Episode 47: Hunter VS Hunted
1870
High above the skies the scorching sun shined it's rays upon the lands below. Nothing but cacti and dirt out west, with only several rare places housing shade if you're lucky to find it.
On these lands a man wearing a bandanna over his face rapidly made his way through it thanks to his horse. As his horse galloped on through the dirt the man himself kept a tight grip on the reins as heavy breaths exited out of his mouth. His eyes were as wide as newly cleaned plates while sweat continuously began to fall from his skin. Snapping the reins he increased the speed of his mare little by little while slightly turning his head from left to right.
BANG!
A loud yelp exited out of the man and his mare, making him turn his head back. Right behind him two individuals on horseback were right on his trail. On the left was a male while on the right was a female, with both holding their guns out at the man and his mare. Little by little the duo kept snapping their reins, making their stallions speed up on the man while pulling back their hammers and lowering their guns.
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
With each bullet fired they swiftly moved through the air like a rushing locomotive and impacted the back-legs of the man's mare. Loud squeals left the mouth of that poor girl as she tumbled over, making her rider fall with her and impacting the ground.
THUD!
Watching the man fall the duo chasing him halted their stallions near the mare and got off. Step by step the individuals slowly approached the man as he turned onto his back. Raising their guns they pointed them right at the man's legs...
BANG!
"AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!" The man wailed, clenching onto his pierced legs with blood spilling out.
Groans exited out of the man as she slowly opened his eyes to the duo in front of him, shading him from the sun. "Where the hell did ya'll come from? Ah thought Ah lost ya." The man said.
"Ya really thought ya could jus' stab us in the back and get away without gettin' a bullet in ya? Ya really are a piece a' work." The male individual said, raising his gun up to the man's head.
"Ah had no choice." The man whimpered. "Not afta' what happened. Ah had to."
The female individual then raised her gun up at the man while pulling back her hammer. "Ya always had a choice! Five people ya put in the ground. Ya even threaten our kids! We trusted ya and ya did this stupid turncoat jus' cuz of a misundertandin'?!"
"Ah'm sorry!" The man yelled as tears fell from his eyes.
"Yer wanted dead or alive. If things were different we'd spared ya. But afta that little stunt...it looks like there's only one place fer ya ta go now." The male individual said, pull back his hammer.
BANG! BANG!
-Sometime Later-
As the moon raised herself into the dark skies with the stars, the individuals slowly approached a large grassy land with a white fence surrounding a big house. Pulling the reins on their stallions the individuals got off of them and opened up the fence. Guiding their stallions the duo brought them up to a large red and white barn before opening it up. Inside the barn several animals were resting up with numerous flies swarming around the cattle. To the right the duo brought their stallions to their spot of the barn with fresh water and food waiting for them.
Exiting out of the barn the duo walked up to the house and approached the door. Just as the female individual reached out for the knob the male individual grabbed onto it, making her turn her eyes to him.
"Amber. He had it comin'. Remember, we can't get too personal in this line of work. Sonofabitch deserved those bullets, but we can't let it get ta us." The male individuals said softly.
"Ah know, Erron. Ya don't have ta remind me." Amber replied softly. "'nother hunt just like always. Though this one was one of our own."
"Yeah. It was an accident that drove him ta how he got. Don't blame yerself. Never ferget why we're doin' this." Erron said as he turned her to face him.
Raising his hand Erron placed it on his face, removing his mask. He then lowered his face to her as their lips touched. After a brief moment they separated their lips as they soon stretched into soft grins.
"Ya ain't gotta remind me so damn much. Tomorrow, let's find more work than today." Amber replied as she opened the door.
"If that's what mah woman wants, she'll get it." Erron replied as he followed her.
Inside the house candle lights illuminated their surroundings. To their left their eyes lightly widened before softening at the very sight on the couch. At the center was a tall muscular boy, on their left was a shorter blonde boy, and on their right was two young blonde girls. All four sleeping together and holding each other without a care in the world.
'Clay. Mac. AJ. Sandy. Ya ma will make sure yer protected. No matter what.' Amber thought to herself as she approached her children.
October 22nd 12:00 p.m.(Present Day)
At the DCPD, Amber narrowed her eyes as she wrote on the paper, getting closer to the bottom. After so long... Gathering up all the evidence they needed... Locating the real suspect... The long overdo case can finally be put to rest.
"...and there. That's all of it." Amber said as she placed her pen down.
The person in front of her desk blinked several times, directing his eyes from the papers to her. "Really?" The person said in almost disbelief. "Does this mean...I...I...I..." The person tried to speak, but started to lightly choke as tears began to swell in his eyes.
"Yes, hun. We finally caught the speedy bastard. Yer Pa is free ta go. He is now officially a free man." Amber said with a small grin.
The person in front of her desk quickly took her hands and began shaking them rapidly, "Thank you...! Thank you...! Thank you so much! You have no idea how much this means to me."
