Episode 62: To Protect What Matters
Warning: Long Chapter.
November 16th 4:45 p.m.
At Chopper Hospital Lapis, Steven, and their friends traversed down the hallways of the first floor. When coming into a hospital it came make anyone feel a plethora of emotions depending on the circumstances. Though as of right now...the groups' emotions...weren't very positive.
Making a turn the group passed by various doctors and nurses until they all arrived at their destination. In front of them was the door that would lead them into Room 009. Going up to the door Lapis raised out her hand and placed it onto the doorknob. Increasing her grip on it she twisted the knob and opened the door.
Inside the room the windows were open, showcasing the sun setting over the horizon outside. The light from the sun shined through the glass, planting itself onto a certain person at the very center of the room. Once the room door was closed everyone approached the person in the room. Laying in a bed wearing a oxygen mask on his face was none other than Kameron Evans, the White Blade of the Rainbow Gems.
The moment everyone directed their eyes onto Kameron a large negative vibe began to spread throughout the room. Concerned expressions were formed on everyone's faces at Kameron's current state. Honestly...it was almost too hard to look at.
Lars stepped up from the group and approached his unconscious best friend. Raising his hand he softly placed it onto the bed railing. His grip on the rails slowly increased as he gritted his teeth. Seeing Kameron like this...just...seeing him in a hospital alone was enough to make Lars worry, but...in the state Kameron was in...Lars wasn't too sure what words could describe it.
Ronaldo quietly came up to Kameron's bed, looking at his friend. Gazing at Kameron created a plethora of questions within Ronaldo's mind. However, it did not take even a second for him to solve them.
"You're the one who unleashed that massive blast into space, weren't you?" Ronaldo said softly. Putting his hand on the rail he closed his eyes. "On behave of Keep Beach City Weird and...your friend, thank you."
"Kameron..." Lars said softly. He opened his mouth again, but the words couldn't form.
Letting go of the railing Lars walked over to a nearby chair and took a seat in it while taking off his backpack.
Sadie went up to the bed, placing her gaze on Kameron. She opened her mouth to speak, but her words fell into silence. What could she say at seeing her friend as he was? Instead of words she raised her hand and placed it onto Kameron's head, slowly rubbing her fingers through his hair. Her lips began to stretch into a small grin, but it slowly faded once she removed her hand.
"Have me and Lars ever told you guys how we first met Kameron?" Sadie said.
No one responded when she finished speaking.
"Six years ago my mom sent me to summer camp so I wouldn't be bored, but in reality, it was also for her to figure out what she was going to do with me after my father left us." Sadie began. Sucking in some air through her nose she soon exhaled it out the same way. "I didn't know what to do. I felt very uncomfortable around everyone. But...then I met Lars when we were paired up for a three-legged race. It was during that I met Kameron too. I was a little weirded out when I first saw him due to his eyes, hair, and Gemstone, but at the time I really didn't really think too much of him."
Sadie then turned her eyes onto Lars.
"Yeah, me neither." Lars replied. "Honestly, I thought he was a little freaky, but...I didn't really think too much of him either until..." Lars stopped himself as the memories were resurfacing.
"Until...what?" Lapis asked.
"Until me and Sadie found him lying on the ground near a tree." Lars replied.
Small gasps echoed the room.
"When we saw him like that we immediately helped him up and brought him to the nurse." Sadie said. "He told the Counselor he was climbing the tree to get a better view of the forest, but when he was coming down he stepped on a weak branch that led to him falling. From twenty-feet high it would've completely wrecked his arm, but thanks to his physiology it was only broken with small fractures in the bone."
Small giggles soon exited from Sadie. "The Counselor was so mad at him for doing that by himself. She then tasked me and Lars to watch him for the rest of the week."
Giggles began to leave Lars mouth as well. "Yeah. That was when we started getting to know each other better. After camp I never thought we'd see each other again until middle school."
The vibe around the room slowly began to shift. The negativity within it began to slowly lessen the more Lars and Sadie were bringing up memories of the past.
"Well...if we're bringing things up about Kameron, then can I tell you all how we met?" Scarlett asked around.
"Actually...I've been wondering about that for a while. How did miss redhead meet Mr. Badass?" Chelsea replied.
Scarlett lowered her eyes onto her necklace. Closing her eyes she brought up her hand and placed her fingers onto it. Her lips slowly formed a small grin.
"In elementary school I was the new kid. When I stepped into the classroom almost everyone stopped and looked my way. Many boys stare at me. The girls instantly wanted to be my friend. At the time I liked the attention I was getting, but...then there was one boy that was different than the rest. When I asked the others about him they started telling me how much of a freak he was and to leave him alone, but...I was so curious about him." Scarlett said.
