Superman/Steven Universe:
The Shield of Hope
(Note: I was going to sit on this a little longer, but given today I felt like it should be done. Here's to 80 years of Superman, 1000 issues of Action Comics, and to the future of the big blue boy scout. Since today is so special I give you the History of the Kryptonian and Gems, this was fun to work on and I hope you like some of the reveals. Up, Up, and Away) :D
Chapter 19
Lola stood at attention next to a shut door while the sound of running water was heard from behind. She stood there with a small smile statue-like as the sounds of running water stopped and then there was just ruffling. Steven emerged from the door towel wrapped around his waist.
"Your clothes young Mr. Universe." Lola said holding out Steven's clothes with grin startling Steven a bit
"Oh Lola, you're here, I thought you were with Superman." Steven said still a little surprised by Lola just standing there by the door
"Oh Master El is just fine, also you appear to be startled. Master El was the same when he first bathed here and I stood by the tub waiting for him. He was startled by how quiet I was and asked me not to wait inside the bathroom while he's washing. Did I do something wrong?" Lola asked head tilted
"Oh no, I'm kinda used to it Pearl is kinda the same sometimes, though you're a bit more….." Steven said looking at her still surprised how similar she was to Pearl
"Efficient?" Lola said smiling
"Uh yeah." Steven said with a smile as she walked towards the window of the room he was in showing the snowy landscape
The blizzard had died down and now the full magnificence of the frozen land was shown allowing Steven to Marvel at it.
"Man there has been so much crazy stuff the last few days, it's kinda nice to just relax and sit down without worrying about a fight breaking out." Steven said thinking back to the last two days
"Yes you have been through a lot, but as a guest of Master El I will do everything in my power to make sure you are treated like a member of the house. You will be allowed to rest and recover from your recent battles." Lola said
"Thanks Lola." Steven said taking his clothes
He was going to remove his towel, but noticed Lola was still standing there.
"Did Superman tell you how people like privacy when changing?" Steven asked
"Oh right, pardon me young Mr. Universe." Lola said walking out the room
As soon as she exited the room she was met by Superman
"You stood in front of the door again didn't you?" Superman asked simply
"I don't understand why humans are so private about their bodies, I helped you mother, grandmother, and beyond in the wash millions of times" Lola said confused
"Please…. Don't talk about my mom….. In the bath. I need to tell you something." Superman said seriously
"Yes Master El?" Lola asked
"Don't call me Master. Also when we were escaping the military base, I saw it. It was a mirror image from the images you showed me they had the ship Lola. My ship that I came to Earth on." Superman said with a hint of joy
"Oh that I knew about it." Lola replied simply with smile
"W-wait… You did?" Superman said confused his face falling
"I felt the ship activate which means you must've come into contact with it. I was immediately able to track it location, don't worry I've sent units to retrieve it." Lola said simply
"YOU WHAT?! Lola you just can't…..!" Superman said panicked
"Don't worry they're already on route back to the fortress with the craft, nobody followed them and they are impossible to track. It's been so long." Lola said joyously
"Lola you just can't steal things from government facilities, you… You should've talked to me first Lola. That was very dangerous." Superman said seriously
"Oh I am sorry Ma- Kal-El, I just thought….." Lola said shamefully
"I-it's okay Lola, just remember that we are in this together. And that we have to be careful, I already made a lot of noise. And now I'm probably on the Governments most wanted." Superman said pinching the bridge of his nose
"It's not that bad Kal-El, I'm sure we can come up with a solution." Lola said encouragingly
"I'm less worried about me and more worried about Steven, his entire life maybe uprooted. I need to find out a way to help him." Superman said
"You really want to help?" Steven said dressed in his clean clothes standing behind the two making them turn around
"Of course I will Steven, you and your friends helped me so much the least I can do is repay the favor. Now come on let's meet up with the others, you're probably hungry." Superman said gesturing for Steven to follow
"I really am." Steven said smiling following behind
"You are in for a treat human, Kal-El makes excellent spaghetti." Lola said following the two
The Crystal Gems stood in the main hall still pondering all the information they just took in, trying to determine the truth.
"It's just so….. Absurd it's like one of those dog-copter movies Steven likes to watch." Pearl said tapping her foot
"It's the truth Pearl, you saw the raw emotion in their eyes just like me. You can't fake that" Garnet said
"I know…. I know, it's just so crazy. An entire planet and its species just…. Gone instantly. I mean for Homeworld it would take years at least, but…. Just like that gone." Pearl said
"It's almost ironic considering how long they lasted and fought against Homeworld." Garnet said
"Amethyst, you're probably confused about what we're talking about so allow to explain you see-Where is she?" Pearl said realizing Amethyst was gone
"She wanted to look around." Garnet said simply
"Ugh, we don't even know this place and she just…. You know what it's alright. At least she can't get into any trouble here." Pearl said with a sigh as Garnet grunted
"HELP!" Amethyst yelled catching the two's attention
Amethyst just dived through one of the door into the main hall landing on her belly panting as the door shut behind her.
"Amethyst, what happened?" Pearl asked worried as the two approached their purple friend
'I-huff-running from-pant" Amethyst breathed until a red beam shot through the door into the wall behind her
The three jumped out of the way as the red beam cut a hole through the door.
"SUPERMAN?!" Garnet yelled confused
And then the circle cut in the door fell to the ground and from the hole jumped out a white dog with a red cape and a Superman crest on its collar growling at the three. The three looked at the dog in wide-eyed confusion.
"Is that-?" Pearl said confused until she saw the dog's eyes glowing red
Before any of them could react, the dog shot off faster than a speeding bullet towards Amethyst. She let out a yelp as she saw the dog moves towards her, but before he could sink his teeth into her a red blur shot towards her and caught the dog before it could reach her.
"No, no bad dog, this is our friend, no biting" Superman said holding the dog up by it collar as it continued to growl at Amethyst
"OH MY GOSH, IS THAT A SUPER-DOG!" Steven said starry eyed
"I am so sorry, Krypto's usually not this hostile." Superman said as he tried to hold the dog
"Heh, I may have asked for it when I saw his dog dish and kinda ate what was inside. I was hungry okay" Amethyst said defensively as Krypto growled at her
"NO!" Superman said sternly making the dog whimper a bit, he then put it down and petted its head calming it down
Steven then walked up to the dog and held out his hand, the gems looked on worried as the dog sniffed Steven's hand. The dog the licked Steven's hand making him giggle and then it came close allowing Steven to pet it.
"That dog…..shot lasers from its eyes." Pearl said pointing a shaking a finger at the dog
"That is what happened, yes. I have a feeling this dog is from Krypton, correct?" Garnet asked
"His names Krypto, it's a long story." Superman said with a laugh as Steven began rubbing Krypto's belly
"Oh dear Krypto, you ruined another door. Now I have to fix this." Lola said in a disappointed tone looking at the hole in the door
"Do you need some help with that?" Amethyst asked
"Don't worry we have this." Lola said
"Oh Superman's gonna heeelllll-." Amethyst said as her and everybody's eyes widened at what they saw
Two more Lola's looking exactly like the first, but with clear eyes walked into the hall and towards the door passing the shocked group.
