Sorry for keeping all of you waiting. This took longer than I wanted it to be, but now it's finally finished. My fellow audience, your patience has now been rewarded.

Episode 29: Steven's Birthday

August 14th 8:00 p.m.

At the Evans Residence both the Evans family and the Universes gathered together in the living room. Tomorrow was a very, very special day for a very, very special person and the final preparations had been completed. It took time, effort, and planning to put this all together, but tomorrow it'll be all worth it. There had been a slight change due to Bismuth's inclusion, but luckily it wasn't a very drastic change, and she herself had to do a lot of sequences to have her part ready.

Standing up from the couch Kameron clapped his hands together, gaining everyone's attention. "Okay! Everyone listen up! Now I know having a normal, peaceful party is nice and all, but this year is gonna be a little different. Instead the birthday boy shall embark on an adventure unlike anything he's ever witnessed before."

Turning his head to Steven and Connie nearby Kameron walked over to them as he got down onto one knee with his lips stretched into a smile. "Young cub who's heart is strong and loving. This quest will not be simple. It will be filled with danger and threats. There will be challenges that will test your limits without mercy. Are you willing to accept it? Journey into the unknown and take the first step into becoming a full-fledged Guardian?" He said, raising a hand to him.

Without even a second thought Steven immediately raised his hand out and placed it into Kameron's. "I accept."

"Are you sure?" Kameron asked.

Steven firmly nodded as his hand gripped into Kameron's. "Yes. I'm...a little nervous, to be honest, but I'm gonna give it my all no matter what!"

With that said the two brothers released their hands from each other as Kameron stood up. Looking at Steven's expression Kameron couldn't help but rub his hair, making him giggle.

"I can't wait to see how this goes." Steven said.

"Well I'm not gonna spoil anything for ya, so you'll have to wait and see tomorrow morning." Kameron replied as he retracted his hand. "It took a bit of convincing from Pearl, Garnet, and Uncle Greg, but they eventually agreed to it." He added, looking back at them.

"I'm not saying your idea is terrible, Kameron, but I'm just worried about Steven's safety." Pearl said.

"We've been over this, Pearl. He's stronger than he looks. Besides, I think he's ready to start playing rough." Kameron replied.

Pearl looked at Steven who nodded rapidly. To be honest, what Kameron suggested for Steven was actually rather interesting, though it was how it was gonna be executed that worried her. But...because this was Steven and because she trusted Kameron she had to agree with it.

"Um...Kameron?" Connie said, gaining his attention. "Just a quick recap. Where are we going again?"

Raising his right arm out Kameron's Gemstone began to glow and an item erupted out of it. A large wooden key with a large glass sphere dome at it's end with eighteen colored lights inside of it.

"Whoa... What's that?" Connie asked.

"This is a Dimension Key. Only me, my siblings, and my dad have one. This powerful object has the ability to allow us to travel to other dimensions whenever we like or need to. There are a total of eighteen dimensions in existence and ours is included. I've traveled to each one during my training days and some are a lot more comfortable to be in than the last, thought as each of our dimensions exist in a single space time moves differently from one to the next, so our location will be one where time moves a lot slower than on Earth." Kameron explained.

"Wow." Connie said with awe. "Which one are going to?"

"No spoilers." Kameron replied as he placed his Dimension Key back into his Gemstone.

"Awww. C'mon, big brother. Can't you give us a little hint?" Steven said as he and Connie gave Kameron begging eyes.

"No spoilers." Kameron repeated. "And while your begging is adorable, you know only Lepidolite can do it way better."

Both of them looked at Lepidolite as she intertwined her hands and fluttered her eyes with quivering lips. At the mere sight of it Steven and Connie awed at her. Nobody could every beat her technique, not even babies.

August 14th 9:30 p.m.

At the Universes' Residence Steven was in the bathroom brushing his teeth. As he took one last spit into the sink he rinsed off his toothbrush before putting it back into a cup next to his dad's, Pearl's, Garnet's, and Amethyst's.

Reaching over to the side he grabbed onto a wash cloth before soaking it and washing his face. As he finished up he put the cloth back onto the rack and gazed at his reflection in the mirror. Opening his mouth he looked at his teeth, seeing how white and healthy he made them. Dental hygiene was important so your teeth can be nice and strong.

Closing his mouth Steven looked at his reflection again as his lips suddenly frowned. There wasn't anything wrong with his teeth. Nothing wrong on his face or having anything on it. There wasn't anything wrong with his hair either, but there was something he hadn't noticed until he actually looked at himself.