"What happened next?" Steven asked.
Scarlett then opened her eyes, "One day...some girls started bullying me. There wasn't even a reason behind it. They just...wanted to be superior than me. First they were my friends, then they became my bullies." Removing her fingers from her necklace Scarlett then gripped her whole hand onto it. "Then when my birthday came the girls were starting to gang up on me until...Kameron stepped in, protecting me from them. He covered himself in crystals and made himself look like a monster to scare them away. It worked. When they ran away he turned back to normal and turned around to look at me. I was...really scared and when he approached me he raised his hand to give me the necklace. He told me, "Happy Birthday" before walking away."
"Aww..." Steven cooed.
"After that we started talking and became friends. But after elementary school we didn't see each other again until Freshman Year." Scarlett finished.
Lapis turned her eyes from Scarlett to Kameron. Her lips formed a small smile at the actions of the White Blade.
"How you three meet Kameron?" Lapis asked the Park Sisters and Brittney.
Angela hummed as she placed a finger on her cheek. "It was during Freshman Year. When I saw that the Student Council President position was vacant, I wanted to take that spot. At the time...no-one really paid attention to me or took me seriously. I wanted to really make a difference at school, but my efforts...weren't enough. Then...when I was elected and gave a speech there was only one person clapping for me. Sure, I can be uptight about the rules, but Kameron saw my passion and that was enough for everyone else to understand why I wanted to take it."
"Not even your sister clapped for you?" Brittney asked.
All eyes were then planted onto Chelsea. "What?" Chelsea then turned to her sister, "Sis, I love you and all, but that speech put me to sleep. I only woke up after a roar of clapping started coming in."
Chelsea soon directed her eyes onto Kameron, "As for me, I met Badass after...breaking up with Zac."
The room fell into complete silence. Everyone except Angela looked at Chelsea as if she grew a pair of wings.
"Are...are you serious?!" Ronaldo yelled. "You, the coolest goth I've ever met with a rockin' band dated the biggest and worst jerk in school!?"
Chelsea groaned, knowing this was the reaction she'd get if she told anyone else about it. "Things were different back then. I wasn't...really thinking clearly and at the time I just went along with it. Honestly, looking back on it now, dating him was the worst decision I ever made." She then combed her bang a few times before continuing, "I found out he was cheating on me with a redhead, so I cut ties with him, but he wouldn't take no for an answer and tried to force himself on me."
Redhead? At the mention of that all eyes then turned onto Scarlett.
"Yeah. I dated him too for...different reasons." Scarlett admitted.
"Badass saw us getting harassed and took care of him." Chelsea said. "I've heard rumors about him, but after seeing him kick butt with my own eyes I...grew curious. He helped me with assignments ad then...it became official."
"I met Kameron when Angela asked him to help out at a car wash." Brittney said, stepping up. "He was very, very helpful with the donation. Plus...I gave him a little "Something, something" to thank him." She added as she turned he eyes onto Kameron.
Angela groaned at her while giving off a stern expression, "I really wish you didn't do that."
"What did you give him?" Steven asked.
Brittney brought a finger to her lips and winked at him, "My little secret."
Steven looked at her with confusion. Exactly what did she give Kameron after helping her?
"Well. It's pretty clear to see that Kameron really made an impact on our lives." Ronaldo said, adjusting his glasses. Turning his head he looked over to his unconscious friend. "The day he came to my family's fry shop was when we made contact, ordering a large basket of chili-fries. He said it was the most delicious course he had ever eaten. From that day, I saw not only a guardian of the planet, I saw...a friend."
Ronaldo's words slowly went into the others, except for the part about the chili-fries. Kameron became a friend to each of them. Him, Steven, and their families were no different than other people, if you could pass their powers and protecting the planet from their kind. More so, giving it everything they have so every being on the planet can have a future they can look forward to.
"For now, the only thing we can do is wait." Lapis addressed.
The others agreed on that.
"He'll wake up. I know he will. No matter how long it takes, my big brother will wake up." Steven said strongly.
Everyone nodded at him.
With that said everyone in the room pulled out their Warp Whistles. Taking one last look at Kameron everyone put their whistles to their lips and blew into them.
November 16th 7:00 p.m.
At the Evans Residence Christie sat in the dining room holding a cup of tea in her hands. Looking down at her cup she slowly picked it up and planted it onto her lips, pouring the warm liquid into her mouth. She then removed the cup from her mouth and placed it down onto the table. Swallowing the warm liquid she closed her eyes and let out a small sigh.
