Steven Universe At The Creek Chapter 1 Herkleton's Visitor

Over the past three months, Steven Universe drove from state to state, experiencing the world itself outside of his old life. His therapist did everything to help him cope with his trauma to the point he’s fully succeeded after turning seventeen. He remains calm while keeping all of his powers in check.

When he checked through his GPS, he saw a local gas station was located nearby. He had to exit out of the highway due to his fuel tank starting to run on fumes. His goal at the moment is heading to the next big city, which is just over an hour away. When he drove through a few trees blocking the sunlight, he saw a few houses in the neighborhood. Over the last few weeks, he put addresses of the neighborhoods he visited, thinking of living in those places to take the next step of his new life.

Quite franckly, it wasn’t simple for how different they were compared to his beach house. He wasn’t expecting a dream home, but more of a home that suits him. As soon as he saw the nearest gas station, he drove in the parking lot while stopping at the open spot. When he got out of his car, he placed the gas hose into his car after opening the cap.

“It seems I really need a new car after stopping at so many gas stations so frequently.” He said to himself. He looked at Herkleton itself with a few people walking on the sidewalk. “But at the same time, every place I go to looks promising.”

For the amount of time it took for the gas to pump into the tank, Steven took out the hose while heading inside the building to pay for it. Upon coming out, another vehicle came into the parking lot. It parked right next to Steven’s as the driver got out immediately.

Steven had a question about Herkleton itself since he received tours in the neighborhood. “Hey!” He called, which caused the person to take notice.

“Yes?”

“Is there any information about Herkleton’s neighborhood?” Steven asked, walking up to him.

“Not much.” He responded. “I do live here, but I don't give tours for visitors.”

“Well...I’m actually gonna stay here for a few days. I’ve been traveling for three months. I’m Steven Universe, what’s your name?”

After placing the hose into the vehicle, he turned to Steven right away. “I’m Bernard Williams. I need to get fresh milk for my family after…” He signed while getting back on topic. “My brother’s friends used up the last gallon.”

Steven knew his plans during his travels would be unexpected. Even in a town like this, there’s more than it has to offer. “Do you need any help?” He offered. “Besides, I’m all out of bread after eating my last slice last night.”

“I’m only going to get milk, I have enough food.”

“Oh.” Steven felt disappointed.

“Why would you want to help me? Even my friends wouldn’t make an offer like that.” Bernard took out the hose from his car. “I’m not really that type of friend if you don’t mind.”

Steven did remember the amount of times he met at least five people who acted like Bernard, but he learned how to make a better impression. “I don’t think you understand what I’m capable of.”

“You mean the way you're wearing a star as your shirt?” Barnard notices Steven’s outfit. “Don’t you think you should be wearing something that suits your age?”

This made Steven close his eyes, keeping his old life away from anyone who calls him out. “Was that necessary for you? I do have other clothes, I just prefer this the most.”

Bernard had no plans aside from his friends coming over tonight. “Sorry, it’s just been rough over the past week because of my brother. So I’ve called my girlfriend and friends if they can watch a movie at my place.”

Steven wished he could think of something to help out someone. “Did you pick a movie for them?”

“I’m heading to the movie store to rent a movie for tonight.”

“I think I could help to make your night better. Let me pick out the movie for you.”

Bernard may have his friends pick their own films during their movie nights but from a stranger who seems harmless, no one would even do that out in the open. “Are you sure about this?”

“Don’t worry, I think your friends, including your girlfriend would approve of the film I’ve picked.”

With Bernard’s car filled up with gas, Bernard sighed while trying to reconsider his choice. Aside from making a homemade pizza, his family would still be confused from unexpected visitors coming over.

“I’ll text my parents that I’m gonna be a bit late.” As Bernard took out his phone, he headed to the building. “I just hope you know what you're doing.”

Steven felt slightly impressed in himself when someone’s willing to give him a shot in the neighborhood. Although it’s still a test for someone like Bernard to be appreciative.

---

Both Steven and Bernard left the gas station and went and parked them by the movie store. When they got in, Steven picked which section he preferred whenever he ran into any movie store.

“I’m letting you know that the movies my friends watched are mostly action packed.” Bernard replied. “What kind of movies do you watch?”

“I’ve been trying to watch indie films as of late.” Steven answered. “I watch films like Dogcopter, but I don’t think your friends would enjoy it.”

“True, as a matter of fact, I don’t think they’re aware of Dogcopter at all.”

“I don’t blame you.” As the two teens head to the indie section, Steven tries to pick an indie film he has never watched before. He wanted to prove to everyone that he’s more than a generous person for making better decisions.

“There’s one thing I want to know.”

“What is it?” Steven looking at the movie cases.

“Where do you live?” Bernard crossed his arms. “I’m not against you, but if you're really a traveler, should your family be concerned?”

It was a matter of time until someone would have a question that centers around family. Unfortunately, the soon to be adult kept it a low profile to keep his guardians out of trouble.

“My family isn’t like yours or anyone else’s.” Steven signed. “I’m from Beach City and it was the only place I’ve spent most of my life at.”

“Beach City?” Bernard raises an eyebrow. “Is it located in the Deep South?”

“No. Believe me, if you lived there, your life wouldn’t be the same.”

Bernard felt bizarre from the way Steven expressed himself. “Oh, I know what you mean.” He smiled while causing Steven to pause. “You always have beach days while you’re there.”

Soon Steven sighed in relief, thanks to a slightly misunderstood response. “I don’t swim anymore, but you're not wrong.” He then saw a film that could impress Bernard’s friends. “Speaking of that, would a dolphin film work out?”

“Sure. I guess my girlfriend would appreciate it.”

As they head straight to the register to rent the film, they leave the movie store. Once they’re all done getting the milk from the grocery store, Bernard will be willing to take Steven to his house. So far, he’s getting into his nature of friendship. All he can wonder is how his family would think of him upon meeting him for the first time.