'I...I still look the same as last year.' He thought to himself. Both he and Kameron were Gem-hybrids, that was something he knew already. And that he was a Gem on his mother's side while Kameron was a Gem on his father's side. But...now that he got a good look at himself there was one thing that he never really paid too much attention to. They were both born in different ways. And because of that Kameron grew up normally and is now a teenager while Steven himself...still looks like a ten-year old.

Exiting the bathroom Steven looked at his dad who was already fast asleep and Connie was back home, but he'll see her by tomorrow.

Walking up to the staircase near the front door Steven removed the blanket before getting into his bed. An uneasy feeling entered his stomach as he looked up at the ceiling. Sure, he was growing up, but was he able to grow up physically like other kids can? Kameron told him he was a late bloomer, but was he really?

Closing his eyes Steven released a sigh from his mouth. It was late and he had a big day tomorrow. Just thinking about it wasn't gonna do much.

August 15th 7:00 a.m.

Small groans exited Steven's mouth as his eyes twitched. A long yawn escaped from his mouth as his eyes slowly opened themselves up. Slowly raising himself from his bed he stretched his arm out before rubbing his eyes. "Good morning world. I'm now officially fourteen years-old."

Hearing his own voice Steven's eyes immediately shot open. His voice...sounded a lot deeper than normal.

"Marshmallow." He said before gasping and covering his mouth. "Oh my gosh! Why is my voice so different?"

Getting out of bed Steven went down the stairs and went into the bathroom. As he turned on the lights he turned his eyes to the mirror and gasped at his reflection. Slowly approaching the mirror he blinked a few times as he took a good look at himself. He...was taller. His pajama shirt was too small for him now, revealing his Gemstone from his navel. And his face looked...more like a teenager.

"Hot potatoes..." He said to himself quietly. "I...I'm so different now."

A light gasp left his mouth, "Kameron was right! I was a late-bloomer! My growth-spurt finally kicked in!" Laughter fell out of his mouth as he continued to look at his reflection. Then as his laughter began to stop another thought popped into his head. 'I've got to show everyone!'

Coming out of the bathroom Steven walked into the living room and took notice of the disappearance of his father. In his place was a large pink chest with a heart at it's center.

Curiosity taking over his mind Steven approached the chest and opened it up. A gasp exited his mouth at what was inside. A set of silver armor with lion features on it, including the helmet. His mother's sword within it's scabbard. And a Dimension Key with a note attached to it alongside a few sliced apples.

Reaching for the note Steven picked it up before reading it,

Dear Steven,

I've found your mother's sword within Lion, who surprisingly found the scabbard with it.

I couldn't believe it myself, but after all these years the sword that Bismuth herself had forged for your mother is finally found and completed.

I'm sorry to also mention this, but yes, this saber is the sword that ended Pink Diamond, but now that it's yours you decide how to use it and I wouldn't mind at all in giving you lessons on how to use it. Proper lessons this time, unlike what happened before which I will never forget.

Anyway, make sure you eat these apples before putting your new armor on, which Bismuth herself made from mystic material I gave her.

Here are the coordinates to the designated dimension we are in right now. Kameron's friends will find you and guide you on where to go.

Be careful when coming through and I've also written down the sacred words needed to open it.

We love you so, so much.

Sincerely Pearl.

P.S: I love you so, so much.

His lips slowly stretched into a smile. Honestly...he wasn't sure on what to say right now. Or if there were any words he could say about the note.

Turning his head his eyes locked onto his mother's sword. Reaching his hands out he pulled it out of the chest and placed a hand onto the hilt. Slowly unsheathing it Steven raised it out as he then turned his attention to the portrait of his mother.

'I will be better, mom.'

After eating the apple slices Steven went ahead and placed the armor on. Interestingly the armor itself was able to shift it's size, so it was no longer small and be unable to be worn. Whatever materials Bismuth used to create it this was the best gift he'd ever receive.

With his mother's sword on his back Steven stood in the middle of the living room while holding the Dimension Key in one hand and the note in the other.

"Oh, lich der reinheit. Gib mir den Weg zu deinem land." Steven said in German.

As he finished speaking a yellow colored sphere inside the key started glowing. He then placed the key into the floor and a beam of light surged out of it before it launched itself upwards and created a door. Staring at the door with awe Steven stood up and placed the Dimension Key into his Gemstone before walking into the door of light.

{Reich der Elfen}

Opening his eyes Steven felt his jaw drop at his surroundings. There was a plethora of trees everywhere, only the leaves on the trees were in a number of colors beyond the standard and Fall. Up above was a sun shining down on him. Closing his eyes his lips slowly stretched into a smile. The sun's warmth felt similar to the one on Earth. There wasn't a single difference to it even if Steven could think of one.

