on strange happenings though of course not as good as me. Either way I remembered a post I scrolled past and you won't believe who's in it" Jimmy said holding up his phone
On it showed a man with glasses and blonde hair being attacked by what Clark could only describe as sentient watermelons, and these melons were in a very familiar shape. And if that wasn't enough Steven Universe himself walked into frame trying to help the man.
"Steven?" Clark said confused
"I know right! So after that I looked up where this Ronaldo guy lives, it's this in a place in Delmarva about a two hour drive from Metropolis. A small beach town a summer tourist stop, and it's called get this Beach City" Jimmy said excited as Clark's eyes widened
"The name aside, this is what we've been looking for Smallville. If the Kid is there, then so will be the gems, we got directions to the town we're heading there now. And you're going to help us" Lois said pointing to Clark
"Why do you need me?" Clark asked
"Well when Jimmy brought this information to my attention, I do remembered something. That one time you brought your CD's to work and played them at your desk, I asked where you got them from. You said it was from when you were younger, you and your family stopped at a small beach town called Beach City" Lois said confidently making Clark sweat
"You knew where Steven was from the beginning didn't you? And you were about to go to Beach City yourself to get this interview huh?" Lois said poking Clark's chest
"Slick CK" Jimmy said impressed
"Lois it was so long ago, I didn't….." Clark tried to explain
"Nobody tries to pull one over on Lois Lane Smallville, NO-ONE. And for your dishonest transgression, you are coming with me and Jimmy to Beach City where I will conduct the interview" Lois said with Confidence
"L-Lois I really can't, there's something I need to do today" Clark tried to reason
"Well then drop it, you're going on a Road trip. I have to say Kent, withholding vital Planet Information for yourself pretty underhanded if you ask me. Not bad, I guess there's more to you then your simple farm boy front, now get some clothes on and come on were waiting for you downstairs. Pack for the day, we'll probably be gone for a while" Lois said with an amused smile as she walked out the apartment leaving Clark with blush on his face
"See ya downstairs CK" Jimmy said slapping Clark's back and following Lois
Clark sighed as he walked to his closet and opened the door looking down on the black diamond and 'S' that sat on the back of his cape.
"Looks like I'm going to Beach City, just not as fast as I would want" Clark said to himself as he picked the bundle up
7 minutes Later
Lois and Jimmy were sitting in a four seated red sleek sports car with a roll up roof, the roof was currently down letting the car be open. Clark walked out of his Apartment building wearing a pair of jeans, boots, a blue plaid shirt with a dark red jacket that said Smallville (year of Superman's creation and find more about Smallville). Clark was also caring a duffel bag that had his effects inside.
"Wow CK, first time I've seen you out of that suit. Cool Jacket man" Jimmy said pointing to Clark's jacket
"Thanks Jimmy, it's an old hand-me-down from home. Mind if I put this in the back?" Clark said pointing to the car's trunk and received a thumbs up from Lois
Once his back was safely in the back he sat in the passenger's seat next to Lois
"Nice car Lois, I didn't know you had one" Clark said
"Thank it's a Loan from my sisters, I don't really have a need to drive in the city. Buckle up, we're off" Lois said as she started the engine and drove the car down the streets of Metropolis
"Well since we're gonna be on the road for a while what do you guys want to talk about for the trip?" Jimmy asked
"The assignment" Lois said bluntly
"Come on Lois we've been through a lot the past few days, I feel like were closer as a team. And teams need to know about more about each other if they want to function properly. Sooooo….. CK tell us about Smallville" Jimmy said excited
"O-oh wow this is sudden" Clark said surprised
"Yeah nothing more invigorating then hearing about the corn capital of America" Lois said bored
"We actually were voted for best corn in Kansas" Clark interjected quietly
"Come on Lois be nice, we have an hour and some change to get to beach city might as well us it right. Now seriously CK what's it like living in the country" Jimmy asked genuinely interested
"Well it's really different from Metropolis, things are a lot slower and smaller over there hence the name. It's also a lot more open you can see miles and miles of nothing by looking in any direction. The people were also really friendly everybody know everybody, sometime when me and Pa were walking down the street he would end up talking to a random person I didn't know for then minutes. And then that person would lend him 5 dollars, he would always pay them back" Clark said as he reminisced
"Wow I didn't know people could be so friendly. Whenever I tried to ask for money in my neighborhood I usually got a black eye" Jimmy said surprised
"Well what was your neighborhood like Jimmy?" Clark asked
"Well it's nothing special honestly, I've lived in Metropolis all my life. A simple block with an apartment, a deli, and a laundromat. Living in a single parent house with three younger sisters is surprisingly more manageable than you think. I love my mom and those little mongrels, I wouldn't change a thing. Though I can't say the same for my school life. Ain't exactly the most popular guy in school, didn't really have a lot of friends. The kid running around the city looking for mysteries is an easy target for bullying. Though after that business in Lexcorp I am getting a lot more notoriety, I mean girls are actually talking to me now. Though I know who my real friends are, and it ain't anybody in that school." Jimmy said
"I wouldn't lose hope just yet, I mean I was the outcast back in my High School. For the first year I didn't really feel like I fit in either, but then I met my best friends Pete Ross and Lana Lang. If you're true to yourself, people will gravitate towards you for who you are. Your like what a sophomore, you still have a lot of time." Clark said
