A Rainbow of Personalityby THEpandaman007ChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 2.5Chapter 2.7Chapter 4 (or 3.5 if you prefer)Chapter 5 (4.5)Chapter 6Chapter 3 (Finally!) (FIXED!)Chapter 1Chapter 1 Rainbow Dash’s day started as normally as any other day. Weather patrol, sleeping, practicing her latest tricks, sleeping, and various other tasks around Ponyville. After reading a couple chapters of the latest Daring Do book, she headed over to the cafe for some lunch. As she started to eat her sandwich, she noticed Twilight Sparkle walking by. “Hey, Twilight!” She yelled, getting the unicorn’s attention. “Oh hi, Rainbow Dash!” Twilight replied, walking over, “Mind if I join you?” “Go ahead,” Rainbow replied, gesturing toward the other side of the table. “Thanks,” Twilight said, sitting down. “Would you mind coming by the library?” Twilight asked after they had both finished their lunches, “I have a spell I’ve been wanting to try, and you seem to be the bravest of our friends.” “What about Spike, you usually try spells on him,” Dash inquired. “He’s too busy running errands for me,” Twilight replied, “I promise, it’ll only take a couple minutes, and it won’t even affect you. It’s just a simple spell.” “Well, okay,” Dash said, “But make it fast, I have to practice some new tricks.” When they arrived at the library, Twilight pulled out a couple books, opened them, and set them down on a table. “If I’m correct, this spell should allow me to see your personality in depth,” Twilight explained. “You see, everypony has a couple personalities which make them up. If done right, this spell will allow me to see which ones make up you.” “Isn’t that an invasion of privacy?” Dash asked. “Not if you agree to it!” Twilight said happily. “Oh well,” Dash sighed, “Let’s just get this over with. Twilight’s horn began to glow and a wind picked up in the library, fluttering papers around. Her horn glowed brighter and brighter until the light exploded out in a blinding flash accompanied by a loud bang, knocking Rainbow Dash unconscious. “Rainbow?” Twilight’s voice echoed in Dash’s head. “Rainbow Dash? Are you okay?” “Ugh, my head...” Dash groaned, holding a hoof to her head. “What happened?” “Well,” Twilight said, hesitating, “The spell didn’t quite work as I previously thought it would.” “What do you mean?” Dash asked. “It was actually a concussion spell instead of a personality-sight-thing spell?” “Not quite,” Twilight said, “You might want to look around you...” Dash looked around to find 6 other ponies that looked just like her, except each one was a different color. Twilight handed her a mirror. “What’s this for?” Dash asked, in shock. “Just look in it,” Twilight said, hiding her face. Dash looked to find herself, but completely white staring back at her. “What the heck?!” Dash exclaimed. “What did you do to me?” “I’m sorry,” Twilight said, “I don’t know what happened. The spell was called ‘Personality Prism’, but I didn’t think it was literally a prism. I’ll find a way to reverse this, I promise.” “So all these other mes are my different personalities?” Dash asked. “Yes, I assume,” Twilight replied, “We’ll find out when they wake up, anyway.” They heard a groan from behind them. “What’s going on? Hey! Who are you?!” The voice yelled. Dash and Twilight whipped around to find the red Rainbow Dash looking at them with fury in her eyes. “I’m you - I mean you’re me!” Rainbow Dash said. “I know who I am, and there’s only one of me, and that’s me!” The red Dash yelled back. “What’s going on, who are all these ponies?” They heard a fearful voice say. They found the blue Rainbow Dash looking around, scared. “Oh great, another one?” Red Dash exclaimed, annoyed. “How many mes are there?” “Um, about 7 including you. You know, you could be more polite,” The yellow Rainbow Dash said. “Ugh, who is this snob?” The green Rainbow Dash said, also annoyed. “You know, you could always just sleep instead of being so polite. Sleep is always good.” “Who can sleep when there are so many things to do!?” The orange dash said excitedly as she flew around the library. “I mean, we could be doing tricks, or flying, or adventuring, or, or, or-!” “Dear Celestia, shut her up!” The red Dash yelled. “I don’t care if she’s technically me, I’m gonna punch her if she doesn’t relax!” “But she’s so cute!” A voice exclaimed. Everypony turned toward the voice