CJ unlocked the door to her modest home, the key turning with a quiet click. As the door creaked open, the familiar stillness of the house greeted her, a quiet that felt heavier than it should. She hesitated in the doorway, her gaze sweeping over the neatly arranged furniture, the faint sunlight streaming through the curtains, and the faint hum of the refrigerator in the kitchen. The place wasn’t entirely unfamiliar; it was her home, afterall.

Although, there was an emptiness to it that seemed to echo back at her.

In her hands was a small pet carrier, and inside, a fluffy golden doodle with freshly groomed curls sat eagerly, tail wagging furiously against the side of the carrier. The pup let out a sharp, excited bark as CJ shut the door behind her.

“Alright, Cookie, hang on,” CJ said, setting the carrier down and unlatching it. Before she could fully open the door, Cookie bounded out in a blur of golden fluff, her tiny paws skittering across the hardwood floor.

CJ chuckled despite herself. “You’re lucky you’re cute,” she said, watching as Cookie spun in a tight circle, barking happily as if to show off her freshly groomed coat. “I think Fluttershy outdid herself. You smell like flowers and... whatever magical soap she uses.”

Cookie barked again, her tail wagging so fast it was a blur. CJ bent down to give her a quick scratch behind the ears. “Yeah, yeah, I missed you too. Let’s get some food, huh?”

She walked into the kitchen, Cookie padding close behind. The house felt too quiet without her sister, Margo, around, and CJ couldn’t help but glance toward the empty couch, as though half-expecting her older sister to appear. But Margot was at work, busy styling hair and working her magic in the salon. CJ wouldn’t see her until later, so for now, she’d have to fend for herself.

As she prepared a simple meal–just a sandwich and some leftovers–she tried not to let the stillness get to her. It was just a house, after all. A place to eat, sleep, and exist. But as she sat cross-legged on the floor, her plate balanced precariously on her lap and Cookie happily devouring her kibble nearby, CJ realized that maybe the silence wasn’t so bad.

She reached out to ruffle Cookie’s ears, watching as the pup licked her chops with an enthusiastic wag of her tail. “You’re the best company I could ask for, you know that?” CJ murmured, a small smile tugging at her lips. “At least you don’t talk back.”

Cookie barked, as if in cheerful defiance, and CJ couldn’t help but laugh. “Okay, okay. You win this round.”

For a brief moment, the weight of the house’s emptiness lifted, replaced by the warmth of her little golden doodle’s presence.

********

The next morning, CJ’s arms ached as she trudged through the crowded hallways of Canterlot High. Margot, in her infinite wisdom, had decided to "help" by surprising CJ with an assortment of books the night before. "You can never have too much to read," Margot had said, clearly unaware of how heavy books actually were when carried in bulk.

“Should’ve brought a cart,” CJ muttered under her breath, shifting the weight of the stack she was carrying. Balancing the books was like a precarious game of Jenga; one wrong move and the whole thing would come crashing down.

She managed to make it halfway down the hallway before her worst fear came true. A bump from a passing student sent the top few books tumbling to the ground.

CJ adjusted her grip on the stack of books in her arms, the weight causing her steps to wobble slightly as she navigated the bustling hallway. The noise of Canterlot High’s midday rush swirled around her—laughter, lockers slamming, snippets of hurried conversation. She was so focused on not dropping the precarious pile that she barely noticed the large bulletin board she passed, adorned with colorful flyers and a sparkling banner announcing the school’s fashion club.

A sudden bump against her shoulder jostled her balance. “Whoa!” she muttered, eyes widening as two books slipped from the top of the stack and tumbled to the ground.

"Seriously?” CJ grumbled, as if this was the most predictable disaster of her day. With an exasperated sigh, she crouched down to retrieve them, hoping no one had noticed.

“Good heavens!” came a voice from above, lilting and polished. “Let me help you, darling.”

Startled, CJ glanced up to see a girl kneeling beside her. Her violet curls shimmered as if catching the hallway’s fluorescent light just so, and her sapphire eyes sparkled with genuine concern. Without waiting for permission, the girl gracefully picked up one of the fallen books and held it out.

“I’ve got it,” CJ said quickly, ducking her head as she reached for the book. She avoided meeting the stranger’s eyes, her fingers brushing against the leather binding. “Thanks.”

“Nonsense,” the girl replied, her voice as smooth as silk. “A lady never leaves someone to fend for themselves. Especially someone new, if I’m not mistaken?” She leaned slightly forward, her gaze inquisitive yet kind. “Oh, this is quite a collection you’ve got here.” She retrieved the second book and carefully added it to CJ’s stack. “A reader, I see?”

