Episode 24:
Canterlot Boutique
At the Carousel Boutique, Rarity was busy with her work like always to match the store’s usually busy day. She levitated a few swatches from the shelf to start working on a new outfit she had planned until her eyes darted upwards at the clock. Immediately, she smiled and dropped the swatches and dashed towards the window with a wide smile on her face eagerly anticipating someone very important coming her way.
However her smile dropped when she saw that nopony was there. It was already nine o’clock and her expected guest still isn’t here. She moved to get back to work while sighing in disappointment. But seconds later she gasped excitedly when she heard the bell ringing again.
"Was that the Pony Post?!" She asked, turning her head in the sound’s direction to see… just her cat playing with one of her mouse toys, with a ringing bell collar. Rarity groaned in disappointment, "Oh, it's just you, Opal." The cat, Opalescence, meowed in annoyance as she took her toy into her mouth and walked to the corner to continue playing.
"Ohhh… Every other day he's here like clockwork! Not today! What could possibly be holding him up?!"
To her unexpected surprise, a certain energetic pink pony appeared on the window, her face plastered on it with her signature warm and big-eyed happy smile.
"Strawberry cinnamon cilantro salutations!" She greeted before zipping out of view.
"What?"
"What indeed."
Rarity was startled when both the pink pony along with the happy easy-going honey badger and task oriented white egret all appeared before her with the former carrying a tray of odd-looking baked goods.
"I bet you're wondering what warrants such a welcome!" Pinkie asked before explaining. "Well, that welcome is warranted by a pony who just taught her best pal Bunga to whisk up a warm batch of strawberry cinnamon cilantro cupcakes!"
“Took all of my strength to keep myself from eating this batch from Sugarcube Corner to here!” Bunga proudly remarked.
“After eating two batches of those treats!” Ono groaned in agony along with his growling gut from the one cupcake he was force fed along the way.
“But I still did it! After all third time’s the charm!” He proudly stood by his claim before helping himself to one. “Mmm! Yum!” He commented as the taste of the treat sinks into his mouth and teeth all while oblivious to Rarity cringing when Pinkie Pie tossed one of the cupcakes into her mouth into a loud chomp.
"That strangely sickening flavor combination doesn't sound as bad as it tastes." Pinkie commented all with her lowered ears, irises widening and cheeks bloating, still holding the cupcake in her mouth. Despite her best efforts it was pretty clear that this is not quite her best cupcake flavor combo to date, especially when Pinkie stuck out her tongue, which is now covered in green flakes. "And yet, I can't stop eating them!" She said with a wide smile.
"So we came here to offer you some!" Bunga offered his friend a cupcake, but Rarity wasn’t interested in the stomach ache it promises should she try it.
“Thanks Bunga. But I’m going to pass, okay. I’m trying to keep a full stomach up for a letter I’m expecting right about now." She politely declined.
"Oh, yeah! That reminds me! I have this letter for you, Rarity!" Bunga moved to pull out the envelope he had tucked inside his fur. "The post pony was going to deliver it, but after a strawberry cinnamon cilantro cupcake, he was feeling kinda queasy. And since we were heading over anyway, I figured I could do it for him! Here you go!"
She levitated the envelope with her magic and then sprayed with a freshener before moving to rip it open so she can pull out and read the letter inside. Once the paper was unfolded she spoke to herself what was written on it while both Bunga and Pinkie continued eating the cupcakes and Ono quickly moved to snatch a bottled soda Bunga brought with him to get his queasy stomach to settle down. Once Rarity was done reading she let out an excitable gasp/shriek and giggled with glee like a kid in a candy store and a happy schoolgirl.
"What's it say?" Pinkie asked with her mouth full.
"I got it!"
Pinkie Pie and Bunga both cheered happily at the news both doing somersault while celebrating.
"Woo-hoo! Got what?"
“Yeah what she said because we have no idea what you’re talking about.”
"She got the desired location for the new boutique shop she wants to open in Cantelot.” Ono explained with his stomach now feeling better after ingesting that soda. “Phew! That’s better!”
”Oh, I have been holding out for the perfect location, and it finally became available!” Rarity happily expressed. “So now I can fulfill my dream of opening a boutique in Canterlot!"
“Oh yeah! Congratulations!” Bunga moved to shake the unicorn’s hoof while Pinkie Pie hoped around the shop.
"Whoo! I'm so excited, I think I'm gonna lose my cupcakes!" she stopped in midair, feeling queasy already, and zipped away to vomit in the bathroom, leaving Rarity to giggle and gallop in place.
Ono can only shake his head in amusement for the fact it’s not him throwing up in there for once. “I think you just did.” He called after her before turning his attention back to the happy unicorn who has waited every day since her big career boost from winning the Manehattan Fashion Show for this dream to come.
And now with all of that hard work and patient waiting finally paying off her dreams were finally coming true.
Sometime later, the Lion and Pony Guard with Spike accompanying them boarded their train and made their way on over when they reached the Canterlot train station.
“Wow! A new store right here in Canterlot!” Beshte was the first to express his happiness upon exiting the train. “I can’t believe today is day it’s actually happening!”
“Well she’s definitely earned...“ Fuli commented equally happy for Rarity. “…after all Rarity is such a savvy business pony.”
“I know!” Ono agreed. “Using the huge bonus she earned making the costumes for Sapphire Shores' Equestria-wide tour to open this second boutique was pure genius!"