"Yeah it surprised me the first time as well." Superman said with a chuckle
"H-how….w-what?" Pearl said stammered confused
"Oh these are replicas of myself that I built. I figured it would be hard to maintain this facility all by myself so I decided to utilize the sunstones to create multiples of my body. They all are linked to my thoughts and will do any order I give them, also….." Lola said with a smile, then suddenly her eyes went clear and her expression went blank.
The looked on confused till one of the Lola's who entered eyes suddenly brightened and her expression changed to happiness.
"I am able to jump from body to body with these replica's." the recently jumped Lola said making the others startled
"So…. That means that none of these are your actual body, where are you really?" Garnet asked cautiously
"What is that human saying? A magician never reveals her secrets." Lola said with a wink making Garnet grumble
Then everyone in the room heard the sound of a door opening.
"Oh good their back." Lola said happily as two more replicas's entered the room holding up Superman's craft
"Hey it's the ship you were sent in as a baby…. Wasn't that at the military base? Did you steal it?!" Steven said worried
"Oh young Mr. Universe, you can't steal what's yours." Lola said walking to the craft. The gems looked to Superman only receiving a shrug
"Oh the memories this small craft holds. I would spend hours on end talking to you and playing music." Lola said as she hugged the craft
"It is nice to have this, but I am serious about what I talked about this was a serious risk." Superman said
"You sure those clones of yours weren't followed?" Garnet asked
"Of course they weren't, and even if they were my early warning alarm would sound if any unauthorized persons entered the perimeter of the fortress" Lola said passively
Then an alarm rang out through the entire fortress as a red light filled the room.
"Heh, you make that same face Pearl does when she's wrong." Amethyst said with a laugh pointing to Lola
"How is this possible, I made sure the utmost stealth was used and with their speed it would be impossible to follow!?" Lola yelled panicked
"Doesn't matter how it happened its happening" Garnet said adjusting her visor
"Okay somethings in the perimeter, that doesn't mean they can get inside" Lola said trying to calm herself down
Then a pink portal opened right besides the group making Lola jump back and Superman take a stance.
"OH SWEET RAO, THE HUMANS HAVE SPACE TUNNELING TECHNOLOGY!" Lola yelled
"Lola, take Steven into the Fortress and protect him!" Superman said getting in front of the two starring down the portal with a powerful gaze
"No don't worry it's just…." Steven said just as something emerged from the portal
What emerged was an actual full-grown Lion with round ears, pink fur, black eyes, a soft light pink star-shaped mane, and a dark brownish-magenta heart-shaped nose. With a tuft of soft pink fur at the end of his thin tail.
"LION!" Steven yelled happily running past a surprised Superman and Lola
"Excuse Me?" Superman said confused looking at the odd creature
"This is Lion, he's my pet. How'd you find us?" Steven said as he buried his face in Lion's mane while the beast looked rather indifferent but still happy to see the boy
Both Superman and Lola let out confused groans as their eyes wandered to the gems.
"That's our long story." Pearl said with a giggle
Krypto then approached Lion with a curious look sniffing him while Lion took a light interest in the white dog circling him. After a few seconds Krypto gave a happy bark jumping a bit and facing Lion tail wagging and tongue out as he panted. Lion gave a gruff 'Grrr' that somehow showed that he was willing to give the dog a chance. Krypto happily barked as he ran around Lion and then through the door hole he made and down the hall. Lion simply looked at where Krypto ran off to then follow at his own pace.
"Aw, our pets became friends." Steven said sweetly watching Lion march off
Superman and Lola just looked at the scene with confusion "So, would you guys like some dinner?" Superman asked
"I DO!" Steven and Amethyst yelled happily. Superman smiled and ushered the group to follow him down the hall, which they did.
"Not to be rude, but do you guys even eat?" Superman asked
"Do you?" Garnet asked
"Not really, but I like to." Superman said
"So do I." Amethyst said happily
"I not much for eating, though I do like tea." Pearl said
"Oh so do I, I have a recipe I know you'll love" Lola said smiling
The group was now sitting in what was a crystalline Kitchen them sitting near a table with a hot plate of spaghetti and meat sauce in the center. Steven and Amethyst were happily eating from the plate Superman occasionally taking a few fork fulls from it. But he was mostly was drinking tea with Garnet, Pearl, and even Lola who he asked to join them.
"I must say, there have been theories about solar radiation effecting organic life, but never to this degree. Maybe there's something else in regards to your Kryptonian biology." Pearl inquired
"Kal-El was born on Krypton and lived there long enough to acquainted with the planet on a cellular and physical level. But still came to Earth at a young enough age that he was affected by the environment." Lola explained
"So since Krypton was heavier than Earth, it's like you're on the moon because gravity is lighter. That's how you're so strong and can fly right?" Steven asked
"Partially, yes it's because of Earth Gravity but also the atmosphere strengthening my bones and muscles." Superman explained
"Earth was always a very nourishing planet with its resources and environment, even with recent times it's better than most." Garnet said
"Wait so if the yellow sun gives you power, if I were to be under a red sun would I get powers like you? And why was your sun red anyway?" Steven asked again
"I'm not really sure Steven." Superman said with a laugh
"Sun's turn red when their old Steven, Earth's is incredibly young and it will take millennia till it turns red." Pearl explained
"Also how do your powers work, like how do you do that freeze breath?" Steven continued to ask
"When you purse your lips and blow the air that comes out is cooler than when you do it with your mouth wider. So with my lung capacity and all that air going through such a small space the temperature drop is even greater. Lola says my Freeze breath goes below Zero degrees Celsius." Superman explained intriguing Steven and the gems.