Reopening his eyes Steven started walking forward. As he traversed ahead his eyes began to advert themselves to his surroundings. From the trees he soon noticed small little creatures fluttering around the branches. They shined in various colors and merely took glances at Steven before looking away. As much as he wanted to converse with them he had to stay focused on why he came here in the first place.

Just then, without warning something in the ground in front of him, making him yelp and freezing him in place. His eyes descended and witnessed a long arrow in the grass.

"It looks like your awareness needs some work."

A light gasp left Steven mouth at the sound of the voice. His head rapidly move from left to right before he turned around and didn't see anyone. "Who's there? Come on out. It's kinda rude to shoot an arrow at someone instead of approaching them."

Steven's ears started twitching as he rapidly turned his to the direction of the sound while summoning his shield. From the trees three figures emerged from the leaves and soon landed around Steven.

The first figure was male with dark-blue skin, dark-blue hair and cerulean eyes. He wore a pure white long-sleeve shirt and pants with white shoes, silver armor guards on his shoulders, and a strange blue insignia on his chest.

The second figure was another male, only he was light-skinned with dirty blonde and leaf green eyes. He wore a brown tunic with brown pants, a silver armor guard on his left shoulder, brown boots, and a small dark green hooded cape.

The third and final figure was female who was also light-skinned with cyan hair styled in braided pigtails and light green eyes. she wore a small green and white vest while exposing her navel, short brown shorts, brown boots, brown gloves, and a small brown hood.

Steven blinked as his eyes looked each one of them. The one trait each of them had were pointed ears, wielding bows, and having arrows placed on the back of their waists.

"That shield... Are you Steven Universe?" The female asked.

"Uh...yeah. That's my name. Are you three Kameron's friends?" Steven replied.

Lowering their bows the trio each nodded to him. "Yes. We are. Come, your trails await." The blue haired male said as he turned around and walked away.

As the other male and female followed him Steven dismissed his shield and quickly went after them.

"So... Uh...can I ask you three some questions?" Steven said as they walked.

"Shoot." The female replied without hesitation.

"I don't want sound rude or disrespectful, but what kind of beings are you?" Steven asked.

"We're Elves." The dirty blonde answered nonchalantly. "Well technically me and my sister are Light Elves while our good friend in front of us is a Dark Elf."

"Oh. What's the difference between Light and Dark Elves?" Steven asked.

"That should already be a simple question for you to answer yourself, human." The blue-haired Elf answered sternly. "I'm also assuming Kameron told you information about us?"

"Well... He once told me his friends from another dimension were at war with each other for a long, long time. Then after centuries of fighting you guys finally made peace." Steven said. "He also told me you guys taught him archery."

"You're right on the money about that." The cyan Elf replied. "Both the Light and Dark Elves were fighting over our sacred lands and our most precious treasure known as the Column Of Light. It's the very source of our home and both sides wanted to protect it, but because our ancestors were stupid and couldn't cooperate we waged war instead. It was thanks to our parents from both the Light and Dark tribes that finally made peace with each other."

Wow. Just wow. Steven couldn't even believe there was another war going on in another dimension. It's bad enough there was already two back on Earth and a upcoming one that his and Kameron's families are gonna have to be apart of soon, but to learn there were other conflicting happening in other places? It was great to hear that it finally stopped, and while Steven knew he couldn't control the way the universe works, he could only wish and attempt to prevent more wars from occurring. Hasn't the universe had enough pain?

Just as he was about to ask them more questions the blue-haired Dark Elf stopped in his tracks alongside the two Light Elves, making Steven stop in place.

"We're here." The blue-haired Dark Elf said.

Walking ahead of them Steven's eyes shot open. Just nearby was a massive structure with a large statue of a Light Elf and a Dark Elf embracing each other. The structure itself looked like a temple, only there were large cracks around it and most of the architect look very ancient to point where it could crumble at any given moment. Though it still looked strong enough to keep itself up.

"Wow..." Steven said with awe. He then turned around to the Elves. "Thanks for bringing me here." Just then a small gasp left his lips, "Oh my gosh! I never even asked for your names."

"You may call me Funf." The Dark Elf replied.

"My name is Luft. And this is my brother Stolz" The cyan-haired Light Elf said. "And when your little special event is over, please remind Kameron about our agreement." She added.

"What agreement?" Steven questioned in confusion.

"Just remind him. What it is is for us to know and others shouldn't get involved. Understand?" Stolz replied with annoyance.

With an uneasy nod the Elves turned around and jumped into the trees above before completely disappearing.

Kameron made an agreement with them? Though as much as Steven wanted to know what it is he quickly shook his head and went inside the old temple.

Old Temple: 1st Floor

As Steven entered the temple there was a familiar face standing at the center of the area. It was none other than his beautiful and amazing Aunt Christie, only she was wearing a white dress, white crystal earrings, white sandals, and was holding a white crystal staff in her right hand.

