Despite everything, the first reaction Connie has is she remembers me.

It's quickly stamped down, the sudden moment of elation; the insidious idea that the world might have merit to it; the dangerous slippery slide of friendship and hope.

It had no place here.

"Lapis," Connie said, allowing herself a smile. A powerful gem, the most powerful she'd ever seen, she was sure. She lifted a hand up, fingers extended to ruffle Lapis' hair. "You'll be instrumental in the destruction of the pillar of creation."