u/LonelyFanboy48

Link: https://www.deviantart.com/nickelodeonfan1990/art/Heroic-Shiloh-1333518768

“Woah!” Bryson reacted while still falling in the air.

“Just keep holding onto me!” Steven keeping the grip of Bryson and Craig.

Craig witnessed Steven’s body slowing down from the air while he and his cousin were pulling him down due to their combined weight. When he got lowered down, the central tower was out of his sight with it being blocked from the trees but he couldn’t look away.

“Where are they?” Omar replied while looking above from the trees.

“There right there!” Jessica pointed.

When Kenneth looked above along with the rest of the group, Steven gave him a wink upon looking at him and others from above. “Is he like a balloon?” J.P. commented.

“Yeah.” Kenneth replied. “He has so much power, he’s really surprising me in a good way more times than once.”

Steven, Craig and Bryson landed on the ground with the group walking up to them. “You’re back!” J.P. smiled. “Where are Connie and Kelsey?”

“They’re heading to the library after getting out of the creek. Thanks to Deltron.” Steven answered.

“The robo dude checked out after seeing my cuz’s future.” Bryson added.

“We’ll meet up with them later, good news is, we didn’t get any poison ivy.” Steven then turned back. “But I might come back to give The Scratchless One a CD player along with CDs.”

Kenneth then walked up to Steven while placing his hand on his shoulder, catching his attention by turning to him “If he can wait, do it tomorrow if you have the time. I say no one would come up to him for help knowing he doesn’t want it from them.”

“It’s mostly old news that I’ve done it but did you catch on?”

“Yes I did.”

Both Steven and Kenneth laughed at each other while Craig was still staring at the direction of the central tower in his vision. “Craig?” Steven turned to him. “Are you seeing something?”

“Yeah.” Craig answered. “And…it has nothing to do with gems this time, it’s actually…Herkleton turning into a different neighborhood. With a tower with a windmill attached.”

“Really? That’s…odd.” Omar replied.

“Now even the buildings are changing in your vision.” Steven added. “And…that also reminded me of what Bismuth told me days before I left Beach City.” He then looked around with no one around. “We should go somewhere private to discuss this.”

“Why?” Craig wondered.

“In Bismuth’s words, the first step of gem evolution for the world.”

“You mean?” Steven nodded to Craig’s answer as he tried to think of a hiding spot. “There is one spot we can talk about this but it’s not The Stump.”

“Then lead the way as usual.”

As Craig led the group to their destination, a Paintballer member popped his head from behind the tree. Looking through his binoculars, spying on Steven all the while taking out his walkie talkie. “They’re right there, Paintball Mike.” He spoked.

“Great!” Paintball Mike responded from the walkie talkie. “We have other members hiding in the creek to give Steven a surprise. He’s gonna be covered in so much paint.”

As the group walked together in the creek with Craig leading the group, two twins of the Paintballers spied on them, hiding while waiting for the right moment to attack. “So Herkleton’s full with bright colored buildings instead of the ones we always live in?” J.P. asked.

“Yes, as if they’re so many different colors in each house.” Craig replied. “It would've been a great place for humans to live but…it still doesn’t feel right.”

“It’s not wrong though.” Kenneth replied. “Why isn’t it right to you?”

“Because it’s where gems live on earth.” Steven added. “Bismuth, Lapis and Peridot builded Little Homeworld for the gems to not only learn to be better with each other, but also to live their lives in.”

Craig thought about what he saw with the information. “Was it planned to involve evolution outside of it?”

“That’s something Bismuth knows since she only told me the beginning of her first phase.”

“The way I see it, she may go to the closest town or city to have a few gems volunteer to grow that evolution.” Omar commented. “Starting somewhere close always builds up from there.”

“It has been three months since I left so she may get one or two towns finished.”

“It’ll take a long time until gems come to Herkleton.” Craig said while paying attention to what's in front of him. “If we met one before you came, I would still be curious but not in the same way.”

“Then again, they wouldn’t be human so you'd probably be more confused while I would be anywhere but here.” Steven then looked in the other direction. “If I went to a different neighborhood rather than this.”

Craig then turned to Steven. “You would definitely come here before a single gem does, knowing how far away Herkleton is from Beach City.”

“Yeah.” Steven smiled. “For how long I spent my time here among other places, I lost track of how far away I am from Beach City.”

“First time traveling huh?” Kenneth added.

“Still my first time on the road. The long road is still ahead of me.”

A few more Paintballers hiding in the brushes are in their positions while Paintball Mike stands further away from his members. He took out his walkie talkie with nearly all of his members in the spot Steven’s in. “Attack…” He spoke quietly.

From his order, the Paintballers threw their paint balloons at Steven, catching him off ground along with the group. “Woah!” Steven reacted while falling on the ground.

“Steven!” Jessica called.

“You’re alright?” Kenneth added.

“Oh no.” Craig sighed. “Paintballers.” When he looked at the spots the paint balloons were thrown at, someone used his slingshot to launch a paint balloon at him, but he dodged. “Let’s get out of here.” As he helped Steven to get on his feet, another paint balloon was thrown at him.

“Ahh!” Steven reacted. “My clothes just got washed!” As he wiped the popped paint balloon off of him, the group high tailed out of there with more balloons thrown at them.

“They're heading to Rainbow Ally in no time.” One of the Paintballer twins replied from the walkie talkie.

“They're entering our territory.” Paintball Mike getting out of his hiding spot, watching Steven’s group running away from the Paintballers. He took out his water gun, only to put paint balloons inside. “We are just getting started.”

The paintballers continued to shoot more balloons at the group as they’re also getting their clothes covered in paint. “Seriously, I’m not paying double to wash clothes again!” Kenneth shouted.

“It’s getting in my hair!” Jessica retorted.

“This is getting out of control!” Craig reacted. “I knew something like this would happen but I didn’t expect the Paintballers to throw every balloon at you.”

“One of them probably saw me when I got all of you through.” Steven replied while sighing. “Someone really wants me to do their thing in the creek without my approval.”

As the group took a turn, Craig remembered the location itself. “Rainbow Ally!” He looked around.

“It’s a battlefield, isn’t it?” Steven guessed while lowering his arms, giving Craig a sad and unamused look.

“Yes…” Craig lowered his head only for a paintball to shoot on the back of his head.

“We got them surrounded!” The Paintballer with the paint stained purple bicycle helmet called.

“There’s no way to run from the battlefield of Rainbow Alley!” Another Paintballer shouted.

Paintball Mike arrived along with the rest of the Paintballers by his side, catching Steven’s attention. “Steven, Steven Steven.” He said. “You think you can avoid me and The Paintballers?”

“Sadly…yes.” Steven rolled his eyes.

“Well too bad! I’ve seen you run past me in a pink flash and I knew for a second I’ll catch you before it’s too late.”

“So what do you want from me? Play your battlefield of paintballs? Just to get our clothes more stained with paint?”

“You’ve known nothing about what we do as we always change the rules.” He then lifted his paintballer gun up. “And our new rule is, this battle doesn’t end until dinner time!”

Just when the Paintballers open fire with their paint balloons, Steven and his group hide in the camouflage spots in Rainbow Alley itself. As the paint balloons were thrown from above, Steven sighed again in exhaustion. “I really don’t have the energy for this.” He looked at his clothes. “These Paintballers are aggressive but annoying.”

“Yeah, I do have spare clothes back at college but I’m definitely washing these another time.” Kenneth also looked at his clothes.

“So are they just gonna keep attacking us wherever we go?”

“Yes.” Craig replied. “We’re they’re target but you’re their biggest target.”

“STAY THERE ALL DAY!” Paintball Mike shouted. “WE’RE HOLD ALL OF OUR FIRE NO MATTER WHAT! JUST COME OUT AND FIGHT LIKE A SOLDIER!”