"Aunt Christie!" Steven called out.

With a joyful large smile spread across his lips he immediately ran up to her.

"Stop!" She commanded, making him freeze in place. "Welcome Leo Warrior. It appears you have changed since I've last seen you. However, I know the real reason why you've arrived."

Moving to the right Steven gasped at what was on the other side of the area. There was a large crystal cage with a white owl inside of it that had a white Gemstone on it's forehead.

Narrowing his eyes Steven summoned his shield while also bringing out his sword from his back. "You horrid fiend! Release the Owl of Wisdom this instant!" He said with faux anger.

Christie merely chuckled at him before walking back toward the center of the area. "If you desire the Owl of Wisdom, then you'll have to free her yourself. Although...I will not allow you to do that. For I am the Crystal Queen!"

Tapping her staff on the ground twice a screech and a coo echoed around the area. From above a small yellow bat with a yellow Gemstone on her right shoulder and a blue dove with a blue Gemstone on her chest and left wing flew in circles in the air before they descended onto the Crystal Queen's shoulders. Both winged beasts also had white crystal collars around their necks.

"Thunder Bat. Attack with {Thunderbolt}." The Crystal Queen commanded.

Thunder Bat flew from the Queen's shoulder at went straight toward the Leo Warrior, firing a bolt of lightning from her mouth.

Raising his shield the Leo Warrior defended himself from the attack as Thunder Bat returned to the Queen's shoulder.

Lowering his shield the Leo Warrior raised his sword out. "Here goes! {Courageous Slash}." He called out as he jumped into the air and vertically swung his blade.

The Queen defended herself with her staff as the blade connected with it before the Leo Warrior jumped back in place.

"A strong attack. But not good enough. Aqua Dove, attack with {Ice Thorns}."

Aqua Dove flew from the Queen's shoulder and flew toward the Leo Warrior. She then stopped in mid-air and rapidly flapped her wings, releasing a barrage of icicles.

Pulling up his shield the Leo Warrior protected himself once more. Each icicle impacted the shield with great force, making Leo Warrior drop onto one knee before they eventually stopped.

Aqua Dove ascended into the air and back to the Queen.

"Give up. Surrendering is your only option." The Queen said.

"Never! How can I call myself a warrior if I give up on the first floor?" Leo Warrior replied, slowly picking himself up from the floor.

Dismissing his shield Leo Warrior narrowed his eyes at the Queen, "Time to be dethroned. {Prideful Slash}."

Dashing forward Leo Warrior jumped into the air again. With two hands gripping onto his blade he vertically descended himself toward the Queen as she raised her staff. With shear force and power the very blade made contact with the staff and sliced it in half, shocking the Queen.

With the other half of the staff dropping to the floor the Queen looked at Leo Warrior, flabbergasted at the mere action he just committed. The legends were not wrong...

Falling to her knees the Queen's pets had fallen onto the floor as well. "Curses! You have defeated me. For that, you shall have the Owl of Wisdom and proceed." The Queen said defeatedly.

Sheathing his sword the Leo Warrior ran pass the Queen and toward the Owl of Wisdom. Touching the cage it instantly crumbled apart, freeing the Owl and allowing her to fly once more. She let out a few hoots here and there as she landed onto Leo Warrior's shoulder.

"You're free now. But I request your help. Will you help me?" Leo Warrior asked.

"Hoot!" The Owl of Wisdom replied happily.

A soft chuckle left Leo Warrior's mouth before he noticed a scroll within the shattered cage. Picking it up he unraveled it, showing the capabilities of the Owl of Wisdom.

{Summon Spear of Light}

{Healing Light}

{Avian Assault}

"These'll definitely come in handy." Leo Warrior said as he and his new companion went toward the stairwell, leading them to the next floor.

Old Temple: 2nd Floor

Making their way to the next floor Leo Warrior stopped in placed as he locked eyes onto his next opponent. It was his father Greg, only he was wearing fedora with a white feather on it's side, a red scarf, a pink collared shirt, dark blue pants with brown boots, and held his iconic guitar in hand.

"And who might you be?" Leo Warrior asked.

With a smirk across his lips he held his guitar with both hands before he began to strum it. "Why hello fellow traveler, I don't believe we've met~ I am the Crystal Bard, and I'm here to make a bet~ For if you beat me in a little game you may proceed~ Though let us see if you have what it takes to get through me~"

With the last string strum two figures jumped from the shadows before appearing in front of the Crystal Bard. The first is a large red tiger with a red Gemstone on his chest fur and a white crystal collar on his neck. The second is a massive orange frog with a orange Gemstone near it's stomach and equipped with a white crystal collar.