"What about symbol, why is your family symbol an 'S'?" Steven asked
"It's actually not an 'S', on Krypton it means hope. Lola told me that it's meant to symbolize a river it comes and goes." Superman said touching the symbol
"Well here on Earth buddy, it's an 'S'. You really lucked out with that name" Amethyst said simply making Superman chuckle
"What about your Heat Vision?" Amethyst asked cheeks filled with food
"That is actually a biological thing, under the red sun one of the abilities I gained was to have my eyes not only absorb but also able to emit energy. So my Heat vision uses the solar energy in my cells to fire out a beam of pure solar power. It's probably the most taxing of my powers, but after that battle we had at the water city has surprisingly gotten easier after I fired off that last blast at that light arrow of yours." Superman said wondering
"I theorized that your battle may have pushed Kal-El past a limit gate of some kind, allowing him to unlock a whole new level of power." Lola said hugging Superman's shoulder
"Not gonna lie that was the first real fight, I've ever been in. I was mostly just going on instinct and trying to react best I could." Superman said nervously
"Well from that battle and the ones after that you are clearly untrained but possess a great awareness of the battlefield and of your opponent. With a little training you can be a real beast." Garnet said with a smirk
"I'm not interested in being a beast, I just want to help people." Superman said nervously waving his hands making Garnet laugh
"I guess your eye biology also explains the ability you demonstrated back at the Military base?" Pearl asked taking a sip of her tea
"Yeah that was kinda a leftover of my X-Ray. Honestly my vision has always been beyond normal I could see things that normal people can't. I can see far and just things that are…. Extraordinary." Superman said looking at the group
"Yeah when we were fused we saw Beach City from so far away like it was right in front of us. Not only that I could see these strange colors around everybody, like some kind of aura." Steven said excited
"I'm amazed Krypton did not look into yellow sun radiation, with that power they could've….." Pearl said with a hint of hesitation in her voice Superman noticed this and frowned a bit
"Well it's been a long day for everyone, what do you say we turn in for the night?" Superman asked
"Is it really that late already?" Steven asked
"I shall prepare a room for young Mr. Universe, would you three like a residence as well?" Lola said standing up
"Actually I want to talk to you guys a little later, if you don't mind." Superman asked
"Sure-of course-whatever" the three answered
"I'll come to." Steven said
"No you don't young man, you need to rest after this hectic day." Pearl said pointing at Steven
"It's nothing important Steven sleepwell." Superman said with a smile rubbing Steven's hair as Lola guided him to a bedroom
30 Minutes Later
The gems walked down the crystalline halls led by one of the replica Pearls, they were brought to a Large room. Within the room Superman stood shirtless and was lifting a huge weight with one hand.
"I guess Men of Steel need to pump Iron too." Amethyst said impressed with a whistle
"Please keep your voices down Maste-I mean Kal-El, needs to focus." Lola said
"It's alright Lola, this is actually a lot easier than the last time I did this." Superman said as he continued to lift the weight straining
"Yes you are currently lifting twice your record from two months ago." Lola said as she typed away on a crystal tablet
"Feel like I can do more." Superman said
"I believe so, but I will need to enhance the weight machine." Lola said as Garnet passed her
"Mind if I take a shot." Garnet said rolling her shoulders surprising the two
"You sure?" Superman asked
"I can handle it." Garnet said with a smirk
Superman obliged moving out of the way allowing Garnet to get her hand under the weight. Superman the removed his hand allowing Garnet to take the weight. She immediately squatted down with a grunt as the weight forced her down and let out a low grunt as she tried to force it up. Superman stood close by with a worried expression in case Garnet couldn't take it. After a few seconds Garnet's straining lessened and she began to take slow breathes. Suddenly her gems began to glow lightly and then she lifted the weight over her head with a confident smirk.
"Well Done Garnet." Pearl said clapping
"Woooo, Go G!" Amethyst said cheering as Garnet lowered the weight
"You were not this strong when we fought." Superman said surprised
"We held back, we weren't trying to kill you." Garnet said stretching her arm
"Yeah we got some tricks, you can't even imagine." Amethyst said with a laugh
"I can guess and a lot of secrets to." Superman said as he picked up his T-Shirt holding it out for them to see pointing it at Pearl
"When you saw this Symbol you were scared. And you still show some apprehension whenever I bring up Krypton or the House of El. Please….. Just tell me why." Superman asked calmly Lola flinched upon hearing the request
Pearl gave a sigh and paced around the room.
"I'm…. sorry, I should not be feeling what I am feeling after everything you've done for us. But, I can't shake all those things from my mind. And seeing all of Krypton's technology only confirms it." Pearl said with a shiver as Garnet put a hand on her shoulder
"I noticed it to, you guys are still keeping Supes at arm's length. Why all these bad vibes, what's up with Krypton that got you so shaken." Amethyst asked
"On Homeworld there is no word that strikes terror into the hearts of gems more than the word El. On Krypton that symbol may mean hope, but on Homeworld it means fear." Garnet explained Superman's eyes widened and Lola griped her tablet.
"I have seen and heard the stories from those who escaped. The experiments, the torture they went through many coming out as disfigured or hollow shells of what they were. They took thousands of gems and only a few dozen escaped. And after seeing those images I know it was true, they told about how they tortured Peridot's to learn how our technology worked. I-I'm not putting what they did on you Superman, you are a good person, but your ancestors…. To gems they were monsters." Pearl said
"YOU TAKE THAT BACK!" Lola yelled snapping the tablet in half with a single hand startling everybody
"They did what they had to do to protect themselves from those savages." Lola snapped
"What they did was cruel, the survivors had holes in their gems, shards taken from them while keeping them whole." Pearl said offended stepping to Lola
"Cruel, cruel was what they were going to do to Krypton. They showed no mercy, so they simply returned the favor." Lola snapped back her fist clenched
"Are you trying to justify torture and experimentation?!" Pearl yelled
"The House of El gave the planet Krypton hope when there was none, they are heroes, they made me, and I will not have you slander the names of my masters!" Lola yelled
"So they kept the most important part of a Pearl when they made you huh!" Pearl hissed
"I am nothing like that underdeveloped race of barbarians, you…!" Lola yelled
"LOLA! What the heck is all this!" Superman yelled getting between the two
"Master El, don't listen to anything they say. What your family did what was necessary to save our planet." Lola pleaded
"They did what, is what they are saying is true. About the experiments, the torture, what happened? Did our races meet before! Wait a minute, when I told you about them after the first fight did you know what they were and didn't tell me?" Superman said facing
"Master El, please I was just trying….." Lola said shrinking back
"DON'T…..! Don't call me master, Lola please what aren't you telling me?" Superman snapping a bit then calming down
Lola swallowed a lump in her throat as she looked at Superman "Your father always felt a bit of guilt by what his family did. But that Guilt turned to shame after his contribution. Please follow me." Lola said as she exited the room
Superman huffed as he followed a very annoyed Pearl behind him and the other following behind her.
"Dang it's been awhile since I've seen Pearl so angry. And it's been even longer since I've seen you tap into it." Amethyst said with a raised eyebrow
"I have a feeling we're all gonna have to tap into it soon, I think things are gonna get a lot harder from here on." Garnet said stoically looking ahead
They once again stood in the main hall with Lola extracting another Crystal from the pillar and holding it starring at it. The hesitation was clear on Lola's face as she stared at it, then Superman put a gentle hand on her shoulder.
"Lola, I can take it whatever it is." He said reassuringly, Lola nodded and then placed the Crystal in the slot
Once again Jor-El appeared before them holding a solemn look taking a breath as he began to speak.
