Glow Week, an art week dedicated exclusively to Steven x Connie, returns this May from the 18th–24th!
Here's how Glow Week works!
For each day of the art week, you select one (or both, who's counting?) of the two provided prompts and create an original art piece based upon it. It's that simple! You even have roughly one month to prepare your works!
Important note: Participation does not require creating pieces for all 7 days! Feel free to pick and choose which days you will participate!
You may enter with ANY kind of art!
Traditional, digital, fanfiction, music, edits, animation, whatever!
HOWEVER, NO 18+ IMAGERY, NO AI "ART," AND NO STEALING!
All submissions should be tagged with:
#GlowWeek, #GlowWeek2, and/or #Connverse! I will reblog any entries I find, so make sure I can actually find them.
And please spread the word!
Reblog; share; show your mutuals, friends, partner(s), neighbors, pet lion, and anyone else who will listen!
More eyes = more Connverse art. Got it?
Drop any questions into my ask box!
The promo art is by @imaplatypus-art!
The graphics & event are by @abyssalmemory!
(This is a repost since I'm dumb and accidentally deleted the OG)
" Come on, Mister!"Connie 'Heartberry' Maheswaran complained with a slight pout, " Help me choose."
"I mean, does it really matter?" Steven 'Mister' Universe asked as he spun around in his chair, " it really doesn't , right?" He asked two of tgeir best friends , Daniel 'Danny' Zeke and Parricia 'Tricia' Isiah.
"Why you trying to get the bull to run us through?" Danny accused Steven as he pointed to Connie.
Connie nostrils flared in an annoyed huff.
"I think flowers would be best, less conspicuous.. " Tricia answered , trying to be the voice of reason, " he can give it to the lady in a bouquet."
"Naw, they see floral arrangements as an insult." Mister told her.
" Well, ring it is then, right?" Danny said with a smile.
"But not having a flower is also an insult to their race." Connie explained. "Mister.. You need to answer."
" I mean..as long as it gaudy enough and can pick up voices it doesn't matter." Mister said, looking at her with a mischievously flirty and impishly smug smirk.
" Why are you so damn flippantly nonchalantly indecisive today!?" Connie all but roared at her at Mister, annoyance running on high as her brow furrowed, fist clench and teeth grind and and bit gently on her left jaw. Her black eyes burned as she looked at his stupid, stupid, Damn stupid kissable smile.
She felt the echos of her pounding heart in her head and felt her mahogany cheeks burn a dark maroon.
" is this one of your flirty fights?" Danny and Tricia asked, noticing the eternal ' Not a couple' lovers, all to well.
Steven pointed at the two in confirmation, still peering into the black eyed bull gaze.
"And she just lost."
"Arrgh! Wipe that smile off your face before I bite it off!"
"Is that before kissing and sucklings..or after."
"Patcat actually prefers it in between," Danny chimed in, "call it the 'sweet to sensual' pipline...ow." Danny rubbed the back of his head where Tricia lightly smacked.
" Ahh, you want the pipeline, Heartie?" Mister flirted with the blushing ball of annoyance.
"I want you to choose!" She pleaded him, holding the two items up.
"I leave it to you.".
Connie growled audibly before a smirk came to her lips, and a different blaze over took her eyes, " ok... leave it to me, Misty."
Steven felt a chill down his spin at her sweet, sinsong tone.
----
"Ah, Steven diamond." One of his fellow galactic ambassadors greeted an alien rose based floral princess, her green petals like eyes widen at Steven's outfit, " oh my. Thank you for showing respect to our culture."
"Well..I.."
"We, thank you." Connie interrupted ,smiling next to him, " i did my best to learn about the fashion of your people in these events." She said as she took a look at him.
Steven was wearing bright green and red ankle length quilt, with a matching very frilly petal like texture and design with a pink ring like trim along the waist and hips of the flowing quilt and the croptop.
"You did very well.. it looks positively fragrant on you, Sir Steven... Now pleaee..this way." The princess smiled, leading them.
Connie gave Steven a side glance," Shall we go, Mister." She smiled, swaying her hipsxas she walked, catching his eyes.
"Wait. This...thing is hard to move in." Mister complained a bit, shuffling under the heavy clothing.
" Well, should have chosen. "Heart smiled at him before sticking out her tongue and offering her arm.
With her classes, a d his traveling to will be at most three months, at the lowest two months...
60 to 90 days of only voice and video.
The upcoming lack of touch, the coming withdrawal of the heat only they can make.
It was enough for them to indulge in this last moment and make it lunger like a flame fighting the upcoming winter.
To allow their tounges to dance and saliva to swap.
To moan without eachothers name like a beastial prayer.
Hungry.. Raw.. Carnal..lustful but not without a galaxys' weight of love, affection ,commitment abd respect.
It's why the roaming exploration of upper torso swells and nether folds and lengths was not only allowed but encouraged, heatedly so, eagerly so.
Ruffling their usually neat appearance to a complete mess for love marks to be placed on each other skin.
They're ritual of exchanging hearts with one another was a flame that gave birth to mind shattering earthquakes, that brought a spring rain of euphoric bliss and left them both exhausted and energetic.
With heated haggard breaths, they sat on the ground, Connie sandwiched between the wall and 'her wall'. Their hearts beating as one. Voices and breath mixing as they, through giggling, pronounced their love to each other, as they always did when Steven was going to leave.
That would happen later
For now, they were her, on their own world, created by their own warmth and love.
Teens??? 😡 (Young adults?) Loitering??? 😡 On my immediate vicinity?????? 😡
Connie lets Steven borrow her clip to keep his hair from falling over his face. (Her own hair doesn't bother her because she's built like an anime character.)
Connie watched as Steven played on his phone, legs slightly crossed and a look of curiosity and slight impishness. He was slightly different than before. His hair was longer. He had actual chin hair growing in. He was calmer and a bit more cooler and reserved than usual. She was surprised that he just wanted to loit around on his break with her.
"Guess doing odd job and being a vagabond change him a bit." She mused to herself with a slight low, but always loving giggle as she just sat and observed.
She licked her upper lips as she reached behind and took off her mostly decorative hair clip before stretching up like a cat going to paw a cup,grabbing a well bit of his long curly hair and a poofy ponytail.
A light,near-whisper level click sealed Steven's hair in said ponytail, getting him to turn from his phone and to look at her as he reached up and touched the new do.
" What this?" He chuckled, his new deeper and more held back demeanor, couple with the same eyes filled with a hunger for life; sent a welcoming surge down her spine.
"Punishment for ignoring me." She pouted with no real heat, aiming for cuteness instead.
"Hmm." He opened his legs a bit more and patted his lap, "Come here, Berry."
Connie felt her cheeks burn,but she eagerly followed his order,crawling in and between his lap and thighs, pressing her curves upon him in a cuddle. Humming contentedly, she leaned on his chest and felt the rhythmic and rapid thrums of his heart and the tell-tale hest of his glowing gem along her left hip..
'Cool on the outside.. still cute on the inside.' She mused out a sigh, feeling that warmth that can only come from being in the man arms. Even more so when he kissed the top of her head.
"So, what got you so intrigued?" Connie asked, not really caring as she looked at the phone, " Ah, new One peice.."
"Thinking we can do a couple cosplay this summer."
"Hmm." Connie's tone was relaxed but agreeable.
Steven chuckled as he handed her the phone and squeezed her close instead.
Based off @screwpinecaprice art. Give them a follow
Sometimes, it caught Steven off guard, just how beautifully formed his best friend's physique was. The way it moved even into the slightest position could seem so sensual to him.
Get a reaction, a rise out of him with the smallest of effort.
Like now, for example.