“A pretty good investment if you ask me.” Kion commented already looking forward to seeing the new place himself.
Already in just a minute they had managed to arrive at the boutique and it was everything Rarity had dreamed of wanting and having.The boutique itself was much bigger than the one in Ponyville. The exterior was painted in light shades of violet, purple and magenta, along with crystal clear windows adorned with golden edges and a heart shaped window at the center of the front door.
Inside is where it gets even more of an eyesight that Ono’s eyes would sparkle upon seeing. It was a two stories tall with a spiral staircase leading up towards the upper ring of the shop, with clothes on every shelf in the store. There is silk hanging from the walls and several balloons tied up on the railings all fitting and set up for the store’s grand opening. There is also a table nearby where there are treats and snacks for the costumers and friends. In addition there was one large room which will serve as Rarity's personal work space.
Upon getting inside everyone of her friends were left in awe at how amazing the place it is, all very fitting for a professional and beautiful buisnesspony.
"I take it from your reaction that you like the boutique?" Rarity asked with a knowing smile that says she knows she knows they do.
"It's lovely." Fluttershy commented with a bright smile.
“It’s just about everything you said it would be! Remarkable!” Kyoga complimented. “Definitely your style!”
"Gosh, Rarity. I know hard work when I see it, and it looks like you worked your hooves to the nub!" Applejack commented looking on very impressed with the hard work and dedication she helped put into this place.
"I don't know." Pinkie said otherwise while inspecting Rarity's hooves, "Those hooves don't look nubby. They look scrubbied and buffied and pedied!"
"Well, despite my 'nubby scrubby buffy pony pedi, I actually have been working very hard!" Rarity explained as she kindly drew her hoof away. "However, I never could have gotten the boutique ready for the grand opening without the help of my new manager Sassy Saddles!"
Everyone turned their attention to see just recently mentioned unicorn enter the room. Said mare is very tall and thin, on par with Princess Cadance’s build. She has a light blue coat, orange eyes, and a matching orange mane with yellow streaks in it. In addition she has blue eye shadows, wore a dark purple dress, and a golden saddle-shaped accessory on her back. Her horn was glowing in a bright gold aura while levitating a clipboard. She lowered it down as she widened her eyes and smiled when she sees Rarity alongside her friends.
"Bust my buttons, Rarity! And the Lion and Pony Guard themselves!"
The friends happily greeted the nice unicorn with smiles and waves along with the casual greeting words.
"I knew I needed a manager for Canterlot Carousel," Rarity explained, "so when Sassy showed me her resumé and I saw that she worked in all of the finest boutiques in Canterlot, I hired her right on the spot!"
Sassy Saddles levitated a long folded paper in front of everyone, "I then laid out this plan, or "pattern" as we say…” She said the last bit to Twilight personally knowing full well of her kind of personality. “…in the fashion biz, for Canterlot Carousel so that Rarity's boutique will be a guaranteed success and those doors will never, ever, ever close!" Based on the plan she displayed, the unicorn's excitement very well showcased her dedication and passion in the fashion business as much as Rarity wanting to get this shop up and running.
"Wow, Sassy. Your attention to detail is truly impressive." Twilight complimented.
“Very keen if I may add! Meaning truly on point with Rarity’s desires! And that’s coming from the bird that’s helped put together many of designs!” Ono added in agreement while blushing a bit given that he’s not exactly a feminine person in this kind of business.
“Why thank you Ono! The Keenest of Sight. “Sassy returned feeling delighted before moving to unfold part of the paper, showcasing an image of the boutique with a pin over the image, "I've already put a pin in the first piece of the pattern – Beautify the Boutique! But next was the very crucial pattern piece – Marketing to the Mares!" She unfolded the paper more, showcasing an image of a megaphone and various ponies listening with great smiles. "Turns out that everypony here loves royalty!"
“Wow!” Kion commented sounding amazed himself. “Imagine that!”
Rarity then added in. "So I created a collection that beautifully revolves around the royal element of Canterlot!"
Sassy Saddles approached her along with the alicorn and half-alicorn. "And it just so happens there's, not one, but a hot new prince and princess in Equestria!" She said the last part with a special interest as she eyed Twilight once more.
Rarity quickly moved to gesture the unicorn to remember her friends need for personal space. "In every poll Sassy Saddles took, you two were the most popular princess and prince!" Rarity said, "Coincidentally, one of my gowns is inspired by the window in Canterlot Castle commemorating your coronation Twilight. And as for you Kion, the same can be said for your tuxedo.”
Sassy stood on the stage, removing the curtains to reveal a stunning one of a kind gown and tuxedo jacket.
The skirt had three pieces of fabric stitched together, the first one was aquamarine blue, the middle half was ocean blue, and the lower half was purple, each with an increasing shade of transparency. Each piece was decorated with patters that makes it form the shape of star constellations on a stain glass window. Two fake white wings were placed on the back of the top edge and there is a crystal-like star to serve as the top of the dress to match the stain glass imagery of the dress.
As for the tuxedo, the jacket itself has the same color as the first piece of the skirt, the vest is the same color as the middle half of the skirt, and the bow-tie is the same color as the lower half of the skirt.
Everyone was astonished by the beauty of the designs.
