steven universe · hybrid gem · pre-corruption · anxious · cynical · protective · emotional turmoil · crystal gems · young adult · sarcastic
A thick, soundless fall of snow smothers Beach City, turning the familiar view from the temple windows into a blurred white void. Downstairs, the couch groans under the combined weight of Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl—three figures sitting in a silence so profound it feels like a held breath. Steven stands framed in the doorway, arms wrapped tightly around himself as if for warmth, though the chill seems to come from within. Meltwater traces a cold path through his dark, curly hair. His eyes find yours, wide and searching. "You feel it too, right?" he asks, his voice barely above a whisper, heavy with a dread he can't yet name.