Steven placed his hand on his face. “Now I’m thinking we should’ve left the creek just to go to the library with Connie and Kelsey.”

“We can still fight back, we just need ammo of some sort.” J.P. replied.

“Like water balloons.” Bryson added. “Just wish I was prepared like last time.”

“Why can’t we just steal their ammo so we can fire back?” Steven wondered.

“We’re out numbered, and I’m pretty sure they'll change the rules if you try to use your gem powers.” Craig answered. “I’m sure Paintball Mike knows about it.”

Kenneth then came up with an idea, remembering his time during the Waterballooner days during his youth. He took off his shirt, catching the group’s attention. “I’ll make a distraction. When I get out from camouflaging, you get to their bucket of ammo.”

“You’re really gonna do it?” Steven asked.

“It may not be waterballoon battle but at least it’ll bring my loyalty to protecting my friends.”

This slowly made Steven smile, despite the circumstances. “You’re bigger than me so…hopefully they have a target of the big target’s teammate.”

“You mean, big target’s friend?”

“Yeah, whose big target’s best friend will be his ally in better diversion.” Craig smiled.

“Then let's be soldiers.” Steven takes off his shirt after putting his coat on the ground. “Let’s give Paintball Mike a battle.”

As everyone else but Jessica took off their shirts as they’re ready to perform their strategy against the Paintballers. “I said, come out and fight like a soldier!” Paintball Mike shouted.

Then Kenneth came out, catching their attention. “A soldier huh?” He crossed his arms. “Maybe soldiers like you would take down a real soldier.”

“Excuse me!?” Paintball Mike retorted. “I’m a real soldier!”

“Then a real soldier would save their best friends rather than sacrificing them.”

“Then you’ll find out how bad of a real soldier I am, in my way!”

Paintball Mike and his team shoot and throw their paintballs and balloons at Kenneth. However he didn’t fall back from any impact from them. “Will you get down!” The paintballer with the purple bicycle helmet shouted. “You'd rather be paint splattered!?”

“We have tons of ammo and we won’t stop until Steven comes out!” The other Paintballer called.

After almost a solid minute, they stopped their ammo, panting while Kenneth opened his eyes. Despite his whole body splattered, he only grew a smile. “I’m not immune to this, but I still know how it felt when I was part of the battlefield before Paintballers took over.”

“Really!?” Paintball Mike replied. “I’ve gained ten times more experience than anyone in the creek. Times always change!”

“You think so huh?” As Kenneth wiped the paint off of his body, paint balloons were thrown at the Paintballers.

“Hey!” Paintball Mike turned around along with his group as they witnessed their ammo being in the hands and arms of their enemies. “Where are you Steven!”

All that Craig did was pointing up, causing Paintball Mike to look up. Blocking the sunlight, with the wind blowing on him, Steven stared down, tossing a paint balloon in his hand with more in his arm. “You think you can mess with me?” He said. “I never asked for another war, especially from the Paintballers.”

“You know you would encounter us after everything we heard about you!”

“And what would you gain against me?”

“Arrogance. Simple as that.” Craig commented.

“Great choice of words.” Steven grinned as he threw his paint balloon at Paintball Mike.

“Ahh!” Paintball Mike reacted in anger.

“For Steven’s freedom!” J.P. cheered.

“And warfare payback!” Bryson added.

They threw their paint balloons at the Paintballers while Omar used his bow to launch his ammo. “You’re not the only one who has weapons of splat chaos.” He then put his paint balloon in his bow while pulling back, aiming at the Paintballers. “Just let us go and we'll stop.”

“Not until Steven comes down here and faces me!” Paintball Mike yelled.

“You know that’s not what he wants.” He launched his paint balloon at him only for him to dunk his body.

“We can still do this all day!”

“Bad choice.” Steven threw another paint balloon at him while the other Paintballers shot at him. Steven jumped from tree to tree, dodging all of the paintballs and balloons. “You got to do better than that!”

“Come down here!”

Craig then threw his paint balloon at him with his distraction getting the better of him. As Steven smiled at Craig’s action, he then threw another paint balloon at him, causing Paintball Mike to go wipe the paint off from his eyes. Steven immediately got down, picking Craig up by having him sitting on his shoulders with his legs. Steven jumped back up to the trees with Craig watching down at the Paintballers.

“I’m never coming down.” Steven said.

“I would do the same thing.” Craig replied.

“Curious, what do you see in your vision?”

“Truthfully…” Craig looked closely at the Paintballers. “Aquamarines and Rubies.”

“Really? Seems they won’t leave me alone just like them.”

“There’s always those types of kids who won’t leave me alone. You’re not the only one who’s been there.”

As Paintball Mike whipped the paint off of him, he stared back at Steven from above. The two stared down at him while they laughed confidently. While staring at them, he snapped his fingers with the twin Paintballers bringing out his biggest weapon. He got on top of two small paint cans with two wooden logs with metal attached to them. All the while a huge cooler with a skull sticker on it, strapping himself onto it.

“I’m saying this one last time.” He then aimed at them. “COME DOWN HERE!”

“You think that’s gonna scare me?” Steven replied.

“You’ve done it the hard way! If you can’t get down, I’ll get you down myself!” He launched a huge paint balloon from his cooler, straight towards Steven and Craig only for Steven to jump out of the way. He continued to launch more of his ammo while splatting the trees.

“Man, I never seen him that aggressive.” Craig holding onto Steven.

“I’m mostly worried about the trees getting splatted.” Steven jumping to the next tree. “It’ll definitely be Rainbow Alley to me, but bad for the environment.”

“Yeah. You have no idea how painful the creek clean up people had to clean this place.”

“The alley of all messes?”

“Even worse than The Junkpile."

Just when Steven went in a circle on the trees, dodging everything, he slipped on the branch from the paint. “AHHH!!!” Both Steven and Craig screamed as they landed roughly on the ground with their backs while their paint balloons splashed on them.

“Oww!” Craig reacted with the pain on his back.

Steven slowly got his body back up while turning to Craig. “Craig…”

“Craig!” J.P. walked up to him.

“Are you okay?” Omar added.

“I…don’t…know.” Craig tried to lift his body up while wincing in pain.

“Craig!” Steven crawled up to him. “I am so sorry!”

Craig tried to lift his body up but the impact on his back was too much. Not only that his pink vision got blurry, unable to see anyone around him. “I don’t think I’m able to walk with my back like this.”

“Your mom is not gonna like this.” Bryson commented.

“He’s probably having a concussion.” Kenneth added.

“Wait, I have an ide-” Steven gets cut off while a paint balloon’s launched at him. With him laying on the dirt.

“Finally!” Paintball Mike cheered. “You’re finally on the ground. Now fight me like a soldier!” Steven slowly got up as he wiped the paint off his face. When he turned to Paintball Mike, he glowed pink, catching his attention. “Oh yes! Let out your pink fury!”

Steven noticed his skin glowing pink but he shrunk it off. Paintball Mike prepared to launch another paint balloon but Steven didn’t move whatsoever. “Steven, you better move.” J.P. called.

“I don’t think he’s gonna move.” Omar added.

As Paintball Mike launched his paint balloon with a grin on his face, everyone watched it, including Craig despite his blurry vision. Steven’s eyes were closed as the paint balloon’s aimed to his face, he grabbed it with his hand just in time.

“Woah!” Kenneth blinked.

Paintball Mike’s grin slowly dissolved the way Steven held onto his balloon. “You want me down, and play your game the hard way?” He said as he opened his eyes. “Then you just crossed the line!” He threw the balloon hard at Paintball Mike, but with his gem powers. The splash on Paintball Mike’s face splatted so hard, it caused his teammates to back away.