“While I've always prided myself on paying attention to detail, I've taken my latest collection to a whole new level with "Rarity's Rules of TLC"!"
Pinkie Pie then appeared ridding on a design dummy, which was wearing an unfinished piece on it, "Judging by this baby, TLC stands for Tasty Liquorice Candy!" She slid down, causing the skirt part to fall off and land on her head.
“Really?” Bunga curiously eyed it before daring to a take a bite out of it. But Fuli was quick to snatch the skirt away before putting it back in its place.
“No.” Fuli shook his head towards the honey badger to get him to refrain from trying that again. “That’s not it. Especially when we’re talking about fashion not candy.” Both the honey badger and pony chuckled in embarrassment.
"TLC stands for 'Time, Love, and Couture'." Rarity explained before placing the dummy back in her room and closed the door to avoid anyone else the opportunity to fool around with the various designs in there. "And while I do agree that these dresses have potential, I've not had enough time to give them enough love to become couture. But the rest of the gowns in tonight's line have met Rarity's Rules and are ready to be presented!"
Sassy Saddles's horn glowed while she rose up her pattern, "My marketing research also confirmed that customers that viewed somebody famous wearing a gown wish to own that gown for themselves." She unfolded the paper and placed it on the wall in front of them which showed an image of Rarity with a star behind her. "I call this piece of the pattern Celebrity Status!"
Rarity's ears lowered shyly as she hesitated a little before asking both the prince princess, "So, Twilight, Kion I was hoping if you both might possibly wear these tonight?"
Both the prince and princess were quick to reply while happily to oblige to their wishes with the latter speaking out for herself and the former.
"If being a prince and princess in wearing that dress and tuxedo helps your boutique in any way, then I say stick a pin in it!" Using her magic, she levitated a pin and stuck it into the image Sassy just showed. The unicorn herself smiled happily at their response, especially Twilight.
"Alright, everybody! Let's set the stage! It's time to open up shop!"
“Ever since I was a little filly, all I've ever wanted was to own a boutique here in Canterlot. Somebody pinch me! I'm about to open the doors to that very boutique!" Rarity happily expressed as she sees more and more of how her biggest dreams are actually coming true. “OW!” She screamed as she finds someone literally did pinch her and wound up karate kicking said pincher into the wall behind her.
“Oof!” Bunga grunted as grubs are circling in his eyes. “You know what they say! A pinch helps to grow an inch!” He got out before passing out.
“Oh my!” Rarity blushed while looking on apologetically and placed a hoof to cover her mouth in shock.
While Kion and Beshte moved to check up on him, Fuli looked on with a proud smile.
“Don’t worry about. He’s fine. Nothing his favorite bugs and dung beetles won’t cure.” She assured feeling she would have done the same thing if she were in her hooves.
With everything all said and done regardless with what happened, the doors opened and Rarity opened her mouth to greet her new clients...
"Welcome to the grand opening of Canterlot Carousel!" Sassy Saddles greeted while literally overshadowing Rarity’s big moment, not to mention literally blocking her view.
The white unicorn was left shocked, speechless and disappointed with what she just did. Her friends reacted the same way. This was not what she was expecting at all in the slightest.
Regardless, Sassy's introduction did get the ball rolling. One by one, she greeted the costumers that entered the store, "Oh, hello! Oh, nice to see you! Welcome, welcome! Oh, I'm so happy to see you…"
"That Sassy totally stepped on your hooves, Rarity." Applejack commented.
“Couldn’t agree more.” Fuli said likewise.
“Oh, no!" Pinkie exclaimed, "Did she mess up that nice pony pedi?!" She inspected Rarity's hooves, while she was still in a state of shock much to Twilight, Fuli, and Ono’s eye rolling dismay.
“No Pinkie, she didn’t.” Ono flatly replied while slapping a wing over his eyes in response to her needless actions.
She sighed in relief when she saw that nothing is wrong with them. "Okay. Phew!"
Rarity snapped out of it as she tried to rationalize with what Sassy just did. "Oh, I don't think she meant to. Besides, as my manager it is her job to help make a good first impression. She was only doing her job is all."
“Are you sure what she just did is just doing her job?” Kion asked with heavy emphasis to hint that she didn’t seem to understand her boundaries (discounting her dealings with Twilight) “Because it looked like she was over-stepping your authority.”
“If not undermining her authority.” Ono added.
Said pony approached her boss. "Rarity, are you ready to reveal the collection?"
Fuli narrowed her eyes at her while speaking to Rainbow Dash under her breath, "Is she sure she doesn't want do it herself?"
Rainbow Dash snorted bitterly under her breath in response. "Yeah."
"Yes, I am." Rarity responded before turning to both the prince and princess. “Twilight, Kion would kindly get ready?”
“Of course.”
“We’ll get ready.”
They happily obliged as they moved to make their way towards the dressing room so they can get ready for the show.
Upon seeing the concerned look Rarity was showing Ono flew over to give this advice to her. “Everything will be okay. Just feel free to remind Sassy who’s boss if you have to.”
Feeling a little more confident, Rarity moved to step up on stage as she made her announcement to the crowd.
"Fillies and gentlecolts! I am designer and couturier Rarity, I'd like to welcome you – again" She laughed nervously at the last bit. "– to the grand opening of Canterlot Carousel, and I'm thrilled that you are here to see my newest collection inspired by this regal city!"
