A Diamond That Doesn't Shine

A Court *Rewriten*

"White, Yellow, Blue, could you show me to my working quarters? I wish to establish my court," I asked. White smiled at me as I spoke, while the others maintained neutral expressions.

"So, you'd rather work than get to know us, Black?" Yellow said, her voice tinged with irritation.

"Please, be kind. They've only just arrived," Blue interjected, turning to smile at me. It was clear she was meant to be the compassionate one among us. I returned her smile gratefully. Yellow sighed, and White turned toward the door, leading the way as we all followed.

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"Here, Black, this is your section. Your new Pearl and the gems who wish to be part of your court are inside. Please choose carefully." With those words, White departed, while Blue smiled and Yellow silently followed White's lead. Once they had all left, I stared at the imposing black door.

"How do I get you to open?" I muttered to myself. Just as I was about to call for my Pearl, the door swung open, revealing a small gem-another Pearl.

Didn't I tell White no?!

She's rather small, isn't she? I suppose this is what a normal Pearl is supposed to look like. Perhaps I'll consider trading her later. My original Pearl approached her.

"Hello, My Diamond. It is an honor to serve you," the Pearl's voice was soft yet carried an air of intimidation. I nodded in acknowledgment before continuing forward. Both Pearls fell into step behind me.

"Show me the gems who wish to be in my court," I commanded. The Pearl nodded and led the way, directing me through the labyrinthine halls until we reached a room filled with gems.

"My Diamond, you may sit over there on your throne," the Pearl suggested, but I shot her a slight glare, causing her to shrink back. "Forgive me, My Diamond. I didn't mean to seem commanding."

"Just don't do it again," I whispered sharply, and she nodded meekly. The other gems in the room looked nervous. I gripped my Pearls in my hand and made my way to the throne, placing them on one of the armrests.

"If you wish to be part of my court, understand that I will work you until you crack, and even then, I will heal you so you can continue working. I expect perfection. Is that clear?" Most of the gems nodded, while a few responded with a timid "Yes, My Diamond." I smirked.

"Silver Pearl, I want to acquire another Pearl immediately." Both Pearls' eyes widened. "Don't worry, I'm not replacing you. However, I desire another Pearl. If you can't make that happen, what good are you here for? And ensure it is a large Pearl, even if it is defective." I knew I was lying to her. I wouldn't shatter her for such a reason, but it seemed to work; within minutes, a new, huge Pearl appeared before us.

"Silver Pearl, have the gems that nodded sent to White Diamond. I no longer wish to speak to them. Please inform White that they refused to respond to me," I commanded. From now on, all Pearls understood the necessity of a verbal response.

"Yes, My Diamond," they acknowledged. The gems who had nodded nervously followed the first of the two new Pearls to White's section of the expansive building.

Once they had all departed, I picked up the newer Pearl and placed her on my other armrest.

"Now, let's continue. Black Pearl, please provide information about the first gem in front of me without unnecessary details like their facet," I instructed, looking at the small greenish-black gem before me.

"Of course, My Diamond," Black Pearl replied, accessing online documents. "This first gem is a Peridot. Peridots excel in technology and experimental work, My Diamond."Interesting. They would be a valuable asset to my court, despite their lower rank or status. I turned my attention to the next gem, which was white and black and noticeably taller than the Peridot and even my Pearls.