Amber smirked as the person sobbed before releasing her hands. Getting up from her chair she walked over to the person and slowly wiped away the tears in his eyes. "Yer Ma will now rest in peace. Go ta yer Pa."
The person nodded as he turned around and quickly exited her office. A sigh exited her mouth as she watched him leave. As she turned to head back to her chair Doug soon entered the room alongside his daughter. "I take it that went pretty well?" Doug asked with a smirk.
"Pretty much. Glad this case can finally close afta twenty long years and that man's dad gets to be free." Amber replied. Her eyes then turned over to Connie, "Oh, hi Connie."
"Hi, Officer Evans. It's nice to meet you." Connie said as she raised her hand out. Amber raised out her own before interlocking it with Connie's. "My dad told me a lot about you." Connie added as they shook.
"Really?" Amber said as they separated their hands. "What kinda things have yer Pa been sayin' behin' mah back?" She added as she narrowed her eyes while getting dangerously to Doug's face.
Doug gulped as body started to shaking. "N-Nothing bad. I've been telling her how great of a partner you are. A-And a bit about our adventures out on the streets. I'd never say anything bad behind your back, I swear."
Amber's eyes remained narrowed as she placed her hands on her hips. Cold shivers spread itself all over Doug's body as she continued to stare dangerously at him. Her lips then stretched into a smirk as she placed a hand on his shoulder, making him sigh and hunch over.
"Yer safe." Amber said while patting his shoulder.
"Thanks." Doug replied while straightening his back. "Your scare tactic never fails."
Amber nodded as she released her hand from his shoulder, "Anythin' goin' on at the moment?"
Doug shook his head, "No, it's just that I've got a new case coming up from the chief and Connie asked me if I could take her to Steven's house. I was wondering if it wouldn't been too much trouble, could you take her?"
Amber turned her eyes onto Connie and back to her father before shrugging, "Sure. Can ya tell the chief I'll be out fer a while?"
Doug nodded and turned to exit the office, leaving only the girls inside, but not for much longer.
Out on the streets of the city Connie couldn't help but giggle as Amber drove them along. Riding shotgun is always a thrill for kids whenever they get into a car with an adult, but riding shotgun in a police car with an actual officer is an experience. Next to riding on a firetruck, this was a life-changing joy for Connie to take part in on good circumstances.
"What's gotten you jittered?" Amber asked.
"I'm in an actual police car." Connie replied. "Whenever my dad drives me around we're always using his own car, but right now I'm in an actual police car with a Rainbow Gem no-less."
"Well if ya want, I'll let yer dad borrow it so you can ride with' 'im sometimes." Amber said as they came to a stoplight.
Connie blinked at her as her pupils turned into small stars, "Really?"
"Jus' as long as ya behave yerself and when we ain't workin'." Amber replied. "How is school goin'?"
"It's going well. Though it's a little lonely without Steven there." Connie said as her excitement and joy began to drain out. "And...there's been something I've been wanting to ask Steven, but I'm not sure how to word it out."
"What is it hun?" Amber replied.
Connie slowly raised her hands onto her belt-strap. As she gripped onto it she slowly tightened it as her eyes began to advert from left to right. Lowering her eyes onto her legs she opened her mouth, "Can I join you guys?"
Amber's eyes lightly widened. Though they slowly went back to normal as she kept her eyes on the road while gripping onto the wheel. The words that Connie told her did make her firmly narrow her eyes as she took a turn.
"Honey, that ain't a good idea." Amber said firmly.
"Please? I want to help too." Connie replied.
Coming up to another stoplight Amber turned her head to the girl as she turned her head to the officer, "Do you have any idea what yer askin' fer? What we're doin' ain't no game. And yer still young, hun. This ain't somethin' you can jus' join whenever ya want. It ain't fun either."
"I know that. But...I really do want to help. I want to be by Steven's side and not just give him support. He told me what happened during the invasion and...it was a lot to take in for me, but it made me realize that whatever happens in the future...I want to be there with him to see it through. Please, Amber. The Earth is my home too. I want to protect it alongside you guys. Please?" Connie replied strongly.
Amber turned her eyes back on the road and started moving. This girl has to be out of her mind. She wants to join a group of interstellar fugitives who are fighting against their own kind that have been either turned into Corrupted, came from Home-World and are now somewhere on the damn planet, or facing an organization of humans who want to kill them for bringing this mess on the planet from the beginning. There was no way Connie can just risk her life on a fight she knows so little about, even if Steven told her about the invasion.
October 22nd 12:45 p.m.
The atmosphere fell into silence. The clouds above slowly shifted as the sun's rays passed around them. A small breeze passed by with echoes of the wind ringing softly to those who could hear it.
From both sides of the Sky Arena Kameron and Steven released heavy breaths. Their chests rising up and down as they locked eyes while gripping their weapons. Their eyes felt heavy as they hunched themselves slightly over.
"You've *heavy breathing* improved. Not *heavy breathing* bad, little brother." Kameron said as he slowly straightened his back.