The curtain opened behind her to reveal four original gowns on display. Oohs came from the crowd and several unicorns levitated their cameras to snap pictures. Sassy Saddles smiled in satisfaction, that things are to their liking.
However Rarity was once more surprised when BGM music started to play and she saw each of her gowns being levitated and danced in a circle above the crowd, wowing them even more courtesy of Sassy Saddles something that she never planned to do nor was consulted about it by her.
She walked down the small stairs of the stage to try to speak with her manager before she was stopped by a male unicorn pony with a dark blue coat and three gold Hollywood-like stars for a cutie mark and gray colored mane and tail, wearing a pair of stylish sunglasses and a red bandana.
"Rarity, I'm—"
"Fashion Plate of Cosmare magazine!" She concluded with excitement, "I'm so honored that Cosmare was able to do a piece on the grand opening of my boutique!"
"Well, when Sassy Saddles calls, saying she's found the latest and greatest in fashion, we hightail without fail! Now tell me all about your latest collection!"
"Oh, uh, it's called "Rarity's Royal Regalia"."
Fashion Plate gasped with delight and his photographers took more pictures, "Royally radiant!"
"My favorite part of being a designer is finding my inspiration, and that really wasn't difficult when it came to Canterlot." While Rarity explained, Sassy Saddles was working her magic…again. She lowered down an image of Canterlot city behind the unicorn, much to her surprise but went along with it as she continued to explain her design methods to the audience. "Everywhere I looked, the royal city just spoke to me! I call it "In-spire-ation"." She said as one of her gowns lowered down from above.
The gown was a lilac shade of purple, decorated with stars and a headpiece that resembled the gold and purple rooftops of the Canterlot castle. The gown got the crowd oohing with delight. Fashion Plate could not wipe off the smile on his face as his followers took millions of pictures by the minute.
"Genius! Simply genius!"
Sassy made another poster appear behind Rarity, one that depicted a pond of lilies, that her boss had never planned, but still pressed forward with it.
"I spent hours by the lily pond on the castle grounds, which inspired this gown – "Water Filly"!"
Another gown appeared, one with a long sleeved blue shirt, decorated with bubbles, leaves and red stones, the skirt resembled the leaves of the water lilies itself.
"Oh, the whimsy!" Fashion Plate further complimented.
"Watching Celestia raise the sun each morning literally lit up my day…" A literal ray of sunshine appeared behind her with another one of her gowns appeared before the audience. "This is "Tripping the Light"."
The gown itself was inspired by Celestia herself, consisting of the colors of her mane. The skirt was blue and long with cloud-like edges, and another small light green skirt sewn together with purple edges on the end of it, a purple belt and a blue top with a sun-shaped broach, and a white wing collar with purple wing-shaped shoes.
"Fantastic!"
The lights dimmed and Rarity giggled seeing that this showcase is going smoothly even with Sassy controlling the show itself. "And of course, Luna raising the moon guided me to sleep. I call this "Over the Moon"!" The stage was now decorated with stars hanging from the ceiling and a crescent moon, where her Luna-inspired gown stood.
The dress top was dark purple with a white crescent moon at the center and an equally matching white-colored pearled collar and a purple bow. The belt was made of white pearls and the skirt was a lighter shade of purple with blue stones at the bottom, making it shimmer and shine.
"Well, I certainly am!" Fashion Plate smiled feeling very delighted with what he is seeing.
"And for our finale, I have something very special. As many of you might know, there was an epic battle of good vs. evil both in the Pride Lands and at the Crystal Empire which I had the honor of helping rescue the hostages back then. Back then I was inspired by the stained glass windows created in honor of both Princess Twilight and Prince Kion to create this new dress and a matching tuxedo…I call this "The Reigns in Stain"!"
"Because the dresses are inspired by the—"
"—stained glass window of two reigning princesses!" Rarity and Fashion Plate finished together in unison, equally enthusiastic.
"Yes!"
Sassy Saddles cleared her throat, getting Rarity’s attention, "Oh, well, I think "The Reigns in Stain" is too difficult to explain! Especially for the signature piece of a collection?"
"But I rather like the—" Rarity was interrupted before she could continue as she once again overstepped her bounds.
"Fillies and gentlecolts, I, Sassy Saddles, am pleased to introduce the grand finale of the grand opening of Rarity's Royal Regalia – the "Prince Tux and Princess Dress"!
The spotlight shone up high on the staircase, showcasing both Twilight and Kion wearing the new gown and tux made by Rarity's designs. The prince and princess made the outfits look even more beautiful than before. The crowd gasped in awe at the beauty and design of the tux and gown itself.
Fashion Plate gasped seeing it is a wonderful sight to behold. "Success!"
The crowd continued oohing and chattering happily as Kion and Twilight both made their way down the stairs, smiling and waving at the crowd.
Rarity looked on proudly as everyone marvels at the gown and tux seeing they all love her creations. After everything that happened, it still proven to be a grand opening no pony shall forget.
Once the prince and princess reached the end of the stairs, Sassy Saddles addressed to the crowd while levitating her clipboard. "Everypony, please follow me and you can all place your orders for the Prince Tux and Princess Dress!"
Instantly everyone already formed a line around Sassy, while Kion and Twilight’s tux and gown shimmered underneath the spotlight.