"My son….. Krypton was not a perfect planet and the Kryptonians were not a perfect people despite what we told ourselves. Our utopia was built upon the pain and suffering of a different people, though they were not innocent themselves. Still I always looked back on the history of El with some unease, and that unease turned to guilt after my contribution to the family's history. To understand what I am talking about I must take you back millennium in Krypton's History, I must tell you of the conjoined history of the Kryptonian and a race known as the gems." Jor-El said as the room changed to tell the story
"The actual name to their species is a mystery, but they are most likely one of the oldest races in the universe. They are a race of sentient stone based aliens, everything they are is comprised in a single gem located on their light constructed bodies. There are many types of gems each made to fulfill a certain purpose for their leaders the diamond authority. They are a conquering race very powerful and very intelligent. They move from planet to planet draining them of their resources in order to bolster their numbers and continue with their plans. When they are finished with a planet it is usually drained to the point where no organic life can be sustained on it, that is if they hadn't wiped out the dominate species." Jo-El explained as an image of a large brutish warrior that looked like Amethyst appeared, another who looked like the Ruby Luthor showed off only smaller, and finally was of a planet that was teaming with life but then slowly became hollow and barren with holes so deep you could see the core
Superman remained silent taking in what he heard with extreme interest, but he also noted how the gems were visibly not liking what was being said.
"When the gems came to our planet at the time were only slightly more advance than Earth probably is now, we were young and naïve. When we learned there was life beyond the stars we were ecstatic to make contact and welcomed them with open arms, they used our naivety to their advantage." Jor-El
The image shown was of a Kryptonian farmer working the land, taking a moment to wipe the sweat from his brow and look up to the sky. His gaze was greeted by what Superman could identify as a flying saucer touching down in the field. From the saucer emerged what Superman believed to be another gem only she was slim and orange, her gem was on her neck. The Kryptonian farmer approached the gem with a look of amazement, while the gem looked at Kryptonian with a look disinterest. The Kryptonian had a small smile as he reached out his hand in a welcoming gesture, the gem kept her gaze looking at him like a specimen. Then a smile grew on her face though there was a hint of deviousness in it as she extended her hand and touched his.
"They told us they were explorers and wished to study our planet. They told us that gathering data on our planet might help theirs, and we believed them. At first there was only a few of them around the planet they stayed in area's far from our cities, and gave only half answer to our questions about what they wished to accomplish. But then as time passed more of them arrived planting their machines into the Planet and soon life where they were began to die." Jor-El said
The image showed the farm being overtaken by Gem injectors and building as the crops began to die and the Kryptonians farm was destroyed.
"We eventually learned of their true intentions, they were going to kill our planet to make more of them. And once the truth got out, they saw no need to play nice anymore and planned to do to us as they have done with some many other natives. We, of course, tried to fight back, but they were more advanced than us with their ships and even the most basic gem solider could defeat dozens of Kryptonian soldiers." Jor-El explained
The image showed a bunch of Kryptonians raising various weapons to the air ready for battle. But soon the shadow of a gem ship and hundreds of their soldiers loomed over them making them look so small in comparison as their faces once filled with determination turned to fear.
"We were helpless in the face of their military might, we were insects to them and annoyance to be crushed. They knew that they practically owned the planet and so did the Kryptonians of old. Many believed that all they could do was wait for their planet and the entire race to die at the hands of the gems. It was hopeless" Jor-El said
The image shown was of a ruined Kryptonian city the buildings knocked down to make way for gems structures as the area started to look more and more lifeless.
"But in Krypton's darkest hour there was hope, a family of scientists who worked vigorously and restlessly to give the planet a means to fight back these invaders. This were the ancestors of the house of El." Jor-El said
The image showed a group of depressed Kryptonians hiding in the shadows, until a light caught their attention. And a man stood proudly in the light before them and raised a new weapon over his head. The people looked on in awe as hope returned to them once more as the stood to join him.
"They rallied the people of Krypton to keep fighting, designed and built weapons that could hurt the invaders. Guns that could tear through their forms with ease, armor that could match and even surpass the strength and speed of their soldiers, and even ways to imprison them." Jor-El said
The image showed an army of Kryptonians charging and overtaking an army of gems. The Kryptonians were all wearing bulky black armor and holding strange guns that shot yellow bolts out of them. One Kryptonian in the armor was seen punching a quartz soldier in the face knocking them to the ground. Then there was a squad of Kryptonian firing at a group of gems the yellow bolts tearing through their bodies as they screamed and their forms crumbled like stone. They blew up and teared down the injectors in building as the gems fled back to their ships. A Kryptonian triumphantly raised a flag into the air as the soldiers around him cheered, the gems ships seen taking off into the sky. The Kryptonian then noticed a gem at his feet and with a look of disgust raised his foot and brought in down onto the gem with a sickening crack. The gems flinched upon hearing the crack with uncomfortable looks their faces.
"For their contribution to the fight and for rallying the forces of Krypton to fight this threat the House El was awarded the Kryptonian crest of Hope. Because throughout the struggle they held onto it and gave it back to the people of Krypton." Jor-El said
The image showed a man kneeling in front of 5 people before a cheering crowd. One of the five unveiled a brilliant red cape with the El crest on it. He then gracefully wrapped it around the man's shoulders. He rose and faced the crowd brimming with pride as he raised his fist in the air, the crowd following and cheering even louder.
"And with the leftover tech from the gems attack and the growing push towards science led by the House of El, Krypton was put into an age of prosperity. Every day brought a new technological advancement, cities built in seconds, new ways of holding information, and we even found a way to recreate the gems servant class known as Pearl for ourselves. One of the first successful creations was 707V and she was given to the house of El millennia ago and served us to this day" Jor-El said
The image showed crystalline buildings rising from the ground, a shard similar to the one Lola used to show them this, only it was being used to educate children. And finally a single shard floating in the air and then began to glow the light taking a humanoid shape, and with a final flash Lola stood before them with a smile on her face. She stepped forward and bowed before the Kryptonian who was still wearing the red cape. Lola looked away with a small blush and a smile, while Pearl looked uncomfortable.
"That's what it will say in all the Kryptonian history books, it will tell of our triumph but not how it was achieved. How is it that the house of El was able to learn gem weaknesses and how their tech works, I learned the dark truth of how it happened? Our ancestors had taken a gems who was on Krypton and imprisoned her. They then experimented on her figuring out how she reacted to certain things, how fast she could regenerate and reform from her gem, and even what happens when the gem itself is examined. This led to the first anti-gem weapons on Krypton." Jor-El said
The image showed a human-sized gem in chains a green gem on her chest, struggling to escape while shadows loomed over her. It then showed her strapped to some kind of chair needles pushed into her body, a Kryptonian then pulled a switch allowing electricity to flow through her body making her scream in pain. Then it showed her green gem on the floor with more wires attached to it, another switch was pulled sending electricity through the stone. It began to glow violently shaking on the ground as an unsteady light formed around it, the light jerked and warped as if it was trying to take shape but was failing. Finally it took a humanoid shape and the gem reformed breathing heavily with a pathetic look in her eye. And finally the gem was strapped to a table some kind of metal gag in its mouth with more Kryptonians surrounding her. There was pure terror in her eyes as she looked at her captors, one of them pulled out what looked like a small drill. He then slow brought it to her gem as she looked to him with pleading eyes, tears streaming from down face, voicelessly begging for some kind of mercy. But there was none. The gems looked away as the heard the drilling commence Pearl actually holding back a sob, Lola uncomfortably rubbed her shoulder, and Superman looked on shocked by what he saw.