Here, Heartberry was lying back on the couch lazily, in a light Arburn tank top and black hip accentuating sweatshorts. The tank had a deep neck and was haphazardly rolled up a bit, showing her outie navel and relaxed tone stomach and curves; her chest slightly rising and falling with gentle chime-like breaths through her chapped summer dry lips.
A simple image of relaxation and peace, not a care in the world, a lioness in serene content in her domain.
It made him ACHE for her.
His mouth salivated, pupils dilated, his breath haggard, and his toes curled instantly as thoughts flooded his mind.
Thoughts that made his heart race, his fistball, his throat dry and slowly chip away at his inhibitions and gave into a primal, loving pyre for carnal affection.
The-
"Pfft.."
Steven arched his brow at her giggling, "What so funny,Heartberry."
"Nothing, just..." She gave him a grin, impish and full of her teasing attention and other intention, " You're not exactly being as silent as you think,Mister."
"Wha-?" Steven paused his cheeks a glow of gem pink, " You heard my thoughts. "
"Like I said, not silent." Connie grinned more as she rested her right hand on her inner thighs, flirtatiously pulling one of the short legs back just a bit, revealing the shadow of what could be either lace or flesh before biting the right corner of her bottom lip.
"It's quite humid, mind helping me beat the summer heat."
"You know we do have gem magic central con-"
"Yes...but I rather fight fire with fire..." Connie smirked Grew more carnal as she teased him more lifting her shirt just as bit, flapping in a mock attempt to staying cool, showing more of her brown skin with the addition of the underside of her impressive endowments.
Biting her tongue to keep mdrom laughing in glee at Steven's stripping eyes, his curled fist, his heated sight growl like pants, his desire was tangible, crisp like biscuits.
And all for her.
"Or in this case, heat with heat." Connie purred, "besides.." her voice took a slightly meek tone, imitating a kitten mewl," Heartberry wanna cure Mister's ACHE."
Steven eye's widen before narrowing, "my aren't we creative, heat versus heat,huh?" He grin taking off his top and making his way to her. Kissing and suckling her stomach and waist feeling her tremble under his lips, the action playing the role of shocks to her nervous system and embers into her belly and loins.
"Well, ooo~o~hh! Heat is good for aches as well..so. Yess.." Connie gasp as Steven sunked his mouth into her collar, morphing his teeth to the blunt fangs his Heartberry loves.
"Seem like you have aches of your own,Nini." He teased in her ear, making her nod needing.
" We, both do..."
Steven grinned at Connie's attempt to remain prideful.
" Well, then we should ease them, don't you agree," he rubbed her scalp evoking her moans as she grips his shoulder blades. "My prideful Heart."
Connie blushed, his praise, his practiced touches, his prominent love and welcomed perversed tone made her melt and meek.
"Mister..." She mewled again, feeling delight in submitting to his machinations. Kissing him heartedly deeply, twisting her tounge with his before allowing him to lead , basking in the heat only he can bring to her, from the inside out.
A heat much more than the oppressive summer humidity, one that makes the summer sun seem like a fall night and one that ease their aches on hours on end.
A heat that didn't end until afternoon turned to pass midnight and left them a warm, sweaty,sticky, loving afterglow that out shined the moon and stars alike.
It was Sunday in their home, the certified lazy day in the Maheswaran-Universe home. Usually, Steven didn’t have any galactic ambassador matters to attend to. Connie wasn’t going to the lab, whether it was the one in their home or R&D…Usually, but as far as Connie Yasha Maheswaran knew, Steven was still off planet; so with a stretch and a sigh, she climbed out of bed, deciding to check up on him after breakfast.
She stopped at the bathroom to do her Sunday morning routine, washing her face and body and brushing her teeth. She couldn’t care less about her bedhead. It was Sunday, after all.
A horribly humid and hot summer Sunday.
“Maybe I’ll head to the beach today or a trip to Empire. See if any of the gems or Tricia would want to come with.” She pondered. Which made her blow a bluffing breath.
“Mister,… hurry home..” She nearly whined, longing and needing in her voice as she scratched her scalp.
“It’s not the same…” Connie’s downtrodden voice hollowed to a drone as she went to put on some old denim jeans. Over washed and slightly shrunk to the point they didn’t need to be buttoned or zipped to keep them on her curves.
“A top can wait,” Connie muttered before heading downstairs to the kitchen.
As she touched down on the ground, turning to the left, her eyes widened at the tuft of curly black hair peeking over the couch.
Connie’s black eyes shined with surprise as she balled her fist. With her hair a bedridden mess, face washed, teeth brushed, in a pair of form-fitting over-washed jeans and nothing else she came to the front to see Steven universe, her Mister, her Bisky; asleep on their couch in a pair of torn jeans himself. Now shaggier than before with a full beard.
“Definitely gonna hide his shaving supplies.” To say Connie was feeling a torrent of emotions would be correct…if not an understatement.
Connie wanted to kiss him, to hug him, to strangle him. To straddle him and…
“And I will, but later,” Connie told herself before looking at her Jambud.
The mix of relief, joy, and mild irritation flooded her senses all at once. The intensity of it caused a flicker of a smirk to cross her face. Holding back the urge to jump on him in excitement and shower him with kisses, she instead opted for the more subtle and arguably funnier approach.
Quietly moving towards the front of the couch, she stood over him. His gentle snores filled the space between them as he lay sprawled haphazardly, one arm hanging off the edge, the other draped across his eyes to block out the early morning light. The sight was endearing and a testament to Steven’s casual nature.
Connie gently poked him in his bare belly, earning a sleepy grunt from her significant other. But Steven didn’t wake up. She snorted softly to herself before poking him again, a bit harder this time.
“Agrl baba.” Steven groaned in his sleep.
An amused giggle slipped from Connie’s lips as she gently poked at the scruffy overgrowth adorning his chin. His peaceful expression didn’t change, though his brows knitted together slightly as if protesting the disturbance.
“Well,” Connie huffed, crossing her arms under her bare chest, “this won’t do at all.”
There was an urge to shake him awake—to demand why he didn’t just come to bed.
“Knowing him, he probably didn’t want to wake me.” Connie sighed, rubbing her temples, usually such considerations would be appreciated.
“But, it’s been two months… He could wake me in the middle of the night with a blow horn and fireworks and I would pounce on him and smother him with love, affection, and..”
Connie bit her lip, the redness of her cheeks contrasting starkly with her dark skin as a rush of intimate thoughts flooded her mind.
“Ease, girl.” She self-reprimanded, clearing her throat to put those thoughts on hold, she resolved to try another approach in rousing her sleeping Biscuit.
“Steven Universe..” She began in a playful sing-song voice, leaning over the couch to be closer to his ear. “Aren’t you forgetting something?”
His response was a soft, unintelligible mumble, and his grip on his arm tightened subtly. Connie backed away from him, trying not to laugh at his stubborn refusal to wake up.
But as she watched him sprawled on the couch, the chaos of their usual life paused for a rare quiet moment. Perhaps they needed it. Stepping onto her toes, Connie leaned over Steven, hovering just inches from his face.
“Ok you rest, Sleeping Beauty,” she murmured before planting the gentlest of kisses on his forehead. “Sure it was an excruciating two months.”
“And here I was thinking you’d be more excited to see me,” she pouted at his slumbering form. Though Connie’s words were laden with playful irritation, her eyes gave away the affectionate warmth simmering beneath.
For now, Connie was going to make breakfast for the both of them, something she had been working on during his long trips. She wasn’t as good as him, but the food Connie made didn’t spontaneously combust or come to life(anymore) and was actually pretty good in her opinion.
Connie moved to the kitchen, leaving her sleeping Mister on the couch, a small smile on her face as she decided to make something from Steven’s childhood.