"I guess, but right now I'm glad I have you guys. Well we both spoke now onto you Ms. Lane what it like was for you growing up. Probably the most popular gal in school, fending off boys with a stick, going to cool parties" Jimmy mused
Lois was silent for a few minutes then answered
"My sister (name) was the popular one she got all the boys, went to all the parties. That stuff was never my kind of thing, journalism was always my passion. When I was little I used to go down into my towns sewer looking for proof that alligators lived down there. When I was in high school, I wrote an article for the school paper about a cough syrup abuse in our school." Lois said bluntly
"Wow, you have been doing this for a while. That has got to be genetic or something. Who do you think you got it from your Mom or your Dad?" Jimmy asked jokingly
"My Mom died when I was young, I don't really know that much about her aside from what my dad told me" Lois said
The car instantly went silent
"Oh Lois, I am so sorry" Clark said
"Don't get all mushy with me Kent, I'm not torn up about it or anything. I mean she sounded nice enough and I have a lot of photos so it's not like she wasn't there. As for General Lane, I haven't talked to him since I left college. I mostly hear about what he's doing from my sister, from what I gathered he's still fighting the good fight for the good, old red, white, and blue" Lois said bored, though Clark did feel a hint of Sadness from it
"Uuuuhhhh, hey do you guys want to listen to one of my CD'S" Clark said wanting to change the subject quickly
"No Clark, I do not want to listen to 'Let me Drive your Van into your Heart'" Lois said bluntly
"Oh this is actually one of his earlier works" Clark said holding up the case
"Come on Lois, give it chance we need something to kill the time. Put it on CK, I kinda liked the last one" Jimmy said encouragingly
"Whatever Smallville" Lois said bored
Clark smiled as he put the CD in the cars player and let it play.
(Like a Comet begins to play)
"Wow this is really good CK, I can hear a modern musician playing this." Jimmy said impressed
"Yeah this is one of my favorites, what do you think Lois" Clark asked smiling
"It's…. kinda catchy I admit. Feel like I heard it from somewhere else though" Lois admitted liking the song
Lois looked at Clark and he had a smile on his face
"Wipe that grin off your face Kent. Where'd you even get this tape anyway?" Lois asked stubbornly
"Well it was from when I was little so I can't really recall" Clark lied making Lois raise an eyebrow at him
1 hour and 45 minutes Later
"And even though we got him to the hospital quick enough I'm pretty sure the guys not gonna be walking, like-ever." Lois finished
"Well that was…. Certainly….. Something Lois. I had no idea Switzerland was so dangerous" Clark said reeling from Lois's story
"Any place can be dangerous with enough Explosions, Smallville" Lois said seriously
"Well after that…. Terrifying story, l-let's change the subject. How about sports, you guys see Stone's killer pass last night" Jimmy said wanting to change the subject
"No need Jimmy were here" Clark said pointing out the window
The car soon quickly passed a sign that said "WELCOME TO BEACH CITY". They were soon driving into a small neighborhood passing various citizens of the town.
"Wow check this place out, it seems even brighter than Metropolis" Jimmy said taking out his camera and taking pictures of the area and people
"That's just because they don't have a bunch of smog clogging the sky. But don't be too impressed you've been to on tourist trap town you've been to them all. Place's like this thrive on people driving in and being taken away by the scenery, only to charge you up the butt for a beach seat and parasol." Lois said
Clark wasn't really listening he was looking at the passing building memories flooding into his mind. For a moment he was an excited child in his parent's car stopping at this town once again.
"Oh dude, they have a theme park. Let's check it out!" Jimmy said excited looking out at Funland
"Focus Olsen, we have a job to do. We're reporters, not tourists stay in the game right Kent" Lois said looking to Clark
"Yeah in the game" Clark said passively
The three intrepid reporters parked their car and began walking across the boardwalk.
"Wow I've been to some beaches before, but this place beats them all by a mile" Jimmy said looking over the railing to the beach and ocean
"Yeah it's a nice little setup they have" Lois said not wanting to admit anything to the two
"This boardwalk seems like a good place to start our investigation. We'll ask around and see what we can scrape up about Steven or the Gems. If what I picked up from the gems during our first meeting rings true, they've probably hidden themselves. We'll probably only get vague mentions of them from the locals, but if we can get the right pieces together we should be able to find out where they are." Lois instructed
The three first walked up to another group of three, the cool kids Jenny, Buck, and Sour Cream. The three we're sitting on a bench talking to one another, when Clark first approached
"Um hello, good evening. I don't mean to bother you, but I would like to ask you some questions. Have you seen a kid with a yellow star…..?" Clark started, but was interrupted by Jenny
"Oh you talking about Steven, I just saw him leave the Big Donut" Jenny said bluntly
"Wait-wait-wait you know the kid?" Lois asked surprised
"Yeah everyone in town knows about him and those magic ladies he live with." Sour Cream stated
"Yeah Steven's, one cool kid" Buck said simply
"Well….. Uh do you know where we can find him?" Jimmy asked
"Now hold up a bit, what do you want with Steven?" Buck asked seriously
"Oh well I'm Clark Kent, this is Lois Lane, and Jimmy Olsen, we're….." Clark started, but was once again interrupted by Jenny
"Oh you're those three reporters Steven's been talking about, the ones who were there with that purple monster and that Superman. Steven lives at the end of the beach you can't miss it" Jenny said pointing past the Big Donut and towards the Hill with the Lighthouse
"When you see Steven tell him Sour Cream says Yo" Sour Cream said
"Oh…. Well….. Thank You" Lois said surprised as she and Jimmy walked toward the Beach Clark following behind
"Hey Mr. Reporter I like your glasses. Really mild-mannered" Buck complimented with a small smile
"Thanks, that's the intention" Clark said returning the smile and adjusting them.