CJ stood, clutching her books tightly. “Just transferred,” she muttered. Her tone was guarded, as it always was, but she couldn’t help noticing the girl’s impeccable poise. Her outfit—a neon blue sleeveless tank top with a frilly detail at the bottom, plus a purple belt with a diamond-shaped buckle, a purple pencil skirt, and crystal-blinged high heels—looked like something straight out of a fashion magazine. She didn’t just wear clothes; she made a statement.

“Welcome to Canterlot High, then!” the girl said, straightening and offering a dazzling smile. “I’m Rarity. And you are...?”

CJ hesitated. Socializing wasn’t on her to-do list—especially not with someone who looked like she belonged on a runway. But there was something about Rarity’s energy, her genuine warmth, that softened CJ’s reluctance. “CJ,” she finally replied. “CJ Sapphire.”

“CJ Sapphire,” Rarity repeated, her tone thoughtful as if trying the name out for size. “What a charming name! Tell me, CJ, do you have a flair for the artistic? Literature, perhaps? Or music? I do adore meeting new talents.”

CJ blinked, thrown off by the unexpected question. “Uh, I guess I like music,” she said cautiously. “But I’m not... talented or anything.”

“Nonsense!” Rarity exclaimed, waving the comment away with an elegant flick of her hand. “Everyone has a spark. It’s just a matter of discovering it. And should you ever feel inclined toward the world of fashion—or simply wish to refine your style—I would be positively delighted to assist. Truly.”

CJ shifted uncomfortably under the weight of the attention. “I’ll keep that in mind,” she said, her tone neutral but with a small undercurrent of sarcasm. “Maybe in my spare time, when I’m not, you know, holding up the entire weight of the book section.”

“Splendid!” Rarity beamed, her hands clasping together. “Well, I must dash—appointments to keep and all—but don’t hesitate to seek me out. Ta-ta for now, darling!” She gave a small wave, turned on her heel, and glided down the hall as if walking on air.

CJ watched her go, her mind spinning. The encounter had been... unexpected. People like Rarity weren’t in her usual orbit—bright, confident, and utterly unafraid to connect. It left CJ feeling both intrigued and wary. She glanced down at her books, shifting their weight again before muttering under her breath, “Huh... she’s different. Probably the only person in this place who doesn’t trip over their own shoes.”

********

The thought lingered in CJ’s mind for the rest of the day. “A stylist, huh?” It wasn’t something she’d ever considered, but then again, everything about Canterlot High was new—why not a new look to match? By the time lunch rolled around, she had made up her mind.

CJ found Rarity near the cafeteria’s outdoor seating, chatting animatedly with a group of students. Nervously adjusting her jacket, she took a deep breath and approached.

“Hey, uh... Rarity?”

Rarity turned at the sound of her name, her eyes lighting up like she’d just spotted her best friend at a party. “Ah, CJ! What a delightful surprise. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

CJ hesitated, shifting her weight from one foot to the other. “About that offer you mentioned earlier... You know, with the styling? I was thinking... maybe a change wouldn’t be so bad. Nothing too drastic, though. Just... something that makes me look, you know, better—but like, in a ‘still totally me’ kind of way. Without making me look like I fell into a box of glitter.”

Rarity’s eyes practically sparkled. “Darling, I knew you had an eye for self-improvement! Fear not, for you’ve come to the right place. I shall craft a look that enhances your natural beauty while staying true to your unique aura. Trust me—you’ll adore it.”

CJ blinked, momentarily stunned by Rarity’s enthusiasm. She tried to match the energy, but her smile came out more awkward than anything. “Right. Sure. That... sounds good, I guess.”

“Oh, it will be perfect! You’ll be practically glowing!” Rarity clasped her hands together like she was about to launch into a monologue. “I’ll design a look that’ll highlight your best features while keeping everything you. Trust me, darling, it’s going to be fabulous!”

CJ rubbed her neck, feeling a slight blush creep onto her cheeks. “Yeah, okay, I guess I’ll just... brace myself for the magic you’re about to work. Don’t go turning me into some kind of runway model, though.”

Rarity giggled with an almost musical laugh. “Oh, darling, I would never make you something you’re not! Think of it as a little... enhancement.” Her eyes gleamed with excitement. “Come by my boutique after school—don’t worry, it’s right here on campus—and we’ll get started. I already have a million ideas swirling in my head!”

CJ just nodded, trying to keep her expression neutral. “Right. After school. Thanks, Rarity. I... appreciate it.”

“Think nothing of it, darling! Fashion is my way of spreading joy and confidence to the world!” Rarity waved it off like it was no big deal. “I’ll see you after class. We’re going to have so much fun!”

