Marvel: The Diamond Authority

In the depths of Homeworld's underbelly, far from the glittering spires and pristine streets of the surface, a secret society thrived. This was the secret domain of the Off Colors, Gems who didn't fit the rigid mold of Homeworld's society nor share their same ignorant ideology. 

These were Gems who accept the Diamonds as Gods, who dared to be different, and who dreamed of a society where all Gems could be free in the most true sense. At the heart of this clandestine group stood their leader, a fusion that only one other could claim to be more special than her: Tanzanite.

Tanzanite was a marvel, a perfect melding of a Lapis Lazuli and a Sapphire. Her form was sleek and graceful, her skin a deep, iridescent blue that seemed to shimmer with hidden depths. Four eyes adorned her face - two of the deepest blue, reminiscent of Earth's oceans, and two of a piercing, icy blue that seemed to peer into the very fabric of time itself.

Tanzanite was one of the first fusions ever created, born just 50 years after the establishment of the first Kindergarten. Her very existence was a testament to the potential for change within Gem society, as she had lived through the rapid societal change that happened from Era 1 to Era 2.

Tanzanite's fusion had amplified the already terrifying powers of her component Gems to extraordinary levels. Her precognition, inherited from her Sapphire half, allowed her to peer far deeper into the streams of time than any ordinary Sapphire. She could see not just one possible future, but hundreds, thousands - a constantly shifting tapestry of potential outcomes that she navigated with preternatural skill.

This gift of foresight had been the key to the Off Colors' survival. For centuries, Tanzanite had guided her branch of their people through the treacherous waters of Homeworld society, always one step ahead of the Diamonds' forces. Every raid, every sweep, every attempt to root out the "radical" Gems - Tanzanite saw them all coming and ensured her people were always just out of reach.

But it wasn't just her precognition that made Tanzanite a force to be reckoned with. Her water manipulation abilities, derived from her Lapis Lazuli heritage, had been heightened to astounding levels. She could control vast bodies of water with a mere thought, shaping them into weapons, shields, or intricate structures with ease. Some whispered that her power rivaled that of members of the mythical Zero Division, a group she highly doubted actually existed.

As Tanzanite gazed out over their branch of the organization, her mind was filled with visions of the future - futures where Gems lived free from the oppressive rule of the Diamonds, where every Gem could truly influence the nature of their world and actually influence what laws were passed, rather that the officials merely being puppets to the Diamond Council.

The Off-Colors had grown from a small group of misfits into a vast network spanning multiple colonies. Their goal was nothing less than revolutionary: to dismantle the oppressive rule of the Diamonds and create a society where all Gems could be free.

"Tanzanite." a voice called, interrupting her musings. She turned to see Gneiss approaching, his crystalline form shifting subtly as he manipulated the gravity around him to move more quickly.

Gneiss was a rarity, a Gem created under Brown Diamond's supervision with the ability to control gravitational forces. His power made him invaluable for both assault missions and combat situations. Despite his serious demeanor, there was a gentleness to Gneiss that made him a natural protector of the weaker Off-Colors.

"What news, Gneiss?" Tanzanite asked, her melodious voice carrying a hint of both Lapis and Sapphire.

"Obsidian has returned from her reconnaissance mission," Gneiss reported. "She brings... concerning information."

Tanzanite nodded, unsurprised. Her visions had been turbulent lately, hinting at new challenges. "Gather the others. We'll convene in the strategy chamber."

As Gneiss left to summon the team, Tanzanite made her way to their makeshift war room. It was a far cry from the opulent chambers of the Diamond Authority, but it served its purpose. Maps of Homeworld and various colonies covered the walls, marked with potential safe houses and escape routes.

Soon, the core members of their group had assembled. Obsidian arrived last, her black form seeming to absorb the light around her. As a Gem created under Black Diamond during Era 2, Obsidian had the unique ability to nullify the powers of other Gems. This made her an ideal spy, able to infiltrate even the most secure locations without detection.

"Report." Tanzanite commanded, her four eyes focusing intently on Obsidian.

Obsidian stepped forward, her voice low and gravelly. "The Diamonds are planning something big. There's talk of a new dimension, a realm beyond anything we've encountered before. Yellow Diamond has already begun terraforming efforts."

A murmur ran through the group. Emerald, a Gem with the power to manipulate electricity, spoke up. Her green form crackled with barely contained energy, a remnant of her creation under Yellow Diamond. "A new dimension? That could change everything. Think of the resources, the potential for expansion. We could finally gain a proper stronghold against the Diamonds!!"