to find the purple Dash awake. “I mean, she’s just so adorable!” She said excitedly. “I just want to give her a hug!” “Um, I’ll pass,” The Orange dash said awkwardly. "But you're SO CUTE!" The purple Dash exclaimed, leaping toward Orange Dash. "Gah!" The orange Dash yelled, flying away quickly, closely avoiding a high-speed hug, and accidentally causing Purple Dash to smash into the wall and fall unconscious. "Thank Celestia for that," Red Dash said. "I don't think I would have been able to stand another minute of that foal." "So what part of you is that personality?" Twilight asked with a smirk, causing Rainbow Dash to hide her blushing face. “So, we’ve got anger, fear, laziness, your good side, your braveness, and your... romantic side, I guess?” Twilight said, gesturing to each Dash in turn. “Good side?” Red Dash said. “More like annoying side.” “Was that really necessary?” Yellow Dash said, offended. “Well, what did I really expect from a brute like yourself?” “I ought to punch you along with the purple one over there,” Red Dash said. “Calm down everypony!” Twilight yelled, in a desperate attempt to stop all the talking. “I know, right?” Green Dash said. “Everybody needs to just chill.” “We should probably listen-” Blue Dash timidly said amongst the loud talking. “SHUT UP MES!” Rainbow Dash yelled, causing the library to become silent. “So, explain what happened, and how we can fix it.” Chapter 2Chapter 2 “SHUT UP MES!” Rainbow Dash yelled, causing the library to become silent. “So, explain what happened, and how we can fix it.” “Thank you Rainbow Dash,” Twilight said. “Now, it seems that I accidentally cast the spell a little too powerful, causing an amplified effect, therefore splitting your personalities into sentient beings. In short, the spell was so powerful it turned you personalities into ponies.” “So how do we reverse it?” Dash asked. “Well, I could attempt a counter-spell,” Twilight replied. “But there is a chance it could kill you in the process.” “Well then...” Dash said. “Let’s leave that as a last resort.” “I agree,” Twilight said, “The only option I currently have, as these books do not contain any reversal spells, is to write to Princess Celestia and ask if she knows of any solutions. It may be a bit before we get a response, though. Possibly a few days since she is in the Crystal Empire checking up on everything.” “Okay,” Rainbow Dash said, “I guess we can find a way to control these other mes until we get a response. It won’t be too hard, we just keep them in here.” “Oh yeah,” Twilight said sarcastically, “Nobody will find them hiding in the PUBLIC LIBRARY!” “Good point,” Rainbow Dash said. “Where can we hide them then?” “Well, there is your house,” Twilight suggested. “They technically are you, anyway.” “Okay,” Dash said, “But how are we going to get them up there without anybody seeing them?” “Well I do know a temporary invisibility spell,” Twilight said. “It should keep them invisible for about half an hour. That should be more than enough time.” “Yeah, that’ll be fine,” Dash agreed, “Lets cast it and then we can get them over there.” “Okay,” Twilight said, “Stand back, we wouldn’t want you to turn invisible too.” “Hold on a second!” Red Dash exclaimed. “What gives you permission to turn us invisible and keep us in a contained area until you can, practically, kill us?” “Yeah!” Orange Dash yelled in support. “Guys, you should probably think this through,” Blue Dash said worriedly. “We don’t want to get anyone mad...” “Well we created you guys!” Dash responded to Red Dash. “So you better listen to us!” “You know what?” Red Dash yelled, “SCREW THIS! I don’t need to listen to you guys!” Red Dash flew out of the library and into a cluster of dark clouds before Rainbow Dash could stop her. “Wait! Don’t leave me here! They’re going to be mad!” Blue Dash called flying after Red Dash. “Crap!” Dash cursed. “We’ll never find ‘em in those clouds. We can’t let any other Dashes escape.” “I’m going out to practice some tricks, if anypony wants to join me,” Orange Dash said, flying out a window at a high speed. “Ooh, some of those clouds look comfortable, wait up!” Green Dash called, flying after her. “You were saying?” Twilight said, an annoyed look on her face. “Well we still have the yellow one and the purple one here at least,” Rainbow Dash said. “Ooh, is that the Complete Illustrated History of