Turning her head she raised her hand and brought it toward her phone. Picking it up she unlocked it and went into her photo's app. In it she brought up various pictures her and her family have taken over the years. From simple ones in the parks of Destiny City to seashore gathering at Beach City. Her sons gathering around a sandcastle. Her daughters eating ice-cream together. Her and her husband standing in the ocean with an upcoming wave behind them. Even having the Crystals enjoying time with them from time to time.
Her lips slowly turned into grin, however it completely faded away at a solo picture of Kameron holding up an art piece he created. Tears began to rise in her eyes and fall onto her cheeks.
She soon went out of the app and placed her phone down. Small sobs started to come out of her mouth as she wiped away the endless stream of tears falling onto her face. No matter how many times she tried, her tears wouldn't go away.
"Honey?"
A small gasp escaped from Christie's mouth. Turning her head she saw her husband standing at the entrance of the dining room.
Green looked at her with concern and approached his wife. Before he could even say a word his wife stood up from her chair and threw herself him, wrapping her arms around his body.
An animalistic sob exited his wife as she tightened her hold on Green. Closing his mouth Green wrapped his arms around her. No words were needed at this moment. Right now, he's wife needed comfort after she was told about what happened.
A surge of pain flowed through Green's mind. As much as a different outcome was made in his thoughts, he couldn't ignore his son's plan. Everything was happening so fast and there wasn't enough time to make a secondary plan. Though the unthinkable did not occur, the outcome that did happen was just as painful.
Upstairs Lapis exited out of out Azurite's room and came downstairs. Coming off of the last step she entered the living room and stopped in place at the sight of Christie and Green. Witnessing the state Christie was in Lapis turned away and walked toward the front door. Her presence did not go unnoticed as Green spotted her at the door.
"Lapis." He called out.
Hearing his voice Lapis stopped in place and turned her head to him.
Christie soon removed herself from Green to see Lapis. Pulling herself together as much as she could she wiped her eyes and approached the teenage Gem. "Where are you going, honey?"
"I'm just going out for a while." Lapis replied.
"Oh..." Christie said. "Well... *sniffle* Don't stay out too late, okay? It's a school night."
"Yes ma'am." Lapis replied softly. "I have Kameron's phone in-case you need to reach me. I won't be gone long, I just...want to spread my wings for a while."
Christie nodded.
Green slowly approached Lapis, standing next to his wife. "Be very careful."
Lapis nodded and made her way out the door. Once outside she placed on her hood and summoned her wings. Taking a large flap she went airborne and went onward.
Deep...deep, deep within the abyss, there is nothing.
Nothing but darkness. Silence surrounds the darkness; Making it appear bleak. Despair embraces those within the darkness, but only to the fools who follow it's path.
The darkness itself also brings comfort to those who are unfortunate to circumstance. The shadows will lay them to rest, embracing them into a slumber that will guide them to the gentle light.
One such individual who drifts through the darkness is Kameron Evans. Down, down, down he continuously drifts through the darkness.
His body swifts through the shadows, guiding him to where he is needed.
Just below him a ray of light illuminated the dark, creating a large platform. The platform showcased an image of a large white dove surrounded by eight other doves in various colors. Green. Yellow. Blue. Red. Orange. Indigo. Pink. And Black.
Kameron's body began to move, tilting him forward until he was upright. Soon his feet touched the platform. His body began to straighten up while his eyes twitched. Little by little his eyes started to open up.
Once they were opened he blinked a few times. Moving his eyes he took notice of the platform he was standing on. Up above and all around he saw nothing but darkness and shadow.
Confusion soon took place in his mind. Where was he? What kind of place was he brought to? And...what was he going to do as of now?
Kameron Evans.
A small gasp exited Kameron's mouth.
The life you had lived had been difficult, yet there is still much more you have not yet accomplished.
More confusion surrounded Kameron as he listened to the voice.
Despite your recent actions, you have earned a reward. There is much more to you than you previously thought. And much, much more to do. For now, you will meet with those who have such great interest in you.
Just as Kameron opened his mouth to speak a ray of light shined at the edge of the platform, blinding him. The light slowly dimmed as he lowered his arms. From that light a large white door appeared with white crystal door-handles.
Wondering where this was going Kameron slowly walked up to the door and placed both of his hands on the handles. Getting a good grip on them he pushed himself back, opening the door and unleashing a large white light from it.
Opening his eyes Kameron witnessed a large array of flowers in front of him. From behind he saw another large group of flowers. Up above the sun was shining with clear skies.
'Why am I in a meadow?' He thought to himself.
Taking a step forward his eyes kept getting drawn to the flowers. If this was any other meadow on a day like this he would have no problems walking among it and picking out a flower to hold. But...he knew this wasn't an ordinary meadow.
"Kameron?"
Kameron's ears picked up at the unknown voice. Turning himself around he slowly saw the one who called out his name, only when he did his eyes instantly shot open.