The three walked past the Big Donut and onto the beach
"Wow those things are everywhere" Jimmy said when they passed the Big Donut
Clark was looking around the area taking it all in as more memories came back to him. The small boy so excited to see the ocean, his feet tapping away on the boardwalk wood, and then kicking through the sand. The three were soon walking across the sand towards the end of the beach. Everything was normal for a while until they came upon weird stone statues on the beach.
"Are these….. Hands. Does this town have ruins or something" Lois said amazed looking at the stones while Jimmy took pictures
Clark saw the boy looking in awe at the statues wondering what they were and who made them. The three soon made their way to the end of the beach and to the face of the cliff where the lighthouse stood atop. Lois and Jimmy stood amazed at what they were looking at while Clark looked up and smiled.
"Did any Tourist Trap you've seen have this Ms. Lane?" Jimmy said amazed looking up at the Structure before them.
Clark smiled as he looked around the area almost unchanged from when he last saw it as more memories came flooding back. He saw the large pink hair woman fighting the unknown monster, he remembered the cool feeling of her tears flowing down his arm and healing the wound he got from the battle. And finally he saw himself, his family, Rose, and Greg Universe playing on the beach. Clark smiled as these kind memories came back.
"Where the hell are we?" Lois asked amazed looking at the massive carved structure
"I think this is Steven's House" Clark said pointing to the wooden structure at the base of the carving. Clark noted that was where the cave Rose came flying out was, and guessed it must've been built after his visit
Steven's House 5 minutes ago
Steven whistled happily to himself as he made his way up the steps of his home holding a bag of Donuts. Steven smiled as he opened the door ready to enjoy his snack, but stopped once he entered the house.
"Oh you guys are back." Steven said happily looking at the three gems who were standing near the warp pad
"Oh hello Steven" Pearl said
"Sup Steven" Amethyst said with a wave
Garnet gave a smile and waved as well
"So, Superman still hasn't shown up yet?" Steven said putting the donuts down on the counter and looking at the clock it was 1:30 pm
"No we haven't yet Steven, and don't call him that it's just ridiculous" Pearl said
"The guy can as fast as a jet, you'd think reaching here wouldn't be an issue" Amethyst said annoyed
"Well maybe he's still helping people around Metropolis, maybe we should go back" Steven said
"We can't go back to that city Steven, we put ourselves out in the open there we don't want this craze getting worse than it already is" Garnet said seriously
"I still don't get why, you guys are heroes" Steven said
"Trust us Steven it's just better this way. The Crystal Gems don't belong in the spotlight" Pearl said
"I also want to see Clark and the others again, they were really nice. I knew I should've asked for their email address before we left" Steven said scratching his head
"I have a feeling we'll see them again Steven" Garnet said with a reassuring smile
"Yeah I liked that Olsen kid, he had spunk. He could also take some awesome photo's, he got my heroic side and I didn't even have to pose" Amethyst said with a small laugh
"Except for that one you did" Steven interjected
"That was for him and him alone" Amethyst defended
"Please don't do that again" Pearl said bluntly
"We didn't even have a chance to say goodbye…. Oh, maybe they'll come and see us" Steven said optimistically
"I don't think that's gonna happen Steven" Pearl said with a small laugh and a wave
"It could Ms. Lane sounded really determined from that article, she want to know more about all of you. And, she is an Ace reporter maybe she can find us" Steven said as he heard a knock at the door
"I'll admit Steven that Ms. Lane has certainly earned her reputation as a reporter, but in our many years we have met many explorers, scientists, philosophers, and reporters who were the best of their time. Many humans have wanted to know the secrets of the Crystal Gems, but this is something humanity is not ready for yet. We have hidden ourselves well over the years never leaving a trace that anyone could follow, fooling the greatest minds your planet has to offer. And if we can fool the likes of Caesar and Jefferson, there is no way that…" Pearl began confidently, but was cut off by Steven
"Ms. Lane, Mr. Kent, Jimmy it's good to see you" Steven said happily standing at the doorway where the three reporters stood
The gems flinched upon hearing the names and looked down the open doorway where Steven was holding the door.
"It's good to see you again Steven" Clark said happily shaking Steven's hand
"Yo Steven, good to see ya. This is an awesome home you got here man" Jimmy said happily
"Still as happy as ever, huh kid?" Lois said with a small smile
Lois looked through the doorway to see the three gems standing at the end of the house. Garnet was as neutral as ever, Amethyst had a big smile on her face, and Pearl was standing there with a wide eyed shocked expression.
"Hey Garnet, Amethyst, Pearl, it's me Lois Lane. We met a few days ago, you and Superman saved me and my friends from a giant purple monster, remember that. Good to see you're all doing well. Now I don't wish to intrude, but do you mind if we come in and ask a few ques….." Lois asked politely, but was stopped when Pearl rushed from where she was to the door taking it from Steven's hands and slammed the door in Lois's face.