Equestria?” The Yellow Dash said excitedly as she pointed to the book with a hoof, “I’ve always wanted to read that book!” “It’s one of my favorites,” Twilight Said, blushing. “I’ve read it five times.” “Oh my gosh!” Purple Dash exclaimed, rushing over to Twilight. “You’re so cute when you blush!” “Oh Celestia, she’s awake again,” Rainbow Dash sighed. “You’re so adorable and smart!” Purple Dash said, hugging Twilight. “Gah! What are you doing?” Twilight exclaimed. “Get off!” Twilight teleported away from the Dash, causing it to fall. “But-but I love you!” Purple Dash yelled, “Come back!” The Purple Dash began to run toward Twilight, surprising Twilight again. “I’m sorry to do this to you!” Twilight said as she froze the Dash with a blast of ice magic. “Well that’s one problem taken care of. Now the problem of the other four Dashes. I’m assuming the yellow Dash will stay here, as she is the smart one, correct?” “Yes, I’ll be fine here with so many books,” Yellow Dash responded. “So,” Twilight said, “What we need to do is-” Twilight was cut off by a knock at the door, followed by it bursting open with an explosion of confetti. “Hi Twilight!” Pinkie Pie said with her usual air of almost insane cheerfulness. “Oooh, who’s this frozen pony here, and why is there a yellow Rainbow Dash, and why is Dashie white, and, and, and-” Chapter 2.5Chapter 2.5 Twilight was cut off by a knock at the door, followed by it bursting open with an explosion of confetti. “Hi Twilight!” Pinkie Pie said with her usual air of almost insane cheerfulness. “Oooh, who’s this frozen pony here, and why is there a yellow Rainbow Dash, and why is Dashie white, and, and, and-” “Geez, Pinkie,” Rainbow Dash said annoyed, “Do you even breathe?!” “Of course!” Pinkie replied happily, the joke being lost on her. “But why are there three of you Dashie?” “Well, it’s a long story-” Twilight began. “Let me guess!” Pinkie interrupted, “You tried a spell on Dashie to view her personalities, but it didn’t work and now all of her clones escaped and are running around Ponyville and you have to find them, and you are going to get me to help you so that we can have a giant cupcake party with them later!” Twilight and the three Dashes stared at Pinkie with their jaws dropped in amazement. “But… how?” Twilight stuttered in disbelief. “Oh, the author couldn’t think of any better way to explain the plot thus far.” Pinkie replied smiling. “Remember,” Rainbow Dash whispered to Twilight, “She’s Pinkie Pie.” Twilight shook her head to clear it and spoke to Pinkie. “Yes, you got that right, except for the cupcake party. I’m not sure where you got that from, but I think it’s linked to the high amounts of sugar you regularly eat. But, yes, we’re going to need all the help we can get to catch Rainbow Dash’s personalities.” “Do you think we should unfreeze this one?” Dash asked, gesturing toward the Purple Dash. “Well, she might be able to help us.” Twilight replied hesitantly as she fired up a heating spell. In a few seconds the Purple Dash was unfrozen. “I’ve been watching you.” The Purple Dash said with a sultry tone. “Are you sure we need her?” Twilight said with a terrified expression. The Purple Dash approached the Twilight with half-closed eyes… and booped her on the nose before running off giggling. “I like her!” Pinkie said giggling along. “Alright,” Twilight said, relieved to be out of an awkward situation for the moment, “We need to focus for the moment. Do we have any idea where the other Rainbow Dashes are?” “I saw a red one arguing with shopkeepers about the price of cherries!” Pinkie said, “I thought it was just Dashie trying to get low prices as usual. It looked like it would get violent soon.” “Pinkie! Why didn’t you do anything?” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Well I was on the way to get some cupcakes…” Pinkie began, causing both Twilight and the three Dashes to facehoof. “Okay, lets go over to the market and see if she’s still there,” Twilight said, “You guys stay here, okay?” Twilight told the Yellow and Purple Dashes. “I’LL NEVER LEAVE YOU!” The Purple Dash exclaimed, grabbing Twilight close. “Great,” Twilight said annoyed, pulling the Dash away with a spell, “Please, please, PLEASE just stay here.” Twilight, Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash walked out the door, closing and locking it behind them. “So… Twilight?” Dash said with a worried tone. “What?” Twilight said, confused about the worry in Dash’s voice. “How do I explain looking all faded?” Dash inquired, “I mean, last time I looked like this, I was Discord-ed.” “How did I not think of that?” Twilight exclaimed, face-hoofing. Chapter 2.7Chapter 2.7 “How did I not think of that?” Twilight exclaimed. "Here, this is a temporary spell that will make you look normal to everypony. Be careful, though; it will wear off after an hour." "Okay," Rainbow Dash said after she had been disguised, "So we have an hour to find and round up all the other mes." “We’ll need to split up,” Twilight said, “Rainbow, you take the market and see if you can get our red friend to not kill anypony. Pinkie, you come with me and we’ll see if we can find the others. I think I might know where they are.” “Oooh! It’s like a big game of hide and seek!” Pinkie exclaimed joyfully. “Yeah, sure,” Twilight said, “You think that.” “Don’t we have to count though, so that they can hide?” Pinkie asked. “They’ve had time enough,” Twilight said, clearly annoyed at how long Pinkie’s questions were taking. “Now let’s go.” Rainbow Dash dashed off toward the market, scanning below her for her red doppelganger. As she approached the market she noticed a strangely high number of red ponies. She flew down, intrigued at this observation. She stopped a passing red pony. “Dude, what’s with all the red ponies?” She inquired. “It’s red pony appreciation day, didn’t you hear?” He responded. “Of course that would be today,” Rainbow Dash said, annoyed. “Well sorry that you have something against us!” The red pony snapped, walking away. “Ugh, I’ll never find her in this crowd!” Dash complained. “I am not paying two bits for a cherry!” A familiar voice yelled to Dash’s left. “How long have we been having this argument now? 10 minutes?” The shopkeeper said annoyed. “The price isn’t going to change! Two bits, or no cherry!” Rainbow Dash ran over to the stand to find her red counterpart looking even redder than usual with anger. “Well you know what I think of this stand?” The red Dash yelled, preparing to smash the stand. “You think it’s a wonderful place, and you plan to shop here again!” Rainbow Dash said, quickly restraining the Red Dash. “Please don’t,” The shopkeeper said as Rainbow Dash dragged the red Dash away. “What are you doing?!” Red Dash yelled once they were safely out of the crowd. “Can you not just leave me alone?!” “No, I can’t!” Rainbow Dash yelled. "If I let you just wander around you'll end up ruining my awesome reputation!" "And what's that supposed to mean?" The red Dash said, offended. "Are you saying I'm a bad pony?" "Well yeah," Rainbow Dash rebutted, "You're rude to everypony! Can't you be nice for once?" "Why should I be nice to anypony when they are all mean to me?" The red Dash asked angrily. "The only reason they are mean to you is because you are to them!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "You would see that they are all nice if you tried being nice for once!" “Just shut up!” The red Dash yelled. “I don’t have to listen to you rant on about your friendship! I don’t need friends!” Red Dash sped off into the sky in a blur of red, leaving a few red feathers floating where she had been standing only moments before. “Is she gone?” A quiet voice asked nervously. Rainbow Dash turned to find her Blue Dash cowering behind a bush. “Yeah, she’s gone,” Rainbow Dash replied, trying to comfort the scared pony. “I hate it when ponies fight,” The blue Dash said, tearing up, “It’s so loud and scary. Why were you guys fighting?” “Well I’m just trying to get all of you guys back so that we can fix this mess,” Rainbow Dash explained. “Would you mind coming back with me, so that we don’t need to worry about any of this?” “Sure,” Blue Dash said hesitating before continuing, “But… can I snuggle with you?” Rainbow Dash sighed but then decided to allow it. “But just this once!” Rainbow Dash said as the blue Dash leaned against her. Chapter 4 (or 3.5 if you prefer)Chapter 4/3.5 As Twilight and Rarity neared Carousel Boutique, it became clear that something was not quite right. “Twilight,” Rarity said, stopping her, “Do you smell something?” Twilight stopped and sniffed. There was a strange, bitter odor in the air. “Yeah,” Twilight agreed, “But I can’t quite put my hoof on it.” “It reminds me of Sweetie