Opening the fridge door, scanning its contents for what she needed, Connie took a deep inhale, her senses filling with the mixture of sweet and savory smells that drifted from the refrigerator.
Eggs, bacon, ripe strawberries, and whipped cream. She looked on top of the fridge, finding flour and popcorn.
”Perfect, we are set.” Connie grinned as she gathered her materials and began whisking together flour and eggs while humming with a smile on her face.
Soon their home was wafting with the scent and heat of her cooking, bacon and pancakes filled the air.
Connie had just flipped the third pancake in her growing tower when she heard an audible grunt from the other room- a sign that Steven was finally waking up.
“Ahh.” She rolled her eyes with an affectionate grin, “of course it’ll be food that wakes him” she mumbled under her breath before putting another scoop of batter onto the pan, chuckling.
“Something smells amazing,” Steven mumbled, eyes still closed as The sizzling aroma of bacon and pancakes soon permeated the house, stirring Steven more.
He blinked open his bleary eyes, sniffing the air as the tantalizing scents registered in his groggy mind.
“Mmm…really good,” he mumbled to himself as he slowly sat up on the couch, rubbing the sleep from his eyes.
That’s when he noticed Connie in the kitchen, hair a mess, wearing only a pair of snug jeans and an apron as she busied herself cooking over the stove.
“And looks even better.” Steven whispered as he watched her cook from his seat, star and heart-eyed he watched Heartberry’s ‘Heart-booty’ sway as she did so.
It was a bit of a role reversal since he was the designated chef.
He was engrossed in her, so completely bewitched, that he didn’t even notice what she was making as he made his way to her, silently and unnoticed.
“Eep!” Connie squeaked feeling his large warm palms on her hips and purred feeling his lips grace her nape and trail her spine to her lower back. The feel of his lips and breath made her tremble and her toes curl. “Oh, you did miss me..” She joked leaning into him, basking in his touch.
“An understatement.” Steven chuckled, nuzzling his beard to her nape, and massaging her scalp.
‘ohhh! This is how scalp massages should feel, not to mention how his beard!’ Connie mused in pleasure at the sensation melting in place, almost dropping her bowl as she stood on ten toes letting out a purr.
“Gonna…hhm…make me drop the last of the batter for breakfast.” She started leaning into his touch. “ Wouldn’t want to…Hmmm… mess breakfast up, right?”
“I mean, you already gave me a feast.”
“Is that so?” She smirked looking up at him, before sucking in an excited breath feeling the seat of her jeans being grabbed, letting out a carnal growl. “I see.” Connie grinned, reaching up to kiss him.
Tenderly, deeply, slowly.
“Two months apart has made you incorrigible.” Connie teased as she nuzzled close, “ Now let me cook, as they say,”
“I mean, I can.”
Connie playfully swatted Steven’s hands away as he tried to take the bowl of pancake batter from her.
“Oh no, you don’t, Universe. I’ve been practicing my cooking skills while you were away. This breakfast is my treat.”
She scooped the last of the batter, put it onto the pan, and handed him both whisk and bowl, “You can have the residual batter though while I cook.” She took a scoop putting on his nose, “Now go sit in the living room. I’ll be there in a few.”
“Alright, you got it. I’ll leave you to it.” Steven teased putting a dollop of batter on her nose before licking it off, “tasty.”
Steven grinned before walking away, only for his own butt to be grabbed as he left.
“Hey, handsy!” he turned to see Connie flipping a pancake.
Connie shot him an impish mischievous grin that made his heart skip and gem glowed.
“Stars, I missed you, Heartberry.” Steven sighed before heading to the couch, leaning back as he ate the batter, basking in the fact that he was home.
”Man, it’s good to be back, I didn’t think a trip to another star system could be so boring, but coming back to you makes it all better.”
He watched with batter in his mouth and adoration in his eyes as Connie expertly flipped the final pancake onto the stack, her movements fluid and graceful even in the heat of the kitchen, before settling back on the couch, savoring the delectable aroma wafting from the kitchen and the lingering sensation of Connie’s playful touch.
Connie could still feel Steven’s eyes on her as she worked, his gaze like a warm caress. It sent a shiver down her spine, rekindling the embers of longing that had smoldered during their months apart.
As he waited for Connie to finish cooking, Steven’s mind wandered to the past two months spent apart. The longing for her presence, her touch, and her voice had been a constant ache in his heart. But now, being back home, surrounded by her warmth and love, it all seemed worth it.
He licked the residual batter from the whisk, his taste buds delighting in the sweet, familiar flavor. It reminded him of lazy mornings spent cooking together, their laughter and banter filling the air as they moved in perfect sync.
Connie meanwhile was putting the finishing touches to breakfast as she arranged the plate with poise, spraying the top of the stack with whipped cream in a swirl, artfully drizzling maple syrup over the golden pancakes, putting three strawberries on top, laying the bacon around the stack perimeter, and finally raining down popcorn onto the stack.
Smiling with a sense of accomplishment, she examined her breakfast tower. It was a treat from his childhood, a playful way to welcome him back home. Grinning, she lifted the plate and turned to find Steven leaning back on the couch, comfy and content, bowl and whisk in hand as he licked the last traces of batter, his eyes closed.
An Impish grin spread across her face.
“Enjoying yourself there, Biscuit?” she teased, “Hope you saved some room for breakfast together.” Her grin grew as Steven’s eyes opened in shock and surprise at both the food and now topless Connie. “Or maybe it’d be more accurate to say…”
“Together Breakfast!” Steven praised loudly at the tower she placed on their table, “This is amazing, you even got the popcorn…” He smiled looking at the breakfast tower hungrily. “Don’t remember the bacon though.”
“Wanted to put my own spin on things.” She grinned, taking out two forks from her jeans pockets. “Glad you seem to want to devourer it.”
“Well, it’s the second most delectable thing in front of me.” He winked with a snicker, before giving her a loving smile, before opening his arms to her. “ Come here.”
Connie didn’t need to be coerced as she happily straddled his lap pressing down onto him as he rested against her bare breast, Her hands stroking his wild nape-length black hair and full soft pink tipped beard. “Thought it was an appropriate breakfast since we’re back together.”
“It’s perfect!” Steven assured her. He leaned in and planted a sticky batter-flavored kiss on her cheek. “Thank you, Heartberry.”
His sincerity made her blush. ”You’re welcome, Biscuit.” She kissed his head and held him close, ” I missed you, I wanted to do this since this morning.”
“Straddle me?” he chuckled against her bust.
“No…Well…Yeah.” Connie blushed but playfully swatted at Steven’s shoulder. “You know what I mean, Jokester.”
“I know, but it’s been two months, gonna tease you, Heartbutt.” Steven chuckled as he held her close palms gently pressed on the seat of her jeans pulling her closer, nuzzling to her bare breast, “Let me tease you now and…”
“please me later?”
Steven gave her an impish, boyish grin that made her heart skip as she held him close, stroking his hair, “glad to have you back in my arms, Mister.” She pecked along the top of Steven’s head, “These long trips are getting more frequent.”
“I’m sorry.”
“Don’t apologize, I know how important your trips are. Build those intergalactic relations and such.” Connie giggled out a sigh feeling Steven’s lips pressed against her bare skin.
“As long as you keep changing the world down here, miss genius, I know you have some stories of projects, breakthroughs, and discoveries you want to share, and I want to hear all about them.”
“and I want to hear all about the galactic clubhouse and this trip’s gossip.” Connie chuckled, holding his cheeks and gazing into his bright big brown eyes, but later, or tomorrow … It’s Sunday, our first in a while and all I want to do is spend it being lazy and cuddle up with you.”
“Same it’s a muggy Sunday though.” Steven smirked, kissing her neck, “We’ll get all sweaty and sticky.”