"I can still see you, you know" Lois said bluntly through the screen door since the blinds were still open
Pearl then quickly closed the doors blinds
"That was kinda rude Pearl" Steven said a bit upset
"Hey Jimmy, how you doing?" Amethyst said to Jimmy who was on the other side of the window as she sat on the banister
"O-oh you know, just hanging around. So h-how are you today, Amethyst? I really like you're house" Jimmy said trying to play it cool
Pearl then ran to the windows and shut the blinds
"Hey, why'd you'd do that?" Jimmy said upset
"Not cool P" Amethyst said
"Amethyst not now" Pearl said in a hushed tone
"How did they find us, this has never happened" Pearl said worried
"I guess Lois Lane was better than we all thought, that and she has a good team to back her up" Garnet said with an approving smile
"Did you know this was going to happen?" Steven asked
"I only see what I'm looking for" Garnet said
"Well they know were here, what are we supposed to do now?" Amethyst asked with a shrug
"Maybe we can wait them out. I mean how long do they plan to stay here?" Pearl said reasonably
"I'll go talk to them" Garnet said walking to the door
"What did you use your future vision?" Pearl asked
"No, I just have a good read on her character." Garnet said opening the door and facing the three Reporters
"Oh, hey thanks for opening the door. I know this is sudden and surprising, but do you mind….." Lois started kindly
"No" Garnet said bluntly
"Excuse me?" Lois replied surprised
"No, Ms. Lane we cannot give you an interview. Have a good day." Garnet said bluntly and started to close the door
"Hey, hey, hey, just hear me out for second." Lois said catching the door though was still pushing on it making it close
"I said no Ms. Lane, goodbye" Garnet said retaining her stoniness and closing the door
"Woah wait a minute, we came all this way, you can at least let us talk" Jimmy said helping Lois hold the door open, though even with their combined strength the door was still closing
"There's nothing to talk about, no please all of you go home" Garnet said as she continued to close the door against the two
Then when the door was two inches away from shutting it stopped, Clark put a single hand on the door stopping it from moving. Behind her visor Garnet's eyes twitched in surprise.
"Ms. Garnet please hear us out. I know you probably have your reasons for not wanting to talk to us so give us the pleasure to explain why, and we can explain why we're here" Clark said kindly
Garnet was going to retort, but she felt a tug on her leg. She looked down to see Steven
"I think we should let them in Garnet. If anything they have the right" Steven said with a small smile
Garnet looked at Steven's smiling face and sighed letting the door go. Steven's smile widened as he opened the door for the three.
"Would you guys like something to drink?" Steven asked kindly
Garnet sat on the couch looking at the gem on her right palm, she knew she wasn't using her full strength to close the door but was surprised that the three of them were able to keep it open.
After a few minutes the two groups were sitting parallel to each other. Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl on one side while Jimmy and Lois sat on the other. Clark and Steven were actually sitting next to each other, Steven was happy while Clark was visibly nervous.
"You okay Mr. Kent?" Steven asked
"Oh I'm fine Steven. I just get nervous in tense situations" Clark said taking a sip from the lemonade Steven gave him
"First I would like to say thank you for saving our lives back there. If it wasn't for you and Superman, I don't know what would've happened. You probably read it in the paper, but I want to say this face to face" Lois said gratefully
"It was just the right thing to do, your welcome" Pearl said
"Yeah Thanks a lot for saving our butts" Jimmy said scratching the back of his head
"Don't mention it Jimmy. Hey four-eyes, you okay from that fall?" Amethyst asked
"Oh, I'm still a bit sore, but nothing to bad" Clark said
"Alright now that, that's out of the way on to the reason we're here. What you and Superman did at Lexcorp was amazing, I'm frankly surprised I was able to put any of what I saw to print. Within those minutes everything I thought I knew about the world was turned on its head. I wanted the people to know what you all did, that you guys are heroes. And from what I seeing from the Daily Planet mailbox and social media, the people love you. But, that's not going to last forever. What you did was amazing, but also very scary. You did things some people could only dream of, it's new and people get scared of new. Soon people are going to start making assumptions about you and a lot of them won't be favorable" Lois said seriously
"We are very aware of that Ms. Lane, and that is the reason why we can't do this. As you have no doubt put together, we have a life here and we don't want it disrupted" Pearl said
"Hey, I'm not asking for your address…. Even though I already know it. Listen, right now the only thing people know about you all is that you fight monsters, are crazy strong, and have super powers ripped straight from a Saturday morning cartoon. That is not normal, it's beyond human, and that how the people are viewing you now. For the moment they seeing you like angels, but within seconds they can view you guys like demons. So let me humanize you, let the people know something about you where you come from, what you like, why you did what you did. Let the people see that you guys have some humanity, which you obviously do because you're living in a place like this and appear to be quite chummy with the residence. This will help you guys in the public eye" Lois said
"Ms. Lane your reasoning is sound, but we don't plan on going back into the public eye ever again so that won't be needed" Pearl said
"What if something like that Parasite incident happens again, you guys knew that fighting that thing in a place like Lexcorp would get media attention. But, you did it anyway because you knew it was the right thing to do. What if another freak like that pops up and you have to fight out in the open, it would probably be nice to have the police shoot at the monster and not you guys." Lois said