"Once the council learned how they made the weapons, they fully supported and expanded the experimentation to build even more. More gems of every type were taken and experimented on allowing us to learn their strengths and weaknesses. And even though we had gathered some of their tech we didn't know how to us it, so with the help of another prominent family of Krypton we began taking gems who knew the tech and began….intensive interrogation to learn their secrets." Jor-El said
The image showed a large complex filled with Kryptonians walking about and building various things. Gems that were kept in cages or were being pushed around by electric shocks. There were dozens of area's where experiments were taking place screams could be heard coming from the rooms and there were even strange misshapen shadows of something inside each room writhing about. And finally there was a gem strapped to chair, her face was covered in bruises and she was crying as Kryptonian circled around her. He appeared to be forcefully asking her questions he looked to be a part of the military wearing armor a diamond crest on his chest though it wasn't the El symbol, it looked more like a 'U' or a sickle of some kind. The Kryptonian continued to yell at the crying gem even smacking her across the face, he then pulled out a drill-like device sending terror through the gem as she appeared to be begging for her life. Amethyst actually gripped Garnet's leg as fear filled her, not any of them knew that a gem could go through that much.
"It is common knowledge among members of the house of El, and we are always told it was for the greater good of the planet. Even when I was young this Truth made me…. Uncomfortable, but I accepted it. The House of El was hailed as heroes on the planet, we were praised, and thanked by everyone. Thousands of Kryptonians told me that with the blood of El I was bound for greatness like my ancestors, and I believed them. I wanted to do something that would make me a great as one of them. What I did would forever mark me as a hero to Krypton, but would make me hate myself till the day I met your mother." Jor-El said with shame in his voice as he son looked at him sympathetically
The image showed a young Jor-El sitting next to another child as an elderly man wearing the cape appeared to be telling them a story. The child next to Jor-El's eyes sparkled with wonder as he smiled, while Jor-El had an uncomfortable smile
"Despite us pushing the gems off-world, they were persistent constantly trying to get back and finish what they started. Luckily we had developed defenses that kept the gems off world and kept us safe. Some did make it on planet, but were quickly dealt with. They would attempt attacks on us for years making us recoil back into our planet for safety, stopping any ideas of looking beyond the stars. And also raised paranoia, a belief that one day the gems will break through leading our planet to pour resources into our military and look for ways to become…. More efficient. One such way was the genesis chamber, Kryptonian children were no longer naturally born, but instead made in these chambers. Bonded Kryptonians would insert their Genetic material and a child would be produced, this child would be genetically modified to fit into a certain sect of Kryptonian life. Soldiers, scientists, builders, even artist, and their destiny were decided before they were even born." Jor-El said
The image showed multiple gems ship floating near the planet trying to enter its atmosphere, until a laser shot form the planet hits one of the ships making it explode. More lasers were shot destroying more of the ships as some retreated. One ship managed to fire off a shot at the planet before getting destroyed. The laser flew towards the planet aimed at what looked like a giant cannon, but before it could hit it, it collided with some kind of force field leaving the cannon unscathed. It then showed what most likely was a genesis chamber. A male a female Kryptonian entered, they stuck their fingers into a machine as a pod began to form. A servant shard then took the pod and jumped into a pool of water, within the pool were thousands of pods that each seemed to be growing a baby. The servant shard then placed the pod near another that had a baby in it, she then took that one and exited the pool. Superman and the gems eyes widened upon hearing that and he took a step back, Lola looking at him worried.
"Your mother and I were born like this, she an artist and I a scientist. When I was as old as you are probably now I was making a name for myself in the scientific community. I had discovered another dimension that I dubbed the Phantom Zone and a way to access it. After showing it to the council and due to an increase of gem prisoners it was used as a way to imprison them to make sure they don't cause trouble on world. It was inescapable and deemed humane imprisonment." Jor-El said
The image showed an older Jor-El still without his beard working on what looked like a black handheld spotlight. It then showed a group of gems held by chains as a Kryptonian pointed the device at them. When the device was activated the gems were bathed in a white light, they screamed as the space around the light began to warp looking like the air was shattering. Suddenly a hole that looked like a broken window opened behind the gems revealing a negative space. The chains that held them were undone and they were sucked in screaming.
"This was an achievement, but nothing monumental. No my true legacy came after, more gems were making it on Krypton. The council got increasingly worried about the possibility of an all-out war starting up again, they needed a way to get the gems to leave Krypton alone. They were relentless in their assaults and have showed no interest in diplomatic relations, in the end they believed that the gems would only respond to brute force and one Kryptonian knew just how. My childhood friend Dru-Zod a soldier and at the time lieutenant of Krypton's military, he approached the council with a proposal. He wanted to attack the gem Homeworld directly and threaten them to withdraw and never return, of course the council thought he was crazy. We had ships that could bring us to the planet, but war was what the council was trying to avoid. But Zod said that he wasn't planning sending troops to the planet, but instead a creature of my creation." Jor-El said
The image showed a man in military garb lots of blacks and reds with a dark cape on his back standing before the council talking to them. The man had short black hair and a goatee, and he wore the crest of the interrogator from early on.
"To be honest I didn't really create it, more so stumbled upon. It was a genetic mix up using the genesis chamber and the remains of some gems. I….. It was just curiosity, I just wanted to know what would happen. I didn't know that what came of it would be so violent. The first subject escaped and killed three of my associates and would've killed me if Zod hadn't stepped in." Jor-El said
The image showed Jor-El looking quizzically at a gem shard surrounded by three other Kryptonians. He then took the shard and inserted it into a genesis pod and then putting the pod into a small pool of water. He and the scientist looked at the pod as lights flashed and something within the pod grew. The faces became more intrigued as time passed whatever was in the pod was marveling them. But then their faces became worried, whatever was inside was now starting to scare them. Then there was a bang making them step back, then there were more bangs the sound of something pounding against something else followed by the sound of cracking glass. One scientist ran, while the other went to the other corners of the room. Jor-El however stood in place with terror in his eyes of what he had created as it finally broke through the glass tank. The next scene showed Jor-El on the ground a cut on his forehead as he groggily looked around the destroyed laboratory, the bodies of his fellow scientist laid about the lab dead. Jor-El tried to stand up until a shadow suddenly a shadow covered him, he managed to turn around with fear in his eyes. Before him stood a creature the size of a very large child its body covered in shadows, but a pair of red eye narrowed at him. The creature raised its hand ready to attack Jor-El, he being too weak to move or even defend himself. But before it could attack multiple laser bolts shot through its body it let out a blood-curdling scream as it was torn into before finally falling to the ground. Jor-El turned to see Zod standing at the door gun in hand shocked by what he saw. He went to help his friend up both of them starring at the dead creature there was no blood it just laid their lifeless.