Summoning his shield Leo Warrior pulled out his sword again, readying himself with his companion doing the same.

"Go my Flame Tiger~ Attack with {Furious Fire}~" The Crystal Bard strummed.

Flame Tiger roared with fury as his paws were engulfed in flames before he charged forward. Coming in close Leo Warrior raised his shield as Flame Tiger furiously scratched it before returning to Crystal Bard's side.

The attack pushed Leo Warrior back and though the flames were scorching he was still standing.

"Okay. Let's do this! Owl of Wisdom, attack with {Avian Assault}." Leo Warrior commanded.

Owl of Wisdom flew off of Leo Warrior and rushed toward the Crystal Bard. As she got close four replicas of herself appeared around her while she raised her talons up before rapidly kicking the Crystal Bard's head. The other four replica joined in with the original as they began their attack. The Crystal Bard covered his head from the brutal kicks from the owls until the replica's disappeared and Owl of Wisdom returned to Leo Warrior's side. Luckily she only attacked his hat, but Leo Warrior couldn't help but wonder if the attack was really faux.

"How could you!~ You destroyed my hat~ For that, it's time for another attack~ Go my large amphibian, attack with {Tongue Rhythm Rockin'}~" Crystal Bard furiously strummed.

Giga Toad opened his mouth and shot his tongue straight at Leo Warrior. Leo Warrior's eyes shot open as he and Owl of Wisdom dodge the attack. But then Giga Toad's tongue rapidly retracted his tongue and shot it out again. With no time to react Leo Warrior raised his shield as the attack connected, pushing him back hard and making him crash into the floor. Giga Toad's tongue retracted again and shot back out at rapid speed. With a grunt exiting his mouth Leo Warrior raised his shield and blocked the attack again, but also sending him back and hitting the wall behind him.

A small groan left Leo Warrior's mouth as he slowly picked himself up from the floor. "Owl of Wisdom. {Healing Light}, please."

Without a second thought Owl of Wisdom flew straight into the air and began to circle around Leo Warrior. Doing this a column of light started to emerge around him and the injuries he obtained earlier disappeared.

She then stopped and landed on Leo Warrior's head. "Thank you. Now how about a double finale?"

"Hoot! Hoot!" Owl of Wisdom replied.

She then flew off of him as she and Leo Warrior dashed straight for the Crystal Bard. "{Spear of Light}! and {Shield Bash}!" Leo Warrior yelled.

Owl of Wisdom flew in front of him as her Gemstone glowed and fired at long sharp spear out of it, piercing Crystal Bard's hat before Leo Warrior followed suit by bashing his shield into Crystal Bard's stomach, pushing him back and knocking him down.

A loud groan left Crystal Bard's mouth as he slowly raised himself up. "Congratulations young warrior, you've won the bet~ Looks like I'm not ready to take you on just yet~ Challenges up ahead you must beware~ And your reward, a strong and powerful purple bear~"

As Flame Tiger and Giga Toad jumped into the shadows a familiar figure took their place. A large purple bear with white hair and a Purple Gemstone on her chest. She approached Leo Warrior with a scroll in her mouth before giving it to him.

Bear Of Courage

{Striking Claw}

{Uppercut Claw}

{Rolling Claw}

{Inferno Rolling Claw}

New Skill Acquired

Leo Warrior

{Bubble Shield}

'Ohh... I can't wait to see her use these abilities. And I hope I didn't hurt dad too much.' Leo Warrior thought to himself.

Old Temple 3rd Floor

Arriving at the next floor Leo Warrior, Owl of Wisdom, and Bear of Courage stopped in their tracks at the sight in front of them. At the center of the area was dark red horse with a square shaped Afro, shades, and two Gemstones on her front hooves. Though what caught their attention more were the crystal chains wrapped around her body.

"Beautiful, isn't she?"

Hearing the familiar voice Leo Warrior and his companions gazed around the area, spotting where it was coming from. However the sounds of clopping entered their ears as up above two figure appeared and jumped from the upper railing. Landing on the ground Leo and his companions readied themselves as they glanced at their next opponents.

It was Connie, only she was wearing a short green dress covered in crystals with a small green tiara, green flattops, and equipped with a saber on her left hip. She was riding a pink horse with large wings and a sharp horn on her head, having a white crystal collar, and a pink Gemstone on her right hoof. Next to the Connie was a indigo cow with only one eye showing and a white crystal collar.

"Whoever you are, release my friend! She isn't your prisoner!" Leo Warrior said strongly.

"Leo Warrior. I can't believe you forget about me. I'm the Crystal Princess, you're best friend." Crystal Princess replied. "That is...until the day you betrayed me by leaving me behind!"