"Ms. Lane what happened back there was very sudden, so we had no choice but to react. We usually are a lot more prepared for such occurrences, but recently…. Thing have been-foggy" Garnet said adjusting her visor
"I have seen first-hand what paranoia does to people, if they think even for a bit that you are potentially a threat they will hunt you down and do god knows what." Lois said
"Again these are all thing were aware of, and we know what the government is capable of. Which is why we have to remain hidden, and we are also aware that no amount of 'humanizing' will change their opinion on us. All they care is that we have power and that were not working with them" Pearl replied
"I am also aware of that, that's why you need to get the people on your side. Gain the public's trust, so if the government does end up coming for you, you will at least have some people to speak in your defense" Lois continued
"What about the Super-dude, he seem more like a people person. Why don't you bother him about all this 'trust' stuff" Amethyst said bored
"Surprisingly trying to find a flying man in a blue T-shirt and red cape is a lot harder than you would think." Lois admitted scratching her nose
"Have you tried flinging yourself off a building" Amethyst joked
"I ain't suicidal shorty… but if I hid a parachute inside my jacket" Lois said considering the idea
"Steven, Ms. Lane is going to be here for a while. Why don't you go outside, it'll be pretty boring in here" Garnet said looking towards Steven with a smile
Steven nodded and stood up walking towards the door
"Hey do you guys want to come along, I can show you around the boardwalk" Steven said looking towards Clark and Jimmy
"Heck yah, I do" Jimmy said excited rising from his seat
"Um, are you sure Lois might need us" Clark said with a raised finger
"Its fine Smallville I got this, you two just enjoy yourselves. I did kinda take your weekend from you" Lois said with a sigh
Clark smiled and got up following the two
"And Clark….. Don't make the kid uncomfortable" Lois said simply
Clark's eyes widened in surprise, but then a small smile grew and he nodded making his way out the door.
The Three gems and the reporter were left alone in the house in silence for a few minutes
"If I may ask Ms. Lane, why didn't you mention Steven in your report? You saw what he can do" Garnet said seriously
Lois looked at Garnet with steely eyes, but behind them was a hint of care
"Because he's just a kid, he still has a whole childhood to get through. I don't want to be the one who ruins that by throwing him in the spotlight, he deserved the chance to be Steven not the 'That Kid with the Magic Shield'" Lois replied
A small smile appeared on Garnet's face
The Beach City Boardwalk
Steven, Clark and Jimmy left the beach and stepped onto the boardwalk slowly making their way down it.
"That's the Big Donut, Lar's and Sadie work there. Sadie's really cool and me and Lar's are basically besties" Steven said proudly
"Yeah we have like hundreds of those back in Metropolis the quality of worker varies from place to place, but I believe you about them. Not to be rude Steven, but you got any good places to eat around here, its lunch time and I'm starving" Jimmy said rubbing his stomach
Before Steven could answer he looked down the boardwalk and his eyes widened
"Hey Dad" Steven shouted as he ran down the boardwalk
Not too far from where they were Greg Universe was sitting on a bench reading a newspaper titled "African Situation Escalating". He looked up from his paper and smiled
"Hey Stu-ball I was just about to come over and visit you" Greg said kneeling down and giving Steven a hug
"Dad these are the reporters I told you about from the Daily Planet." Steven said gesturing to the two approaching reporters
"Oh wow, I'm guessing you guys are Clark Kent and Jimmy Olsen. Nice to meet you, I'm Greg Universe Steven's father." Greg said extending his hand to shake it
"Nice to meet you Greg" Clark said shaking his hand
"Nice to meet ya, how'd you know which of us is which" Jimmy said shaking his hand
"Steven was very specific with his descriptions of you guys, I could form a pretty good picture in my head. Isn't there another reporter, a lady, um Ms. Lois Lane" Greg said
"Oh, Lois is back at your house talking with the gems." Clark said
"Oh wow she was serious about that whole finding the truth thing, huh? Sorry to say, but the gems aren't the type to give interviews" Greg said apologetically
"Well Ms. Lane does have a history of getting people to talk for a story, she's very persuasive" Clark said with a laugh. Behind Clark, Jimmy looked like he was thinking and looking at both Steven and Greg
"Excuse me I don't want to be rude, but I would like to ask you some questions" Jimmy said seriously pointing to Greg
"Uh, go ahead shoot" Greg said surprised thinking he was about to be interviewed
"You- are the Father of Steven Universe. Which means your full name is Greg Universe, aka: Mr. Universe" Jimmy said inspecting Greg
"Well, um yes, I am Mr. Universe" Greg said surprised by the question
Jimmy continued to examine Greg for a few seconds, with each passing seconds Jimmy face turned from intrigue, to realization, and finally Joy
"OH-MY-GOD! Clark this is Mr. Universe, this is the guy who made those awesome CD's" Jimmy said excited shaking Clark
"You guys actually have some of my old CD's" Greg said surprised
"Clark does, your music is so good. Like a Comet is amazing! Steven your dad is a rock star" Jimmy continued excited
"Yeah I know, I listen to his tracks all the time. But, Mr. Kent why didn't you tell me you had my dad's old music" Steven said looking at Clark
"Well I mean it's something I always had and liked listening to. I got it when I saw so young I don't even remember from where" Clark said nervously trying not to reveal anything
"I think I do actually. A few years before Steven was born this small country boy and his family came to the beach. Though looking at you know you ain't so small" Greg said looking up at Clark and smiling
"YOU BEEN HERE BEFORE!?" Steven and Jimmy yelled at the same time in surprised