Just standing several feet away from him was a person he never fully thought he would ever meet. A person he has learned about, but never truly knew personally. The one person who wanted to save Home-World as much as the Diamonds do. It was...Pink Diamond.
"I...I can't believe it." Pink said softly. "It's...it's really you."
She took a few steps forward, approaching him. But when she got close Kameron quickly took a step back, halting her.
"What's wrong?" She asked carefully.
"You're not real." Kameron replied.
Pink tilted her head.
"You're dead. You're an illusion or just a figment of my imagination." Kameron pointed out. "There's no way your here right now talking to me."
Sensing his uncertainty Pink lowered herself onto her knees in front of him. She then raised both of her arms out. "I probably don't deserve to address myself with this and I understand that you have a lot of questions spiraling in your mind right now, but...please come here. Your auntie wants to give you a hug."
A vibe of uncertainty flowed through Kameron's body. There were so many things wrong with this. It was too good to be true.
However, seeing her soft face and eyes sent a flow of calmness onto him. Her soft voice didn't really do this any justice either. Although...there was the chance of him never getting something like this again, so...might as well see where this goes.
Walking up to Pink Kameron raised his arms and wrapped them around her body while placing his head onto her shoulder. Surprisingly...she was solid. He could actually feel her body onto him as she placed her arms around him.
"Do you believe I'm real now?" Pink asked softly.
"I don't." Kameron replied instantly. "But...I do think you are real right now. Although...this is really weird to be honest."
Pink hummed at his response as she increased her hold on him. "I don't blame you for feeling this way. After all, my kind has cause a lot of trouble. Plus...I don't think it's right for me to address myself as your aunt. I don't think your father would approve of me for that."
"Maybe he would if things were different." Kameron replied.
Pink hummed again.
Soon after both Kameron and her released themselves from each other. Pink then raised herself up from the ground, looking down at her nephew with a small smile.
"Kameron. Are you happy?" She asked.
"What are you talking about?" He replied.
"Are you happy right now?" Pink further said.
He looked up at her with a cocked eyebrow, "I'm actually more confused than happy. But I think that's not what you're really asking me, is it?"
Pink shook her head and walked away from him. She soon stopped a few feet ahead, having her back face her nephew.
"I want to tell you a secret." Pink began. "For a time, I was really, really happy. Ever since I was born I just couldn't live a day without expressing joy to not just myself but to everyone around me. I deeply enjoyed my talks with the other Diamonds. I loved them so much I couldn't imagine anything bad happening to them. I loved playing with my Pearl and enjoying the entertainment given to me by Spinel. But...there were also times I expressed...other emotions."
"The times when my race was under attack. The times I witnessed Gems killed at the hands of other species. Getting into arguments with the other Diamonds. *groan* Those were the worst times of my life. Although...they were nothing compared to the day I learned that my home was dying. Do you have any idea how I felt when I first learned about it? I never in a million years believed that Home-World would perish. So...I tried to get the others to allow me to help with The Cause, but every single time I ask they kept telling me no. But that all changed when Green assured the other Diamonds that I could handle it."
Pink soon raised up her hand and placed it onto her face. Small giggles began to leave her mouth. The giggles soon turned into laughter. Her laughter...wasn't gentle nor stable. It was maniacal. It grew louder and louder at every passing second. The pure sweet sound of insanity's laugh spreading far and wide through the meadow.
Kameron merely stood in place, letting her laughter enter his ears. His expression changed from concern to neutral the more she laughter. His hands began to ball into fists as he tightened his feet to the ground, preparing himself for what was coming next.
Slowly Pink's laughter began to slow down. Calming herself she turned around to her nephew. Seeing his current expression gave her a pause, but nonetheless she started walking up to him. As she was tears started falling right onto her cheeks with every step made. Then as she stopped right in front of him she dropped to her knees.
"I...I bit off a lot more than I could chew." She told him. Her voice was beginning to break. "I...I tried my very best, but...it was way more than I could handle. The Kindergartens. Keeping track of every Gem who were born from the Injectors. The endless conflicts with the inhabitants. And most of all...The Great War. It...it was too much. IT WAS ALL TOO MUCH!"
She screamed to the skies above. Lowering her head she saw her nephew and turned her head. Closing her eyes she braced herself for whatever he was going to do next.
But...a gasp soon left her. Opening her eyes she saw Kameron embracing her. She then raised up her arms, accepting his embrace.
"Aunt Pink. I can understand you lived a rough life, but no-one ever lives a easy life. Living is a lot harder than it looks." He told her gently.