"Or for further oppression." countered Moonstone with her arms crossed, her ethereal form shimmering as she conjured illusory images of vast, lifeless colonies. As a former member of Grey Diamond's High Court, Moonstone's illusions were so powerful they could fool even the most discerning eye. "We've seen how the Diamonds exploit new territories with how they treated each city after their creation. They turn any gem with decent combat ability into soldiers to simply aid in the consolidation of that Quadrant, and any relationships are discouraged unless they are harmless or are both members of the military. This would just give them more worlds to strip bare or Gems to abuse from their infancy. And it likely won't be the end."

Tanzanite listened to the debate, her mind racing through possible futures. In some, she saw the Off-Colors flourishing in this new dimension, free from the Diamonds' influence. In others, she witnessed the utter destruction of everything they had fought for. However, her visions seemed strangely precise now, with her subconsciously feeling that something was wrong.

"Enough." she said finally, her voice cutting through the chatter. "This new dimension represents both opportunity and danger for us, since if we can gain a stronghold their, we will be able to take the fight to them on multiple fronts and free more of our brothers and sisters. But we cannot lose sight of our main goal. The Diamonds' power must be broken, here and in any new realm they seek to control."

She turned to the map of Homeworld, pointing to key locations. "We've made progress. Our network now extends to every major facet of Gem production. We've freed hundreds of Gems from the tyranny of their predetermined roles. But it's not enough."

Tanzanite's form seemed to grow larger, her conviction filling the room. "The Diamonds control everything - resources, information, the very purpose of each Gem's existence. They've convinced our people that this hierarchy is natural, unavoidable. But we know better. We've seen what Gems can become when they're free to choose their own path. Not just the options that they give."

She looked at each member of her team, her gaze filled with determination. "Our goal isn't just to end the Diamonds' rule. It's to create a society where power is shared, where every Gem has a voice in shaping their destiny. This new dimension could be the key to achieving that dream - or it could be our downfall. We must be prepared for either possibility."

The others nodded, inspired by their leader's words. They had all risked everything to be part of this movement, driven by the belief that a better world was possible.

Gneiss spoke up, his voice steady. "What's our next move, then? Do we attempt to infiltrate this new dimension?"

Before Tanzanite could respond, a commotion outside the chamber caught their attention. A moment later, a small, agitated Peridot burst into the room. This was one of their many informants, a Gem who outwardly maintained her role in Homeworld society while secretly feeding information to the Off-Colors.

"We've been compromised." the Peridot gasped, her limb enhancers trembling. "The Intelligence Division... they've cracked our communication network. An elite squad has been dispatched to this location!"

For a moment, panic threatened to overtake the group. But Tanzanite remained calm, her future vision already showing her multiple paths forward.

"How long do we have?" she asked the Peridot.

"An hour, maybe less." came the reply.

Tanzanite nodded, her mind made up. "Then we have no time to waste. Obsidian, use your power to disrupt any tracking devices they might be using. Emerald, prepare to overload their systems when they arrive. Moonstone, create illusions to cover our escape. Gneiss, you'll use your gravity manipulation to slow them down."

As her team sprang into action, Tanzanite turned to the Peridot. "Thank you for the warning. You should return to your post - it's crucial we maintain our inside sources."

The Peridot nodded, relief evident in her eyes as she hurried away.

Tanzanite took a final look around the chamber that had been their home and headquarters for so long. In her mind's eye, she could see countless possible futures branching out from this moment. Some led to capture and dissolution, others to narrow escapes and new beginnings. But in every future where their movement survived, she saw one constant: the unwavering determination of her team.

"Remember." she said, her voice carrying over the sounds of hasty preparation, "This is just another step in our long journey. The Diamonds may have the power now, but the future belongs to those who dare to imagine something better. We are the Off-Colors, the forgotten and the misfit. But we are also the visionaries, the revolutionaries. And one day, we will build a world where every Gem can shine."

With those words, Tanzanite prepared to lead her team out of their hidden base and into an uncertain future.

But, just as the Off-Colors prepared for their hasty evacuation, Tanzanite felt a familiar tug at the edge of her consciousness. It was a signal she had felt only a handful of times in her long existence, a call that superseded all other concerns. With a quick gesture to Gneiss to continue overseeing the preparations, she slipped away to her office in their base.

