10 Most Messed Up Steven Universe Moments

When a Gem's projected body sustains serious damage, they "poof" leaving only their gemstones behind. While in this state, they gather their energy to heal, returning with a slightly new form.

This concept is introduced to Steven in the season 1 episode "Steven the Sword Fighter." While watching a Japanese movie called "Lonely Blade IV," Pearl comments that the sword-fighting technique in the film is unrealistic. She offers to show Steven real sword-fighting techniques, which Steven eagerly agrees to.

Steven and the rest of the Crystal Gems go to a dilapidated temple in the clouds and Pearl creates a hologram of herself. She fights an exciting duel with the hologram, besting it to the cheers of Steven and Garnet. Steven asks if Pearl will teach him how to fight and she agrees. She begins with the basics, quickly boring Steven who requests one of the moves from his Japanese movie.

Pearl scolds Steven that he has to start with the rudimentary basics, waiting for the perfect opening. Distracted by Steven, Pearl is stabbed in the back by the hologram to the horror of Steven. With the blade of the sword impaling her, Pearl tries to calm Steven down with a light "Whoopsie daisy" but before she can explain further, she explodes into a cloud of smoke.

The image of Pearl with a sword sticking out of her chest was definitely a shock. There was light cartoon violence in the show, but this was the first time one of the main characters was seriously injured.

Steven's tear-filled eyes and cries for Pearl were clearly the same reaction a lot of fans had the first time viewing this episode.