Small sniffles exited Pink. "The same goes to you too. I've seen the lives you and the others live. It looks so hard. But...at times I saw that there are moments when it's worth it." Her and Kameron soon separated. "It's already too late to undo what we've done, but...you can make it better. Keep on living. Don't do it for me, do it for those who you want to protect."
Kameron's eyes lightly widened at her words. To keep on live so he can protect those he wants to protect...
Seeing the uncertainty in his eyes, Pink moved her head forward, planting her lips onto Kameron's cheek. She then retracted her head to look at him, giving him a big smile.
"Make the change that'll benefit everyone."
Once she said that a large pink aura surrounded her body. She continued to smile while her body started fading away.
Watching her fade Kameron closed his eyes, putting a hand onto his chest. Though it was for a short while, he just met Pink Diamond. What he learned in the Rebellion book wasn't to far off from meeting her in person. It was...definitely strange, but...comforting. If things were different than the actually outcome of the War, Pink would've lived the best life she could.
Kameron Evans.
A small groan left Kameron at the sound of that voice. "What do you want now?"
Do you wish to protect those you care for?
"Of course I do."
Good. Now, it is time for the second act.
Right after the voice spoke a large ray of light appeared in front of Kameron before it transformed into another white door.
Going up to it Kameron grabbed onto the handles and opened it up, releasing a burst of light from the other side.
Opening his eyes Kameron lightly gasped at the location. Directly in front of him was a large ocean with several seagulls flying above the cloudy skies. Below him he saw the landscape was covered in sand. Turning around he was taken back at a familiar sight. Right behind him was the Temple of the Crystal Gems, only...the beach-house wasn't there.
'I'm home, but it's not the home I know. Why do I get the vibe that all of this is a teaching method?' He thought to himself as he walked toward the temple.
"Kameron?"
Turning his head to the direction of the voice Kameron directed his eyes onto...a familiar figure. He'd seen pictures of her at home. There's even a massive portrait of her above the entrance of the Beach-house. Steven himself inherited his abilities from said figure. The leader of the Crystal Gems. The wife of Greg Universe. The mother of Steven Universe. The aunt of Kameron Evans. Her name...is Rose Quartz.
Just standing several feet from him was the very person who fought alongside his father and siblings. The very person who defeated Pink Diamond. The very person who founded the Crystal Gems and fought for everyone's freedom, including her own. However...she's also the person who bubbled Bismuth away.
Coming up to him Rose soon stopped herself in front of him. Looking at him...her eyes started to swell with tears. Her nephew...was here. He was right in front of her. No longer the cute baby she met so long ago, but instead grown into a strong handsome young man. Although...her overwhelming joy was also covered in worry at the sight of his scars.
Lifting her hand she softly placed it onto his cheek, slowly rubbing it.
"You've grown to be such a handsome and strong Rainbow Gem." Rose said softly. "But...all these scars... You shouldn't have pushed yourself so much."
"I have to." Kameron replied, placing a hand onto his aunt's.
Letting out a sigh Rose removed her hand from her nephew's cheek. She then walked pass him, going up to the edge of the beach until she came to a complete stop. She then lowered herself until she managed to sit down onto the sand.
"Kameron. Please come sit with me."
Without giving her a verbal response Kameron walked up to his aunt and sat down next to her. First he met Pink in a meadow, and now he's sitting next to Rose on the beach of Beach City.
A small breeze swiftly passed through them, flowing through their hair as they sat side by side. Rose slowly brought up her hand, placing it onto her nephew to bring him closing her. Kameron didn't mind his aunt's actions, though kind, they weren't gonna distract him with situation he was placed in.
"Honey. Whatever questions or feelings you have towards me, you can tell me." Rose said calmly. "I know there are many, many things you want to ask me and...I might not be able to answer them all, but I will try to."
Looking up at his aunt Kameron gave her a solemn expression. It was very true from her words that he wants to asked her a myriad of questions. There were so many to decide that Kameron himself wasn't entirely sure on where to start, but...it would be best to start with the ones that are the most concerning.
"You and Bismuth had an argument. She wanted to use the Breaking Point to get back at Home-World for the all the suffering they caused and you instead bubbled her away. Why didn't you tell Pearl and Garnet about it?" Kameron said.
Rose looked down at her nephew, seeing his expression. The sight of it gave her an uneasy expression, thought not without reason. Turning her eyes from him she gave it some thought before looking back at him.
"The Rainbow Gems may be okay with shattering Gems when things get complicated, but I'm not. Even if neither me nor Bismuth couldn't agree onto an impasse, I do not want another Gem to be killed. I never told Pearl or Garnet because I already knew how they were going to react. I had to hide Bismuth away. It wasn't right to keep her from the others, but the War was already getting more chaotic. In the end, I made a choice. One that wasn't mine to make."