Tanzanite pressed her hand against a seemingly ordinary patch of wall, her gem glowing softly. The wall shimmered and revealed a small, hidden alcove containing a single, unassuming communication device. This was no ordinary Gem tech; it was a direct line to the true heart of the Off-Color movement, a connection to the one Gem who held the fate of their entire revolution in her hands.

With reverence, Tanzanite activated the device. A holographic screen flickered to life, its image distorted and obscured to prevent any possible interception. But even through the static and interference, the presence on the other end was unmistakable.

"Lady Azurite!!" Tanzanite exclaimed, her four eyes widening with respect and a touch of awe.

The figure on the screen was a study in contradictions. Her form seemed to shift and flow, at once solid as stone and fluid as water. Two gems adorned her body - one a deep and beautiful cyan, the other a vibrant, almost electric blue. They pulsed in perfect harmony, a visual representation of the incredible synergy between her component Gems and the love that the two shared.

Azurite's voice, when she spoke, was like music and thunder combined. "Tanzanite. I've just received word of trouble in your sector. Are you secure?"

Tanzanite nodded, marveling as always at Azurite's prescience. The leader of the Off-Colors didn't just see possible futures; she seemed to exist in all of them simultaneously. "For the moment. But the Intelligence Division has cracked one of our communication networks. An elite squad is en route. We are already planning to depart into Sector 4."

Azurite's form seemed to ripple, countless possible reactions playing out across her features before settling into a calm resolve. "I see. This complicates matters, but it may also present an opportunity."

Tanzanite leaned closer to the screen, drinking in every word. Azurite had been a legend among the Off-Colors for millennia, a Gem whose very existence defied the rigid categories imposed by Homeworld since it's inception. Born just a year after the terraforming of Mars began through fusion, Azurite had witnessed the rise of the Gem Empire and had dedicated her existence to imagining a different path.

The stories of Azurite's power were whispered in hidden corners throughout the Off Colors. It was said that she could absorb the light of entire suns and store it within her dual gems. This energy could be released in bursts of unimaginable force, or used to nurture and grow entire ecosystems in barren worlds. Some even claimed that Azurite could bend light to an absolute degree, creating illusions so perfect that they became reality.

But it wasn't just Azurite's power that made her the unquestioned leader of the Off-Colors. It was her vision, her unwavering commitment to creating a truly democratic society for all Gems. Even after the transition from Era 1 to Era 2, when some had thought conditions might improve, Azurite had seen the truth - that the fundamental inequalities of Gem society remained unchanged, just painted over in rose colored glass.

"Tell me, Tanzanite." Azurite continued, her voice pulling Tanzanite from her reverie, "The report also made a brief mention of the Diamond's moving their forces to a new dimension. What have you learned of the Diamonds' plans for this new dimension?"

Quickly, Tanzanite relayed everything they had discovered - the terraforming efforts, the potential for vast new resources, and the implications for both Homeworld and the Off-Color movement.

Azurite listened intently, her form shimmering as she processed the information. When Tanzanite finished, there was a moment of silence that seemed to stretch into eternity.

Finally, Azurite spoke. "This changes everything, Tanzanite. The Diamonds' expansion into a new dimension could either be the final nail in the coffin of our hopes for freedom, or it could be the opportunity we've been waiting for all these years."

Tanzanite nodded, her own future vision showing her glimpses of the paths Azurite must be seeing in their entirety. "What would you have us do?"

Azurite's form seemed to grow, filling the holographic screen. "We must know more. The Intelligence Division's squad - they may carry valuable information about this new dimension. Information we need."

Realization dawned on Tanzanite. "You want us to engage them directly?"

A smile played across Azurite's ever-shifting features. "Precisely. Not to destroy, but to gather intelligence of our own. Show them the true power of the Off-Colors and capture them, Tanzanite. Let them see that we are not mere criminals or malcontents, but a force to be reckoned with. If you can destroy their physical forms, we have an ally under our command that can withdraw there Gems directly. "

Tanzanite felt a thrill of excitement mixed with trepidation. Direct confrontation with Homeworld forces went against their usual tactics of stealth and subterfuge. But if Azurite thought it necessary...

"We'll do it." Tanzanite said, her resolve strengthening. "But what then? What's the larger plan?"