“Good thing we’re topless then huh..” Connie snickered, “For now, let’s just spend the morning together on this couch, sharing this breakfast.”
“Being lazy and lounging under a nice slightly cooler house. ..or maybe we can sunbathe on the roof, or beach, or make a setting in our ‘room’, or~hhm!”
Connie was not-so-rudely but very welcoming interrupted by Steven’s lips meeting hers and his tongue caressing her own. Melting under affectionate action.
“Whatever you want, Heartberry,” Steven smiled at the warmed and marooned-cheeked Connie.
“Spoiling me, I see,” Connie said as she took a fork full of the Together Breakfast and held it to his lips. “You being here is everything I want, what about you?”
Steven smiled, taking a fork full himself and holding it to her lips,” Everything, I want…is right here.” He smiled before they each took their respective offerings.
“Oh!” Steven’s eyes widened, “ this is amazing, Connie!” His eyes lit with pride as Steven savored the sweet, salty, fluffy, and crunchy breakfast.
Connie’s black eyes gleamed as she blushed, feeling satisfied, not by the food, but by his words, her usually impish smirk now a full beam, she loved making him proud, “Thank you, I guess I did well, after all.” She spoke with a glow of confidence as she got him another bite and took one from him, “Only the best for my Mister.”
The sweetness of the pancakes mixed with the salty crunch of bacon, creating a delightful contrast that made both of them sigh in contentment. They ate slowly, playfully exchanging bites and banter, their laughter ringing gently in the cozy space.
Steven couldn’t resist occasionally stealing a piece of popcorn from the stack and popping it into Connie’s mouth, earning playful giggles from her.
She savored each bite, relishing not only the taste of the food but also the moment itself. The morning sun shone through the windows, casting warm patterns on their skin and filling the room with a soft glow.
Steven’s gaze never left her as he watched her eat, his heart overflowing with love. They had been apart for extended periods before, but every reunion reminded them of their deep connection and unwavering affection. This time felt even more special, like rediscovering a beloved song after a long absence.
As they continued to indulge in the colorful breakfast tower, the sunlight gradually filtered in through the windows, enveloping them in its warm embrace.
Connie rested against Steven’s chest, feeling the steady thump of his heartbeat against her back. “This,” she whispered, “is my favorite place.”
Steven hugged her tighter, his voice thick with emotion as he replied, “Mine too.”
Steven wasn’t surprised by how much he had missed these simple moments with her—just being together and enjoying each other’s company without any distractions.
Yes, after two months of being apart, ‘Mister & Heartberry’ wanted nothing more than to be right here, near and bare on this Sunday morning.
“As natural as the fall of night; as rhythmic as a bell chime, with a touch of their creator intent, hum?” Connie maheswaran rubbed her chin as she read the instructions for homunculi crafting. "What the heck is that? Why is this type of magic nothing but riddles? Nothing at all like flame or blaze magic.” She sighed as she leaned back in her chair, a tired and annoyed look on her face.
She has been at this studying and experimenting all morning.
"Mistress." Steven called from the front door of the witch's study, " Come out to my greenhouse, please. I wish to show you my newest purchase."
Connie hummed, hearing her partner's footsteps get further from her door as she stretched sitting up from her bent-over position. " Well, I have been in here all day. Some fresh air would be nice." She rubbed the nape as she stood up, turning and leaving her incompleted research on the table.
"You're a beauty." Steven gushed at the newest part of his garden, setting the potted plant down on the table, " Sure, my lady will love you as well. Yes, she will."
"Dapper demi?" Connie called.
"In here, my lady!"
The witch followed the call of her demon partner pausing, catching a glimpse of his excited, smiling face through the greenhouse glass walls. She felt her cheeks heat up at the sight and couldn't help but feed off his excitement, skipping a bit as the greenhouse came closer.
"I'm here, Steven." She announced her arrival, stepping in with a grin, "What this amazing purchase you have to show me that you pulled me away from some research in homunculi."
Steven grinned at his lady, kissing the back of her hand, " My apologies, my lady, but first I know you haven't left your lair since this morning and probably forgot to eat the breakfast I left for you in the kitchen."
"I..." She rubbed her nape bashfully. He knew her so well.
"I got to it, eventually.. "
"So if I kiss you, I'll taste it on your breath?" Steven grinned as he watched his contractor blush again.
".. umm. Ye- you were going to show me your purchase?" She stated shyly as the dapper demon got closer.
"You're right!" He exclaimed with glee turning away as Connie took a breath. Only to feel his lips take hers as she melted into the deep exploring kiss. Tippy-toeing as he pulled away to keep the kiss going for just a few more seconds.
"You did eat it, good job." Steven grinned, pecking her nose.
"I told you as much." She gave him a smug pout," I don't miss your meals... even if it gets cold." She grinned," Now, what did you want to show me?"
"Ah yes!" Steven smiled, holding her hand and leading her to the newest addition to his greenhouse.
"A... black and purple stripe bluebell?"
The flower she was looking at was indeed a black and purple bluebell, a demonically beautiful black and purple striped bluebell, with exotic bulbed stems, spike leaves, and its large head pointing upward.
"A Nightbell!" The demon exclaimed excitedly.
"A Nightbell?" Connie repeated, her eyes widening in surprise. "How did you manage to obtain such a rare and enchanting flora?"
Steven beamed with pride, "I've been searching for one of these for quite some time, and finally, a fellow demon trader had one in his possession. He was kind enough to part ways with it, seeing the potential it held for our... work."
Connie couldn't help but admire the extraordinary bluebell. Its dark colors seemed to absorb the dim light of the greenhouse, giving it an almost mystical aura. She gently ran her fingers along the spiky leaves, feeling the cool smoothness of the stem.
"But what is a Nightbell, Steven?" she inquired, still in awe of the flower. "It has all the beauty of a regular bluebell, but with such darkness and allure."
“Glad you asked, my lady.”Steven grinned, “ the Nightbell is a demon plant, usually grown in places of high magic and cursed soil.”
“Cursed?” Connie questioned
“Run down temples, alters, battlefields, dark ritual sites, and various other places of dark magic, where poisonous plants would grow," Steven explained. "It dwells in unstable landscapes, surrounded by a dense fog that takes its purplish hue from the night.”
Connie’s eyes glistened with excitement. “That’s incredible.”
Connie stepped closer to examine the flower further, still holding the exotic stem between her fingers. She traced the spikey edges of the leaves and looked up at Steven, her eyes wide with wonder.
“Its energy from those places is what it feasts on, what gives it attributes of dark magic and mystique. That allure is the flower's way of attracting unsuspected travelers to it so it can absorb its vitality and energy into itself. It can also absorb any magic used near it.”
"Fascinating," Connie murmured, her voice barely a whisper. "So it's a potted parasitic predator, feeding on the very essence of magic and life."
“if wild, yes.” Steven nodded, his eyes dancing with a mixture of excitement and reverence.
“But why would bring a cursed plant home?" she asked, her fascination growing with each revelation.
"Because my lady, a normal Nightbell, can amplify magical energy,” Steven said, his voice filled with excitement. “It’s an ideal ingredient for certain potions and spells. Even a well-boil Nightbell can produce a magical stimulant in the form of tea, especially those that require a touch of darkness.”
Connie’s mind raced as she considered the possibilities. “Could it be used to enhance my magic? Permanently” she asked.
“Absolutely,” Steven replied with a smile, “Among other uses.”
“And you’re certain it won’t try to feed on us or drain all of our magic?” She asked with a playful smile.