"I don't expect you to remember perfectly, you were pretty small. I remember that you were just excited to see the ocean for the first time. You and your parents were just lounging on the beach and dipping your feet in the water. Somehow me and Rose ended up joining you three." Greg said
"YOU MET MY MOM!?" Steven yelled surprised looking at Clark
"Okay this is a lot of info to take in. CK, how could you forget something like this?" Jimmy said
"Like he said I was little" Clark said with a chuckle making Jimmy groan
"We need to hear all about this now. We need to get comfortable, we need….. OH! Come follow me we can sit and eat, while you tell us all about your time here in Beach City" Steven said gesturing everyone to follow as he ran down the boardwalk
"You go ahead Steven, I be with ya in a bit" Greg yelled to his son
"Man if Lois hears about all this she's gonna flip on you" Jimmy said with a laugh as he followed Steven
Then it was just Greg and Clark standing together on the boardwalk
"I never forgot you know, that day. I will never forget that day, this place, you, or Miss Quartz. It was one of many things that made me who I am today." Clark said with a small appreciative smile
"Well I certainly wouldn't forget the time Rose told me about a kid who could lift and toss a giant purple gorilla monster, and also shoot lasers from his eyes." Greg said with a sly smile. Clark's eyes widened behind his glasses
"Wait you…" Clark said shocked
"I'll admit even for her that story was unbelievable, but I tend to take her word for it on stuff like that. That and that video of you flying around and lifting trucks" Greg said
"How long have you known?" Clark asked
"I've always remembered what Rose said about that amazing Kent-child, but I put it together when you the day you saved me from the Parasite monster. You're probably in your twenties now, but you still have the eyes have that optimistic 12 year old who just saw the ocean for the first time. Also your eyes are a shade of blue I have never seen ever again in my life since you came here, the way they looked just kinda sticks with ya. Those glasses were a great idea your eyes are your most distinguishing feature, and those things dim the color a bit" Greg said pointing to Clark's glasses
"So you know who I am, but you haven't told Steven or the gems?" Clark asked cautiously
"When Rose told me about you, she made me promise to never tell the gems about you. She thought that Pearl and Garnet would overreact about your 'heritage'. I was considering telling them when you guys thought in that ocean city, but after seeing you and the gems fight that monster saving so many lives, mine included I figured you were a good guy" Greg said confidently
"So Rose Quartz is connected to them, I had my ideas but this confirms it." Clark whispered scratching his chin
"But, wait why didn't she tell them?" Clark asked
"Rose said you needed time to figure out who you were, and she thought that you were gonna become something amazing. And looking at you now, she was right" Greg said proud. Clark felt a wave of appreciation and happiness swell inside him upon hearing that. Though he only met Rose once, her image and words stayed with Clark, she was one of the reason's he decided to put on that cape and do what he does.
"Don't worry I'll keep your secret. I can understand why to doing what you are doing, I'll need sometime just to lay back and decompress doing all the hero stuff" Greg joked
"I will always be Clark Kent, he is me and I lived his life. Despite all that I can do, that is something I can never just throw away." Clark said proudly making Greg smile
"Well we better catch up to those two, you're probably hungry…. You do get hungry right?" Greg asked
"I enjoy the taste of food" Clark joked back as he and Greg walked down the boardwalk towards the two
"Fish-Stew-Pizza?" Jimmy said confused looking at the establishment
"Yeah they have the best pizza in town. Well they are the only pizza place in town" Steven said happily
"No offence Steven, but those are words that should not be put together" Jimmy said
"Don't judge a book by its cover Jimmy, I do remember this place. And I remember this place being pretty great." Clark said approaching the two from behind
"Oh you've eaten here? Well that was probably a few years ago, I think the menu has changed a bit since then." Steven said as he approached the door
Before Steven could open the door, it opened by itself. From the Pizza restaurant exited a young man of 16, he was wearing a pitch black short sleeve shirt and some jeans. He was a tall as Jimmy, had a skinny build, messy black hair, and pale skin.
"Oh hey Will, I haven't seen you in town for a while" Steven said surprised but happy
"O-oh hello Steven, I'm just stopping by to pick up an order for my family" Will said nervously and surprised. He was holding a paper bag and a pizza box
"Oh well it's good to see you again. Hey I can help you with that if you want" Steven said
"I-it okay I got it Steven" Will said shrinking back a bit
"Hey you doing okay there William, you're looking a little nervous" Greg asked a little concerned
"O-oh Mr. Universe, don't worry about that it's just me. I really shouldn't keep my mom waiting, the family is probably hungry. Have a nice day you two" Will said nervously as he made his way past them and walked down the boardwalk
"Wow get a look at that guy, he was a jittery as a flimsy tree branch in a hurricane" Jimmy joked as he watched Will walk down the street
"Will and his family live outside of Beach City, but visit here constantly. Apparently they have a family business. His family seems nice enough, but Will has always seemed like a loner, like he felt he didn't fit in somehow" Greg said
"Is he a friend of yours Steven?" Clark asked
"I don't think so just yet, but I would like to be his friend. I kinda get the feeling he needs one" Steven said simply as he walked into the restaurant, Clark smiled and followed and entered the establishment
"Order 52 up for Rebecca and Geoff" Kofi said as he placed a tray with two slices of pizza and two soda's on the counter, Jenny then took the tray and walked it over to a man and a woman sitting at a table.