Kameron blinked at her, taking in her answer.
"Still... You could've let her out after the War was over, especially Lapis Lazuli that you kept in a mirror for centuries!" He told her firmly.
"Kameron-"
"I already know what goes on in War, Aunt Rose. You gotta do what you gotta do. The moment anyone gets into War all sides are in the wrong, so you do what you have to do to get an advantage or to ensure the safety of your allies."
Rose nodded. "Absolutely. And I will understand if you hate me for what I did to Lapis and Bismuth."
Kameron rolled his eyes. "I don't hate you. I hate the actions you did. I can sympathize with how things were rough with you and my dad, but...neither Lapis or Bismuth deserved getting locked up."
Rose soon stood up from the sand, looking out at the ocean. "Well...if that's what you see things, then I want to say that I'm mad at you too."
Kameron quickly brought himself up just when Rose firmly looked at him. "I don't like how you were hurting yourself to protect everyone. I don't like those scars on your body. And I certainly don't like you sacrificing your own life for everyone else."
Kameron glared harshly at her. Their soft and talk was now shifting into a harsher territory.
"That's not for you to decide. Beside, I heard from dad and mom that you always did what you wanted. I'm doing the same thing."
"No!" Rose yelled. "Yes, it is true that I do what I want, but that isn't completely comparable to your actions, mister. Don't you love the people around you?"
"I do."
"Do have any idea how much your family has cried for you? How much worrying you're putting on your friends? Do they actually matter to you or do you say anything to appease them before you go off and recklessly get yourself killed!?"
Kameron was taken back by his aunt's words. He soon gritted his teeth and stepped up to her.
"I AM MORE THAN AWARE OF HOW EVERYONE WILL REACT TO MY ACTIONS! I AM AWARE OF IT EVERY SINGLE DAY FROM THE MOMENT I WAKE UP TO THE SECOND I GO TO SLEEP! OF COURSE I LOVE THEM! I LOVE EVERYONE I CARE ABOUT FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY SOUL! I AM MORE THAN WILLING TO DIE FOR THEM! NO MATTER THE COST! IF I DIE, I DIE! IF I CAN'T ACHIEVE MY GOAL THEN I WASN'T STRONG ENOUGH! WHATEVER THE COST, I WILL AVENGE THE GIRL I LOVED AND BRING JUSTICE TO HOME-WORLD FOR EVERYTHING THEY'VE DONE TO THIS PLANET! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO-"
Kameron's screams came to a halt when Rose stepped in and embraced him. A light gasp left his mouth as his aunt slowly increased her hold on him.
"Sweetie... Please stop."
Her voice soon changed from harsh to soft and gentle. A huge wave of sincerity covered her words, hitting Kameron in all the right places.
"If those are your goals, I won't stop you. But...it's not worth giving up on your own life."
Rose pulled herself away from him, showing him the tears in her eyes.
"When you were born, it was one of the happiest days of my life. Gems are unable to procreate with other lifeforms, but somehow in someway you came into this life through a miracle. Seeing your beautiful eyes. Your little face. You inspired me to have Steven. I knew it would be different since I was a Quartz and your father is a Diamond, but it was you that made me want to have a child."
Kameron felt his eyes expand the more he looked at his aunt.
Rose lowered her head and planted her lips onto his cheek. She then pulled away, gazing at him with a heartfelt smile.
"Steven still needs you. You're his big brother. It's your responsibility to look after him when things get tough. Don't leave him behind. Please be there for him."
Steven... At that moment Kameron's thoughts spilled at the thought of the goofball. He was strong and held a very, very big heart.
Looking back on it now, he did break his promise to him. Even so...Kameron knew how much Steven loved him.
Turning his eyes onto his aunt a large pink glow began to surround her.
"Keep your ideals, Kameron, but never throw away your humanity."
Those were the final words Rose said to him until she completely vanished.
Now alone Kameron raised up his right arm, placing his eyes onto his Gemstone. He's had it ever since he was born. Just looking at it made him curious as to what would happen if he ever removed it from his body, but he was smart enough to never fully enact such action. Plus it was also a reminder of him being a hybrid. But...were their really times when he would throw away his humanity? That never crossed his mind.
Have you learned anything from your aunts as of now?
Raising his head to the skies Kameron opened his mouth. "It's than my life has meaning to it."
Correct. However, there is one final test you must face. Be warned. This trial will help you understand the person that you truly are and how valuable your life really is.
Turning his head Kameron saw a ray of light shine itself at the temple. Making his way there he saw the door that lead the each of the Crystals' rooms turn white. Whatever the final trial was, he'll have to face it anyway to get the bigger picture.