"Thank *heavy breathing* you, big brother. I've been *heavy breathing* practicing. Pearl helped me *heavy breathing* improve on my sword skills. And I've been *heaving breathing* training on my defensive skills too." Steven replied as his lips stretched into a grin. " Can we *heavy breathing* take a break now?"
Kameron nodded as he slowly raised Venganza and placed her onto his back. Steven dismissed his shield and placed his saber into the sheath on his back. Turning their bodies the boys made their way to the stands and took a seat on the rocky architecture. Once seated Kameron raised his right arm as his Gemstone glowed, bringing out two water bottles from it and passing one to Steven. The two raised the bottles to their mouths, letting the cooled liquid flow down their throats and into their stomachs before retracting them away.
"*sigh* Wow. That was wild." Steven said.
"It definitely was." Kameron replied. "Just keep in mind that even though you've greatly improved, you still need to keep up your training." Kameron replied.
"I will." Steven replied as his eyes directed themselves onto his bottle. "Big brother. Can I ask you something?"
Kameron turned his eyes to Steven while putting his bottle down. "What's on your mind?"
Locking his eyes on the bottle Steven slightly squeezed his fingers into the plastic, gathering up the words and letting them out. "Do you think...things might go back to normal after we stop the Diamonds?" Steven asked as he released the pressure on his bottle. He then turned his head to his big brother. "I kinda get it that ever since we both became members of the Rainbow Gems and Crystal Gems, there's only been a handful of times we get to have some normalcy. I understand that our training is important, but...I don't want it to be the only thing we know how to do. You're an amazing artist and I've gotten better at playing the guitar thanks to dad, so...I want to ask. Can we have normalcy when this is all over?"
Kameron's eyes slightly widened at Steven's words. From his expression and words alone told him what his little brother wants. And in all honesty, that kind of question wasn't so easy to answer. Was it wrong to want just a normal decent life? No, it's not. It's never wrong to want something like that. To just...live how you want and see how far you can go. That kind of wish and desire isn't bad to wish for or crave. However...due to the circumstances they have...that possible is slim. At times Kameron knew that neither he nor Steven can have a normal life, but when all was set and done...it slowly made him start to rethink that kind of mentality.
"That's hard for me to say." Kameron replied truthfully. "Apart of me thought that could never happen for us. And to tell you the truth...I only have speculations, hypothetical analysis, and assumptions on how all of this will end, but to truly see it is out of my control. Not even Garnet can see that far ahead, so I'm not so sure myself. But these are only my words and perspective. If you believe we can still have that chance then hang onto it. Because you should have it more than me."
Steven shook his head almost immediately after Kameron spoke. "You deserve a normal life too. You've got great friends. An amazing family. And maybe...just maybe if you want to...you can find love again. I know you can."
Kameron slowly raised up his hand, placing it onto Steven's head and slowly rubbing it. "Thanks, but...that last part I can't go through. I don't want a repeat from two years ago."
Steven's eyes shook as he stared at his big brother. Slowly scooting himself over he placed his head onto his shoulder. Kameron removed his hand from Steven's head and placed it right onto Steven's shoulder, pulling him in closer.
"Oh, boys~"
Hearing that voice Kameron and Steven turned their heads to see Amber, Connie, and Pearl coming from the entrance. At the moment Steven saw Connie Kameron removed his arm from him, allowing Steven to get up and run to her. As they got close to each other they immediately wrapped their arms around one another. A sight like that made Kameron's lips stretch into a grin while standing up.
"It's so good to see you." Steven said warmly.
"*giggling* I missed you too." Connie replied.
"Aw. Ain't you lovebirds so adorable." Amber said as she approached them.
Hearing this both Steven and Connie quickly separated themselves as their cheeks began to burn.
"Hey, Connie." Kameron said, walking up to them.
A small gasp exited Connie's mouth, making the burning in her cheeks vanish. "Kameron, your face. Did Jasper do that to you?"
"Yeah. Just another one added to the collection." Kameron replied. "But don't worry about it."
"Boys." Pearl said, gaining their attention. "Connie has something she wants to tell you."
The boys turned their heads to each other before placing their attention onto Connie. "I want to join you guys." She said strongly.
The boys' eyes expanded at her words.
"She told me that she's been thinkin' about it fer a while. I don't agree ta it at all, but she's been stubborn about it on the way here." Amber said with crossed arms.
"I don't agree either. Especially considering how young she is and how dangerous it could get. Not only that, but do you want to worry your parents young lady?" Pearl added with her hands on her hips.
"I can handle it. I'll be thirteen in a few weeks and my parents don't have to know about this." Connie replied strongly.
"Connie, I don't think that's a good idea. And lying to your parents is wrong." Steven said as he rubbed his arm.
"I don't agree with this either." Kameron added with narrowed eyes. "Connie, I know you have good intentions, but this is something you can't be apart of."