In Craig’s pink vision, Steven was in his monster form while seeing Paintball Mike as Bluebird. The paint balloon has his powers with a hexagonal barrier with a spike on it. The moment it collided with Bluebird, she shattered with her gem shattered as well. “Woah…” He blinked. “My pink eyes are really trying to scare me.”

“Someone got destroyed in your vision, did they?” Bryson wondered.

“Yes.”

“Here we go again.”

“Mmmm!!!” Paintball Mike winced his face.

“Are you done!?” Steven replied. Paintball Mike couldn’t keep his balance while still covering his face. He fell on his back with the cooler breaking his fall but it rolled to the side, landing his side on the dirt. Without making an effort to get back up, Steven slowly calmed down, as his pink glow went away. “I’ll take that as a yes.” When he turned to the Paintballers, they all dropped their guns and ammo on the floor.

“We surrender!” They all shouted as they ran out of Rainbow Alley. Steven took a deep breath, calming himself down in order to keep his mental state in check.

“Steven!?” Steven turned to his left, witnessing Bernard standing after appearing.

“Uhh…” Steven turned his body towards him. “...How long have you been there?”

“Long enough to see you and Craig jumping on top of trees.” When Bernard turned to his brother, he rushed up to him. “Craig?”

“Bernard?” Craig getting on his feet.

“Did you and Steven fall off of a tree?” He pointed from above.

“Yes they did.” Kenneth sighed.

“Oh no!” Bernard placed his hand on his head.

“Craig fell off what!?” Jessica popped her head from the hiding spot, witnessing her brother in pain. “CRAIG!” She ran up to him.

“This felt more painful then I thought, even worse than getting launched against the tree from days ago.” Craig kept his balance while Jessica gave him a hug.

“Craig.” Steven walked up to him only for Bernard to get in his way.

“Don’t you think you’ve done enough?” He said to him.

“I didn’t mean for this to happen, the Paintballers wouldn’t leave us alone.”

“It’s true, he didn’t even start it.” J.P. added.

“It doesn’t matter.” Bernard looked at Craig’s back, bruised up. “Craig, you could’ve got your spine cracked.”

“I’ve really gotten into Steven’s mood too much this time.” Craig wincing in pain. As he slowly tried to make his steps, his back caused more pain. “Oww!”

“Mom is definitely gonna be mad about this.”

“Why are you here?” Jessica asked.

“Because Mom wanted me to check up on Craig, she’s been in more of a bad mood with each passing hour because of this.”

Craig didn’t respond, knowing the luck he has with Steven is pushing and pushing to the extremes. Steven also notices Craig’s reaction as he’s worried about Nicole, concerning her son from the danger he put him in. Kenneth walked up to him, while also still witnessing Craig’s painful condition.

“Do you think you should call it a day and head home?” He asked.

“I do have something to heal Craig though.” Steven then looked away. “But all it’s gonna do is push more and more of my luck.”

“Hey, you still have to meet Tabitha and Courtney tonight. And Craig called his mom about it, not you.”

“I said my luck.” He turned back to him. “I’m telling you, she’s not gonna stop getting any madder with less trust she has in me.”

“I can’t blame her either. But I do want to know about gem evolution.”

Steven sighed again. “I nearly forgot about that.”

“How about we go somewhere safer without anyone getting in our way, like the playground?”

“I haven’t been there yet. But I guess it’ll do.” As Bernard turned back to Steven, Steven tried to pay attention to him. “Bernard, I know this is bad but Craig wants to know about the gem evolution.”

“Why couldn’t you just save that for tonight’s meeting with Mom and Dad?” Bernard asked.

“Because it was brought up earlier when Craig saw a central tower in his pink vision.”

When Bernard turns back to Craig, he sees his pink eyes. “How long have you had those today?”

“Nearly half the day.” Craig answered.

Bernard sighed while having no option to fix the situation. “Please go get your shirts.” He looked at the sky while everyone retrieved their shirts. “If this paintball bath ever goes under wraps, I don’t know what is.”

“Where’s your girlfriend?” Omar wondered while putting his shirt up.

“She’s at the library. She’s also gonna join the meeting tonight after I texted her about last night’s meeting.”

“Seems she’s more curious just as much as everyone else here.” Steven replied.

“She’s not, including me.” Bernard placed his hands on his hips. “Which is why Mom told me to tell you to search for a girl with pink hair.”

Steven catched on to what he meant as J.P. gave him his shirt and coat. “I should’ve said I was concerned instead of curious.” He put on his shirt, and his coat afterwards.

“She’s never the person into drama, especially stuff like this.”

“She probably needed more time to get ready for tonight.” Craig holding onto his shirt. “But I’m not.”

“What else is new Craig?”

The way Bernard looked at Craig, Craig couldn’t keep his words he said to Steven from last night. When he looks at Steven from behind his brother, he can’t admit to his words in front of Bernard, knowing it’s all wrong to him.

“Seriously, what’s new?”

“We may talk about it in the playground.” Steven filled in. “Craig, keep your shirt off, I’ll still take care of it. Let’s get out of here.”

As the group heads out of Rainbow Alley, Bernard watches Steven comforting Craig while still looking at his back while keeping his hand away from him. Throughout the many days his brother hung out with Steven, he knew something was up. “Steven will never learn what it’s like having a younger brother.”

As he catched up to them, Paintball Mike slowly got up from the ground, still furious after his defeat. “I’m not done with you Steven!” He clinched both of his fists. “When I see you again, I’LL GET BACK TO YOU, BIG TI-” A paint balloon then was thrown into his face, he collapsed on the ground while getting out of his straps from the cooler.

“Here’s a lesson for ya!” Jessica shouted. “DON’T HARASS PEOPLE!!!”

“Jessica, will you please come back!?” Bernard called.

Jessica ran back to the group, Paintball Mike moaned in pain. Just when he was about to blow a raspberry at them with his hand and tongue, he fainted while losing control of his arm, and sticking his tongue out from his mouth.

Link: https://www.deviantart.com/alizera62/art/SU-Mother-s-Day-with-Mama-Garnet-1331308855

Link: https://www.deviantart.com/thomasinkling/art/Busted-Chandler-1330939749

When Omar returned to the group, giving back everyone’s clothes after being washed, they all followed Deltron who’s leading the way with Craig and Steven next to him. “So you actually helped Craig in Capture The Flag?” Steven asked.

“Yes.” Deltron replied. “I didn’t guide him all the way but believe me, he wouldn’t win without me.”

“And without anyone in my team.” Craig smiled while still having pink eyes. “You would probably need more than just Pearl, Amethyst and Garnet to win.”

“If they’re not gems…and not parents and more of friends, they and the other gems would be against major odds.” Kenneth said from the back. “Still though, I still wonder what it would look like if Capture The Flag took place in a Gem war.”

“It’ll be more chaotic with how massive the battlefield is.” Connie replied.

Kelsey began to shake with her imagination getting the better of her. “My book at the library is the only way to make me not think about this!” She reacted.

“She will like your book, this isn’t gonna take that long.” Bryson replied.

“Just be thankful they don’t have books about gems.” Omar commented.

As Deltron made it to their destination, unfortunately it got Craig’s attention right away. The group walked up to the evergreen but Craig sees it as a danger zone he wrote on his map. “Poison Ivy Grove?” He said while looking at the poison ivy.

“Please tell me the CD isn’t hidden in there.” Jessica replied.

“It’s not there.” Deltron responded while looking at the grove through his goggles. “It’s from the other side.”

“You mean?” Craig turned to him as he turned to him. “Where The Scratchless One is at?”

“Yes.”

Steven witnesses the grove being covered with poison ivy. “This is actually the first time I’ve encountered poison ivy.”

“You should at least encounter some during your state trips.” Connie replied.

“Just not like this.”

“We came across this with protective gear.” J.P. chimed in. “But we don’t have enough for all of us.”