Azurite's form shimmered, countless possibilities playing out across her features. "The full scope of what's to come... I can't reveal everything, not yet. The futures are too volatile, too many variables in play. But know this, Tanzanite - we stand on the precipice of monumental change. Every action we take now will ripple out, shaping the destiny of all Gemkind. And it is for the betterment of us all."

Tanzanite nodded, understanding the need for secrecy even as part of her yearned to know more. Her trust in Azurite was absolute, built on millennia of shared struggle and an unwavering commitment to their cause.

"We won't let you down." Tanzanite promised.

Azurite's expression softened, a purposely shown moment of vulnerability showing through her usual mask of strength. "I know you won't. You and your team have been the backbone of our movement, Tanzanite. The courage and dedication you've shown... it gives me hope for the future we're fighting to create."

The holographic image began to flicker, signaling the end of their secure connection. But before it faded completely, Azurite spoke once more, her words burning with intensity.

"Remember, Tanzanite - we fight not just against the Diamonds, but for a vision of what Gem society could be. A world where every Gem, regardless of type or origin, has a voice in shaping their destiny. That dream is worth any risk, any sacrifice. Go now, and show Homeworld the true power of unity and freedom."

With those final words, the communication cut off, leaving Tanzanite alone in the dim alcove. For a moment, she stood motionless, the weight of Azurite's words settling over her like a mantle.

Then, with renewed purpose, Tanzanite emerged from the office and rejoined her team. They had paused in their evacuation efforts, sensing that something had changed.

"There's been a change of plans." Tanzanite announced, her voice ringing with authority. "We're not running. We're going to face the Intelligence Division's squad head-on."

A ripple of surprise and excitement ran through the group. Obsidian stepped forward, her dark form seeming to absorb the light around her. "A direct confrontation? That's... unexpected."

Gneiss nodded in agreement, the crystals of his form shifting uneasily. "It's risky. We've always relied on stealth and misdirection. Are you sure about this, Tanzanite?"

Tanzanite looked at each member of her team in turn, seeing the mix of apprehension and determination in their faces. These Gems had followed her through countless dangers, trusting in her leadership and the greater vision of the Off-Colors. Now, she was asking them to take perhaps their greatest risk yet.

"I understand your concerns." Tanzanite said, her voice gentle but firm. "But the situation has changed. The Diamonds' plans for this new dimension... they could change everything. We need more information, and this squad might have it."

She paused, letting her words sink in. Then, with a smile that held both warmth and steel, she continued. "More than that, this is our chance to send a message. To show Homeworld that we're not just rebels hiding in the shadows. We're a force for change, for a better future for all Gems."

Emerald spoke up, electricity crackling around her form. "I'm in. It's about time we showed those Diamond loyalists what we're really capable of. Maybe we can kick a Diamond's ass afterward!!"

One by one, the others nodded their agreement. Even Moonstone, usually the most cautious of the group, seemed energized by the prospect of direct action.

"Alright then." Tanzanite said, her form seeming to grow larger with the power of her conviction. "Let's prepare. Gneiss, I want you to set up gravitational traps along their most likely approach routes. Obsidian, you'll be our front line - your power nullification will be crucial in leveling the playing field."

As she laid out the plan, Tanzanite felt a surge of pride in her team. Each of them was extraordinary in their own right, Gems who had rejected the limitations placed on them by Homeworld and chosen to forge their own paths.

And behind them all, unseen but ever-present, was the guiding force of Azurite. Tanzanite's mind drifted back to their conversation, to the hints of the grand strategy that their leader was weaving. Whatever lay ahead, whatever challenges they might face in this new dimension or beyond, Tanzanite knew that with Azurite leading them, the Off-Colors stood a real chance of reshaping Gem society into something truly free and equal.

As the first alarms began to sound, signaling the approach of the Intelligence Division's squad, Tanzanite took her position at the head of her team. The future was uncertain, filled with danger and possibility in equal measure. But as she looked at the determined faces of her fellow Off-Colors, Tanzanite felt a surge of hope.

They were more than just rebels or outcasts. They were the vanguard of a new era, the first ripples of a wave that would sweep across the galaxy and beyond. And no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, united in their dream of a better world for all Gems.

~

As the Off-Colors prepared for their confrontation with the Intelligence Division's squad, across Homeworld, in a secure communication chamber, Grey Diamond stood before a large screen. His face was set in grim determination as he initiated a highly encrypted transmission. The screen flickered to life, revealing the imposing figure of Black Diamond.