"Zod told them of what I created and said that I could make a new stronger one and unleash it upon the gem Homeworld forcing them to negotiate a withdrawal, this was approved by the council and I was asked to lead the project. I stood at the feet of this creature I saw it's eyes I saw the pure anger and lifelessness in those eyes, it would've killed me and move on to kill another without any hesitation or care. But, even with that hesitation I accepted and began work on my doomsday creation. We recreated the previous circumstances but on a larger scale loaded it onto a rocket, fired it towards the planet and waited." Jor-El said
The image showed Jor-El and more scientists working on a ship inside it was a genesis chamber. The loaded the pod of the genesis chamber with dozens of different types of gem shards. Jor-El looked at the chamber hesitation clear in his eyes, until Zod came from behind and patted his shoulder giving him a happy and congratulatory smile. Zod then walked towards the chamber and stuck his finger into a device attached to it. With that, the Shuttle was closed and then fired into space towards the gem Homeworld.
"After what would be in Earth known as a week and a half the council received a message from one of the Homeworld leaders. The council explained what they had done and what they desired to stop it. Apparently, my creature had caused quite a stir on the planet and the leaders agreed to the terms. A small shuttle was sent to orbit the planet and utilizing the phantom zone projector the creature vanished from the face of the gem planet. The projector was used as a bargaining chip to hold over the gems, that the creature could easily reappear as it disappeared. And with that me and Zod were hailed as heroes, Zod became a general and one of the greatest Krypton had ever had, and I earned the right to wear the family cape that I bestowed onto you." Jor-El said
The image showed the council looking at a screen a figure covered in shadows on it, they appeared to be in a heated conversation. Next showed the shuttle hovering over the atmosphere of what was the gem Homeworld, from the shuttle a light was shot out at the planet for a few minutes before stopping and the shuttle quickly turning around and leaving. Next showed Zod standing proud as he was given a medal now wearing a more extravagant version of the armor he wore they saw Jor-El standing before what probably was his mother and father, his father removed his cape and put it on Jor-El a smile on his face as Jor-El swelled with pride.
"I thought this was it that this was the moment that would put me on the same level as my ancestors who saved the planet, I thought that I was a hero. But, then I saw what my creation did, the shuttle the creature was in had managed to record the first 10 minutes of its birth on the Gem Homeworld and the Shuttle with the projector managed to scan the shuttle for its data finding the recording. I decided to look over the footage and record the data, thinking my creature might be useful for future endeavors. But what I saw….. Horrified me. The shuttle landed in the middle of a city where thousands of gems were. Once the creature awoke, the carnage, the destruction, there was no end it didn't rest, it didn't stop. It just kept moving and destroying." Jor-El said
The image showed Jor-El in a dark room staring at a screen, his cape on the ground along with a tablet. Jor-El sat there staring at the screen eyes wide with terror and his hand covering his mouth as he took in every image and sound. Screams filled the room, the sounds of weapons clashing and explosions, thing crumbling and shattering, and there was even some begging in there as well. Jor-El continued to stare tears starting to form in his eyes, suddenly the door behind opened and her turned to see his friend Zod. Zod walked forward and saw the footage and then silently turned it off. He then helped his friend up and out of the room.
"Zod was my friend, but what he said to me at that moment would make me question every decision Krypton has made" Jor –El said as the image showed the two walking down the hall past Jor-El looking hollow.
"I must admit that was brutal to watch….. But necessary. What you did has assured peace and prosperity on Krypton for years to come. You have saved our world my friend, joined the ranks of your ancestors, you are a hero. The means as expected were messy, but in time you and others will see that the ends justified them. Besides my friend, it's not like they were alive." Zod said simply upon hearing that Jor-El's eyes widened as if he had a realization and the gems looked on offended by what he said
"At that moment I knew I was no hero, I was monster. Those 10 minutes stretched upon the time it took for the leaders of the planet to call and beg for us to stop. All it did in 10 minutes, plus so much more. I made that creature and released it on their world. Everyone on Krypton believe that gems aren't living creatures but they scream, they begged, they fear the end like we do. Everyone said I was a hero, I wasn't. I fell into a depression I distanced myself from the science community, my friends, and my family." Jor-El said
The image showed Jor-El in the dark sitting down face in his hands as his cape laid on the floor. Lola stood next to him looking at him with a worried expression but said nothing as the two stood in silence.
"I was like this for months till my father finally approached me with the news that I was to be bonded and continue the El line. But at that moment I didn't care, I wasn't worthy of the adoration I received, the love of my brother and parents, the friendship of Zod, or even life itself. I was planning to take my own life, but my mother convinced me to go to a concert where the woman I was bonded would be. Again I did not care and went to the concert and once I was there, well if you are watching these in order you know." Jor-El said
The image showed Jor-El now with a beard in darkness his eyes were empty and his face was sad as he just starred at the ground. And then there was a light in the darkness, it caught his attention and he looked up. With the light there was a woman and there was singing coming from it. The woman in the light finally became clear showing Lara in a beautiful dress singing like an angel. Then with a moment their eyes met and she smiled at him and then he returned it.
"The day I met your mother and was bonded to her was the happiest day of my life, knocking away those notions I once had and reinvigorated me to a point. I still felt the guilt and there were still moments where I would sink into depression. Lara noticed and finally asked what was wrong, I told her everything and this is what she told me." Jor-El said
The image showed Jor-El and Lara happily together holding hands and smiling. But then Jor-El's smile vanished replaced with a frown, Lara noticing this began talking to him. Jor-El then explained the story some tears forming in his eyes.
"Jor-El….. I cannot tell you whether what you did was right or wrong. I believe that all life is sacred, but even I know that the gems wanted to destroy us. But, let's not focus on how history will view you and focus on how you view you. Jor-El you are a good Kryptonian and a brilliant scientist, you could help Krypton in ways that don't involve weapons. In a way you can think of it as your way to make amends, to serve and make Krypton a better place. Make it so that those things are your legacy, not the monster you made. I mean….. That's what I think." Lara explained
"I took her word to heart and rejoined the scientific community, though I distanced myself from any work that would've involved the military. I instead turned my head to the stars I wanted to build spaceships that would finally allow Kryptonians to go beyond our planet and towards the infinite universe. My previous accomplishments have gave me some leeway with the science council and with the gems no longer hovering in our atmosphere they allowed me to start a space program in Kandor. Things were going well until….." Jor-El said
The image showed Jor-El standing before the council pleading his case. It then showed Jor-El in a laboratory with dozens of other scientist working on a spacecraft. Jor-El had a complacent smile as he left the lab to walk onto the balcony and look out towards the city. Then a shadow covered him, he looked towards the sky and his eyes widened. A massive craft was floating over the city nearly enveloping it, he could see anything accept the underneath and the massive multiple tentacles coming out of it and writhing about.