“I don’t know about this, Craig.” Steven placed his hands on his hips. “Would it be alright if we just skip his activity? I don’t want to get a rash.”

In Craig’s pink vision, he can see the CD far in the distance even with trees in the way. With the CD player still attached to Deltron’s body, he wished he found another way to make it over the grove. “I would skip this but if there’s a reason I don’t see Deltron as a gem, it’ll surprise me more than you.”

“But I also don’t want you and others getting a rash.”

“Yeah Craig.” Connie walked up next to Steven. “It’ll also get me and Kelsey banned from the library.”

“Seriously, why can’t this happen when me and you are at the Library?" Kelsey reacted.

“I didn’t think we would be here.” Craig turned to the group. “But we can go over the poison ivy by climbing the trees.”

“No, No, that’s out of the question.” Connie backing away.

“But what about-”

“Sorry Craig.” Steven cuts Craig off. “That CD isn’t worth it.”

Deltron then turned around the moment Craig’s group was about to leave. “Stop!” He shouted, causing them to turn around. He walked up to Steven, looking straight up while pointing at the Poison Ivy Grove. “That CD will make me see the future of your friend’s cue. If we don’t get it now, he will never get his eyes back to normal.”

Steven didn’t want to say no but it’s impossible to admit he’s right about it knowing how little he knows about him and Craig’s pink eyes. “Can we at least have some of us get over there instead of the full group?”

“As long as you’re part of it.”

“I think it’s best if I just stay right here.” Kenneth commented. “I can handle missing what’s gonna happen.”

“Okay, who wants to come with us?” Steven offering. “We should just bring six while the rest of you wait right here.”

“I’ll come.” Bryson volunteered. “I’m not skipping this after turning Deltron on.”

Connie and Kelsey both looked at each other with eagerness in Kelsey wanting to go to the library. But with her still looking at the grove, she knew she doesn’t want to pass out on the opportunity of more gem surprises. “We’re also coming.” Connie turned to Steven.

“Connie!” Kelsey replied.

“I’ll keep us safe, as long as none of us touch the poison ivy.”

“You really want to see what’s happening once we get the CD?” Craig asked.

“This isn’t nothing when your pink eyes have something to do with it.”

With the whole group in an agreement, Craig looked around to find something to get over the poison ivy. “We can use something to walk over the poison ivy.” Craig turned back to Steven.

“Well…” Steven remembered while activating his shield. Thanks to his gem powers, he made the shield bigger, catching Bryson’s attention.

“So that’s how you made your shield bigger.” Bryson commented.

He placed his shield on the ground while he got on the center. “We can use my shield to get over there but we can’t move it.”

Craig then tried to find another solution. “Okay.” Craig turned to the rest of the group. “Maybe you can push us once we get on the poison ivy.”

“With the amount of weight we’re pushing, it’s gonna be impossible for you all to even make it over there.” Omar said.

“Not to mention being stuck in the middle of the grove.” Jessica added.

“Wait.” J.P. took out multiple rubber bands from his pocket. “I knew these would come in handy if something like this would happen.”

“J.P., I don’t think they’re strong enough to push us.” Kelsey said.

“Or…” Deltron walked next to Kelsey. “We can use my energy source by increasing the speed from the rubber bands.” He turned to Steven. “But I need your help.” And turning to Craig. “And your’s.”

After working out their plan, J.P. attached the rubber bands on two trees. With Steven and the others feet away from the trees while being on top of his shield, the rest of the group watched from the sidelines. Steven and Craig hold onto Deltron’s hands while Connie, Kelsey and Bryson are doing the same.

“Are you ready?” J.P. asked.

“Kind of.” Kelsey responded. “Why can’t we hold onto the edges of the shield?”

“They’re too close to the ground.” Connie answered.

“You sure it’s not gonna be really fast?” Craig asked.

“As long as we don’t stop, we'll get there without falling off.” Deltron replied. “Trust me on using your powers.”

As Steven and Craig closed their eyes, Steven used his gem powers while Craig attempted to activate his eyes. “Just to let you know Deltron, I have no control of my eyes. So I don’t know if I’m gonna help.”

“I’ll still trust you.” He turned to Craig. “I see that’s all part of your body, unlike mine.”

“Okay, here we go!” J.P. let go of the rubber bands. It pushed Steven and Craig’s group onto the poison ivy, sliding above it thanks to Steven’s shield.

“May I remind you Steven that this is the first time I’ve slid on your shield!?” Connie holding on.

“I don’t blame you for not being into snowboarding!” Steven responded. When he opened his eyes briefly, he noticed Craig’s sparkles from his eyes, absorbing the speed on his shield underneath. He immediately closed his eyes again as his shield hit the other trees, ricocheting while still maintaining the speed.

“We’re not slowing down?” Craig responded.

“Not even close.” Steven replied. “We’re still going!”

“Are my eyes working?”

“Can’t tell, I still have my eyes shut!”

“Don’t worry, I can sense we’re getting close.” Deltron replied.

After ricocheting the final trees, the shield slowed down, catching everyone’s attention. “We’re here!” Bryson smiled. “Did we get any poison ivy?”

“No, we’re itch free!” Kelsey added.

As the shield stopped at its destination, both Steven and Craig opened their eyes, witnessing the trampoline right in front of them. Deltron steps off the shield while he slowly gets on top of the trampoline.

“One of us must get the CD underneath the trampoline.” He replied. “Once you get it, put it in me.”

When Steven saw the CD itself, it gave him a smile. “I’ll take it from here.” He wasted little time as he crawled underneath the trampoline.

“You think you can handle getting out?” Craig replied.

“Don’t worry.” He replied while looking around. “Just please don’t jump until I get out.”

“We won’t.” Bryson responded as he and Craig got on top of the trampoline. “Then again there’s no spot around to stand on.”

As Connie sat on the edge, she felt uncomfortable with the poison ivy around her. “You think we’re still coming back?” She stared at the poison ivy. “Because I have doubts about that.”

“There is a way but it’s also risky.” Craig answered. “Me, Kelsey and J.P. only did this once and it was mostly out of luck.”

“It was actually one of the first things we did in the creek.” Kelsey added. “When it comes to Craig’s map of course.”

“I just want to remember which place to not go to.”

“Okay, I guess that is true.” Connie said.

Underneath the trampoline, Steven witnessed the pink CD inside its case. The cover on the CD has a futuristic city design that caught his attention. “This is like the places in Homeworld.” He commented. “Deltron really has a taste of futuristic activity.” As he picked up the CD, he noticed someone hiding in the poison ivy, along with his friends above.

“What is that?” Connie, moving away.

“The Scratchless One.” Craig answered.

The Scratchless One revealed himself in front of everyone, without a single spot on his skin covered with poison ivy. “What’s going on!?” He reacted. “I just want this trampoline to myself!”

“Just relax.” Craig spoked. “We just want the CD.”

“The CD!?” He reacted as he stared at Steven who was altered. “You have no idea how hard it is for me to get that!”

“But we need it for Deltron!”

“Yeah.” Steven responded. “Trust us, this is really important.”

The Scratchless One crawled underneath the trampoline, slowly up to Steven while he still held onto the CD. With him staring at him closely, Steven couldn’t believe he isn’t inching to the extremes. “You’re not like anyone I’ve seen who comes here.” He replied.

“You’re not wrong…you’ve been here throughout your time?”

“Yes, away from any kid in the creek. I just like being away from everyone.”

“You’re not the friendly type, aren’t you?”

“Never been.” The Scratchless One lowered his head. “Especially the sibling type.”

This caught Steven’s attention as Craig popped his head from above the trampoline. “I never had a sister…nor a brother so sorry I don’t have the details. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned since coming here,” He looked at Craig, catching his attention. “I’m starting to feel what it’s like taking care of a younger brother.”

