Connie Maheswaran is Steven Universe's best friend-turned-girlfriend, and a member of the Crystal Gems who debuted in the episode "Bubble Buddies". After meeting Steven, she slowly began to learn about him, the Gems, and their past. Growing a strong bond with them, Connie decided that she wanted to help him and the Crystal Gems whenever danger arose in the Earth, training how to fight using a sword with Pearl since "Sworn to the Sword". She eventually becomes a skilled combatant and often aids the Gems during times of conflict. Years later, Connie begins to devote most of her time to studying and applying to colleges. She sticks by Steven's side as he deals with his years' worth of suppressed trauma. After helping Steven cope, Steven and Connie decide to meet up with each other as she tours the country on college tours, and he tours the world to find himself. It is revealed that the two are officially dating by the end of the series.