A light gasp left Leo Warrior's mouth. The narrowed eyes she showed him made a painful memory return into his mind. A memory...he thought was long forgotten.

"And it's not just me you betrayed. There is another. But I'm sure you don't need me to remind you of who it is. So until then why don't we catch up on old times and I'll make you feel the pain you inflicted on me." Crystal Princess stated as she drew her sword.

"No! Wait!" Leo Warrior replied, raising a hand out. "I didn't mean to leave you behind. I didn't know where you were and I searched everywhere. Please forgive me."

"Talk is pointless at this moment! If you want my forgiveness then you'll have to earn it!" Crystal Princess replied, pointing her blade at the warrior.

No... no...this wasn't suppose to happen. He thought she was gone. He thought she disappeared. He thought... No.

Leo Warrior shook his head as he raised his shield and have his companions by his side, especially to save another. As much as he desired another way to handle this it was now brushed aside. Even if he could talk to her, the damage has already been dealt, so he's left with no other choice.

"Pink Alicorn. Attack with {Heartbreak Horn Charge}!" Crystal Princess commanded.

Pink Alicorn neighed and she began to gallop toward Leo Warrior, lowering her head so her horn was pointing right at him.

Pulling up his shield the horn connected right at it, but despite the large quantity of force put into the attack it only made a slight crack at shield while slightly pushing the warrior back.

Pink Alicorn pulled herself back with Crystal Princess jumping off of her and placing herself on Indigo Cow.

'Huh? Why did she switch between Pink Alicorn and Indigo Cow?' Leo Warrior thought to himself. But then another entered his mind. 'Wait, maybe that's her plan.'

"Bear of Courage. Attack Pink Alicorn with {Rolling Claw}." Leo Warrior command.

Bear of Courage started charging at Pink Alicorn, but as she got close she jumped over her and rolled herself into a ball before rolling back and launching herself at Pink Alicorn, aiming at her from behind. The attack was successful, making Pink Alicorn tumble forward before Purple Bear returned to Leo Warrior.

"Owl of Wisdom. Attack with {Avian Assault}."

Owl of Wisdom flew off of him and flew straight toward her target with Leo not far behind her. " {Shield Bash}."

Shield Bash hit Pink Alicorn first, making her stumble back before Owl duplicated herself, attacking Alicorn in multiple places. Her head, wings, legs, and sides.

As Owl and Leo jumped back Alicorn tumbled to the side, completely defeated.

"No. You'll pay for hurting my Alicorn. Cow, attack with {Cattle Rush}." Crystal Princess said with anger.

Cow mooed and galloped straight ahead with her horns pointed out.

"{Shield Bubble}" Leo called, creating a large barrier around himself and his companions.

"Nice try, but too bad that isn't gonna help you. Cow, use {Phase Shift}." Crystal Princess replied.

As Cow got closer she and Crystal Princess went right through the Shield Bubble. Crystal Princess then raised her saber and vertically brought it down on Leo. He took the hit, but his armor was strong enough for him to take the impact as Princess and Cow went back next to their hostage.

The Shield Bubble disappeared and Leo fell onto one knee. He began releasing heavy breaths as he looked up at Princess. She was strong and smart, but that didn't mean she was unbeatable. Everyone had a weakness.

Pulling himself up Leo raised his sword at Crystal Princess. "Owl. Bear follow my lead." He said as he ran up to her.

Watching him come up to her Leo jumped high into the air. "{Courageous Slash}!" Leo yelled.

"I'm not gonna fall for that. {Phase Shift}!" Crystal Princess commanded.

Both her and Cow watched as Leo easily passed right through them. But then as Crystal Princess turned her head Owl summoned another duplicate of herself and picked up the princess by the arms, pulling her away from Indigo Cow. Just as she attempted to speak a command Bear of Courage grabbed onto Cow, placing her in a tight firm grip.

"Ugh! Put me down! Put me down!" Crystal Princess cried as she squirm in mid-air.

"Hoot." Owl replied as her and her duplicate released their talons from the princess.

Crystal Princess started to scream as she was falling, but just before she hit the ground Leo leaped into the air, catching her in his arms.

"I've got you. and I'm never, ever gonna let you go." Leo said softly.

The princess' cheeks started to burn as she looked at her savior. And at that moment Connie couldn't say a word as Steven placed her down before going over to the hostage and freeing her from her binds.

"I really am sorry I couldn't find you. If you still can't forgive me then I understand. Maybe one day...we can be on speaking terms again?" Leo asked.

Crystal Princess merely stood there, frozen in place and unable to move her mouth. Everyone turned to her as Leo soon walked up to her, "Are you okay?" He asked.