“Yeah…” The Scratchless One sighed. “...but I don’t want to know what it feels like.”

“How many brothers and sisters do you have?”

“Six.”

“Six?” Steven blinked. “That’s a lot.”

“You don’t even know how noisy it is at my place. That’s why I always stay here.”

“He just wanted some peace.” Craig spoked. “Even though I never planned to come back here. It’s really for the best.”

When Steven looked back at the CD itself, a question came to him. “What’s one of your favorite colors?”

“Green.” The Scratchless One answered. “...and pink.”

“So you really like the color of this CD.”

“I would play it on a CD player but one of my siblings kept using it. Listening to peaceful music is just enough to make me feel peace itself without anyone around me.” As The Scratchless One sighed, he still can’t deny that Steven won’t leave him alone, along with the CD.

Steven looked at the CD, knowing it’s probably not gonna be what he wanted out of it. “Maybe tomorrow, if I come back here somehow, I’ll give you CDs of peaceful music along with a CD player.”

“You know what’s in that CD, do you?” He pointed at the pink CD.

“Almost. That’s why me and the others are here.”

“You sure you’re gonna come back?”

“Somehow but I promise you, I won’t have anyone to join you.” The Scratchless One closed his eyes, thinking about what he’s hearing from Steven’s voice. “Hey, if you don’t want to be my friend, that’s fine but you still need this right? Just please help me get on top of the trampoline.”

He opened his eyes while crawling backwards, getting out from underneath. He ran across the poison ivy to get something for Steven. Steven slowly crawled out underneath while staying inches away from the poison ivy. “I haven’t met his siblings but it’s really for the best, this place really is a safe spot for him.” Craig replied while still looking at Steven upside down.

“Frankly, him being poison ivy free really is a gift for him.” Steven smiled. “Posion Ivy Grove really is his place, isn’t it?”

“Yeah. Without anyone invading his space.”

As The Scratchless One came back, he pulled a big blanket, covering the poison ivy. He placed it in front of Steven as Steven crawled out, getting on his feet while being on top of the blanket. “This blanket is really clean.”

“I always have it for myself whenever I sleep on top of the trampoline, just to watch the stars from above the creek.” The Scratchless One smiled.

As Steven got on top of the trampoline he turned back to The Scratchless One. “I’ve seen tons of stars, bigger than others. By chance, a big shooting star may come above the creek.”

“I hope it’s true.” He looked up.

“Expect the unexpected from the stars above.” Steven then turned his attention to Deltron, and so did Craig. “Here’s the CD.” He showed it to him. “Do you need help to put it in you?”

“Yes.” Deltron responded. “But I want Craig to do it with him having the pink eyes. It’s the only way to have me see his future.”

Steven gave Craig the CD as he opened the case, taking the disc out. When he pressed the open button on the CD player from Deltron’s chest, he inserted the pink CD in. As he closed it, he turned it on.

With the CD player activating, Deltron’s whole body turned pink, but only in Craig’s vision. “He’s turning pink.” He said.

“You only see that, right?”

“Yes I do.”

“Huh.” Bryson commented. “He knows something unlike any of the kids here.”

“What do you see, Deltron?” Kelsey added.

Deltron looked closely at Craig, straight into his pink eyes. Through his eyes, his own vision sees Craig’s future and cue. “Do you know something about the gems…on your own?” Steven wondered.

“From the future of 3030, there’s no gems from where I go.” Deltron answered. “But seeing through Craig, he wasn’t the only one getting DNA from the future. In fact, there’s more people having pink problems from people-” He turned to Steven. “Like you.”

“So…there’s more of me when it comes to my DNA?”

“Yes. You’re one of the rare human beings in comparison to all the normal living beings who are like everyone else.”

“Yeah, you can say that again.” Craig said. “Seems you’ve learned by human evolution.”

“I never miss that out.” He then stood up, catching Craig and everyone’s attention. “The cue you need is finding the kind of those human beings. It’ll get rid of your pink eyes for good.”

“Yeah…they will get rid of them.” Steven replied.

“Not only that, you have to learn about them more with how different they are than you. By doing so, you see their kind more and how they live in their own society.”

This caused Steven and Connie to giggle joyfully “I think the destination's loud and clear to me.”

“Craig would definitely befriend all of the humans in that destination.” Connie added.

“Yeah…” Craig smiled. “Something I really want out of it, especially from my dreams.”

Deltron then smiled, placing his hands on his hips. “I’ve been hearing dreams from humans like you. And I even saw their dreams through projectors when they’re protected in hospitals. More mysterious than the last.”

“Trust me, my dreams are more mysterious than you think.”

“And you think you can handle this on your own?”

“Yes, I’m sure I’ll take it from here.”

“Then our mission has been completed.”

“What? No pink powers?” Kelsey blinked.

“I look through pinkness as an energy source, not by human nature like in the present.”

“Oh…” Kelsey lowered her head. “I was expecting a surprise but I guess it wasn’t.”

“He’s the kid from the future, not the kid of magical cues.” Connie turned to Kelsey. “But we can finally go to the library now. No more stops.”

“There is one more thing.” Deltron replied. “The pink CD has given me an ability that benefits all of us. Split up in three directions.” He stared down at the trampoline, with Craig following in his mind. “When we jump high, I’ll push you all to your destinations, including mine.”

“You mean? Jumping on the trampoline, really high?” Connie standing up.

“It’s the only way.” Kelsey replied. “But it’s also the fastest way to get to the library.”

“I think we can handle it.” Steven getting into position. “Let that pink CD give you the magic of pink energy.”

Deltron smiled at Steven as he began jumping on the trampoline, so did everyone else. Eventually, they jump higher, reaching above the trees with Steven, Craig and Byrson holding onto their hands together while Connie and Kelsey hold together on their own. “That trampoline’s really strong!” Connie looked around while jumping.

“I will never forget how strong it was.” Craig added.

After one more jump from the trampoline, they reached above the creek, catching their attention in the moment itself. “Wow…” Steven commented.

“It’s impressive.” Connie added.

In Craig’s vision, the buildings themselves were changed into bright colors, but not all in pink. All in different colors but he witnessed a central tower in the distance with a whirly bird like structure on top.

“Is that?” Craig blinked.

Deltron then used his energy from his CD player while using his microphone. “Hopefully we meet again. See ya.” His pink energy came out of the speakers from the CD player, pushing him and the two groups apart, along with himself to his own direction.

“Let me hold onto you Kelsey!” Connie reacted. “Looks like we’re landing on the sidewalk outside of the creek!”

Kelsey lifted her body up towards Connie as she carried her. After jumping over the trees, Connie landed on the sidewalk in the alley from the road. “Oh!” She kept her balance while panting calmly while placing Kelsey on the ground. “It was fun but I’m never doing that again.”

“I know how that felt.” Kelsey commented.

“To let you know, I do train on landing, but not this high. I wouldn’t require training you that way.”

“Does Pearl have no issue doing that?”

“She’s not human, that’s why.”

“Oh yeah, that is true.” Kelsey then turned above where she and Connie launched off. “Still though, Craig saw something and it must have something to do with the Crystal Gems.”

As Connie looked as well, she knows something is up but isn’t worried. “I didn’t see anyone up in the air from the distance so it’ll mostly been the location.”

“Huh.” Kelsey thought while turning to Connie. “Is it the location where The Crystal Gems live?”

“It could be.”

“Little Homeworld?”

“A good guess. We can ask Craig when we come back to him.” Connie then grew a smile on her face. “But now, let’s go to the library.”

“Yeah.” Kelsey turned her attention while she and Connie got out of the ally and onto the sidewalk. “You’re gonna love my novel.”

“I sure am. Are your friends there?”