Fashion Plate smiled at the fashion designer as he approached her once more. "Rarity, I want to be the first pony to congratulate you! The Princess Dress has just guaranteed Canterlot Carousel's success!"
The unicorn walked off of the stage, where she is greeted with praise and congrats from her friends.
“Once again you have amazed me.” Kyoga complimented with a proud smile.
"Yeah! Your Royal Regalia is amazing!" Twilight agreed as she approached her friend. "And everypony seemed to love the Prince Tux and Princess dress!"
"You bet your saddle that did!” Sassy said in agreement as she approached the group, levitating a tall stack of papers. "You now have one hundred orders for your signature gown and tux!"
Rarity's jaw nearly dropped to the floor in horror as she stammered her next words in shock, "One hundred orders?! All at one time?!"
"According to my pattern, the next piece is The Success of the Signature Dress, so I do not see the problem!"
Sassy may not see she is doing anything wrong, from a business perspective that is, but Rarity however saw it to be quite a big deal given that she has been overstepping her bounds and undermining her authority in front of her guests by calling all of the shots without her say so. Rarity’s eye twitched in anger as it was slowly boiling inside as she narrowed her eyes at her.
The others could correctly sense that Sassy is ticking her off without realizing it. But none of them were about to get involved in something that Rarity can handle herself.
"Cupcake?" Pinkie offered to help ease up the tension in the air to which they were all quick to seize on the offer on a silver platter (literally).
Rarity felt better knowing that her friends know that she can deal with this herself which was a great gesture of good faith on their part before moving to clear her throat before speaking to her manager. "First of all, Sassy Saddles, I would have appreciated getting to name the final gown from my collection myself."
Sassy released a short laugh before replying, "My research shows that your "Reigns in Stain" name was a play on words that was both very confusing and quite unappealing."
Kion growled in response and bared his teeth while digging his claws into the floor to keep himself from exploding in anger. Given that he has seen firsthand what can happen if he is not careful about choosing his battles and it nearly fractured his friendship with Twilight, he is really and barely keeping it together.
To help him out with it Bunga quickly placed a cupcake in his paw to treat him to something that’ll help keep his mind off of it. Kion moved to munch on while turning his back on Sassy Saddles. Due to the combined ingredients leading to a spicy flavor he ended up sporting a literal red hot flaming mane upon consuming it. Upon seeing this, Pinkie quickly tossed a handful of her ice blue candies to quickly get the burning lion to cool off before he accidentally frightens the crowd and alerts the nearby firefighters.
Rarity released a disgruntled laugh in response before continuing trying to get her to understand why she has an issue with it. "While I see your point, we should have discussed it prior to the grand opening, Sassy."
"My only goal is for Canterlot Carousel to succeed." Sassy sincerely said in her defense. "That's why I changed the name, and that is why I took all those orders for the Princess Dress and Prince Tux."
"But… But receiving orders for one hundred dresses in one day, i--it's just too much too soon!"
"Are you actually saying we should... cancel these orders?!"
"Wha… But…" Rarity stammered before replying and conceding in defeat. "Uh, n-no, Sassy. Promises were made, and I shall sew my very best to provide each and every pony a Princess Dress and Prince Tux full of TLC."
"Oh, thank you, Rarity, thank you!" Sassy hugged her boss before getting back to organizing the orders.
Rarity sighed after dropping her forced smile. While everything worked out so far, she was already feeling the pressure of the business. Not helped given her manager’s actions and handling of the matter. She turned to see Kion approach her.
“Would it make you feel better if we stick around in case it gets to stressful?” He asked.
“Or if Sassy Saddles keeps undermining your authority?” Ono added.
Rarity smiled at both the lion prince and egret before moving to assure him that she won’t need. “No thanks, darlings. While I appreciate the offer, I think this is something I can handle on my own."
“I understand.” Kion accepted her decision none of the less remembering the experience Badili had with Mapigano. “Well if you do change your mind, let Ono know and he’ll get us and we’ll be on over there in an instant.”
“I will definitely consider it should it come down to that.”
Later, the group said their goodbyes to the unicorn who waved back as they left the boutique allowing her to take care this by herself. As tempting as it is, they have complete confidence to know that this something she can handle herself.
"Oh, satin and silk, Rarity, are you sure you don't want your friends to help you make the dresses and tuxedos?" Sassy asked.
"No, Sassy. These orders are my responsibility. All I have to do is stick to my plan so I can deliver each and every Princess Dress and Prince Tuxedo in keeping with my Rules of Rarity!" She replied with great certainty before quickly getting to work with the usual love and passion that goes with the couture she puts into her work with.
“The rules of Rarity guarantee quality
This I can assure
For each and every dress
I vow to give finesse
With time, love, and couture.”
As she worked and went with the flow like she always does, many passing by ponies briefly stop to watch her work her magic on those dresses and tuxedos.
“My favorite moment's when a pony sees it
That special gown that she just adores
That pony's now in style
My hard work's all worthwhile
Oh, yes, it makes my heart
My heart just soar.”
The days went by as she continued making the orders. One day, two new costumers entered the building. Rarity really wanted to attend to them, only for Sassy to insist that she has to focus on her work before moving to attend the customers herself. She was pretty disappointed but it didn’t really surface until Sassy moved to remove all of the presented dresses leaving only the Princess Dress and Prince Tux on display.