Connie's eyes widened. "What about the time me and Steven fought against that training robot? We fought it together before it could cause more destruction. I wasn't afraid then and I'm not afraid now. Is it because I'm just a human?"
Kameron shook his head as he approached her before getting down on one knee, meeting her eye to eye. "No. It's not that. You are a very capable person, Connie. Both you and Steven did a good job with that, but this is completely different. It's not because you're only human, it's because of how dangerous it can be for you, especially now."
"Please? Just give me a chance. I want to help." Connie asked.
Just as Kameron opened his mouth various rings entered everyone's ears. Standing up Kameron and the others pulled out their phones to see what was up, leaving Connie in confusion. On each of their phones the Gem App came up, making them pressing onto it and showing them multiple Gem symbols in a single location. Putting their phones down everyone looked at Connie as she turned her head to each of them.
"Guys, I know having her with us will be dangerous, but...let's give her a shot." Steven said hesitantly. "This is last minute...and I don't like it, but I have faith in her and with time she can become an amazing Gem."
The others stared at him before turning their eyes onto Connie. As much as neither of them want her in this there wasn't any time to discuss it at the moment.
October 22nd 1:00 p.m.
Arriving at their location the quintet were brought to an area filled with various trees and bushes. Cricket noises entered the air alongside the howls of monkeys and the caws of birds. Up above rays of the sun shined through the leaves with several insects swarming around from up high or down below.
"Wow..." Connie said in awe. "Is this the African Jungle?"
Steven blinked at her, "How can you tell?"
"I've been learning about it at school." Connie replied. "Honestly...I can't believe I'm actually here."
"Enjoy the moment while ya can, cuz this'll be the beginnin' of ya trainin'." Amber said.
Connie instantly turned her head to her, "Wait. This is happening right now? I'm not prepared."
"That'll be yer first lesson. Ya can't always be prepared fer the unexpected." Amber replied as she started walking.
Following her the quintet began making their through the jungle. As they traversed the landscape Connie continued locking her eyes onto the new environment she was now in. To her left various snakes slithered between bushes while two monkeys were climbing up trees. On her right were blue macaws cradling up together with their children and a small gecko crawling on the dirt.
"What kind of Corrupted are we gonna find?" Connie asked out loud.
"That depends on the Gem itself." Kameron replied. "So far most of the Corrupted we've face weren't too hard to handle. Though there were some that causes a lot of destruction if not dealt with quickly, especially Parafusions."
"What are Parafusions?" Connie asked.
"Those are Corrupted that are a fusion of Gems." Pearl replied. "Those are incredibly dangerous. Even Garnet has a hard time handling just one of them."
Connie hummed as she kept her eyes forward. If the Corrupted were that dangerous, including a Parafusion one, then she'll need to keep herself on her toes and remain alert.
Up ahead the quintet stopped at a nearby tree. Upon reaching it the tree showed them large marks on it's bark. Around it were several trees either broken apart or showed more marks.
"What kind of creature could do this?" Connie asked, examining the marks.
Just as someone attempt to speak a loud rumble entered their ears. Kameron, Steven, Amber, and Pearl immediately pulled out their weapons while keeping themselves together. Connie stood next to them while turning her eyes from left to right. The rumbling continued on and began to grow louder by the second. Quickly turning their heads to the right they saw the source of the rumbling coming straight for them. Everyone quickly jumped in different direction as the source dashed right passed them.
Picking themselves up from the ground the quintet locked their eyes on their target standing near them. Turning itself's around the Corrupted slowly approached them. The creature was massive with a large head and long tail accompanied by sharp teeth and small claws. The creature had red scales and eyes with three Gemstones placed on it's forehead. Raising it's head the creature opened it's mouth...
ROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!
A furious roar was unleashed, releasing large shockwaves around the area. The quintet stood their ground it, but struggled to keep themselves up from the sheer force the Parafusion Corrupted was releasing.
As the roars were weakening, the Parafusion raised up it's head before throwing it forward and opening it's mouth, firing a large scale blast of flames. The quintet quickly moved out of the way of the blast and locked their eyes on the target. Without a word Kameron gripped onto Venganza and made his way toward the beast. Spotting him the Parafusion began to turn it's body, summoning it's tail at him. Watching it coming Kameron leaped over the tail swipe, but didn't count on it making another one. Seeing it coming the Parafusion's tail impacted him, sending him off into the air right until his back impacted a tree.
"Kameron!" Steven called out.
"He'll be find, hun. Focus!" Amber replied as she brought out her revolvers. Pulling the triggers at a rapid pace several small bolts of electricity were shot out, hitting the Parafusion right at it's head. No real damage was dealt as the Parafusion growled at them before turning it's body and running away.
Grunts left Amber's mouth before she dismissed her guns. Turning her head she watched Steven and Connie coming up to Kameron.
"Are you okay?" Connie asked worriedly.
"Nothing serious." Kameron replied as he picked himself up. "Are you two okay?"
"We are." Steven replied.