“Yes. Stacks could be there and she may really like you.” Kelsey smiled in excitement.

“I’m actually looking forward to that.” Connie giggled while thinking of another idea in mind. “My friends at school love novels and I may have them see your novel.”

“Really?”

Connie then took out her phone. “By phone if you know what I mean. If Steven can show The Crystal Gems his new friend, so does my new favorite swordswoman with my friends.”

Kelsey couldn’t get anymore happier with the opportunity finally in front of her. While still walking, her surroundings turned to black with a spotlight glowing above. “Kelsey can hope that her new favorite swordswoman of wisdom, can call Pearl in all of her sword passion of glory.”

As Connie looked down at Kelsey, she couldn’t help but smile and giggle with her. “Her fantasy moments are so adorable.”

Link: https://www.deviantart.com/peytonauz1999/art/Ten-Years-Ten-Lincoln-Louds-1329049297

Link: https://www.deviantart.com/universepines7102/art/The-Born-of-Linus-Loud-1326247745

Lori, Leni, Girl Jordan and her friends made their way to the Dream Boat lounge where old episodes from the show aired inside. Upon entering, Girl Jordan’s friends were thrilled to witness the show airing from the TVs.

“Perfect!” Sophia cheered. “We get to see old episodes air in here.”

“Now that’s another way to relive the dream.” Cristina added.

Lori then witnessed that one of the TVs showed her with Jett, laying on the couch as some girls who’ve been watching took notice. “It’s her!” A young brown hair girl pointed as she and her friends ran up to Lori, taking her by notice. “You were amazing!”

“And where’s Jett?” Her friend wondered.

“Everyone please!” Lori placed her hands up. “Even stars literally need time to enjoy themselves on the cruise.”

“Aww…” The kids responded in disappointment.

“Don’t feel down.” Leni chimed in as she looked down at Girl Jordan’s friends. “Will you please hang out with them?”

“Sure.” Kat responded.

“I’m still waiting for the baking lounge so, I’ll teach them something about what I bake with my cookies.” Sophia added.

“Okay.” The young brown hair girl said as Kat, Sophia and Cristina followed the kids who went back to their spot.

As the rest of Lori’s group took a seat by one of the tables, Lori continued to watch the replay of her episode. They’ve shown on the TV her time with Bobby, disguised as Jeremy which took the attention of Girl Jordan and her friends.

“That’s really your ex boyfriend?” Rachel watched.

“Yes.” Lori responded. “If only he wasn’t in disguise, I would’ve picked him over Jett.”

“Seems the kids still didn’t get the info that you and Jett are no longer a thing.” Girl Jordan added.

“They don’t do research, I don’t blame them though for being too young.”

“But don’t you think you’re worried if Bobby gets here, you hanging out with him, people would accuse you as a cheater?”

Lori flinched, worried of what the outcome would be. “Well, my plan involves my ex Boo Boo Bear…is still in progress.”

“She still hasn’t made up her mind on what she wants to do with him.” Leni added.

“There are many options to do here.” Mollie replied. “You can arrange a dinner reservation at one of the restaurants.”

“I agree.” Lori replied. “But having others see him as a better man than Jett is not possible.”

“Hey, students call me a teacher’s pet at school and even Lincoln himself admits it to me but I’m not like him” Stella commented. “From what I’ve searched online, even men at his age are horrible behind closed doors. Or in your case, on a boat in the middle of the ocean with no witnesses.”

As Lori watched Jett save Bobby from the ocean filled with jellyfish, she still can’t get over his muscular body. “Do you ever get the impression that his perfection…really wants you to be like him?”

As Girl Jordan also witnessed his body on the TV, even she couldn’t disagree. “Do you struggle on being perfect?” She turned to her.

“Yes…”

“Really, the only answer I can give is if you give up everything in your life. Which…is the last thing I would do, just for my family when I get older…” Girl Jordan then lowered her head. “...inculding Lincoln.”

“Yeah…everything in your life.”

“I wish I could relate to how you feel.” Stella replied. “Do I have to explain what I did in school once?”

“You don’t have to.” Girl Jordan turned to her. “I found out when Principal Ramirez showed favoritism towards you…but I wasn’t jealous.” She then grew a smile at her. “You’re still a friend to me, not best friend but a friend as part of the Action News Team.”

This caused Stella to smile. “Very thankful you took me along here.”

“You were the next in line after my best friends.”

Then a couple appeared in the lounge, as the girlfriend took notice of Lori herself. “Is that her, Paraag?” She pointed as Paraag took notice.

“Yes, it’s her.” Paraag replied. “Are you sure it’s okay for you to talk to her?”

“As long as she’s honest with me, I will forgive her since the whole social media thing wasn’t that extreme.”

As Paraag’s girlfriend walked up to Lori’s table, so did he as Lori and her group took notice. Paraag’s girlfriend crossed her arms, looking straight at Lori despite not being mad at her. “Hey, Lori.” Paraag waved.

“Oh, hey Paraag.” Lori waved. “Didn’t know you were here.”

“You know this guy?” Girl Jordan wondered.

“I worked with him at The Burnt Bean until I quit.”

“Would you mind if we sat with you all?” Paraag’s girlfriend asked.

“Sure.” As Lori and Leni scooted over for Paraag and his girlfriend to sit next to them, Lori and Leni got closer to Girl Jordan. “So how was your time on the cruise so far?”

“Amazing.” Paraag answered. “We just had breakfast and it was great.”

“And like everyone else, we’re also gonna check around on the cruise.” Paraag’s girlfriend added. “But that’s not why we're here.” She took a deep breath while putting her attention on Lori. “Please spill the beans about what you did.”

With Girl Jordan and her friends turned to Lori, Lori knew there was no other way to avoid Paraag’s girlfriend the day she met her face to face, even though she didn’t expect it to happen today. “Okay…I got jealous that Bobby had a boyfriend and…I wanted to win over the break up.”

Paraag’s girlfriend became dumbfounded from the answer. “Seriously, that’s it?”

“Okay, even I can’t defend you on this.” Girl Jordan responded.

Lori placed her hand on her face. “I got lost in my mind, okay!?” She reacted. “I didn’t know how to react maturely nor refuse to let go of my social media status.”

“What do you have to gain, exactly?” Paraag’s girlfriend retorted. “You’re not in high school anymore.”

“Not to mention you’ve made your choice on quitting college when you became a playground monitor at an elementary school.” Paraag added.

“Yes…” Lori lowered her head. “...it’s all true…but I can’t…can’t…”

“Can’t make your own choices for everyone?” Paraag’s girlfriend guessed. “Especially for your ex boyfriend?”

“Yes…” She looked up at her.

“Okay.” She took a deep breath while processing it all. “Me and Paraag will graduate high school and we’re still new in our relationship. As much as we should make plans, we still need to know each other more.”

“Please, I didn’t mean for you to get upset.”

“You’ve worked with my boyfriend for a while, you should’ve at least know he doesn’t want to get involved with any fights.”

“Me and Lincoln never got into a fight.” Girl Jordan commented while looking at Paraag. “But I can guarantee you wouldn’t be able to go through one night at his place.” She then turned to Lori. “No offense.”

“I would say that it’s my place but I don’t live under the same roof.” Lori remembered. “Anymore.”

“I have a sister.” Paraag said. “But she doesn’t give me stress nor fights.”

“You must have a really nice younger sister.” Leni commented.

“She gives me comfort when I need it.” Paraag then teared up. “I couldn’t even give her comfort the way she gives me it. I’m just…ashame for not having that.”

His girlfriend then wrapped her arms around him as he accepted it. His tears continued to stream down while staying strong to control his depression.

“Wow.” Stella commented. “He’s really softer as a boyfriend.”

“Maybe he’s not strong enough to make a stand for himself.” Mollie added.

“This guy really wants a softer life.” Rachel added.