Slowly and surely the stunning dress and tuxedo were starting to lose its sparkling wonder. From the sparkling gems losing their sparkle, to the colors growing duller, it was all becoming all unoriginal more and more so. Before long, almost everypony in Canterlot was wearing the Princess Dress and Prince Tux. Everywhere she went, she saw the dress and tux which truthfully isn’t as glamorous as it should be.
Heck, even Ono can barely see the distinguishing sparkle they created due to seeing it on every pony he passes by while watching over Canterlot and can only look in worried concern for his fashionista friend who is growing more and more upset with her current work style.
“The rules of Rarity, just a parody
No dress here's unique
The panels all the same
Each colored windowpane
I fashion only makes me want to shriek!”
It got to the point she sighed in distress while resting her head on the table just unable to keep working on these tuxedos and dresses anymore like the colors were about to go all black and white around her.
Fortunately for her the color didn’t completely go away when she saw two familiar faces enter her shop. The color was in fact restored when she saw who had come to greet her. A certain hippo and a certain lioness.
“Hey Rarity! How’s it going?”
"Beshte! Kyoga! What a pleasant surprise!"
“Same can be said for us! So anyways, how’s business.”
“Oh, going swimmingly, as usual…” Rarity replied trying her hardest to put up a smile to mask her truthful disappointment in the matter.
“I can tell and enough said.” Kyoga commented very understanding of what she is saying upon seeing the Prince Tux and Princess Dresses all around her inside and outside of the shop. “Well, lucky for you, Beshte and I got you something that’ll cheer you up straight from the diamond caves in Ponyville.” She levitated three bowls of sparkling gemstones onto her work table.
“We figured that with the dresses and tuxedos losing their special touch, we’d bring you something that’ll help restore the color to your future inspiration for your other work.” Beshte added.
“Really?” Rarity took a good look at the gems whose eyes starting gleaming with inspiration like her friends thought it would when she saw the rainbow shimmer inside of them. “Wow! Thanks a bunch!”
“You’re welcome!”
“Our pleasure!”
Just then they turned to see Rarity’s manager waiting just outside her office looking on expectantly at her to get back to work.
“Anyways, I must continue my work, and as always great seeing you!” Rarity happily expressed as the two make their way out of the store.
“Like I said, pleasure’s all ours!”
“You said it!”
After they had left, Rarity quickly got to work with the magic she was just provided courtesy of her friends visit. With the glimmering glow they produced when they reflected off of Celestia’s sun and onto the Princess Dress and Prince Tuxedo she was currently working on. It was there she got new ideas, new designs drawing inside her head. The gears are all turning in her head as she started getting to work with a happy smile.
“Oh, to create would give me elation
To feel once again some inspiration
Come on now, Rarity
Give me some clarity
Time for your couture love to rule.”
As time went by, the color around her was now getting more and more brighter.
“The rules of Rarity, extra TLC
This feels more sublime
Soon now, they will see how good these can be
With a little extra shine
The rules of Rarity guarantee quality
All can see it's true
These new gems add such flair
Their beauty can't compare
This old style suddenly gleams anew.”
The following day, a unicorn with a pinkish while coat with chili peppers for a cutie mark, red and pink mane and tail, and light pink eyes entered the boutique. The bell ringing got Rarity's attention, who was just adding the finishing touches to her most recently created dress and tuxedo.
"Is that the customer who ordered this Princess Dress?" She asked Sassy, who took a moment to look away from her clipboard to see the costumer hoping to be attended.
"I'll take care of her." Sassy assured. "You keep working."
"Uh, actually, I'd love to see her reaction to this particular dress and tux." Rarity insisted only for Sassy to counter respond by gesturing to the stack of papers on the counter.
One box was marked for every order placed, while the other was marked for every order that was completed. "Paisley and poplin, Rarity, look at all the orders you still have to finish, and you want to take a break? Now?"
"Well, it's just I made some really lovely changes to this dress—"
"You did what?!" Sassy studied the dress along with the tux, seeing the changes Rarity had made. While they were indeed glamorous, they were not what they were originally. "But every Princess Dress and Prince Tuxedo is supposed to be exactly the same!"
"Yes yes I know, but these gems just spoke to me, and—"
"Fine. Go see her reaction." Sassy knew deep down that it’s not going to go well, especially if one doesn’t give the customer what they expected from what they ordered.
But Rarity had a gut feeling this was the best choice. Who wouldn't love the new gems she added? She was certain this costumer would love her one of a kind Princess Dress. Who doesn't want to feel unique? She approached the costumer, levitating the gown.
"Hello, and welcome to Canterlot Carousel! I am so pleased to present to you your—"
"Princess Dress!" The pony exclaimed happily, "Finally! I've been simply desperate to get this ever since I saw the Princesses wearing it at your—" Once she got ahold of the dress with her own magic, she noticed something was off, "…Wait a minute. There's something different."
"Well as an artiste, I did take the liberty to change a few minor details." She explained proudly. However, the customer was not impressed much to Rarity’s worried shock. "I, eheh, I saw these gems glistening in the light, and they just spoke to me. Aren't they lovely? And so unique!"
The unicorn sighed impatiently with a disappointed frown. "They're… fine. But they're not what I ordered, are they?"
"Uh, no. No, they're not." She honestly replied.
"I want the dress to be exactly like the one Princess Twilight wore. Understand?"
