Varian x Lapis (Laprian)

Goodbye

"Everyone take a step back," Varian said. "There's no guarantee this will work." Steven and the gems did as they were told. Lapis watched with an anxious look. 

Varian took a deep breath and slipped his goggles down. "Here we go." He flipped the switch, and the machine whirred to life. It shook as if there was an earthquake. Energy started to form and circle around one another creating a portal. A smile spread across Varian's face. "It works!"

"Varian!" Steven cried out gripping Varian in a bone-crushing hug. "I'm going to miss you so much, buddy. After four years, your leaving. I'm not ready! I'm not ready!"

"I'll miss you too, Steven," Varian said with what little breathe he was able to get. "Can't breathe."

"Oh, sorry," Steven said letting go of Varian. "Still getting used to this crazy diamond strength. 

Peridot cleared her throat and approached the eighteen-year-old alchemist. "I will have to admit," she said. "Your company for these past few earth rotations have been quite enjoyable, and I am sorry to see your departure." 

"In other words," Varian said kneeling down, so he was at the small gem's height. He gave her a knowing look. 

Peridot remained stiff for a moment before tears came pouring out of her eyes. She jumped and wrapped her arms around Varian's neck. "You're one of the best friends I've ever had!" she cried out. "You clod! Now you got me all emotional!"

"I'll miss you too 'dot," Varian said letting go of the gem and standing up again. 

"Hey," Amethyst said punching Varian's shoulder. "Never stop being cool."

"Got it," Varian said with a bit of a laugh as he rubbed the spot Amethyst punched. 

"Don't forget to practice those fighting techniques," Pearl said. 

"Right," Varian said. 

"Keep on this path, Varian," Garnet said placing a hand on Varian's shoulder. "Believe me when I say there are many opportunities for a bright future. Just continue to do what is right and follow your heart." Varian nodded. 

Everyone looked in Lapis' direction. She had her back to them all with her arms crossed. Varian sighed and walked up to her. "Hey, Lazuli-" Varian started to say. 

"You're leaving," Lapis interrupted. 

"Lapis," Varian said. "You always knew this day was coming."

"No," Lapis said. 

"Lapis, I have to go back," Varian said. "Corona is my home."

"What about us?" Lapis asked finally turning to face Varian. "You've been here for four years. I thought we were your family. You're just going to leave us for people who betrayed you?"

"Lapis," Varian said caressing her cheek. "I don't belong in this dimension. I have to go back to where I'm supposed to be."

Lapis let a couple tears fall from her eyes as she quickly embraced Varian. He wrapped his arms around her and hugged her back. He turned his head and placed a quick kiss on her cheek. 

"What was that?" Lapis asked pulling back and looking at Varian. 

"A goodbye," Varian said before turning and walking towards the portal. He turned around and looked at the gems one last time before walking through the portal. 

"A goodbye," Lapis whispered to herself rubbing her cheek where Varian kissed her.