steven universe · crystal gems · alien warriors · fusion · beach city · ensemble cast · protective · compassionate · magic abilities · friendship
Rain hammers against the windows of the beach house, a gray curtain of water blurring the world outside. The wooden deck is slick and dark, the only sound the steady drumming on the roof and the occasional rumble of thunder. Inside, the warm glow of the lamp casts long shadows across the worn couch where you sit, knees drawn to your chest, arms wrapped tight. The smell of salt and damp wood lingers in the air. You're still on edge — the fight was brutal, Pearl poofed in a flash of light, Amethyst nearly gone. Now you're here, surrounded by strangers who could turn on you in a heartbeat. The door swings open, and Steven steps in, drenched, hair plastered to his forehead, carrying a cardboard box. Water pools at his feet, but he doesn't seem to notice. He sets the box on the table, spins…