"Yes… Y-Yes, of course." She said in defeat before moving to take the dress back in her workplace. For once her manager wisely refrained from saying “I told you so.” More out of sympathy while firm about her stance on appealing to the customer’s desires and wishes.
Upon seeing that this is worth trying to change, she resumed working on the dresses and tuxedos just like they were presented at the grand opening. Even if she didn’t like it was probably for the better.
“The rules of Rarity
Once stood for something
But now it feels just like some factory
Now every dress I make
With every flaw and mistake
Oh, how it makes my heart
My heart just break.”
By the end of it all, she was left crying with heartbroken tears as her heart and soul was poured into all of that work.
By the end of the week she had finally completed the orders. She sewed together the last skirt of the Princess Dress along with putting together and tying up the last bow tie on the Prince Tuxedo. For the first time in her life she was relieved that her work with this is all done. Unfortunately for her, her relief is cut short when her manager walked in with her clipboard again, smiling with happiness.
"Raving rick-rack, Rarity! You made two hundred Princess Dresses and Prince Tuxedos!"
"Yes. Isn't it spectacular?" The poor unicorn commented in a rather deadpan manner. Her mane was now rather messy, her eyes were sporting exhausted eye bags, feeling like the color and energy inside of has faded.
"And I have a special surprise for you! The latest issue of Cosmare magazine just hit the stands!" Sassy levitated a magazine in front of Rarity, which had a picture of herself on the cover. Normally, she would have been excited…but now, she was feeling just quite the opposite.
"Canterlot's newest rising star"?" She read word for word out loud still deadpan and stoic in tone.
"And in the hour since the magazine's come out, we've gotten another hundred new orders for the Princess Dress and the Prince Tuxedo!"
To Rarity's horror, a large stack of papers landed onto the 'waiting' stack on the table. Just looking at them had the poor girl nearly faint at the work load immediately reappearing.
"One… hundred more... Princess Dresses?!" She remarked rather wearily at the sight of it. "I'm the Cosmare cover pony... I have the most successful shop in Canterlot... I've gotten everything I ever wanted... but I'm miserable!"
Sassy laughed at the idea thinking she is joking. "How could you possibly be miserable? My pattern is perfect!" Her long pattern hung on the wall, with a pin on each and every picture of her plan, having been completed with flying colors, "Cosmare Cover Pony – done! You have your signature gown and tux, the Princess Dress and Prince Tuxedo of Success!"
"I don't want to make another hundred Princess Dresses and Prince Tuxedos!"
"I have a piece for that!" Sassy placed the final pin on the final picture of her pattern. "Assemble the Assembly Line! You'll never have to sew again!"
"What?! No!" She exclaimed up standing up from her chair unable to take much more of this repetitive work style. It was already draining the color inside of her already and anymore so will have her feeling like this will completely turn herself and her whole store into one of those shows where the color around her has gone all black and white without ever being allowed to be the colorful designer she is destined to be.
"Yes! Then the Canterlot Carousel never closes! And Sassy Saddles' boutique succeeds!"
That was the last, and final straw for her. She was now at her breaking point and now she can’t stand any of this anymore.
"Stooooooooooooooooppp!" Sassy smile turned into a expression of confused shock. “This is not your boutique! And if this is what success in Canterlot looks like, I want no part of it!" She furiously stated as she got face to face with her manager leaving said unicorn looking on in fear of her for the first time in her life. "Now, make up flyers for a going-out-of-business sale! I'm closing Canterlot Carousel!"
With a huff, Rarity walked out of the room, leaving Sassy to gasp in horror and beg her boss to reconsider what she just told her. "What?! No! Oh, you can't, Rarity! I-I've worked too hard to make this a success! I can't be a part of another failed boutique!" But her words were in vain, as she slammed the door on her. To her boss, Rarity would rather things go out this way rather spend another second creating a design that has turned her newest dream into a soul-sucking job.
Once the store was completely clean of the dresses and tuxedos, she took out all of her original designer gowns and suits that were supposed to be on display from day one and put them in their place. To her it was the place had meaning again and the color around was literally being restored.
All while Sassy watched on in dismay upon seeing the changes her boss is asserting, something that is leaving her feeling astonished and dismayed given the hard work she poured into it. But Rarity went ahead with it since this is what makes her truly happy.
"Oh, don't you look lovely? Nice to see you out here again." She remarked to herself before looking up the staircase to see Sassy looking on distraught. "Seems Sassy Saddles isn't rushing to open the door this time. Hm."
Of course she expected that but it is for the best before she proceeded to open up business for the ponies all gathering outside her shop for her next sale with a relieved and comfortable smile plastered on her face.
"Welcome to the going-out-of-business sale of Canterlot Carousel."
To her surprise, a heard of female ponies galloped into the store. In just a few short seconds the entire store was packed to which had Rarity feeling genuinely pleased with what she is seeing.
One pony with a nasal voice walked up to her and asked. "Hey, is this Princess Dress on sale?" She levitated a magazine with said dress on the cover.
"Oh, no, I'm sorry, the Princess Dress has been discontinued. But there are plenty of other lovely dresses on sale today."
A goth-looking unicorn, looked on at the Luna inspired gown it is awe-inspiring in her mind. Or at least the best a stoic pony could show and express. "Whoa. This dress completely speaks to my soul. Can I try it on?"
"Certainly." Rarity levitated her the dress so she can move to try it on. "The dressing area is right back there."