As CJ walked away, she couldn’t decide whether she was looking forward to it or regretting it already. A change sounded good, but knowing Rarity, she’d probably end up walking out looking like a walking Pinterest board. Still, maybe this wasn’t such a bad idea... after all, what was the worst that could happen?

********

CJ stood in the center of Rarity’s boutique, arms crossed over her chest as she glanced uneasily at the fitting room door. The boutique was dazzling, to say the least—mannequins dressed in vibrant, trendy outfits lined the walls, and every inch of the space seemed to shimmer with creativity. But despite its charm, CJ couldn’t shake her nerves.

This wasn’t exactly her idea of a good time. Sure, Rarity had meant well with her offer, but CJ wasn’t used to being the center of attention, let alone being styled. She felt like a mannequin herself, waiting to be molded into something she wasn’t sure she could pull off.

Rarity, however, was the picture of enthusiasm. She circled CJ like an artist studying her canvas, murmuring to herself as she held up different fabrics and accessories, occasionally pausing to tap a finger to her chin.

“I can tell you’re nervous, darling,” Rarity said finally, her voice soft but reassuring. She paused to meet CJ’s gaze, her sapphire-blue eyes warm and kind. “But I promise, you’ll look absolutely fabulous when I’m done. Trust me, I know these things.”

CJ shifted her weight from one foot to the other, unsure. “It’s not that I don’t trust you. It’s just... I’ve never done anything like this before. What if it’s too much? Or not... me?”

Rarity smiled gently, placing a comforting hand on CJ’s shoulder. “Oh, darling, I would never dream of making you into someone you’re not. My goal is simply to bring out the best of you. Nothing over-the-top, nothing that doesn’t feel true to who you are. A fresh start, yes, but one that still reflects your essence.”

CJ sighed, some of the tension in her shoulders easing. “Alright. I’ll give it a shot. Just... don’t make me look ridiculous, okay?”

Rarity laughed lightly, giving her an encouraging pat on the arm. “Ridiculous? Perish the thought! Now, into the fitting room you go. Let the magic begin!”

Reluctantly, CJ stepped into the fitting room, leaving Rarity to work her magic with the outfit she’d prepared.

********

After some time spent in the fitting room, CJ emerged, her steps tentative as she smoothed down the loose white shirt. She avoided looking in the mirror, unsure if she was ready to see the “masterpiece” Rarity had created.

Rarity was standing nearby, practically bouncing with excitement, her hands clasped together. “Now, darling, are you ready to see the masterpiece?” she asked, her voice brimming with enthusiasm.

CJ hesitated for a moment, then gave a small nod. “I guess so...”

With a dramatic flourish, Rarity stepped aside and gestured toward the full-length mirror. “Ta-da!” she exclaimed, her grin stretching from ear to ear.

CJ’s eyes slowly drifted to her reflection. The transformation was subtle but undeniable. The loose white shirt she wore now hung off her shoulder in a carefree yet stylish way, the blue musical note at its center glowing with personality. Her turquoise hair, styled into loose space buns with the rest falling softly down her back, framed her face beautifully, adding a sense of playful sophistication.

As CJ took in the outfit—the unbuttoned deep green checkered shirt draped over her shoulders as a top layer to the white shirt with its sleeves rolled up to her elbows, the gray jeans fitting snugly, and the olive green ankle boots tying everything together—Rarity walked up beside her and tilted her head. Her expression softened into a smile as her gaze rested on CJ’s face.

“Darling,” Rarity began, gesturing toward CJ’s face, “I must say, that combination of layers and hues does wonders for your entire look. But your eyes,” she added with a dreamy sigh, “they truly are the centerpiece—positively striking! Sapphire blue, you said?”

CJ froze for a split second, her smile faltering slightly. She glanced away, hesitating before responding. “Yeah... they’re great, aren’t they?”

Rarity’s gaze lingered on her, her eyes narrowing slightly in thought. She leaned in closer, studying CJ’s face with a scrutinizing but gentle expression. “Hmm, you know, darling... they’re not actually sapphire blue.”

CJ stiffened, her body language growing defensive as she quickly turned her gaze to the side. “Well,” she started, her tone a little clipped, “they’re close enough.”

But Rarity wasn’t deterred. “Actually, if I had to guess, I’d say they’re more lapi—”

Before Rarity could continue, CJ abruptly cut in, her voice quick and rehearsed. “Lapis lazuli blue. Yes, I know.”

The abruptness made Rarity pause, her perfectly shaped brows raising in surprise. “Oh! Well, if you already know the color, why did you say they were sapphire blue?”

CJ hesitated, glancing at her reflection before letting out a short, slightly nervous laugh. “CJ Sapphire,” she said lightly, as if the answer was obvious. “Sapphire blue eyes just... made sense, I guess. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be named after a precious gem? It’s practically marketing 101.” She let out another half-chuckle, masking the small lump of unease rising in her throat.