"Uh...uh...yeah. Yeah. I can't wait for that day to come. Just...don't do that again, okay?" Crystal Princess replied as she adverted her eyes from his.

Giving her a nod Leo walked up to the hostage as two scrolls came out of her Gemstones.

Horse of Heart

{Trail Blazer}

{Freezing Gallop}

{Thunderclap Charge}

New Skills Acquired

Combination Skills

{Illuminating Charge}

{Spiked Rolling Claw}

{Stormbreaker Charge}

{Galaxy Blade}

{Crystal Bond Strike}

Leo Warrior

{Double Shield}

{Spike Bubble}

{Twister Blade}

{Spark Blade}

One more to go.

Old Temple 4th Floor (Final Floor)

This was it. The final floor. The final boss of the temple was now just behind a massive door. The Crystal Queen. The Crystal Bard. The Crystal Princess. Those three were challenging opponents, but beyond the door was someone far worst than them.

"Leo Warrior."

A light gasp came from Leo mouth. He turned his head to Owl, who was on his shoulder guard.

"I sense doubt emitting from you. Are you troubled from what is behind the door?" She asked.

"Actually...I am. Crystal Princess wasn't the only one I betrayed. It's not gonna be pretty when he sees my face again." Leo replied.

"Don't sweat it man. We've got your back." Bear of Courage said.

"More importantly, our final friend must be saved. We are the only ones who can save her." Horse of Heart added.

Look at each of his companions Leo then narrowed his eyes at the door in front of them. Horse of Heart was right, their friend was in trouble. They had to do this.

Opening the door Leo and his companions stepped inside. The final floor of the temple was the largest among the rest. From left to right there were stained glass windows among the walls, only most of them were shattered or several crack. The area itself was massive. So huge in fact you could fit an entire town into it. But on the other side of the room was a large solid-gold throne with multiple spikes on it's corners.

Sitting on the throne was a green-haired, heterochromic-eyed teenager wearing white armor with a bored expression on his face. By his side was a large green tiger, a crow perched on top of the throne, and a large wolf with rainbow and gray fur sitting near the throne.

"Well, well, well. Look who's arrived. Leo Warrior." The teenager said with faux annoyance.

"Crystal Prince. Release Rainbow Wolf. This is about you and me." Leo said strongly.

Crystal Prince soon rose up from his throne. "True. She was only bait to bring you here." His eyes then turned to Rainbow Wolf. "Go back to your friend. You are no longer useful." He added while snapping his fingers.

Rainbow Wolf stood up and instantly ran over to Leo, to which they embraced her.

It was short lived however as they released her and locked their eyes onto Prince. He himself slowly walked forward with King Tiger walking alongside him and Shadow Crow perched on his shoulder.

Crystal Prince stopped in his tracks, narrowing his eyes at Leo Warrior. "That's so adorable. Seeing you reunited with your friends and the love you have for them. We use to be that close, until you decided to leave me behind. Just like Crystal Princess."

"I...I'm sorry." Leo said.

"Saying "I'm sorry" isn't gonna change what happened. You broke your promise, and now it's time for karma to collect your debt." Prince replied as he formed a crystal sword and shield from his arms.

With no other choice Leo raised his sword at his friend. It's time to battle.

"Here I come, Prince! {Courageous Slash}!" Leo yelled.

Dashing forward he leaped into the air before descending toward Crystal Prince with a vertical slash. At that exact moment Prince raised his shield, blocking the attack.

Leo soon jumped back to his companions.

"Not bad. But I can do better." Crystal Prince said with a smirk. "King Tiger. Attack with {Crystal Swipe}."

With a roar King Tiger's front claws were covered in green crystals, making them sharper before he pounced forward.

"{Bubble Shield}!" Leo said, summoning a large pink bubble.

King Tiger came in close and swiped at the bubble, shattering it with a single attack before returning to Crystal Prince.

"Horse of Heart. Use {Thunderclap Charge}!" Leo called out.

Horse of Heart stood completely still with purple electricity surrounding her body. Within a split second she rushed ahead, going straight for Prince. Coming in close he raised up his shield again as she jumped and bashed her front hooves on them. The attack was successful, sending a large surge through the shield and into Prince, making him kneel before Horse of Heart retreated.

Prince's body twitched as his body wobbled while he did his best to stand up. Small chuckles exited out of his mouth. Locking eyes on Leo his lips stretched into a sinister grin.

"Wow. That felt great. Almost tickled. But let's see if you can take it too." He then raised his blade into the air, "Combination Skill! {Crystal Rain}!"

Shadow Crow flew high into the air and began to circle around Crystal Prince and King Tiger. A large black portal began to erupt above them just as Crystal Prince started launching a myriad of crystal shards at it with rapid fire. Soon after the portal disappeared.