"Black." Grey began, his tone formal but urgent. "I require your assistance in a matter of utmost importance."

Black Diamond's expression remained impassive, his dark form seeming to absorb the light around him. "Speak quickly, Grey. My time is limited."

Grey straightened, his gem pulsing slightly. "We've located a significant Off-Color cell, led by a powerful fusion. My elite squad is en route, but I fear they may be outmatched. I'm requesting the deployment of a Zero Division member to ensure the operation's success. Specifically, Jasper."

For a moment, Black Diamond was silent, his eyes narrowing almost imperceptibly. When he spoke, his voice was low and dangerous. "The Zero Division, Grey? I wasn't aware you had explicit knowledge of their existence, especially of individual members. That information is not meant for anyone outside my direct command."

Grey felt a chill run down his form, realizing his mistake too late. He had prided himself on always being the most informed, on having secrets that even his fellow Diamonds didn't know. But in his haste, he had revealed too much.

"I... may have come across some information during routine intelligence gathering." Grey admitted, trying to maintain his composure.

Black's eyes flashed dangerously. "Information that you had no right to access or retain. I'm disappointed, Grey. I thought you understood the importance of operational security better than this."

Grey's mind raced, searching for a way to salvage the situation. "My apologies, Black. You're right, of course. Perhaps we could come to an arrangement?"

Black leaned closer to the screen, his presence seeming to fill the room even through the transmission. "I'm listening."

"I'll purge all data related to the Zero Division from my servers." Grey offered. "Every scrap of information, every inference or deduction. It will be as if I never knew of their existence."

Black was silent for a long moment, his gaze boring into Grey. Finally, he spoke. "Not good enough. I want your personal assurance that you will cease all investigations into my operations, Grey. No more prying, no more 'routine intelligence gathering' where it doesn't belong. Do we understand each other?"

Grey felt the weight of Black's gaze, the unspoken threat behind his words. For a moment, he considered refusing, holding onto the precious information he had worked so hard to obtain. But one look at Black's face told him that would be a grave mistake.

"Understood." Grey said, his voice barely above a whisper. "You have my word."

Black nodded, satisfaction briefly flashing across his features. "Very well. Then I'll send Jasper to assist your squad. You requested her so I'm sure you already know how capable she is."

Grey simply nodded. Jasper was a legend, her prowess in battle unmatched. And if the rumors were true, she had only grown stronger since her encounter with the Fallen.

"Thank you, Black." Grey said, genuine relief in his voice. "This will ensure the success of our operation."

Black's expression hardened once more. "See that it does, Grey. And remember our agreement. I'll be watching."

With that, the transmission cut off, leaving Grey alone in the dimly lit chamber. He stood there for a moment, processing the exchange. It was a blow to his pride, having to give up such valuable intelligence. But the deployment of Jasper... that could change everything about the outcome of this fight.

As Grey left the communication chamber, issuing orders for the immediate purging of all Zero Division-related data, a small spacecraft was already speeding towards the coordinates of the Off-Color base.

Atop the sleek, jet-black vessel stood Jasper, her massive form silhouetted against the starry backdrop of space. Her gem gleamed on her nose, pulsing with barely contained power. The Speed Force thrummed through her, granting her abilities far beyond those of an ordinary Quartz soldier.

Jasper's eyes were fixed on the horizon, a slight smile playing on her lips. It had been too long since she had faced a real challenge. The Off-Colors might prove to be worthy opponents, a chance to truly test the limits of her newfound powers.

As the ship hurtled towards its destination, Jasper felt the familiar rush of anticipation. The wind whipped around her, but she stood unmoved, a perfect statue of power and determination. She was a member of the Zero Division, the elite of the elite, and she would not fail in her mission that Black Diamond gave to her.

The battlefield loomed ahead, unseen but felt. Two forces, each fighting for their vision of the future, were about to collide. And at the center of it all stood Jasper, a living weapon honed by millennia of conflict, empowered by forces beyond comprehension.

As the first hints of the Off-Color base appeared on the ship's sensors, Jasper's smile widened. The hunt was on, and she was ready to eliminate the ants that dared challenge the Authority.

'Let these 'Off-Colors' bring their best.' she thought.

'They will soon learn the true meaning of power.'

The ship sped on, carrying Jasper towards her destiny. The battle for the future of Gemkind was about to begin, and the following events would ripple throughout Homeworld.

[AN: The next chapter was my favorite one to write.]