Steven chuckled. “My lady. I’ve taken the proper precautions. I’ve planted it in a pot filled with blessed soil and surrounded it with protective runes. It absorbs and is sated by the ambient magic in the air as well as the nutrients from the soil. As for feeding, it still can absorb the life force of smaller creatures, but it is not a necessity, as it prefers the magic energy, we’re perfectly safe.”
"You took precautions. Well, you should enjoy your find, Dapper.” Connie nodded, grinning at his excitement
”oh Connie, my blazing witch, this isn't for me. I did all this for you.”
“For me?” Connie looked up at her partner, an arched left brow, and a small side smile on her lips.
“For you, my Witchy ember,” Steven explained, taking her hands in his. "I know how much you've been struggling to solve the puzzle of a homunculi core, right?”
“those crafting instructions are like a tome of puzzles, riddles, and mind games,” she complained, her black eyes reflecting the purple tint of her flame magic. “But I'm determined to figure it out.”
“as expected of you,” Steven replied with a slight chuckle as he rubbed his thumbs across the back of her hands. “I think this Nightbell might hold the key you're looking for.”
“And how exactly is that? What's your plan, Dapper demon?”
Steven grinned mischievously, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “Nothing too sinister,” he toyed, “ just feed some of your magic directly into the bulb.”
Connie eyed him cautiously as she continued to caress the Nightbell's petals. “And what purpose will that serve, Steven?”
“It will attune itself to your power. Just trust me on this, my lady,” he insisted with charm and a glint in his eye. “This is exactly what you've been missing.”
Intrigued, Connie bit her lower lip as she considered his proposal. She knew he wouldn't intentionally lead her astray. Trusting her instincts, she steeled herself and focused on her fiery magic, allowing it to swirl within her. As the heat built up, a soft red-orange and purple ember appeared on her index finger, casting an eerie light and familiar warmth over them both.
“Alright, bell. Eat up.” She told the plant, holding it to one of its bulb heads.
“Oops, you named it.”
“Oh, quite you.” Connie playfully chastised Steven as the Nightbell head dipped towards the ember. The Nightbell's leaves shifted as if it sensed the magical energy and leaned into her hand, absorbing the ember whole.
Steven's grin widened as he watched the transformation occur before his very eyes. "That should do it," he said with satisfaction.
"Now what?" Connie asked, retracting her power with a small flick of her wrist, extinguishing the ember in the process.
“Now we wait,” Steven replied, his eyes never leaving the Nightbell. “It'll need time to process your magical essence, but when it's done, you'll see its true potential.”
Connie quirked an eyebrow at him as she tugged on his sleeve to get his attention, "Dapper, you and your dramatic pauses. Care to enlighten me on what we are waiting for?”
“Now that would ruin the show, speaking of.” He pointed to the Nightbell as its bulb rose toward the ceiling. its dark petals holding a blackish-purple glow that seemed to be getting brighter by the moment.
“Whoa… what's going on, Steven.” Connie inquired amazement in her voice and eyes. Latching onto his arm
“I wonder.” He teased as They continued to watch as the bulb began to open up.
Connie watched in awe as the Nightbell's petals slowly unfurled, revealing a marble-sized glowing night-colored orb suspended within.
The orb pulsed with magical energy, casting flickering shadows across the walls in an almost melodic time frame.
"As natural as the fall of night; as rhythmic as a bell chime," Connie gasped as she reached for the orb.. feeling a familiar heat of her magic residing inside it.
“With a touch of the creator's intent, was it?” Steven smirked before getting caught off guard as his lady gave him a loving smile and hugged him close, bringing a purplish-pink blush to the demon’s cheek.
“Thank you so much, my darling dapper.” She spoke with an earnest and loving tongue kissing his cheek and the corner of his lips.
“Always, my wondrous witch,” Steven responded in kind, holding and squeezing her tight, lifting her off the ground a bit as he did. All under the nightbells loving light.
Connie stepped out of the shower, relishing in the hot water and soap suds cascading down her skin. As she dried off and changed into a soft knit sweater and well-loved jeans, she couldn't wait to explore the city with Steven. She grabbed her trusty blue beanie and slipped it onto her head, ready for whatever adventure awaited them outside the hotel walls. This was exactly what she needed.
Steven sauntered into the room, leaning nonchalantly against the doorway. He was dressed in a sleek black turtleneck with a bright pink star emblazoned on the chest, paired with fitted black jeans and vibrant pinkish red boots. His smile widened as he observed Connie from behind, two coats slung over his arm.
"Hey there, Snowberry," he greeted her warmly, stepping towards her. With one smooth motion, he draped a light blue snow jacket over her shoulders and pulled her into a gentle hug. "You're looking fantastic today."
A blush crept up Connie's cheeks at the compliment, but she couldn't help smiling back at Steven. He always knew how to make her feel special and appreciated. As he pulled away, she couldn't resist playfully poking his side.
"And you're not looking too bad yourself," she retorted with a smirk, gesturing towards his trendy outfit. “Thank you, Bisky, for the coat, and the vacation.”
“Perks of working at a mountain lodge, I can reserve a room or two. “ He gave her a small nip behind her ear as he helped place the coat on her. “No cost…besides you deserve a nice winter break.”
Connie giggled, a flush of warmth spreading on her cheeks "I appreciate it, really. It's been too long since I've gotten to enjoy a break like this...and here of all places."
Steven chuckled, running a hand through his dark hair as he moved towards the room's exit. "Exams that rough, huh...well, I got something to shake of that post examination fatigue."
Connie raised an eyebrow, meeting Steven's gaze with a sense of familiarity and comfort. "Is that so?" Steven's eyes seemed to hold a certain depth that felt like home to Connie.
"Yeah, there's some festival going on," he continued, his hands wrapping around her waist and under her bust. He gave them a slight lift as he leaned in close to her ear. "Snowball fights, snowboarding, and a ball on the skating rink. I thought it sounded like fun...and I also heard there are some hidden places for couples."
Wrapped in his arms and enthralled by his velvety voice in her ear, Connie turned to adjust her winter jacket to fit snugly against her body. Her cheeks were flushed with excitement.
"You're quite in the know, Universe." Connie joked, ”almost as if you planned this.”
Steven smirked as he gave back of her ear a small suckling. “Oh, you have no idea," Steven replied with a twinkle in his eye. He let go of her, his hands returning to his pockets and his gaze shifting out the window. A world of pristine white snow was unfolding before them. "I've got some surprises in store for you, Snowberry," he promised, a hint of mischief dancing in his tone.
Connie chuckled, wrapping her scarf around her neck as she headed towards the door. "I'm looking forward to it, Bisky.”
“nu-uh, .” Steven took her by the hand and led her out of their hotel room, holding the door for her” allow me.”
Connie couldn't suppress her laughter as her eyes sparkled with amusement. "Always the gentleman," she teased, receiving a playful hip pinch as she walked by. She flinched and playfully swatted at his chest, her cheeks puffing up in a mock pout to hold back her giggles. "Steven!"
"It's your own fault for being so cute, Snowberry."
"Oh, now it's my fault?" Connie retorted with a small smile, earning a tender kiss from Steven as he took her hand and led her to the elevator.
“So Ni’, anything you especially excited for.”
Connie hummed tapping her chin, “burying you under a hail of snowballs and making you eat powder.”
“Wow,mercilessly competitive.” Steven laughed.
“You love it.”
“I do.” steven admitted with a grin.
“Hmm, well.. “She brushes up against him for a moment, realizing the elevator gives them a good thirty, forty seconds. “I’m also very looking forwards to this elevator ride with you.” She smiles at him, pressing a kiss to the corner of his mouth. “
“oh..well, it will be a good start.” Steven breathed with a blush as the elevator opened while he returned her kiss before leading her in.. It was spacious, empty and the walls were furnished in velvet. He led her in with a smile before smiling cheekily.