Approaching the door he grabbed the door and opened it, getting a nice greeting from a huge ray of light.
Opening his eyes Kameron found himself in the one place that would help ease his worries. The one place to calm his troubled thoughts; A place to sooth his worries. His forest.
The sounds of birds chirping entered his ears. The gentle flow of water in the river echoed through his eardrums. Up above the sun was blocked by the leaves of the trees, but shined it's rays through them.
Small hums left Kameron's mouth while he began to walk. The trees... The soft breeze of the wind... Just to clear your mind and get away from any form of negativity.
"This place is home, ain't it."
That voice... Just the sound of it brought a small wave of annoyance to Kameron. Turning his head he saw Z sitting down on the grass with his back against a tree.
"I'd figured you were gonna show up sooner or later." Kameron replied.
Z shrugged and picked himself up from the ground. "Aw, I'm hurt. I thought you'd be more cheerful seeing me without a crystal body."
Kameron cocked an eyebrow at him. It was no surprise to him that Z now had an identical appearance to him right now. With what was going on and seeing both of his aunts, there really shouldn't be anything else that should surprise him.
"Can I ask you a question?" Z said.
Kameron nodded.
"Do you think we're alive right now...or are we both dead?"
"What kind of question is that?" Kameron replied.
"I'm actually kinda unsure. But it looks like neither us really no the answer. Which leaves me to ask you another question. If by some chance we do go back to the world of the living, will you hold up your end of the bargain?"
Kameron soon placed his hands on his hips. "We made a deal. Of course I'm gonna keep my word. Although..." He then adverted his eyes from Z. "I am concerned how my friends will react to you."
Z huffed at him while crossing his arms. "They'll understand once I explain our...relationship to them. They might not like it, but given time, they'll have to accept it whether they want to or not." His smugly expression then began to falter, giving Kameron a look of concern. "But...it won't be fun anymore without you around."
Looking back at Z, Kameron stared at him. His other side...wants him around?
"That's true."
Both Kameron and Z gasp at the voice. Turning their heads they both saw her... The girl they both love... The girl who foolishly came when they both wanted her to stay away... Their first love... Elizabeth Diaz.
She slowly approached the two boys, giving them a solemn look. But...there was a clear difference she was showing right now. She looked...older? Roughly the same age they boys were right now.
"Hello, Kameron. It's been a while." She said softly.
Removing his hands from his hips Kameron locked his eyes on her. She was...here. She was here...right in front of him. He opened his mouth, but immediately closed it. His heart started to beat a little faster than normal. His eyes began to swell with tears. His lips slowly quivered.
Elizabeth's solemn expression slowly turned soft. She slowly walked up to Kameron, raising her arms and wrapping them around his body. Pushing her face forward she interlocked her lips with his.
A muffled gasp left Kameron. His tears started to fall onto his cheeks as he closed his eyes. Lifting his hands he slowly placed them onto her hips. A small moan left Elizabeth, making her push her lips into him more. A huge sensation of joy overflowed them both as they continued to kiss.
Z stood on the sideline crossing his arms. His lips stretched into a grin at the display in front of him. Even if he wanted to make a sly remark or a joke, this display was enough for him to keep it to himself.
Kameron and Elizabeth soon separated. As much as Kameron didn't want to, he saw in her eyes that there was much for her to say to him.
Bringing up her hand Elizabeth held her middle finger with her thumb before flicking it right onto Kameron's nose. On impact Kameron jerked himself away from her.
"Ow." Kameron groaned, rubbing his nose.
"Estupida." Elizabeth replied in Spanish.
"You're mad at me." Kameron said.
Elizabeth nodded. "I am." She then puffed her cheeks and released a long sigh. "Kameron. I understand why you're doing all of this, but...it's not a healthy mindset for you."
Kameron rapidly blinked at her. "I know it isn't. But...after what happened to you I-" He was then cut-off when Elizabeth placed a finger on his lips.
She looked at him with soft eyes. "I know... That must've been so painful for you. I love you. I will always love you no matter what. But...you need to open your heart and mind for other people too, not just me." She then gave him a soft smile, "Besides...didn't you promise Lapis a date?"
Kameron's eyes slowly expanded his eyes. His cheeks began to burn as he turned to Z. His cheeks were burning too, but he was also smiling.
"I... I did." Kameron admitted.
Elizabeth then winked at him. "It's very rude of you to keep her waiting. Plus she very cute, just like the other girls in your life. But my point is...you should give her a chance. Didn't you want to give her a better life? You can't do that if you're always hung up on me all the time."
Kameron then directed his eyes to the ground. His hair started to cover his eyes.
Elizabeth was right... He did say that to Lapis. He promised a date.