"Uh-huh. Though that was extremely terrifying. That was a Corrupted?" Connie added.
"It was. Though was it the one who made those scratches on the tree?" Pearl said all around.
"With arms like that? Doubtful. Which means there's more than one." Amber replied.
"How many are there?" Steven asked around.
"As many as it showed on the App." Kameron replied. "Though more could come that we aren't aware of. Meaning we need to find them fast and quick."
The others nodded.
"Ah suggest we split into two team. Kameron, you, Steven, and Connie go on ta the left while me and Pearl go afta the Parafusion we jus' fought." Amber suggested.
"Alright." Kameron replied.
"Wait. I don't think it's a good idea to split up." Pearl interjected. "This is a large area and we're not completely sure on where the other Corrupted might be. And from the one we just fought the others could be just as dangerous."
"Aunt Pearl." Kameron said, making her gasp and blush as she looked at him. "Splitting up is the right option. Yes, it's more dangerous that way, but with various Corrupted around it'll consume our time staying together when they're wrecking the landscape. I'll make sure these two won't get too roughed up."
Pearl turned her eyes onto Steven and Connie as they shook their heads to her. Closing her eyes Pearl sighed as she gripped her spear, "Very well. But if it does get too much for the three of you contact us immediately. Understand?"
The kids nodded.
"Tell me again. Will the three of you stick together?" Pearl asked receiving a nod. "Will you contact us if things get out of hand?" She received another nod. "And Kameron, am I your favorite aunt?" She asked with her palm on her cheek.
Without a response Kameron walked up to her, pressing his lips onto her unoccupied cheek before pulling away. "I can't have any favorites, but for today I'll say yes."
A small hum left Pearl's mouth as she pecked his cheek. She then walked over to Steven and did the same. As she looked at Connie she placed her hand on her head, petting it before releasing her hand and walking away.
Amber went up to her up to her brother, placing a hand on his shoulder, "Don't handle this alone. There ain't nothing wrong callin' fer help. Okay?"
Kameron nodded as his sister patted his shoulder before she went to go catch up with Pearl.
Through the jungle Amber and Pearl walked side by side, keeping an eye out for signs of the Corrupted. As they walked the duo came across a small stream of water, having them carefully leap through the large rocks in it to get them on the other side. As they traversed the duo stopped in their tracks at the sight of a jaguar ahead of them. The creature moved it's head from left to right and ran into the bushes near it's direction.
"I do hope those three will be okay." Pearl said, holding her spear with both hands. "Should we call them to check in? Actually, it's probably too early for that, though we could make sure things are alright, just in case."
"They're fine, Pearl." Amber replied as they walked.
"I know, but I'm worried. I'm not Steven's mother, but...raising him for fourteen years has given me that perspective, especially with that scar on his face. And Kameron... I'm really worried about him too. And bringing Connie just increases my worrying. I can only imagine what her parents would think. Her mother will definitely give me a long conversation about all this." Pearl said. Her eyes then shot open, "Wait! What about G.P.F.?"
"Ah'm sure the boys can handle it. Connie is 'nother story, but she's smart enough ta know when ta move and when ta act." Amber replied.
"How do you know?" Pearl asked.
"Experience." Amber replied.
"Garnet told me about G.P.F. and their occupation. I can't fully believe it myself. I understand that most humans don't like us, and they have a right not to, but an entire organization designed to kill us? And our rights are suspended when it's necessary?" Pearl said.
"Most humans ain't gonna jus' expect us ta save'em or jus' be oblivious ta our situation." Amber replied. "Most are afraid of what they don't understand. When ya afraid of somethin' ya can try ta understand or it's too scary ta even compensate. Ya either run away or fight back. Those in G.P.F chose ta fight back and we can either get away from them or we fight back. It ain't pretty, but nobody said life is easy."
As Pearl attempted to speak again the ground began to shake under them, making them stop in place. Large pounding noises entered their ears as they turned their heads in every direction. Turning around the duo saw the source of the shaking coming right toward them. The creature was dark blue with light blue eyes, running on all fours, and showcased three sharp horns on it's face. Two on it's forehead and the third near it's mouth. As it go closer the duo saw three Gemstones at the bridge between it's horns.
Moving out of the way the creature passed right by them, impacting a tree in it's path and easily taking it down. Getting up from the ground the duo pointed their weapons at the creature as it turned around to face them.
"Another Parafusion?" Pearl said.
"Let's jus' take it down." Amber replied. Pulling her triggers she began firing a barrage of electric bolts at the Corrupted. As they reached their target the Parafusion turned to the side, making the bolts hit it there, but with no effect. "Dammit." She added under her breath.
Turning itself back to face them the Parafusion began scratching the ground with it's front leg. Lowering it's head it soon began to charge at top speed. Coming in close the duo immediately moved out of the way, making the Parafusion miss it's target.
"Pearl. Ya ain't gonna like this suggestion, but there's only one way ta beat this thing." Amber said.