Keeping close, the woman looked up at him, her eyes a bit too excited to NOT tell him what she was thinking. “No one else is here..”
“everyone's either in their room or out and about, and i have a strange feeling,”As the door closed and the elevator began to slowly descend, Steven pressed the multitude of floor, “this ride between the 39th and ground floor Is gonna be bit longer than usual.”
Connie giggled as he slipped his arms around her hips.
“Whatever shall we do?” Steven purred cooly in her ear.
Connie found herself in the habit of biting her lower lip. Clearing her throat, she turned to him, gently cupping the sides of his face in her hands. “W- well..”
“I like that look you got.” Steven whispered moving closer, an a loving look in his eyes, “The excitement in those onyx orbs of yours..” He gave her a light kiss before teasingly pulling back.
Eyes widening with a small bit of shock, Connie's trails off, cheeks burning, her heart beating in her chest. “I- I.. uhhh….”
Steven laughs as he gives her a deeper kiss. His hands stroking her cheek as he did.
"I missed him so much.’ Connie mused as she Boldly she quickly wraps her arms around his neck, pressing closer, before slowing down a bit. “ S- sorry, what am I doing, we’re in an elevator—”
“A very slow moving elevator. Where we may or may not get caught acting like teenagers… an elevator..with a view.” Steven stepped behind her as the outside began to come in view.
Connie turned to look out at the slowly revealing winter wonderland that unfurled below them. Her breath hitched in her throat as she took in the beautiful sight. Snow-covered mountain cityscape glistened under the sunlight, children raced down snowy hills on their sleds, and festive lights twinkled in every direction.
"It's beautiful," she murmured, her voice barely audible over the soft whir of the elevator.”
Steven wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer against him. His breath was warm against the side of her neck, causing a shudder to run down her spine. "Not as beautiful as you," he murmured into her ear.
She couldn't help but blush at his words, turning to give him a playful smack on his chest. "You're such a tease, Steven.”
Connie shivered slightly as Steven’s warm breath ghosted over her ear again. “You see?” he whispered. “The entire world at our feet.”
Her eyes widened further, taking in the breathtaking vista. “It’s beautiful," she murmured again, "more so from this height... more so with you." She turned within his embrace catching his lips in a tender kiss.” When did you get so good at flirting?"
He chuckled softly, his fingers tracing idle circles on her stomach. "I practiced on a picture of you, Only for you, Snowberry."
That's oddly charming of you, Biscuit," she replied with a chuckle, leaning back into his warmth. The city below was slowly receding as the elevator continued its descent, leaving a soft trail of twinkling lights in its wake. “how..did I miss this yesterday?”
"you did come through Lion's portal at 10:pm yesterday .” he reminded her.
“"Oh, right," she muttered, getting lost in thought. "I guess I was just too excited to finally see you again."
He smiled, brushing a lock of her hair back behind her ear. "And I was just as excited to see you, Snowberry. Every moment I spent away from you felt like a lifetime."
Connie couldn't help but smile at his words. She leaned in close, resting her head on his shoulder. "I missed you too, Biscuit. More than you know."
Still didn't expect to, slide right in the room.” Connie chuckled, kissing his temple ” did you plan that to happen?”
“Noo, of course not.” Steven's eyes twinkled with mischief as he leaned in closer to whisper in her ear. "Though A little serendipity never hurt anyone," he murmured, his breath sending shivers down Connie's spine. "And it's all part of my master plan to sweep you off your feet."
She couldn't help but laugh at his audacity, shaking her head in amusement. "I don't know whether to be impressed or terrified, Bisky," she teased.
Suddenly, a resonating ding echoed through the elevator as it halted. They both looked up as the ride came to an end. The doors slid open to reveal a bustling lobby filled with lively chatter and echoing laughter.
Connie blinked against the sudden brightness of the grand entrance. She felt herself getting lost in the symphony of holiday cheer around them. Everywhere she looked, people were laughing, hugging, sharing stories around cups of steaming hot cocoa.
Steven released his hold on Connie, taking her hand, giving her a loving grin seeing her excited face, “ready to find out?”
Connie grinned as bright as the light as she latched on to his arm, excitingly leading him, more than ready to enjoy this snowy vacation with her precious Biscuit.
"Wha?" Connie groaned as her phone blared to life, waking her up from her slumber. "4:36?" She yawned , a bit annoyed as the ringing stopped and a text came up.
Bisk:Hey, I'm outside... It's Steven.
Connie glared at the text, not even a hello from her bestfriend turned Boyfriend.
Berry: it's 4:40 am, on a saturday, in the winter.
Bisk: I am aware.. I'm waiting. Get your coat.
Berry: could this wait til the sun up? We both had bust school weeks.
Bisk: I'm right out you window.
Connie blinked and turned to her window before opening the blinds to see Steven on his custom pink kawasaki, 'Lion' as he dubbed it, his pink shield helmet under his arm. Her nostrils flared when she saw him, and her cheeks burned. It was less than a week since the two became an official item, which they decided not to broadcast, just yet.
Only her and possibly his parents knew at the moment.
"Can't believe we wasted so much time." The Seventeen year old student president mused as a grin came to her.
Five minutes later, Connie was outside dressed in outfit fit for the chilling weather that included a large pink hoodie that belongs to steven, some blue winter tights, blue booties, and a black jacket that also belong to Steven.
"Now that a morning view." Steven smiled, looking at her, "Good morning, Sunnie."
"Sunnie?" Connie arched an eyebrow, "there's still no sun out. Not until 5:43 the earliest and 6:12 the latest."
"You're out, your smile out...all the morning sun I need, Pres."
Connie folded her arms and picked her lips to the side.
"I'm not smiling."
"Right.. let's fix that."
Connie squeaked gently as Steven boldly cupped her chin and gave her a tender, caressing kiss. It was slow, meticulous, and loving.
She couldn't help but the inward swoon, giggling upon the last moments before he broke away, resting his forehead upon hers.
"Seems the sun came up early." He remarked with a grinning red face.
"Can't trust meteorologist now and days, I gues." A brightly grinning Connie joked as she hugged him, " is it silly to say I missed you? Since I saw you yesterday."
"and every day." Steven added, hugging her back just as tight, "naw, I missed you too."
" Is that why i'm out here?" Connie looked at him impishly. "You missed me, jambuddie?"
"Partly." He grinned, pointing to the side car of 'Lion'; there sat a helmet for her, blue with a sword insignia.
Connie eyes widened and misted a bit," it's been a while.."
"Streets are clear. We'll have it to ourselves."
Connie nearly trembled in place as she placed and secured her helmet on before she mounts the bike, feeling his muscular form beneath her hands as you grip her waist to help stabilize her.
Once seated comfortably behind Steven, she locks the straps of the helmet over her ears, the plastic visor shielding part of her face from view.
"I missed this feeling," Connie mutters, basking in the warmth spreading throughout her thighs as they press against Steven lower body. "2 months is way too long without a ride on lion."
"Well, let's make up for lost time." Steven give her a smirk through his visor before pulling out and driving out onto the road, setting off together toward the heart of the city, the wind blowing as the world gradually become a moving winter picture around them.
Gripping onto Steven tightly, her knuckles turning red, Connie let loose a giggle, enjoying the ride. The cool breeze against her skin, the thrill of speed, the way his strong frame fits perfectly with hers—she missed this, this simple pleasure that she shared with him, the feeling of exhilaration that can onlt be shared with him.
Slowly, she leans forward, pressing her chest against his back, taking in deeper breaths of fresh air as the adrenaline courses through her veins. And for now, Connie lets herself forget about everything else except this moment with Steven.
Willing to go wherever, whenever as long as it was with him.