Raising his hands Kameron placed them onto his head, gripping his fingers into his head. He began to grit his teeth while his body started to shake. All of these things conflicting in his head... All of these promises... Can he really contradict himself at this point?
Seeing his struggle Elizabeth approached him, raising her hands and placing them on Kameron's. Her soft touch halted Kameron's shaking. She slowly removed his hands from his head, putting them down and placing her hands onto his cheeks. Lifting it up she looked into his heterochromia eyes.
"Kameron." She began. "If you truly want to avenge me and bring justice, I'm not gonna stop you. But...stop trying to kill yourself. Keep living. There are still people in this life who love you. Who care for you. They still need you. I will always love you and be by your side until you truly die. I won't get mad at you for being with other girls. Give Lapis a great life. Be with your family. Be with your friends. Vengeance shouldn't be your only reason for living. There more to it than that. So please...keep going for everyone and me."
Without giving her a response Kameron lunged his head forward, planting his lips onto Elizabeth's. She gasped at his actions, but slowly accepted it. He soon pulled himself away from her.
Sucking in some air...Kameron let out a long sigh. "Okay."
Hearing his answer brought a smile to Elizabeth's lips.
Kameron turned to Z and walked up to him. "Z. I am a man of my word, but...I want to make a new deal with you."
Z cocked an eyebrow at him, "What are you offering?"
"I'm gonna give it my all. I've...lost sight of the other important factors in our lives. It might not be enough, but...It's been coming to me bit by bit. So...I'm gonna give it my all so our new goals will be met. At points when I'm about to reach death's door...you can jump in. I won't complain when you do."
Z hummed at this new agreement. It wasn't all too different than the one they made before, but...the no complaints clause sounded very, very satisfying. Plus being the one to deal the final blow to a Corrupted is always satisfying to his standards. He would still be able to come out whenever he wants to now, but...there were times where he'd be taking a backseat.
"I like what you're selling. However, I have one condition."
"What do you want?" Kameron asked.
"Our friends. I want to meet them. When I do, I want the whole day in control."
Kameron lightly groaned at his suggestion. But, it was a simple gesture. Z can at least have that.
"That can be arranged." Kameron said while raising up his hand. "Do we have a deal?"
Z's lips stretched into a large grin. Raising his hand he placed it into his other half's. "You got yourself a deal, Kameron. Can't wait to see what else life as for us."
A bright green aura soon engulfed Z right as he began to fade away.
Turning around Kameron witnessed a white aura surrounding Elizabeth, sending a surge of sorrow within him.
"I'll always be by your side, Kameron. No matter what. I will always love you, but share your love with others too, okay?" She told him.
Kameron nodded at her. She gave him one last smile right as she faded away.
Kameron Evans. Have you come to understand what you've learned?
Kameron smirked at the voice and planted his hands on his hips. "Yeah... I understand now."
Explain yourself.
"There are those who still need me. I've hurt them and...I have to make things right. I won't let go of Elizabeth Diaz from my mind. But I will make room for another girl I've come to like."
"My family... My friends... My home... I'll do the best I can to protect them from Home-World. Corrupted are still Corrupted. I'll take them down to the best of my abilities. A permanent cure to help them is a little far fetched, but if there's a possibility, it will be found."
"And finally...I am the White Blade of the Rainbow Gems. I now understand that my life is far from over at this point. No matter what I will give it my all, but no longer will I sacrifice my life recklessly."
The voice soon began to laugh.
Exactly! Congratulations! You've come to understand the real you! For that, you shall return to your loved ones.
"Wait. Who are you?"
That question will be answered another time. Now, spread your wings and return to your nest, White blade.
A large white aura began to surround Kameron. Though there were more questions lingering in his mind, it's for the best to save them for a different time. Closing his eyes the aura continued to engulf him until he ultimately faded from the forest.
November 25th 9:00 a.m.
Kameron's eyes twitched as he slowly opened his eyes. His vision was blurry and began to slowly become clearer the more he opened his eyes. His ears picked up the rhythmic sounds of beeping nearby.
Picking himself up he found himself in a hospital room. Observing his surroundings he noticed the sun shining though the windows.
His lips stretched into a grin as he removed the oxygen mask around his mouth.
The door to his room soon opened up, getting his attention. Turning his head he saw Lapis standing at the entrance of the room.
"Hey...Lapis..." He said quietly.
Lapis walked into the room and the closed the door behind her. She immediately ran up to Kameron and wrapped her arms around him. Once she did a burst of animalistic sobs left her mouth.
Kameron wrapped his arms around her body, softly rubbing her back.
End Of Episode 62.
This one took me a while to figure out what direction I wanted it to go, but thankfully I figured it out before the urge of procrastination would take me.
Next Time:
Family