"To the day of Krypton's destruction we never learned what it was that attacked us, how they were able to get past our planet's defenses. It came and attacked launching probes into the city that became troops and began attacking citizens and people. And by some kind of fate whatever controlled the craft wanted what was in the building I was currently in." Jor-El said
The image showed multiple pods coming out from underneath the ship and crashing into the city below into street and through buildings. Kryptonians ran in fear from the destruction, and then from the craters strange metallic robots came out, they had slick designs, skull-shaped heads, and purple glowing lights on their heads. The robots marched down the street and began to gather the citizens making sure they didn't escape. What looked like a police department arrived and opened fire on the robots, but their weapons had no effect. One of the robots held out its hand making a strange tentacle shot out. It tore through the head of one of the Kryptonian police and dragged him forward, the robot held the dead Kryptonians head in its hand for a moment looking like it was thinking before dropping the dead body. From where Jor-El was the entire city was in chaos with fires and explosions happening everywhere.
Lola then came to the balcony and quickly grabbed Jor-El pulling him off the balcony. She then brought him to the other scientist who were going to escape the building. They all made their way down the hallways until Jor-El noticed something a shadow going the other way. Jor-El's curiosity got the better of him and he broke off from the group to follow a worried Lola following behind. Jor-El knew where this Hallway lead and moved quietly he then came to a large open room with a single walkway leading to a podium. A large figure made its way to the podium where a Clear Crystal shard the size of a small soda bottle floated.
"The Kryptonian Codex, it held all the knowledge of Krypton. Our History, biology, every detail of our planet and culture laid within this single shard and was continuously updating. What was even more shocking than the attempted theft of the codex was who was doing it." Jor-El said
The image showed the large figure stopping halfway down the walkway. It then quickly turned around and shot out its arm making it stretch. It then grabbed the hiding Jor-El and pulled him forward Lola letting out a panicked scream. Jor-El was pulled forward and was met by an orange face, he was currently in the clutches of a gem. Though she was not dressed like any he had ever seen, to the gems and Superman's surprise it wore armor that was similar to Robo-Pearl expect it looked like a downgrade compared to hers. The gem raised its hand preparing to hit Jor-El until a laser bolt hit her from behind making her drop Jor-El. Behind her was Zod wearing a suit of Armor laser in hand. Zod attempted to charge the gem, but the gem held out its hand showing off an upside down triangle with three purple dots on the ends that began to flash. Suddenly Zod stopped and dropped his gun his body jerking about appearing to be in pain, it looked like his armor was no longer under his control. The gem walked forward towards the immobilized Zod bringing out a dagger to stab him. But Lola jumped on her back and forced her back, with the distraction Jor-El went to Zod and managed to get the armor off of him. Zod picked up his gun just as the gem threw Lola off her back and then opened fire. The laser impacted on her armor chipping it away till on bolt knocked off a metal glove revealing the orange gem on its palm. The gem moved forward knocking the gun out of Zod's hand and grabbing him by the neck choking him. The gun landed next to Jor-El who quickly picked it up and fired a shot at the gems exposed midsection. The gem screamed dropping Zod and clutching her side. Zod then tackled the gem onto her back and pulled out a knife, his face was contorted with rage as he viciously stabbed the gem on her hand screaming as he did. Jor-El looked at his friend worried, but then turned to the codex.
"They were after the Codex that much was sure, so in the moment I grabbed it and made my escape with 707V and Zod. They wanted the Codex, but that wasn't they're only mission." Jor-El said
The image showed Jor-El grabbing the shard from the podium and running towards Zod who had picked up the gem shards. The two exited the room toward Lola who was lying near the door after being thrown. Zod ran right past her while Jor-El took the moment to help her up. They all made their way to a hangar where Zod's ship was a woman waiting and telling them to come. She ship left the building and flew towards the city limits, the city was still in chaos thousands of people were being held by the robots. Then from the massive ship above a force field began to envelop the city. It took the shape of a long dome and slowly made its way to the ground. Zod's ship managed to make it past the city limits the shield slicing off the back of the ship making it crash. They emerged mostly unharmed, Zod charged forward towards the waiting military and told them to open fire on the ship and shield. Once again the weapons did nothing to either as the shield fully covered the city. Zod ran forward to see some people still inside banging against the shield trying to escape. His eyes widened as he ran forward and banged against the shield trying to consul those inside, telling them that it will be okay, that he'll get them out. Jor-El and the woman grabbed him forcefully pulling him away as he tried to push them off. Once they were away there was a massive flash and a crackling sound, once it was done Jor-El, Zod, and the military looked on in horror. Where once the city of Kandor once stood there was now nothing but a gigantic hole. Zod fell to his knee pure terror on his face as he looked out to the hole not even noticing the ship disappear to the clouds. Zod reached into his pocket pulling out the gem shards, his tightening around them the shards cutting in and making his hand bleed. Jor-El was horrified as well taking a moment to look at the codex he was then tapped on the shoulder by Lola who held out something, the metallic glove the gem wore Jor-El focusing on the symbol on its palm.
"This was the darkest moment in Kryptonian history, and entire city and all its inhabitants gone in an instant. They were after the Codex but why do this, we never learned why. This moment twisted Zod, he stood before the council blaming the gems for the attack. He demanded that we unleash the creature once again and not only that invade the planet and take it over. The council rejected his notion, though they to believe that it was the gems. Thus they came down harder on studies of space travel even making it illegal. After this Zod became disillusioned with the Kryptonian government, his anger starting to take him, and when I told him of Krypton's demise pushed him fully over." Jor-El
The image then showed Zod angrily yelling at the council holding up the gem shards as he tried to convince them to attack. They sent him away and he walked past a worried Jor-El with a look of pure anger on his face. It then showed Jor-El telling him of his discovery of the planets end, Zod taking in all the information. Then it showed Zod leading an army through a burning city, the woman from before by his side and holding a flag with his symbol on it.
"The gems have been so deeply connected with our planet, they made us what we were. But in a strange way even though we hated them, we became more like them. Was the genesis chamber any different from how they make gems, not only that but we tapped into our own planets core for infinite power. It wasn't infinite and due to use taking so much it lead to our destruction. The reason I am telling you all this is to prepare you, even though we are gone the gems are still out there. Maybe with time they changed or maybe they haven't, but if they find you I am worried they will try to kill you, they might even be more inclined to do so since you are of the House of El. And if that ever happens, my son… Don't do what I did. All life is sacred Kal-El even those of our enemies, if you take a life it will stay with you till you die. If you ever face a gem be ready for combat, but also remember there is always a better way." Jor-El said as he vanished
Lola then removed the crystal and looked to Superman who looked to be in deep contemplation arms crossed over his chest.
"So that's why you've been so on edge." Superman said
"Superman, I-I would never put what your ancestors did on you, the sins of the parent should never pass to the child. It's just….. Hard to keep the name El and their actions apart." Pearl said rubbing her shoulder
"I understand after some of those things I saw…. Even my own father." Superman said raking his hand through his hair
"None of that is one you. When we first met we assumed the worse, but now after everything you've done we know you aren't an enemy." Garnet said
"Yeah even your dad was sorry about what he did. He decided to help people instead of making monsters. And look at you, you're helping people to the max. You're a good dude." Amethyst said walking up and patting his leg with a smile making Superman smile
"Thank you, all of you. But, I need to know…. Lola, why did you hide this from me?" Superman asked turning to Lola
"I-I just-I've watched you grow, I've seen your kind heart. I knew that you would disapprove of your ancestor's actions. I thought that if you learned about what Jor-El did, you-you wouldn't want anything to do with him, that you would reject him, your mother, and your planet. That you wouldn't want anything to do with this place… or me. I just wanted to preserve the perfect image of Krypton and your parents for you, I just didn't want you to leave." Lola said her eyes watering
Superman sighed as he walked forward and then embraced Lola in a gentle hug.