There were some people eating inside the restaurant, it was the man and woman Geoff and Rebecca who appeared to both be typing on separate laptops while discussing something. Ronaldo was in the corner with his laptop and his investigator cap typing away for his blog.
"Hi Mr. Pizza, Hi Jenny" Steven said announcing himself to the restaurant
"Oh hey Steven, hey Mr. Universe" Jenny said happily
"Ah one of my favorite customers, here for some lunch" Kofi said
"Yeah Lunch for me, my dad, and my two friends Clark and Jimmy" Steven said pointing to the two behind
"New potential customers are always welcomed to try our food, please take a seat Jenny will be with you" Kofi said joyfully
The group sat close to the window and made their order, Jenny was a bit flustered when talking to Clark. For the next few minutes they just talked about Clark's previous visit to Beach City, Steven very curious about what Beach City was like before he was born and Clark had perfect recollection of that day so many years ago.
"You really think that Steven's mom would still be taller than you are right now, because you are pretty freaking tall?" Jimmy asked
"It wasn't just her height Jimmy, she just had this presence around that made her seem larger than life." Clark said
"Yeah Rose did emit that kinda of feeling" Greg said
"I guess I had that same kinda feeling when Superman swooped in and saved the day" Steven mused
"The way your all talking about her she sounds amazing, I can't wait to meet her" Jimmy said enthusiastically but quickly noticed the dimming mood from Greg and Steven
"Um, the thing is Rose is…. No longer with us" Greg said a little saddened
"What? When?" Clark said shocked
"During Steven's Birth" Greg replied
Clark felt his heart freeze upon hearing that, he looked to Steven who was looking down at the table rather solemnly. Clark remembered seeing the gem on Steven's navel, it was identical to Rose's, and from what he heard from Jimmy and Lois Steven also summoned a pink shield to protect them from Parasite. Clark knew there must've been some kind of connection between Steven and Rose, and hearing that Rose is Steven's mother confirmed it. Though the fact that she is dead was so jarring to Clark, she seemed so much more. She felt like a person who would just keep going no matter what, almost eternal. But, Clark reminded himself nothing last forever and with time everything ends.
"I-I'm sorry for your loss" Clark said apologetically
"Yeah I didn't mean to bring down the mood" Jimmy said apologetically
"Hey it okay Jimmy, you didn't know let's just change the subject" Steven said reassuringly
After a few seconds of silence Greg broke the ice
"So Jimmy you have a blog for the Daily Planet?" Greg asked
"Oh-Oh yeah I do. It's been doing really good ever since we broke the Superman story. And since I proved everyone right with my previous reports on 'The Blur', people are taking me a lot more seriously. I'm even talking with people who have apparently their own weird happenings in their areas. I got this tip from a guy in Amnesty Bay about some strange stuff happening in the…." Jimmy started but was interrupted
"Wait you're the guy in charge of Metropolis Marvels" Ronaldo said from across the room making everyone turn to him
"I'm-sorry-do I know you?" Jimmy asked Ronaldo confused
"That Ronaldo, he works at the Fry shop. He also runs a blog about the weird happenings in our town called KeepBeachCityWeird" Steven explained
"O-o-oh my god, you're the guy I used to compete with" Jimmy said amazed looking at Ronaldo
"What do you mean 'used to'" Ronaldo said a bit insulted
"Well no offense buddy, but I'm kinda in a different league from you now" Jimmy said cockily
"Oh please your blog is a load a drivel, you only got that boost because of that flying man. The rest of your posts are pitiful I mean street lightning, swamp monsters, dinosaur islands what are you twelve. While you're feeding the public that mainstream crud, everyone remains ignorant to the true mystery of the world that is the Sneeple" Ronaldo stated
"Hehehehehe, you-believe-in Sneeple. Hahahahahha, o-okay okay friend. Listen up I have two words for ya buddy, Lava-Men" Jimmy stated seriously
"You're laughing at me and you believe in Lava Men" Ronaldo said offended
"Yes I am and let me tell you why" Jimmy said as he got up from his chair and walked over to Ronaldo
The other three watched as Jimmy and Ronaldo had a very passionate argument over their beliefs and conspiracy theories.
"I guess I have Jimmy's food sent over there for him. Looks like he made himself a friend with similar interests." Clark said with a smile. He looked to Steven who also had a smile on his face, but Clark could see a small hint of sadness still with him.
