I don't blame you, Rose thought sadly as she placed the Bismuth's bubbled Gem next to the tree. She wiped the tears from her eyes.

I'm sorry I did this to you, she thought. I should have seen the signs. I should have chosen my words better. I ...

I should have been better. If I hadn't have fought as fiercely as I did, if I hadn't encouraged your anger at Homeworld as much, if I hadn't had pushed you towards making weapons in the first place ...

If I had just been a better leader, you wouldn't have ...

Rose looked at the ground, ashamed.

I'm sorry, old friend, she thought. I told you you could be more than what you were. You succeeded, but I did not.

With my words, all I did was the only thing Quartzes were ever meant to do ...

Destroy.

I destroyed the good in you. I failed you...

I won't let anyone blame you for what I turned you into.

I promise.

Rose told Pearl she lost track of Bismuth.

Pearl was clearly concerned.

Rose comforted Pearl, said she was sure Bismuth was alright.

And Pearl believed her.

Pearl smiled at Rose. Rose forced a smile back, the sweetest one she could manage.

I am scum, Rose thought bitterly as she did.

After a moment, Pearl's smile faltered.

"I do hope we find her soon though," Pearl said. "It just ... it isn't the same around here without her, you know?"

Rose frowned.

"Yes," Rose said. "I know."