Pearl blinked at her for a moment right before her eyes slowly expanded. She then lowered her eyes onto her spear and then pointed them right at the Parafusion. Was Amber thinking what thought she was thinking? It's a possibility, but that's not what she does. The Rainbows may do it at times, but... There's a first time for everything, and this was only of those times, even if she didn't want to do it.
Giving Amber a nod Pearl watched as her comrade dismissed her guns while sparks of electricity began to surge around her. Lowering her body Amber pushed herself in a burst of speed. Coming up to the Parafusion she leaped into the air while pushing her body back, pushing her legs forward. Coming in close her feet made contact, pushing the Parafusion slightly across the ground as she flipped into the air and landed back down.
Gripping onto her spear even tighter, Pearl's Gemstone began to glow as did her spear. Her pupils began to glow white as she rotated her body to the side and released one hand from her spear. Lifting it up she began to pull it back as a white aura began to cover it.
The Parafusion roared as it charged at Amber, but she quickly moved to the side as it was coming for her. Dashing toward the creature Amber pulling her arm out and sent it straight at the creature's face. Though the strike wasn't too strong, it was strong enough to cause some form of damage. Groans exited the creature's mouth as Amber jumped away from it. Growls left it's mouth as it started scraping the ground once more. With another burst of speed the Parafusion charged ahead. Watching it come to her Amber bent her legs and leaped into the air, rotating herself over the creature and making it's way to it's new target.
Pearl narrowed her eyes and stomped on the ground, moving her body forward she threw her spear straight on. At quick speeds the spear flew through the jungle and right into the Parafusion, impacting one of it's Gemstones. Cries of pain exited it's mouth as it's head lifted up while the rest of it's body tripped and crashed into the ground. The spear soon disappeared and as it did the cracks in the Parafusion's Gemstone grew further and further until it broke apart.
POOF!
In a flash the Parafusion poofed, leaving only two Gemstones intact with the third left in shards. Approaching the Gemstones Pearl picked up and placed them in bubbles before sending them away. She then picked up the shards and held them in her hands. As she did tears fell from her eyes and slid down onto her cheeks.
Amber slowly walked up to her as the electricity surrounding her body disappeared. Standing in front of her Amber watched as Pearl lifted her head to her. "We had to." Amber said softly.
"I know, I know. But...to think that it had to come to this..." Pearl replied as her hands shook.
"There was no other choice. Parafusions ain't the same as normal Corrupted. When they're that tough we gotta do what needs ta be done." Amber said as she cupped Pearl's hands.
Closing her eyes Pearl nodded as she bubbled the shards and sent them away. She then wiped away her tears and summoned another spear. "Let's just keep going."
Amber nodded.
Step by step Kameron, Steven, and Connie kept moving on and watching out for anything to come.
"Are you sure you're okay?" Steven asked Kameron.
"I'm fine, Steven. This isn't the first time a Corrupted attacked me. Isn't gonna be the last either." Kameron replied.
"So is that how large the Corrupted are?" Connie asked.
"That was a Parafusion Corrupted. They're normally that large or sometimes larger. But compared to other Corrupted, it depends on the Gems themselves." Kameron replied. "That'll be your second lesson when becoming a Guardian for the planet."
"Second? What was the first?" Connie asked.
"Staying alert. Be on your guard at all times and don't think that you're gonna win at first glance. Moreover, if there are people around you make sure they're safe and get them to safety no matter what." Kameron replied.
Connie hummed and nodded. So her first lesson is to stay alert and defend other people. Her second lesson is to acknowledge the Corrupted and analysis them to see whether they are dealing with a normal Corrupted or a Parafusion. She'll definitely need to write this down when she gets home and have a notebook to keep her records of each lesson she's given.
Up ahead the trio stopped in their tracks at a nearby waterfall and river. Walking up to the water Connie got down onto one knee and scooped up some water before drinking it. Following her movements the boys got down onto one knee and drank some water as well.
"*sigh* Wow. The water is so clear and fresh." Connie said.
"That's one of the many beauties of nature, Connie. That and the jungle itself." Kameron replied.
"You must really like nature, huh?" Connie asked.
"I'm more of a forest lover, but I like the jungle too. It gives me a place to think and to get away from the city. A place I feel at peace and one of the many things I'm protecting." Kameron replied as he drank more water.
"My big brother has a special forest he likes to go to. It's so beautiful." Steven pitched in.
"Really?" Connie asked, receiving a nod from Kameron. "Can I see it sometimes?"
"Sure. When you have time I'll show you. For now, let's continue on." Kameron replied as he stood up.
Steven and Connie nodded as they stood up as well. Taking a few steps back Kameron soon jogged forward, leaping over the river and making it to the other side. Putting their hands together and intertwining them, Steven and Connie stepped back a little before they started running. Leaping into the air they made it to the other sides and slowly released their hands from one another.