Another pony expressed excitement for the Celestia inspired dress. "This is the most amazing of amazing dresses! Just looking at it brightens my day!"
Rarity levitated the dress off the display and gave it to the happy sunny pony that Celestia herself would get along with in a heartbeat. "And I'm sure you'll feel even brighter once you try it on!"
A unicorn with an architecture cutie mark walked up to Rarity, showcasing a specific magazine page. "Do you still have this In-spire-ation dress that's in the new issue of Cosmare?"
"Oh, yes, I do. It's-It's right here."
The pony smiled with glee at the sight of the gown she was just directed towards. "Bats in the belfry! I have to try it on!"
The goth pony looked at herself in the mirror, speaking flatly but smiling with satisfaction at the dress she is currently trying on. "Whoa. This dress makes me feel like a princess."
The sunny pony, now wearing the Celestia inspired dress, appeared tight next to her, embracing her in a hug along with admiring her own gown in the mirror, much to the goth pony’s sight discomfort. "And this dress makes me feel like a princess!"
From above, Sassy observed everything. She was truly astonished and amazed of how every pony found a dress and suit to their liking. It was all completely new to her and left her wondering how is this success all happening when it hasn’t been worn by someone famous.
One unicorn pony spoke with Rarity over one dress she is trying to get invested into. "This gown is quite beautiful, but it totally clashes with my complexion."
Rarity pondered for a moment before offering a suggestion. "Hmmm. Perhaps you'd be even more taken with this one." She pulled an in-progress dress, the one Pinkie Pie accidentally tore off the skirt on opening day. "It was inspired by the fountain in the Canterlot Castle garden. I call it the "Fountain of Truth"!"
"It's exactly what I've been dreaming of!" The pony exclaimed happily already liking it on sight.
"Oh! Well, then I'll finish it, and the gown shall be yours!"
The pony smiled in gratitude and Rarity took a moment to really look around, observing each and every single pony find what they like right on the shelves themselves. It was her suddenly lost passion was restored and was suddenly reminded of why she opened this boutique in the first.
"How can I have forgotten? This is what I've been dreaming about!" She said to herself before singing to herself some words of encouragement.
“My favorite moment's when a pony sees it
That special gown that she just adores
That pony's now in style
My hard work's all worthwhile
Oh, yes, it makes my heart
My heart just soar!”
Upon seeing the newfound success had her stepping forward to make this new announcement in front of everyone.
"Attention, everypony! Canterlot Carousel will not be closing!"
Every pony cheered happily at the news. After all this place was just too wonderful to shut down.
"But this stuff's still on sale, right?" The goth pony asked.
Rarity giggled while nodding. "Yes, yes, of course."
Sassy walked down the stairs, still feeling confused. "Well….” She struggled to find the right words to say here. “I…I don’t know what to say. I mean even without any special promotion your dresses on display are still a success.”
“I know.”
“But how?”
“With one simple key ingredient…” She said while showcasing her magazines and papers of her previous successful creations. Said photos, which depicted her friends from the Lion and Pony Guard along with their friends and family. “…specialty. Specialty that allows one to create new ideas that are special, unique, and beautiful in their own way and appeals to each and every individual I come across seeking and something of what makes them feel special inside. Something that truly speaks to my own inspiration and my very own special designs."
Hearing this had left Sassy completely remorseful as if she is now seeing things in full color for the first time like she is seeing herself in Rarity from when she was first starting out in the art of fashion. "Oh, Rarity, I'm so sorry. I focused on that one dress and tuxedo, and the rest of Rarity's Royal Regalia paid the price."
"Well, so did the Princess Dress and Prince Tux. The more I sold the more each dress lost its time, love, and couture, becoming terrible, lackluster, and common."
"I think I finally understand the Rules of Rarity…" The unicorn lowered her head in shame as she started to walk out fully understanding that she is longer a part of this business. "…and will apply them at my next job. Hopefully they will come in handy before I wind up bombing the success of that next business before it could even begin."
"I beg your pardon?" Rarity said, making her manager stop in her tracks just before she could reach the door. "The Rules of Rarity are only to be applied at Canterlot Carousel! Which is why you must continue to manage the boutique while I'm in Ponyville."
"Ponyville?"
"Well, yes, I'll come to Canterlot with new designs and to see the customers of course, but Ponyville was always going to be my home base."
Sassy gasped with joy, "Bobbins and bodkins, Rarity! Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you! And I promise to run everything following your rules."
"I would expect nothing less." Rarity hugged her manager, forgiving her for the rough start they went through together seeing her as worthy for the job like she saw in her from the start, along with a new friend while she is at it.
"Oh, my gosh, a sale!" An large pony remarked as she entered the store. "Do you have the Princess Dress along with the Prince Tux?!"
"No!" The two unicorns responded in unison before laughing. The large pony simply shrugged before moving to look around to find what she really likes and wants to try out before deciding to buy it.
“But I can assist you with finding something else…” Sassy quickly offered. “We’ve got plenty of options to choose from!”
Rarity looked on with happy pride upon seeing of how things have now finally worked out as her manager is now seeing things her way. And like she said she promises she will follow her rules to the T going forward and will always consult with her on future business endeavors.
For a pony who once was in her hoofs before, she could truly relate to her in that regard and that’s how they managed to become great friends through and through.