"Better have an umbrella with you. A storm is coming for you." Crystal Prince commented.

Leo and his companions raised their heads up to witness a black portal straight above them.

"{Spike Bubble}!" Leo yelled.

Raising both of his arms in the air he surrounded himself and his companions in another bubble, only this time it was laced with multiple spikes. Just in time for a barrage of crystal shards falling onto them. One after the other each shard impacted the bubble, but didn't instantly shatter it. However, as more and more pressure from the shards hitting the bubble increased cracks began to form on it.

Leo let out several grunts as he continued to keep the bubble up, but it was way, way harder than it looked. With every shard hitting the bubble more grunts left Leo's mouth and his companions could only stand and watch this happen.

Thankfully...the shards had finally stopped. The spiked bubble disappeared and Leo fell onto one knee with heavy breaths leaving his mouth.

"Had enough?" Crystal Prince asked.

Looking up at him Leo raised his body up and narrowed his eyes at him. Looking at his companions at his side Leo raised his sword up high and pointed it directly at Crystal Prince.

"Get ready! It's time we finish this." Leo said firmly.

Narrowing his eyes Crystal Prince raised up his shield. King Tiger released a mighty growl while Shadow Crow merely cawked. "No holding back! Give me everything you've got! I will show you the same!" He added as his eyes and blade started glowing with a green light.

Closing his eyes a pink glow started emitting from Leo's Gemstone. Opening his eyes they began to glow pink. From left to right the Owl of Wisdom, the Bear of Courage, the Horse of Heart, and the Rainbow Wolf had their Gemstones glowing their respected colors as well. Now that all five of them were together again it was time to unleash their most powerful attack.

"HERE WE GO! {Moon Crescent Slash}!" Crystal Prince yelled.

Rapidly swinging his blade he fired off a large energy blast in the form of a horizontal crescent, sending it straight toward Leo and his companions.

"LET'S FINISH THIS!" The quintet yelled together. {Crystal Bond Strike}!"

Leo ran headfirst before jumping onto Horse of Heart. As she galloped forward her and Leo were then surrounded by rings of electricity while Owl, Bear, and Wolf went ahead of them toward the crescent-shaped attack.

Flying at high-speeds Owl went first, "{Avian Assault} and {Spear of light}!" She called as her spear rapidly shot out of her Gemstone alongside four duplicates of herself, making contact with Prince's attack.

"I'm next! {Inferno Rolling Claw}!" Bear called as she quickly rolled herself into a ball before covering herself in flames. Her momentum increased as she rolled ahead and made contact with Prince's attack.

"Let's do this! {Metallic Claws}!" Rainbow Wolf called as she leaped in mid-air. Her front claws grew sharper as she crossed them onto the attack.

"Ready Leo!?" Horse of Heart asked.

"Yes!" He answered.

"Combination Skill! {Stormbreaker Charge}!" They called in unison. The rings of electricity began to surge and engulf their bodies while increasing their momentum right as they impacted Prince's attack.

With all five of them together and against the attack it started showing cracks around it until it ultimately shattered. But even if the attack was destroyed the battle was not over yet. Both Leo and Horse of Heart continued charging forward, heading straight for Crystal Prince.

Raising his shield he stood his ground as they were coming toward him. Pulling his blade back Leo soon thrusted it forward, hitting it dead center at Prince's shield. The shear immense force and power from the attack launched Crystal Prince away and in mid-air his shield shattered just as he was getting sent directly toward his own throne. His back hit against it before he slowly sat into it with his arms and legs stretched out.

Horse of Heart quickly stopped in her tracks as the electricity disappeared before Leo jumped off and ran toward Crystal Prince. Going up to him he pointed his blade right at Prince.

"Please. I don't want to fight anymore. Let us end this." Leo said softly.

Looking up at him Crystal Prince's eyes soften. No longer holding hatred toward the friend who left him behind.

"Very...well." Crystal Prince replied with a pained voice. "You beat me...fair and square. And for that...there's something I wish to tell you."

Lowering his sword Leo leaned forward to his face.

"Happy...birthday, hermanito." Crystal Prince said with a pained smile as his eyes closed.

A light gasp left Leo's mouth as his hand dropped his sword while his shield disappeared. Approaching Crystal Prince he lifted his body toward his, wrapping his arms around him.

"I know we're still pretending, but thank you Kameron. This was the greatest birthday I've ever had." Steven whispered, hugging his brother tightly.

End of Episode 29.

Again, I apologize for not updating sooner and if this seems too long. I just wanted spread my wings a little and give Steven an exciting birthday than what happened in canon.

Hope you all enjoyed this.

Next Time:

Warp Tour