Equestria Girls: Sapphire Souls

Thump... Thump... Thump...

"Are you all right, CJ?" Margot Sapphire's voice broke through the rhythm of CJ's pounding heart, her concern as sharp as the chill in the air.

CJ forced a faint smile, but it didn't reach her sapphire-blue eyes. With that, she tucked her hands in the pockets of her green hoodie and stared at her sneakers with a lost expression. Her voice was soft, distant. "I'm fine, Margot. It's nothing to worry about."

But her sister knew better. CJ's deflection was as familiar as an old tune, one Margot had heard countless times before. She glanced at her sister, who was staring at the imposing structure of Canterlot High. The vibrant welcome banner above the entrance felt oddly out of place in contrast to CJ's stormy thoughts.

"You sure? You seem... somewhere else," Margot pressed gently, her yellow hand brushing against CJ's turquoise hair in a comforting gesture.

CJ exhaled, a mixture of resignation and frustration. "I'm here, aren’t I?" Her voice was tinged with sarcasm, though it lacked its usual bite. She shifted the weight of her bag and added with a dry smile, "Besides, what’s the worst that can happen? I get a locker neighbor who chews gum too loud?"

Margot chuckled softly, though her worry lingered. She gave CJ a light nudge. "Anyway, I've got to go. Remember what I told you—"

"Don’t talk to strangers, eat my vegetables, and always look both ways before crossing the street. Got it." CJ smirked, raising a turquoise eyebrow in mock seriousness.

"Ha ha, very funny." Margot rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "No, CJ. I mean it. A fresh start is what you need. You know why." Her tone softened, her hand squeezing CJ’s shoulder gently. "You're my little sister, and I want to see you happy again."

CJ shifted uncomfortably, her gaze dropping to the concrete beneath her feet. The sincerity in Margot's voice felt too raw, too close to home. "Yeah, well, don't hold your breath," she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Before Margot could respond, she glanced at her watch and gasped. "Shoot! I’ve got to run. Promise me you'll try, okay? Just... try."

CJ didn’t answer, but Margot seemed satisfied with the silence. With a wave and a hurried smile, she disappeared into her car, leaving CJ alone on the school steps.

CJ stared at the cheerful facade of Canterlot High. Its bright colors and friendly aura seemed to mock her reluctance. "Here goes nothing," she muttered, taking a deep breath before stepping through the doors.

********

The moment CJ stepped into the school, she was hit by a wave of energy. The halls buzzed with chatter, laughter, and a cacophony of footsteps. The students here were a kaleidoscope of individuality—brightly colored hair, quirky outfits, and an atmosphere that felt almost too friendly.

CJ’s mind immediately jumped to an absurd thought. Any minute now, they’re all going to break into a musical number about cafeteria food. The image made her smirk despite herself.

The school was so different from what she was used to. Back home, the halls were silent save for the occasional whisper. Here, everything was alive, chaotic, and oddly welcoming. She found it unsettling.

Focus, CJ. She straightened her posture and turquoise hair tied in a long ponytail as she scanned her surroundings, her eyes landing on two figures at the far end of the hall.

"Well, if that’s not a power pose, I don’t know what is," CJ muttered under her breath. The two women, one with flowing multi-colored hair, the other with deep indigo hair, stood out like a pair of goddesses in a sea of students.

"Guessing those are the principals," CJ mused. She watched as the taller one gestured gracefully before disappearing into an office. With a reluctant sigh, CJ adjusted her bag and followed them.

Just as she reached the door, she hesitated, her hand hovering just above the surface. This is it. The moment where the head honchos size me up and decide if I’m a delinquent in disguise.

Before she could talk herself out of it, she knocked lightly.

"Come in," came a warm, melodic voice.

CJ pushed the door open, stepping into the brightly lit office. Her eyes were immediately drawn to the taller woman, who greeted her with a kind smile.

"Good morning, CJ Sapphire," the woman said, extending a hand. "I’m Principal Celestia, and this is my sister, Vice Principal Luna."

CJ shook Celestia's hand, noting the surprising warmth of her grip. "Nice to meet you," CJ replied, her tone polite but guarded.

Luna’s voice was cooler, though no less welcoming. "Welcome to Canterlot High. You’re our new student, correct?"

CJ nodded, her gaze briefly flicking to the window. The courtyard outside was serene, a sharp contrast to the lively halls she’d just walked through.

"Here’s your schedule," Celestia said, handing her a crisp sheet of paper. "This should help you get settled, though feel free to let us know if you need adjustments."

CJ glanced at the schedule, her mind already working to decipher the names and room numbers. Just as she folded the paper neatly, Celestia’s voice stopped her.

"Do you know where your locker is?"

CJ sighed, rubbing her temples. "Let me guess. You’re about to tell me it’s hidden behind a secret door protected by a troll?"

Celestia laughed softly. "Not quite. It’s number 098, and it’s fairly easy to find. But if you need help, we can arrange for someone to assist you."

"I’ll manage," CJ replied, though she wasn’t entirely confident.

"One more thing," Celestia added, her tone taking on a light, teasing quality. "We have a student guide program. Sunset Shimmer will show you around once you’re ready. She’s one of our best students—very dependable."

CJ smirked faintly. "Great. A babysitter. Just what I always wanted."

Luna arched an eyebrow, a flicker of amusement crossing her face. "I’m sure you’ll find her company... illuminating."

"Illuminating, huh? Sounds like a fun word for 'nosy,'" CJ quipped, her tone laced with dry humor.

Celestia smiled, unfazed by the sarcasm. "She’s very kind, I promise. And she knows this school better than anyone."

CJ nodded, resigned. She turned toward the door but hesitated. "Thanks... for the schedule. And the, uh, guidance."

"You’re welcome," Celestia said warmly. "And CJ?"

CJ glanced back.

"Try to enjoy your first day. You might be surprised by what you find here."

CJ smirked faintly as she stepped into the hallway, her voice barely above a murmur.

"Different, huh? Guess I love a good plot twist."

Adjusting the strap of her bag, she let her eyes wander down the bustling corridor. There was a charge in the air, something she couldn’t quite name.

This place... It felt different.

Taking a deep breath and a flicker of curiosity in her sapphire-blue eyes, CJ took her first step into the unknown, the echoes of her footfalls swallowed by the hum of Canterlot High.

The plot twist was coming. She could feel it.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Hey y’all 🫠

Thanks for reading the first chapter of Sapphire Souls!

I hope you enjoyed it, 'cause there’s so much more to come, and I’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to vote, comment, or share what you think. Your support really keeps this story going ❤️🌚

See you in the next chapter!

– Winter Rose ❄️ 🌹