Rarity smiled warmly, studying CJ’s face. “Well, darling, sapphire or lapis lazuli, your eyes are absolutely beautiful. You don’t need to change or... embellish something that’s already so lovely.”

For a moment, CJ’s expression softened, genuinely touched. Then, she smirked faintly, glancing at Rarity with an almost playful gleam in her eyes. “You sure it’s not because you don’t want me to steal your thing?” she teased, referring to Rarity’s own sapphire blue eyes.

Rarity blinked, then laughed in surprise. “Oh, CJ! But no, darling, I think there’s plenty of room in this world for both of us to share the spotlight.”

CJ shrugged, a small smirk still playing on her lips. “Guess you're right. No need to compete over just the eyes, huh?”

"Of course, darling. They're perfect just the way they are."

The words seemed to catch CJ off guard. For a moment, she looked genuinely touched, her expression softening. But then, as if catching herself, she gave a small, awkward smile and shrugged. “Thanks. I guess I never thought about it that way.”

Rarity beamed, satisfied, and clapped her hands together. “And now, the rest of the look! Isn’t it marvelous? The green tones draw attention to your boots, and that checkered shirt—it’s casual yet refined. Truly a reflection of your personality, darling!”

CJ nodded slowly, still processing the moment as she took in the rest of her reflection. “It’s... different,” she admitted, her voice quieter. “But not bad. I think I can live with it.”

“Different is good!” Rarity said brightly, placing a hand on CJ’s shoulder. “And if you ever need a little more magic, you know where to find me.”

For a brief moment, CJ allowed herself to relax. The outfit felt like more than just clothes; it was a small step toward opening up, toward letting someone else see her for who she was. Sure, it wasn’t the wild reinvention she was dreading, but it wasn’t as bad as she feared either. A compromise, she thought, that didn’t make her feel like she was losing herself.

“Thanks, Rarity,” she said, her voice steady but sincere. “This wasn’t as bad as I thought it’d be.”

“Anytime, darling,” Rarity replied with a wink. “Now go out there and show the world just how fabulous you are!”

As Rarity fussed with the final adjustments to CJ’s new look, CJ caught a faint glimmer of green from the corner of her eye. Her body tensed. The light was subtle, like a firefly in the twilight, but it was unmistakable. Her heart quickened as she realized what it was.

Sliding her hand discreetly into her jacket pocket, she felt the smooth surface of the small jade gemstone she had found days ago near the Wondercolts' statue. It was warm to the touch, almost as if it were alive. CJ’s fingers curled protectively around it, her mind racing. Why now? she wondered. Then again, she had been expecting it. Magic, always showing up at the most inconvenient moments.

“Darling, is everything all right?” Rarity’s voice pulled her back to the moment. She glanced up to see Rarity studying her with a mixture of curiosity and concern.

“Y-yeah,” CJ stammered, forcing a small smile. “I just remembered I have something to do.” She grabbed her hoodie jacket hastily, slinging it on as she prepared to leave.

Rarity gave her a knowing smile, though her tone remained polite. "Of course, dear. I hope you enjoy the new look—and remember, my boutique is always open if you need anything else."

CJ nodded, muttering a quick "Thanks, Rarity," before practically bolting out the door.

The hallway was eerily quiet, the faint hum of fluorescent lights the only sound. CJ leaned against a nearby wall, pulling the gemstone from her pocket. The green light pulsed faintly now, like a heartbeat, stronger than the last time she had noticed it. She turned it over in her hand, its mysterious glow casting soft reflections on her face.

“What are you?” she murmured under her breath. The gemstone offered no answers, only its persistent, enigmatic shimmer. Each time she's met one someone, the light grew brighter. It wasn’t just coincidence—it couldn’t be.

Her thoughts swirled as she stared at the gem, her reflection faintly visible in its polished surface. It felt like the gemstone was trying to tell her something, though she had no idea what. She clenched her fist around it, a spark of determination igniting within her.

“This isn’t random,” she whispered to herself, standing upright. “You’re here for a reason. And I’m going to figure out what it is—why me, why now.”

With that, CJ slipped the gemstone back into her pocket, its light dimming as it nestled against her. She took a deep breath and started down the hallway, her footsteps echoing softly in the empty space. The questions in her mind were endless, but for the first time in a long while, CJ felt a flicker of purpose.

Whatever this gemstone was, whatever it meant—it wasn’t done with her yet. And she wasn’t about to let it go.

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********

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Update!

Decided to change the outfit after some deep, deep contemplation 🤧🫠🫠

Gotta get to work with clearing that up I guess 🤧🤧