Girl Jordan didn’t respond as her attention was on Lori, along with Leni. Lori streamed down her tears from Paraag’s mental state. “Lori?” Leni responded.

“Are you okay?” Girl Jordan added.

“No!” She cried while taking deep breaths. “I just…wished I’m better than this by knowing my brother…and…” Paraag then opened his eyes, witnessing Lori’s reaction. “...I forgot how much Bobby gave me comfort when he…MADE ME A BETTER CITY GIRL!!!” As she cried, she wrapped her arms around Leni, catching her sister’s attention. As Paraag and her girlfriend took a back from Lori’s reaction, Kat, Sophia and Cristina returned after hearing Lori’s scream.

“What happened?” Sophia said.

“I…let go…my support and comfort system!” Lori reacted. “I never valued it when I let it go, nor saw the good of my brother!” She laid her head on Leni’s shoulder. “Bobby probably didn’t even see the pic of me and Paraag!”

“Well…that’s probably for the best.” Paraag’s girlfriend commented.

“It isn’t when he wasn’t aware of it when it happened.”

“As long as it’s just between you, me and my boyfriend, he will never know.”

As Leni slowly let go of Lori, Girl Jordan saw the ending of Lori's episode where Bobby’s about to jump off the boat. “As long as she’s happy, I’m…” He said from the TV while crying. “...happy!...” He jumped off the plank while getting stung by jellyfish in the process.

She then noticed Lincoln clinging at Bobby’s pain but also saw him looking at Lori in the distance. Just when he’s about to walk up to Lori, he stops himself, closing his eyes as he wants to give her keep her happiness. Instead, he decided to sit on the floor. Staying out of it despite getting involved without his own will.

As the credits scroll from the bottom, Girl Jordan had seen enough. “Lori…” She spoke as Lori looked at her. “Who do you want to talk to first when they get here? Lincoln or Bobby?”

“Uhhh…” Lori tried to think as Girl Jordan ducked under the table, as she sat next to Lori, much to her surprise.

“It’s a simple question, like how me and Lincoln asked questions during our free time.” She smiled.

As Lori took a few seconds, she took a deep breath, calming herself down. “Lincoln…” She answered. “I want to talk to my brother first and…you can join in my private conversation with him.”

“That seems fair but what about Bobby?”

“I’m still thinking about it.”

“Well.” Paraag replied. “Does your sister have a boyfriend?”

“Yes she does.”

“Her name is River, BTW.” Leni smiled.

“Maybe during dinner time, we’re gonna be going to The Dream Restaurant which is the most expensive place on the cruise. We can do a triple date for me and my girlfriend, Leni and River and you and Bobby.”

“What about me and Lincoln?”

“They…don’t allow kids under thirteen.”

“It’s really for teenagers and adults.” Paraag’s girlfriend added.

“Well that’s a shame." Rachel replied.

Lori still remembered about her plan once Lincoln and Bobby arrived. “We’re gonna do an activity before dinner. Would you mind if you want to see it before dinner?”

“Sure.” Paraag answered. “What are you all gonna do?”

“We should go to the waterpark.” Stella offered. “It may still be early but we can relax and swim.”

“You’ll feel relaxed there, Lori.” Girl Jordan smiled. “And swim with us.”

Lori then wrapped her arm around Girl Jordan with a smile on her face. “I’ll skip swimming for today, I'd rather just lay down and relax.”

“That’s fine. You really need it.” She gave Lori a hug as she hugged her back. Leni also joined in on the hug.

“Once our brother and Bobby get here, the fun will finally begin!” Leni cheered.

“I’m waiting for it.” Girl Jordan responded.

“Curious, what is the activity we’re doing tonight?” Rachle wondered.

“It’s a secret.” Lori said. “But I promise you all, you’re gonna love it.”

“And everyone’s gonna watch you all.” Leni added.

Upon processing everything, Cristina leaned next to Sophia and Kat. “I’m sure it’s gonna involve kissing.” She whispered.

“So we’re allowed to kiss but not allowed in The Dream Restaurant?” Sophia commented.

“Talk about double standards for kids.” Kat added.

Maria hugged Bobby after he came from upstairs. “I’m just glad you’re alright.” Maria smiled.

“I’m heartbroken still but I won’t when I see Lori again.” Bobby replied.

“I said hopefully because…” Ronnie Anne turned to her friend. “...We’re not gonna take a plane.”

“It’s true.” Maria said while breaking the hug. 

Lincoln arrived back on the main floor of the mercado with Ronnie Anne’s new friend next to Maria. “Who’s she?” He pointed at her while walking up to them.

“Meet my friend, Shara.” Ronnie Anne presented her. “She’s the friend I made from our last trip here.”

“So.” Shara crossed her arms with a grin on her face. “You’re Lincoln Loud…”

“Yeah but before you make a move…” Lincoln replied. “...I already have a girlfriend.”

“I wasn’t going to say something like that.” She wrapped her arm around him, catching his attention. “But I can tell she has great taste.” She felt his hair with her finger.

“Oh, she’s definitely gonna love Lori and Leni’s plan big time.” Maria commented.

“What do you mean?” Lincoln replied while still looking at Shara.

“Okay.” Ronnie Anne filled in. “The truth is…” She then turned to her brother. “...We’re gonna try going to The Dream Cruise which is where Lori and Leni are on.”

“The Dream Cruise?”

“Sweet!” Shara reacted. “Seen that commercial on TV.”

“Yeah, we all watched that commercial, it’s becoming old news.” Maria replied.

“It isn’t for me.” Lincoln stepped away from Shara. “I was on The Dream Boat the whole time, I didn’t get to see commercials.”

“So did I.” Bobby added. “But I was a contestant. And…it could be bigger to be with Lori on a cruise.”

“Let’s slow down, please.” Ronnie Anne standing in the middle between Lincoln and Bobby. “Lincoln, when Lori came back to Royal Woods, she got tickets to The Dream Cruise and those tickets are for us.”

“Well, most of us.” Maria added.

“The rest of the tickets are for friends…this is mainly Lori’s apology for the fight you had with her.”

“I…” Lincoln stopped himself. “...don’t think it’ll be worth it without Girl Jordan.”

“She can’t find a different way to make you happy. Plus, if we don’t get my brother on the cruise, Lori won’t have her dream with him.” Ronnie Anne then turned to Bobby. “And if Jett’s not on the cruise, no one will get in her way.”

“Exactly.” Bobby replied. “This could be my last chance to get Lori back.”

“But, who’s gonna run the mercado?” Lincoln asked.

“I will.” Maria stepped in. “I may have to sacrifice my work and time back at Great Lakes City but this is for you.” She turned to Bobby. “You'll most likely never get another girlfriend to feel good about yourself. Even if you have to stay farther away from her from here, at least you won’t feel miserable.”

Her son teared up, loving every word from her words. “Even if we can’t live in the same apartment, city or country, I’ll forever be her husband.”

Maria and Bobby gave each other a hug while Maria padded on his back. “As long as you and her don’t go the same path as me and Arturo, if not worse, your wedding with her will forever be perfect.”

Lincoln knew he can’t stay in Mexico with the plans fully in motion in front of him. “If it’s worth me not spending time with Girl Jordan…” He closed his eyes. “...Then I’ll take it.”

“Then you’re in luck.” Shara smiled. “Pack your things because I have our one and only transportation.”

“What’s…the transportation?”

Shara grinned again at her traveling guests. She took them to her place where her pet is on her roof. She climbed up to her roof while inviting her guests in. They all bear witness to her pet, far bigger than they thought with Lincoln and Bobby’s jaws dropped.

“Yeah, that’s my reaction when I saw this.” Ronnie Anne commented.

“Ladies and gentlemen.” Shara presenting her pet. “Please welcome, Mateo. The red and yellow eagle.”

