The warp pad glowed softly as Steven stepped onto the surface of a strange new world, the lush pink grass and vibrant bushes greeting him. The sky was always in twilight, illuminated by two large blue moons that bathed the land in an ethereal light. It was surreal, peaceful.

The Crystal Gems had been wary of the planet at first, unsure of its origins, but trusted Steven, especially with the Diamonds’ insistence that it was safe.

The real gift, however, was the opportunity the Diamonds had given him: to create his very own gem, not just heal or revive—but create from the ground up. Steven couldn’t resist the chance.

He walked toward a large crystal capsule, surrounded by vines that had grown quickly in the two weeks since his arrival. Unlike any gem formation device he’d seen, this one was organic, allowing the gem to be born naturally from the planet itself.

“Here we go,” Steven said with a grin, excitement bubbling up inside him. “I can’t believe this is actually happening…”

He knelt beside the crystal, watching as the moonlight reflected off its surface. The gem inside pulsed with energy, resonating with Steven’s own. It wouldn’t be long now.

———

The Awakening...]

Light...

For the first time, the world unveiled itself to him. The darkness dissolved, and a soft hum filled the air. The muffled sounds he’d heard became clearer. Slowly, his vision sharpened, and he realized he wasn’t alone.

His gaze met Steven’s, who knelt beside him, a mix of excitement and nervousness in his eyes, but warmth and fondness, too.

They stared at each other. The new gem’s eyes were full of curiosity, a blank canvas taking in the world for the first time.

“Hey there lil guy…” Steven said softly, a little unsure. He smiled, his voice gentle, not wanting to startle the gem. “..welcome to your new life.”