"Mr. Kent…. Thank you for telling me a little more about my mom" Steven said
"Steven I…." Clark said sensing the sadness rise
"I've never had the chance to meet my mom face to face so I only have outside sources to tell me what she's like. The way you talked about her when she fixed your arm, is just like when Dad, Pearl, Amethyst, and Garnet talk about her. That and all the photographs and that video of her I have, I'm at least able to form a pretty could construct of her in my head, and she is amazing. Though even with all that she still feels like a stranger to me, I'm sorry for dragging this sad moment on so long. But…. I don't really know how to explain it….. I just wonder….." Steven said trying to find the right words. Greg was ready to speak up, but Clark beat him to it
"You wonder what part of them is you. And what would they say to you if they were here now" Clark said simply with a kind smile
"…Yeah, yeah that it's…. how did you….." Steven said amazed looking at Clark
"I think I understand what you're feeling Steven. Steven I was adopted" Clark said
"Oh wow, I would've never guessed. I mean when you guys came you seemed so close…. Not that adoptive families can't be happy I just….." Greg stammered out trying to correct himself
"Ma and Pa got me when I was just a baby probably only a year old, I was kind left on their doorstep. I love my Ma and Pa, but I wondered who my real parents were for most of my kid and teenage years. What did they look like, where were they from, and why did they leave me. Later on I managed to learn a bit about them, but they are still…. Strangers" Clark said
"Mr. Kent, I didn't mean to….." Steven said apologetically
"But even with all I don't know there is one thing about them that I am certain of, they did love me. Because if they didn't why would they bother sending me to a good home with good people. And I'm sure Rose loved you, because she left you in the care of people she trusted to raise you right. And no matter what else comes up in the future, never forget that fact" Clark said taking Steven's hand and smiling
Steven's heart welled upon hearing Clark's words. Steven mentally slapped himself for never once thinking from that angle before, a renewed feeling of hope welled up inside him regarding his mother. A grateful smile grew on Steven's face as he looked up at Clark.
"Thank you, Clark" Steven said
"Just happy to help" Clark replied
Greg smiled, impressed by Clark and what he said. Then Jenny walked up holding a tray filled with drinks and a whole pie.
"Here you guys go, three sodas and a pepperoni pie" Jenny said placing the tray down on the table
"Thanks Jenny" Greg said gratefully
"Is there anything else I can get for you and your friends" Jenny said blushing a bit looking at Clark
"Oh well Ms. Pizza, can I get an extra plate for my friend he seems to be very invested in his conversation with that young man" Clark said pointing to the still arguing Jimmy and Ronaldo
"Oh sure I'll…." Jenny started but stopped when she looked up gaining a surprised expression
"Hey who's Pearl's friend" Jenny said pointing to the window they sat in front of
The three immediately turned around to the window and were shocked by what they saw.
"Pearl…?" Steven said confused looking at the Purple skinned clone
Clark's brain immediately went into overdrive upon seeing the two figures that stood outside the restaurant. One of them looked like Pearl only with purple skin and the other was larger and taller than him. They both wore some strange set of armor that looked unearthly and Clark couldn't see through them. Clark had so many questions but there were two things Clark was sure of, that wasn't the Pearl Steven knows, and they really didn't look friendly. A sinister smile grew on the Pearl's face as she took a step behind her larger partner. The Brute showed no emotion as it raised both its hand's palms open.
"EVERYBODY GET DOWN" Clark yelled as she shot up from his chair
The instant Clark said that The Brute brought its hands together in a vicious clap that sounded more like Thunder than to hands slapping together. Time slowed the instant the sound waves impacted on the glass, almost instinctively Steven summoned his bubble encasing him and his father. Seeing those two were safe Clark made a leap for Jenny grabbing her and burying her face into his chest with his back to the window.
The restaurant was hit with what could be described as hurricane-force winds, terrified screams filled the establishment as everything was thrown against the wall. Steven's bubble hit the back wall hard before disappearing allowing Steven and Greg to fall to the floor with a pained grunt. Steven's vision was Blurry and his ears were ringing as he tried to examine his surroundings. Broken wood and glass laid strewn about the floor, he saw what he believed to be the table face and a chair leg embedded in the wall behind him. He saw in front of him a shredded plaid bundle on the ground curled up into a ball, to his side he saw Jimmy holding his head as he appeared to be shaking an unconscious Ronaldo. The sound was finally returning to Steven as he heard the panicked yells of Kofi coming from somewhere else, he also heard what he thought was Nanefua equally panicked. Steven's head turned to see his father groaning on the ground, Steven was going to ask if he was alright but then he heard the sound of Crunching glass. Steven looked up and saw the two figures walk through the massive hole they made at the front of the restaurant and casually walk through the destruction they made.
"Wha-who….?" Steven mumbled trying to gather his senses
Steven then felt the Pearl clone roughly grab the back of his shirt and lift him off the ground to her eye level. Steven looked deep into the doppelgangers eyes and knew this wasn't his Pearl. Aside from the color they were cold, unfeeling, malicious, and almost robotic looking.
"Y-you're not…. Who are you, what did you just do" Steven stammered out confused and scared
The Dark Pearl smiled looking into Steven's terrified eyes.
"Mission Directive retrieval of Hybrid, is a success" The Pearl said coldly and triumphantly holding Steven amongst the destruction.
(Note: Well thing are about to kick into overdrive here. I hope your all ready for The Battle on the Boardwalk if everything goes according to plan here beach city will be a spot of interest in the future. Still Superman and the Crystal Gems have a tough fight ahead of them are they ready, are you. If you liked what you've read leave a comment, I would love to hear your opinions and theories and I will always try to respond to them. I am also interested in finding an artist to help draw some scenes from my story to promote it more, so if you are an artist and are interested send me a PM. Until next time, thank you for all your support.)