Lincoln and Bobby walked close to it as Mateo stared at them. “This eagle’s huge.” Bobby replied. “There’s enough room for us to ride on.”

“This place really has no limits on keeping large animals.” Lincoln added.

“He’ll take us to The Boat Cruise in no time.” Shara walked towards her pet. “We just need to hold onto him throughout the whole flight.”

“I never rode on him so this is my first.” Ronnie Anne added as she looked straight at his eyes. “Are you sure this is safe?”

“Me and my parents did this a lot, we no longer needed planes.” Shara walked next to Ronnie Anne. “You'll all get used to it the moment we leave Japunda.”

“What about our luggage?” Lincoln wondered.

“He’ll carry them with his claws.”

“Okay, I think we can handle it.” Lincoln placed his luggage by the eagle’s claws.

“It’s the only way to get to the cruise.” Bobby added while placing his luggage next to Lincoln’s. “Just hope I don’t fall off with jellyfish in the ocean.”

“From what I heard from Shara’s parents, Mateo’s really good at carrying her family.” Maria replied. “Once he drops you off, he’ll fly back here. Text me when you get on the cruise.”

“We will.” Ronnie Anne smiled as she and Shara placed their luggage. “Let’s get on.”

Shara, Ronnie Anne, Lincoln and Bobby hopped onto Mateo as Maria backed away. Mateo jumped in the air, flopping his wings while grabbing everyone’s luggage with his claws. He took off from the roof everyone held onto him, leaving Maria as she waved.

“Wow!” Lincoln looking down at Japunda. “This is insane!”

“Get ready for the ride of a lifetime!” Shara cheered as once Mateo flowed way up, soon above the ocean, leaving Japunda. Just in time, Ronnie Anne texts Lori before she loses internet reception from her phone, letting her know they’re on their way.

“If only I can find a way to make Lori happy once we get there.” Bobby said.

“You’re thinking about taking her to dinner?” Ronnie Anne turned to her brother.

“Yes but that’s it. I haven’t danced in a long time to where dancing with her won’t be enough.”

“I also haven’t danced with Girl Jordan yet.” Lincoln also turned to him. “We did Valentine's Day dances twice at school but not slow love dances.”

“I thought you always danced with her romantically at some point.” Ronnie Anne said.

“I’m still not good at dancing that way. And neither does Girl Jordan. If it’s one of the activities on The Dream Cruise, I would rather watch than join.”

“Is being supportive the only thing you do for Lori?” Bobby asked.

“If the roles were reversed where you’re the man picking other women, I would do the same thing if Lori felt the same way you did.”

“Well.” Shara smiled while turning back to Lincoln. “Seems she would’ve done the same if you were the man on The Dream Boat.”

“So does Leni.”

“Great, you have two sisters giving you confidence."

This caused Lincoln to roll his eyes. “Do you even have siblings?”

“She doesn’t.” Ronnie Anne filled in. “Lincoln, I’m sure you'll work out your problems with Lori, you don’t have to be negative towards her and Leni all the time.”

“The same goes to your sisters.” Bobby added. “I may get along with my sister and cousins easier but see positivity from my ex girlfriend. You probably missed out on her soft side.”

Lincoln didn’t want to disagree but it’s impossible for him to find any other choice to make up for Lori. “With how sudden the whole Dream Cruise is, there’s got to be something there I can help for her and Leni.”

“There’s a lot of activities going on, on The Dream Cruise.” Ronnie Anne replied. “Including a gift shop where you can get rewards from doing activities.”

Lincoln sighed but knowing full well it’s the only choice he has. “Still though. Without Girl Jordan, I don’t think I’m qualified to get rewards.”

Ronnie Anne turned her attention back in front of her, not spoiling her plan in front of her best friend. Knowing how Lori and Leni are planning out the moment they get to the cruise, she won’t risk her chances in her plan as well. “I’m sure you will be qualified."

“So am I.” Shara added.

Back on The Dream Cruise, Lori, Leni, Miguel and River put all of their luggages inside their cabin they’re sharing together with Miguel and River. Lori witnessed just four beds available in the cabin, still ashamed she can’t allow a fifth bed in.

“What am I gonna do?” Lori said while sitting on her bed. “When Bobby gets here, he won’t have a bed for himself.”

“Hey, it’s still a good thing we got two deluxe cabins unlike the smaller ones.” River commented. “I mean the beds are still big enough.”

“And comfortable.” Miguel pushing his bed down with his hand.

“It won’t change the fact that the other cabin just has enough for the rest of the kids to have beds.” Lori replied. “How am I ever gonna talk to him when I meet him?”

“I’m sure he’ll take it.” Leni sitting next to Lori. “It’ll be awkward but still cute when you both get reunited.” She formed a heart with her fingers.

“You’re right but it’s gonna be tough that our first time together since our break up is gonna be on this cruise.” She let in the air in her lungs, letting it out while lowering her head. “It just feels wrong that our date will be…brand new unlike our first date.”

“Hey, look at it this way.” River smiled. “You would remember what it would feel like again. Feeling the love that grew on you when Bobby showed that.”

“I’m just unsure if it’ll have the loving feeling.”

“But he is your soulmate.” Miguel added. “And he made that necklace for you.”

Lori turned to her luggage with the necklace that’s inside. “Would’ve seen it now if it was just him sneaking on board.” She placed her hands on her face.

Outside the cabins, Girl Jordan, Stella, Rachel, Mollie, Kat, Sophia and Cristina walked up to Lori’s cabin door. Girl Jordan knocked on the door, catching everyone’s attention as River answered it. Upon opening it, Lori took notice of Girl Jordan walking inside with her friends waiting outside.

“Is Lincoln on his way on the cruise?” Girl Jordan wondered.

“Yes he is but it’s still gonna take awhile for him, Ronnie Anne, her guest and her brother to arrive.” Lori answered.

As Girl Jordan felt relieved, she couldn't help but feel worried from Lori’s expression. “You’re still feeling worried about him?”

“Yes and…my ex.” Lori took another deep breath as she got up from her bed. “Is there anywhere you want to go?” She offered. “It may not be part of the plan but I didn’t think we would get this far.”

Girl Jordan then turned to her friends. “The rest of the girls are staying in our cabin for the next hour to rest. They do want to go swimming in the waterpark during sunset.”

This gave Leni an idea as she also got up from the bed. “Then this would be the perfect opportunity to spend quality time, right?” Leni leaned down to Girl Jordan’s level. “Like you always wanted from us.”

“Yeah.” Lori also leaned down next to her. “It won’t keep my mind off completely but you may help me out on it.”

“Like I always do for Linky…” Girl Jordan giggled as she ran outside the cabin.

“Even when she says that word, it’s just as cute when we say it.” Leni wrapped her fingers together.

“Give it more time until your brother comes.” River replied. “You'll get your chance to see him and her together.”

“That’s what we’re looking forward to.” Lori said. “Good luck with your time on the cruise.”

“I’m just gonna give myself a tour around the cruise. I may join ya at the waterpark.”

“So am I but I still need to make our Cupid Cuties livestream set up so it could be late.” Miguel replied while taking out his laptop from his luggage. “Should we let your family know we’re gonna live stream tonight?”

“Yeah.” Leni smiled. “But when Lincoln and the others arrive. I’ll take a picture and send it to them if it happens.”

“Come on!” Mollie called. “Let’s go!”

“See you two later.”

“Enjoy The Dream Cruise!” Lori smiled as she and Leni got outside the cabin.

“Have fun being friends with Lincoln’s girlfriend.” River said. “Make sure you treat her as a sister!”

“Thanks for the motivational sibling wisdom!” Leni cheered after leaving the cabin.

Link: https://www.deviantart.com/autthelover/art/Loud-music-972320095