Just as the trio were about the progress forward a loud screech entered their ears, making them flinch from the volume. Up above the trio witness two creatures flying in the skies. Both were large with large wings attached to their arms, long beaks, sharp talons, long spiky tails, and three Gemstones placed on their foreheads. The only difference between the two was that one was yellow while the other was white with black stripes.
In a flash the yellow Parafusion dived down and etched it's talons onto Kameron's shoulders before he could even react. Ascending to the skies Steven and Connie watched helplessly as he was being taken, but as they watched the black and white Parafusion came down next, snatching up Connie and taking her into the air.
"CONNIE!" Steven screamed as he ran after her. With a big stomp on the ground Steven fired himself into the air, stretching his arm out to her. Without a second thought Connie stretched out her hand, grasping her hand to Steven's as they went higher.
High in the air Kameron looked up at the Parafusion while it's talons dug deep into his jacket. Turning his head he witnessed his little brother and Connie being taken by the other one. Crystallizing his hand he quickly swiped the yellow Parafusion's leg, cutting it off. The creature screeched as one of it's legs poofed just as Kameron cut himself free from the other leg. Right as the other leg was cut off he began to fall from the high altitude.
Watching him fall the yellow Parafusion bent it's body and dived right after him. Watching the creature coming to him Kameron pulled his arm back before shooting it out, releasing a long crystal chain from his palm. Heading straight for the yellow Parafusion the chain pierced it's neck, making the creature screech and stop in midair. In a split second Kameron pulled himself forward, but as he got close to the creature he swung his body around, landing on it's back and piercing his fingers into it's neck. More screeches exited it's mouth as it started flapping it's wings rapidly while heading toward the black and white Parafusion.
"WATCH OUT!" Kameron yelled.
The yellow Parafusion soon crashed into the black and white one, making it release it's talons on Connie. Soon both her and Steven began fall from the high altitude while holding each other tightly.
"STEVEN! THIS IS COMPLETELY INSANE!" Connie screamed.
"I KNOW!" Steven yelled back. "I'VE NEVER BEEN THIS HIGH BEFORE! HOLD ON TIGHT!"
"OKAY!" Connie screamed.
Watching them fall Kameron jumped off of the yellow Parafusion while putting on his goggles and closed his arms and legs together, increasing his descent. Further and further he continued locked his eyes onto Steven and Connie through his goggles. Watching him coming to them the duo stretched their arms out to him, making him do the same as he got close to them before intertwining his fingers with theirs.
"YOU TWO OKAY?!" Kameron yelled.
"ARE YOU KIDDING!? I'VE NEVER DONE ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE! THIS IS DANGEROUS, BUT IT'S SO AMAZING TOO!" Connie yelled back as she began to giggle.
Seeing her smile and giggle, Steven couldn't help but do the same. Sure, they were like several feet in the air with no parachutes, no safety wear, and had the possible chance of getting killed without coming up with a solution to prevent that. But...as serious as the situation was in front of him, Kameron's lips slightly stretched. This reminded him of his first mission. Though it wasn't gonna last for much longer.
Several screeches entered the trio's ears as they lifted their heads to see the Parafusions coming after them. As they were merely several inches away from them Steven's Gemstone began to glow and a massive pink bubble began to engulf the trio. Once they were inside the bubble the Parafusions opened their mouths, firing large blasts of energy. On impact the bubble rapidly descended toward the ground below and as the trio hit the ground the bubble immediately bounced before going into a straight direction. Up and down, up and down the bubble went while the trio were either going to the top or the bottom of it.
Steven's Gemstone glowed again, making the bubble disappear and the trio tumble onto the grassy landscape. Heavy breaths exited out of their mouths as they slowly processed what just happened while slowly raising themselves up. Dusting the dirt off of their pants and checking for any critical injuries. Aside from the rips in Kameron's jacket and Connie's shirt, it looked like everyone was okay for the most part.
Before words could've come from anyone's mouths rings started to enter their ears, making Kameron and Steven pull out their phones and answering them.
"Kameron, is everything all right?" Amber asked on his end.
"For better or worst." Kameron replied. "We found two more Parafusions. Just got done fight them in the skies."
"WHAT!?" Pearl screamed from Steven's end. "Are you all okay? Did any of you get injured? Where are you right now?"
"Pearl, it's okay. We're all fine. Connie's fine too." Steven replied on his end. "As for where we are..." Turning his head around Steven located several trees in the distance alongside long blades of dead grass. "It looks like we're in a Savannah."
"Okay. We're coming. We just finished up facing a Parafusion ourselves. Be safe and be careful." Pearl said on Steven's end.
"We will. Promise." Steven replied.
"Same here. We'll hold out as long as we can. Though I'm still worried about the T-Rex Parafusion." Kameron said.
"Me too hun. We're on our way." Amber replied.
Both brother soon hung up as screeches entered their ears. Looking up the trio saw the Parafusions circling up in the air.
"Connie, take my sword." Steven said as he pulled his saber out of the sheath.
"Are you sure?" Connie asked as she received the weapon.