"Huh, well, been awhile since this happened?" Steven Quartz Universe, ('Mister' if your Connie) stated as both Beach City and Little Homeworld were in the midst of a blackout.
"Kind of forgot we could with R&D and the generators they created." He mused as he walked through Little Homeworld, seeing the populous of gem and humans not at all bothered by the cover of darkness. In fact, the gem population seemed to take advantage of it by letting their gems glow, earning even more admiration from their human neighbors and friends, and, in some cases, partner and spouses.
'Just further proof that it was all worth it.' He thought as he continued his trek.
"It's like a sea of stars." He heard a kid speak, amazement deep in their voice. Steven could imagine seeing their eyes lit up at the impromptu light show.
"There's always something happening in Era 3." Steven chuckled as someone voiced his very thoughts. Turning to and walking over to the voice, he stole the freshly bitten pastries from their hand before sitting down beside them, ignoring their shock as he took a bite from the same place. Their four friends, including Daniel(Danny), Patricia(Tricia), Jeff, and Peedee, all chuckled at the victim of his playful bullying.
"Hey guys, hey Heartberry." Steven smiled as the four gave their hi's and yo's.
"Don't hey me, you just took my Kalu dodol!" Connie(Kahanni) Yasha Maheswaran ('Heartberry' if your Steven) exclaimed, pointing at him with a pout.
"Well, your lips made it so good. I wanted a taste."
"Of her sweets or her lips." Tricia teased.
"Both." Steven chuckled
"Well," Connie hum before cupping his cheeks," their better way to do that."
Steven eyes widened as she kissed him deeply. Her tongue grazed and curled around his for all of seven seconds, taking away his cockiness for the moment as he melted and his gem and body began to glow, illuminating the area more than the other gems.
Breaking the kiss with a small pop, Connie grinned at her more than best friend pink love strucked face before pecking him and nuzzling his nose with an excitable loving giggle; taking her treat back and leaning in her chair.
Her right hand entwined with his left under the table as she took a smug bite of her treat.
" You ok there, Ste-man?" Danny laughed, " seemed a bit enlightened over there."
Steven was about to answer when the child from before spoke.
"Wow! He is super bright pink!"
"That's right, he's a big pink supernova in a sea of stars," Connie teased with a chuckle.
Steven sucked his teeth and nodded before standing up.
"Well, if that is the case."
"Hey!" Connie exclaimed as Steven lifted the woman in a bridal carry, making her cheeks burn.
"Let's join the festivities." Steven smirked at her before turning to the others, "we'll be back after a few laps."
"Have fun." Peedee said as Jeff took one of Connie's treats from her box despite Connie's protest.
"Enjoy walking with your Supernova, Nini." Jeff stated as he took a bite of one of the treats as Connie pouted just a bit before snuggling close and stealing a kiss.
"So..." Connie rubbed her nape bashfully, "If you guys have no reservations...I kind of was hoping to stay here with you." Connie asked Amethyst, Garnet, and Pearl.
Pearl stayed silent at first as she folded her arms. "It's not my choice. I don't live here," she spoke, her voice full of mistrust but a bit of guilt. "It's up to you two." She turned to Amethyst and Garnet.
"Well, if that's the case. The little fusion said, jumping and catching Connie in a glomp. "I say stay, Nini." Garnet smiled up at the Djinn.
"Well, not like we don't have the room or you don't have a room yourself. We can change it to be more than a chest temple," Amethyst stated before joining Garnet in hugging the Djinn. The three friends reunited after centuries.
"They're really close, aren't they?" Steven stated, looking at the three.
"They were old friends, hell, Kahanni...Connie and her parents were basically being crescent gems themselves," Onyx stated with a sad smile, "except for not being gems, but you know being friends and all."
Steven hummed at that before stretching. "Guess we should make our way home then."
"Aww, you don't wanna stay for a bit, Stevie!?" Amethyst asked, rubbing his head like an aunt or a big sister, "Today was a victory for the Crescent gems. We should celebrate."
Pearl hummed, unsure of that as well, thinking that the return of Connie was a bad omen. 'Who sent Kanaraka after Connie's chest, and who even knew about her,' Pearl wondered internally as she rubbed her chin, her black sclera and lightly gray Iris eyes narrowing a bit.
"Well, we can't ignore the fact that those Kanaraka was after Connie's chest," Pearl finally spoke up, her tone still reserved. "We need to be cautious. We don't know who is behind this or what their motives are."
Amethyst and Garnet exchanged glances, understanding the gravity of Pearl's words.
"You're right, Pearl," Amethyst acknowledged. "We can't let our guard down just because of Connie's back. We need to be vigilant and protect her."
Connie pursed her lips in a thin line of annoyance. "Hey now, I'm quite the powerful Djinn, you know? I don't need to be put under house arrest."
"No one was thinking that, Nini." Garnet assured her before turning to Pearl and Amethyst. "Right?"
Amethyst nodded, rubbing the small gem head. "Of course not. Though, Ni' here been out of commission for the better part of a millennia. She needs to accumulate to this new world."
Onyx looked at Pearl, who gave a curt nod before facing away and seeing a slight hidden sneer on her face. She sighed, knowing her old friend well enough that she could see what was going through Pearl's mind.
'Of course, she would be suspicious.' Onyx rubbed her eyes, only feeling the conversation that Pearl would want to have with her over Kahanni... Connie's return and Steven's new role as her 'lamp'.
Onyx looked over at the Djinn and how she was sitting down with crossed legs as Garnet, Amethyst, and Steven spoke with her, explaining what a tablet was seeing the Djinn's eyes widened in amazement. It was difficult to see anything more than a curious nineteen-year-old girl.
'Definitely hard to see her as an envoy for the Arcana.' Onyx thought as Pearl tapped her shoulder, getting her attention.
"Can I talk to you?"
Onyx pursed her lips, humming in slight discomfort. Pearl's tact could still use work after all these years.
Onyx nodded before turning to the four younger residents. "Steven, gonna speak with Pearl a bit before going. Be ready by the time I'm back."
"Come on, Ma. I'm Eighteen, you can trust -"
"Not today I can... remember, your new bond is still very unstable, and the increase need to be with Connie it brings," Onyx reminded her son, causing Steven to blush a bit. "Besides, school starts back in a couple of days. Take the time to relax and study a bit during your last days of spring break."
"Mom, I'm fine, and I-"
"Study!?" Connie called with a smile as she changed into a blue wisp and floated from Amethyst and Garnet to appear behind Steven, hugging his neck gently as she hovered behind him, "Studying what?" She asked, an excitable and ravenous look in her eyes.
"You ok?" Steven questioned, chuckling a bit at the Djinn's excitement
"I love learning new things!" Connie all but bounced in mid-air, "I've been dead for so long, and despite our bond giving me enough knowledge to operate socially, I still want to learn about this new modern world."
"Maybe I should let you go to class in my place then." Steven joked with a laugh while Connie's eyes widened at the thought, a look of excitement on her face.
"I can do that!" Connie nodded, " I can shapeshift into you and go in your place."
"Wait, can you do that?"
" I'm a Djinn, I'm magic! That ain't nothing!" Connie smiled.
"I'll never miss a day again," Steven whispered in shock.
"You can up your Crescent gem training while Connie goes to class in your place," Garnet added excitedly.
Amethyst smirked, saying nothing as she rubbed her chin in thought. "I mean.. that's not a bad idea... Would definitely help you get more use to the magic side of the world if you had a few more field missions and excursions."
"Hey, no. Don't even think about it, Steven," Onyx chuckled, her heart warming at the sight of their antics. "Don't renege on our deal now, Nero," Onyx reminded her son using his middle name.
"You do remember our deal, right?"