"Lola your right, I don't agree with what my ancestors did but I can understand they were at war and trying to protect their families and their planet. Despite my own objections this is a part of me and my history and I couldn't run from that even if I tired. All I can do is try to be better than them like my father. It's a troubling thing to learn what he did, but honestly I don't care. He's still the man who gave his all to save his only son. He was a good man who made a bad decision, in way that makes him more human. So no I'm not gonna reject my heritage, or abandon you Lola." Superman said looking into Lola's eyes
"Th-thank you for your kindness Ma….Kal-El, thank you." Lola said wiping her eyes
Superman then turned to the gems "I'm not sure if it means much, but as the last member of the House of El I wish to extend an apology to you and your people for my families past transgressions." Superman said with a small bow
"You-you don't need to apologize. We know what Homeworld does to planets, what happened was terrifying but we can understand why." Garnet said raising a reassuring hand
"Yeah, after what I heard and saw back at the military base I have a feeling you guys have your own story to tell." Superman said
"I believe it's only fair we tell you, that Luthor man got close bit very far from the truth." Pearl said
"Oh yes, I have noticed the multiple structures around the planet that were similar to the gem structures built on Krypton. I have created my own theories, but it would be so much better to hear from a source." Lola said with a smile making Superman smile. Truth be told he had more questions in regards to the Genesis Chamber, but he felt like Lola has been through enough today
"But, first I think we should address our surprise audience member." Superman said looking up
"Especially when they're supposed to be in bed." Garnet said also looking up
Then everyone was looking up at the crystalline chandelier, and soon Steven sheepishly poked his head out.
"Heh heh, hey guys." Steven said with a wave
"Ha, nice one Steven." Amethyst said looking up at him
"Steven, how did you get up there?" Pearl asked worried
Steven smiled as a bark and a low growl were heard from the chandelier as well. Superman quickly got Steven and Lion down from their Krypto floating behind him and placed him on the ground.
"How much did you hear?" Superman asked
"I got here when your father talked about the monster, sorry about that. I was just curious." Steven said rubbing his shoulder
"It's alright Steven, it only seems fair since it looks like we're gonna be stuck together for a while." Superman said
"Oh and don't worry I will do everything in my power to make sure your stay here is comfortable young Mr. Universe." Lola said
"Actually Lola I've been thinking about it and I think Steven and the gems need to be somewhere a bit more…. Open." Superman said confusing the gems
"Well what do you…..? Oh are you sure they won't find you?" Lola asked
"I was there for years and no government agent came knocking at my door, just need to be careful getting there." Superman said
"And what about your….?" Lola asked
"I trust them Lola, it's okay." Superman said with a reassuring smile
"What are you guys talking about?" Steven asked
"Don't worry, I just have a better place for us to hide out. It'll be better than hiding up here alone in the north. We're gonna head out tomorrow, right now ya need to go to bed." Superman said
"Where exactly are you taking us?" Pearl asked
"Home." Superman said simply
The Next Day
Superman flew across the sky though it wasn't at his top speed holding a bubble that held Steven and the Crystal gems. They left the fortress a little after noon and were now out of the frozen north and back over American soil.
"You are still yet to tell us about where we're heading." Garnet said
"Don't worry you guys are gonna love it. Open Space, fresh air, good people it's a fine place." Superman said simply
"Based on your directions, we are currently over Kansas. But you still haven't…" Pearls said but was cut off
"Hey look Pearl, cows." Steven said looking down at the farmland below
"That's very nice Steven, but still…." Pearl said but was cut off again
"Don't worry Pearl we're here." Superman said
The group looked down to see that they were flying over a town about the size of Beach City. It was made up of small building nothing over two stories, there was a water tower, people walking about. And the entire town was surrounded by miles and miles of wheat and corn some small barns and silos seen in the distance.
"Whoa, kind looks like Beach City, except you replace the water with corn" Amethyst said
"Welcome to Smallville everybody. Hold on here's our stop." Superman said happily as he began to descend
They landed in front of a two story house right, nicely painted, a pickup truck parked out front, a flag hanging off the front, two chairs on the porch, and a barn to the side, a tree in the back with a swing, and a whole lot of open space.
"I didn't think homes like this existed anymore." Pearls said examining the area
"This place is Americana as hell." Amethyst said with a small laugh
"This place is amazing there's so much open space, does that swing work?" Steven said excited as he looked around
"It sure does but first I gotta introduce you to the folks." Superman said walking towards the porch
"Folks?" The gems said confused following behind
They came up to the front door and Superman politely knocked and waited. They heard footsteps and then the door opened revealing an elderly couple both of them grey haired. A kindly old woman wearing a light purple sweater, a beige pants, and slippers. The man was wearing a green shirt, worn out jeans and boots, suspenders, and had a pair of glasses on his face.
"Clark it's so good to see you." The woman said kindly making the gems eyes widened
"Hi Ma, Hi Pa." Superman said with a friendly wave as the gems eyes darted to him
"Looks like you brought some friends son." The man said, the gems eyes went to him
"Yes this is Garnet, Amethyst, Pearl, and Steven Universe. Listen this is probably the last thing you want to hear from your twenty-something year old son but….. Is it okay if me and my friends stay here for a while?" Superman said embarrassed
"Whaaaaaaat is going on?" Amethyst asked confused
"Oh right, this is Martha and Johnathan Kent, my parents. This is where I was raised." Superman said gesturing to the smiling couple
"clark?" Amethyst said wide-eyed mouth open
"Clark?" Garnet said taking a moment to lift her visor to get a good look at him
"CLARK KENT! YOU'RE CLARK KENT!" Pearl shouted pointing to him shocked
"Di-did you guys not know, I thought you always knew. I mean I figured it out when we were fused, and it was so obvious I thought you guys already knew." Steven said surprised
The gems eyes quickly darted to Superman, the Kent's, and Steven multiple time still holding a look of absolute surprise and shock.
"Oh my stars we're all morons." Pearls said defeated head slumping
(Note: I had this chapter planned out from the day I wrote the prologue to this story. Fusing the two lores together was a challenge, but one I was happy to take. And now the gems are going to take some downtime in Smallville. There's one more lore-heavy chapter until we reach the climax of this story. And I need to give Superman something for the upcoming battle. Still 80 years of this guy, I was a fan when I was little, but it wasn't until I watched Man of Steel did my interest get peaked. Now I can't get enough of him. I look forward to all his new adventure on and off the page. And I hope I'm doing him justice with this story. Thank you for all your support, if you like what you have read please leave a review I'll reply ASAP.)