Steven nodded as he summoned his shield. Kameron pulled Venganza off of his back and held her tightly while Connie held the saber with both hands. Side by side the trio narrowed their eyes at their targets above, watching them circle in the skies until they broke formation and dived toward the ground. Taking a step forward Kameron's eyes began to glow green with a green aura surrounding his body. Reeling Venganza over his shoulder he glared as the Parafusions coming to them right as he stomped on the ground and slashed the air, firing a massively large green blast.
Watching it coming up to them the black and white Parafusion flew away from the other as it faced the attack head-on. Reaching it, the attack surged right through the yellow Parafusion, making it screech even louder than before.
POOF!
Watching it poof the trio closely saw the Parafusion's Gemstones fall onto the dead grass. "Steven, you and Connie handle the last one while I bubble the Gemstones." Kameron called out.
"What?" Connie asked while looking at him.
"Corrupted can reform at any given time, so we can't give them that chance to come back." Kameron replied. "And I trust you both to handle this. You want to be a Star and a Dove, Connie, then this is your moment." He added as he ran toward the Gemstones. Under different circumstances he would've wanted to help take out the other one as quickly as possible, but this mission wasn't about him.
Side by side Steven and Connie watched the black and white Parafusion coming to them and opening it's mouth. Firing a large blast of energy Steven stepped in front of Connie, holding up his shield and increasing it's size. The blast then made contact, pushing Steven back slightly through the dead grass while he held his ground. Grunts exited from Steven's mouth as he gritted his teeth. No matter what, the blast wasn't pull through.
The blast then slowly disappeared as the Parafusion remained airborne. Turning his head to Connie she nodded to him as they stood back to back, intertwining their free hands together. A pink aura soon engulfed them, pushing their bodies together and slowly but surely, Stevonnie emerged from the pink light. Raising her saber up high she dashed through the dead grass and leaped into the air. Watching her come to it the Parafusion pushed it's head forward, opening it's mouth.
Not going to give it the chance, Stevonnie swung her saber at it, slicing off it's mouth before lowering herself and slashing at it's neck. On contact the Parafusion's head came off with ease as Stevonnie fell back on the ground.
POOF!
Watching it poof Stevonnie instantly defused and both Connie and Steven ran toward the Gemstones. Picking them up Steven placed them all into a bubble before sending them away.
"We did it!" Connie cheered.
"We sure did." Steven replied as he dismissed his shield.
Turning their heads they saw Kameron slowly approaching them with Venganza on his back again. "Not bad. How did it feel?" He asked Connie.
"It felt...completely exhilarating. Is this really what you both do for the planet?" Connie replied.
"More or less." Kameron replied as he fell onto one knee. "May I see you hand, Connie."
Connie blinked at him and turned to Steven. Steven grinned and nodded his head. Turning her eyes onto Kameron she raised her hand, placing it into his.
"Connie Maheswaran. The life of a Gem and a guardian of this planet is not fun. By taking this place you will face very gruesome things. We do not always win. We do what we can to make sure the Corrupted are dealt with and to ensure the protection of the planet itself. Most people trust us for protecting them while others will ostracize us for what we are. From this day, are you willing to do what is right and face the dangers that come with it?"
Connie nodded her head. "I do. I swear that I will."
Kameron raised his other hand and placed it over Connie's, "You're a good friend to Steven. Make sure you both protect each other, no matter what. Give everything you have to ensure the safety of those you cherish and what matters the most. Understand?"
Connie nodded her head again, "I will. I promise."
Kameron nodded as he released her hands. "Welcome to the flock, Connie. Just remember, from here on in until the day you die, the stars and universe will watch over you and have their eyes on you." He added, lifting his head to the skies.
Connie looked at him with confusion as she lifted her head with Steven joining in as well. The skies were clear as day, but beyond the it were the stars of the universe...and they alone shall keep watch on her from here on in.
RRRRRRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!
A massive roar sent shivers down the trio's spines, making them turn their heads to see the Parafusion T-Rex from before coming at them. As they attempted to face it a large sphere of yellow energy burst from out of nowhere, impacting the Parafusion and making it crash into the ground. As the sphere's energy began to weaken a large figure came out of it, landing on the ground.
THUD!
The trio stood in place at the familiar sight, watching her go up to the Parafusion and grasping onto it's Gemstones, twisting them hard and making it roar from the pressure just as she added more in.
POOF!
Without much effort at all she picked up the Parafusion's Gemstones and absorbed them into her own. Turning her head she witnessed the trio several feet from her. Her lips slowly stretched into a grin, "Another day, Organics." She said as she turned around and rolled into a ball before moving on.
"Who was that?" Connie asked quietly.
"Jasper." Kameron and Steven said at the same time.
End of Episode 47.
Wow... That took a lot longer than I thought it would. Apologizes for the long wait, but I wanted to give this one more context. So...yeah, Connie is now officially a guardian of Earth.
Hope you all enjoyed this.
Next Time:
Seething Wrath