"Yes, mom." Steven sighed, "Have to balance normal life and magic life."
"and." Onyx urged her son, who muttered the next part, "I can't hear you."
"gotta maintain at least a B average in school."
"right and you can't maintain that if Connie goes for you." Onyx gently reprimanded him. "Besides, wouldn't you want to impress her with your knowledge and dedication."
"I guess that's true."
"Awww!" Connie moaned disappointed, pouting a bit, "How am I supposed to learn about this new world?"
"Same as you always did. Exploration and discovery, sure Garnet and Amethyst would love to show you around." Ony smirked as the two gems nodded
"Me too," Steven announced, squeezing the Djinn's hand.
Connie giggled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Fine, fine," she said, releasing her hold on Steven. "I'll let you have your precious school days. But you better teach me everything you learn!"
"Deal!" Steven exclaimed, a broad smile spreading across his face.
"Just don't forget your studies," Onyx reminded him again, "last semester or not, you can't just jump to being Connie's full-time tutor."
"Aw, come on, Mom," Steven protested. "It'll be fun! And Connie's really smart. Sure, she could teach me a lot as well, and we could teach each other a lot."
"I'm sure she could, and you two will." Onyx agreed with a nod. "But that's not the point. Connie needs to learn how to live in this world without relying on you." Onyx relented a bit. "and you both gotta learn to live with your new pact you two are in, making sure you balance your individuality and independence while nurturing your bond naturally." She reminded the two.
"We know." Steven and Connie spoke simultaneously before looking at each other.
"You're doing it again."
"Me, you're talking when I'm talking."
"See!"
Steven and Connie glared at each other before their eyes narrowed, chuckling and giggling, respectively.
As they continued to chat and laugh, Onyx smiled at the sight of her son and his newfound companion. Despite the lingering concerns about Connie's return, she felt a sense of hope and optimism.
She turned her attention to Pearl, who was waiting patiently by the door. "Let's go."
As they stepped outside, the sky was ablaze with a thousand stars. The air was crisp and cold, a welcome respite from the warmth of the house.
"Pearl," Onyx began, "I know you have your doubts about Connie's return. But she's changed, Pearl. She's not the same naive girl she was centuries ago."
Pearl remained silent, her arms crossed tightly over her chest.
"I understand that you're worried about Steven," Onyx continued. "But we need to trust that he knows what he's doing. He's not a child anymore. He's growing into a young man, and he's quite capable as he showed today and time again and again." Onyx proudly stated.
"but"
Pearl's lips parted slightly, but she said nothing.
"We can't keep him sheltered forever," Onyx said. "He needs to experience the world and make his own decisions. And he's doing so in a fantastic way. Today events alone are a testament to that."
"You mean when he all but chewed us out."
"He was going to attack me while we were in the room. After seeing me 'kill' Connie." Onyx told Pearl, rubbing her, "he has definitely harnessed his power as Connie's lamp."
Pearl's gaze softened slightly. "I suppose you're right," she said. "But I still have my reservations."
"I know," Onyx said. "But I think we need to give Connie a chance. She deserves it."
Pearl nodded slowly. "Very well," she said. "But I'll be keeping a close eye on her."
Onyx smiled. "As expected from Gracia Forest's Black Shogun."
Peael let a small snicker, "The old epitaph, trying to butter me up?"
"Just a bit." Onyx teased as They walked in silence for a few moments before Pearl spoke again.
"So," she said. "What's the plan, we can't ignore the fact that Kanaraka was after Connie's chest," Pearl spoke up, her tone still reserved. "We need to be cautious. We don't know who is behind this or what their motives are.
"That's true," Onyx said. "We need to start searching some of our channels, maybe their loose lips that are willing to spill some information."
"agreed I'll put out some feelers," Pearl said. "but we need to be careful. I doubt it was the Kanaraka plan. "
"Right, they are usually the odd-jobbers of the magic community," Onyx said. "Someone knew about Connie's chest and sent someone to get it. We should assume they knew about Connie and the Djinn as well."
Pearl nodded, "I hope this doesn't turn out to be something world-changing."
Onyx's mind raced, considering the implications of Pearl's words. She hated the thought but the Kanaraka's presence could very well be a sign of an advent, of something momentous that would affect not only her son and Connie (while paramount in her mind), but so too was the well-being of the entire magical community.
'I hope I'm being paranoid.' Onyx thought as they headed back to the beach house, hearing the joyful commotion as they opened the door.
Meanwhile, on a city street a ways from the beach house, A Kanaraka was struggling to get away from her attacker. Stumbling into an alley and leaning on a green wall. Their body littered with burns as they heard footsteps coming.
"STOP!" They pleaded as saw their attacker, "Let me leave, I Finder, beseech you!" the Kanaraka pleaded.
"Hmm? Finder what are you looking for in my city. And why do you smell of magic, not of earth?"
"I...that Is to say..."
"You were fighting those aliens weren't you, that how you got those cuts and whip marks to think I'd be cleaning up after them."
"I....we were sent to capture the half-breed!"
The attacker let free an animalistic snarl as her eyes glowed, her silhouette cast by the evening dimming black sun changed as something sprouted behind her.
" no...You're a..."
The Kanaraka's words turned to screams as a bright orange consumed them, leaving no blood, no bone, no ash.
"Hmm... what have you got wrapped in, Nero?" The attacker spoke in a gentle concern to herself.
"Seem you've finished up." A man who looked 21 spoke from behind her, a staff in his hand. "come on, let's go home...We got school in a couple of days, treetop."
The woman hummed before leaping towards the man her body bursting into flames as she turned to a fox sitting on his shoulder and licking his cheek.
At the click of his staff, the colors of the world return to normal, Gray graffiti walls and a reddish setting sun.
no normal humans the wiser as the duo made their way home, preparing for the next day.
How do you guys like the Connverse art week's prompts? If you need some ideas, I'll include some below!
Mar 17th: Glow / Dark
Fireflies, Jack-o-lanterns, glow bracelets, sparklers, jellyfish, mushrooms, lanterns. / A dark bedroom, a night walk, looking up at the stars from the grass, space.
Mar 18th: Casual / Surprise
Lounging around the house, going for a walk, a typical romantic date. / Marriage proposal, surprise birthday, positive pregnancy test, surprise romantic date, a surprise gift.
Mar 19th: Rain / Snow
Self-explanatory. Maybe they could be dancing or singing in the rain/snow. They could also be going for a walk or trying to escape to shelter.
Mar 20th: Nature / Nurture
Nature walk, laying in the grass, maybe Steven created some sentient fruits and vegetables to accompany them. / Taking care of their child(ren), in the hospital after baby was born, child's first day of school.
Mar 21st: Family / Friends
Hanging with/taking care of their children, visiting the Crystal Gems, visiting the Maheswaran or Universe families. / Hanging out with Connie's human friends, hanging with some gems, hanging with friends Steven met on the road.
Mar 22nd: Ceremony / Vacation
A wedding, a graduation ceremony. / A vacation to an alien planet (maybe even with their kid(s)), a trip to a different country, a trip to an ancient gem temple, a trip to a national park.
Mar 23rd: Journey's End
Very loose. What would you consider the end of a journey when it comes to a couple? Maybe their kid(s) is/are moving out, maybe they finally retired, maybe they're visibly old, maybe they're thousands of years in the future and on an alien planet, maybe the two of them are super battle scarred and patching each other up.
If you need more ideas, ask me for some in my ask box!
Things got off IRL midway this drawing process, so I'm incredibly thankful for the client for the long delay. I personally specially don't like to cancel this order because if there is one thing I'll be deadset in finishing, it's a connverse piece.
It was a fun drawing process also! So thank you thank you for the commission. ^^