Belle’s-” Rarity gasped, her face somehow managing to pale, “-cooking!” Rarity broke into a sprint, running faster than Twilight thought she could run. I should recommend her for Running of the Leaves this fall, she nearly beat Usain Colt’s record. Twilight ran after Rarity, the air getting thicker with smoke. Twilight soon reached Carousel Boutique to find the air thick with smoke pouring out of the upper-level windows. A quick forcefield allowed Twilight entry into the boutique while keeping her safe from any fires she might encounter along with the heavy smoke. Twilight ran into the boutique, looking around for the stairs to the upper level. She found them after a minute and dashed up them. As she opened the door to Rarity’s bedroom on the top floor, a tidal wave of smoke poured out of the door, completely obscuring her vision. Stumbling through the room, Twilight was hit by another wave, although this one of realization. The entire time she had been in he boutique, she had not seen one flame yet. Her suspicions were soon confirmed when she found the source of the smoke, an industrial-grade smoke-pack, used most commonly by the Wonderbolts for their shows. After deactivating it’s enchantment, she brought it outside and threw it down at Rarity’s feet, an unamused look on both their faces. “If I find the pony who did this,” Rarity started, before hearing a familiar laugh from the clouds above her. “Oh you think this is funny?!” Rarity yelled. “To see me in such a state of emotional distress? Why don’t you come down here, Rainbow Dash?!” As Twilight cast a spell attempting to bring the cloud down, they saw an orange blur dart out from the cloud and head to Sweet Apple Acres. “Brilliant,” Twilight muttered, rolling her eyes, “Now we’re playing chase.” “Why when I get my hooves on her…” Rarity began. Twilight and Rarity began walking toward Sweet Apple Acres. “So could you explain what exactly is going on?” Rarity asked Twilight as they walked. “I mean, I know Rainbow Dash is fast and all, but I have seen her more than usual today, and in a wider variety of hues.” “Well, I was trying out a new spell this morning, and, in short, it ended up splitting her into six ponies by accident,” Twilight explained. “Oh that sounds wonderful,” Rarity said, unamused. “Yeah, magic can be unpredictable sometimes,” Twilight said sheepishly. “Please tell me there is a solution to this,” Rarity said. “Yes, thank Celestia,” Twilight said. “All we need to do is get all of the clones in one place so I can cast the counter-spell.” “Well that sounds simple,” Rarity commented sarcastically. “I’ve already gotten three of them at the library, including the original,” Twilight said, ignoring the comment. “That means there are only four more to find.” “Well at least we know where one of them is,” Rarity said, gesturing toward Sweet Apple Acres, now filled with pear trees. “How the…” Twilight exclaimed, her mouth hanging open. “I’ve seen some pretty crazy pranks, but this is just… incredible!” “This certainly is an impressive prank,” Rarity agreed. “If I didn’t know better, I would have thought Discord had done it.” “What in tarnation?!” Twilight and Rarity heard Applejack exclaim from the other side of the field. “We should probably hurry over there and explain the situation to her,” Rarity said quickly, looking at Twilight. Twilight agreed as they started running over. Chapter 5 (4.5)Chapter 5 (4.5) “What in tarnation?!” Twilight and Rarity heard Applejack exclaim from the other side of the field. “We should probably hurry over there and explain the situation to her,” Rarity said quickly, looking at Twilight. Twilight agreed as they started running over. As Twilight and Rarity reached the Apple Family barn, they found Applejack angry to the point she was red in the face. “If I find the pony who did this…” Applejack muttered, pacing back and forth. “Applejack, calm down, we can explain,” Twilight said, approaching her. “Oh, so it was YOU who did it?” Applejack accused, advancing toward Twilight. “No, no, no,” Twilight quickly said, backing away from Applejack, “I mean that I know who did it.” “Who is it?” Applejack demanded. “Why, when I get my hooves on them.” “It was Rainbow Dash, but we have to explain something first-” Twilight started. “Rainbow Dash! I knew it!” Applejack yelled. “Please, Applejack, listen!” Rarity begged, trying to stop Applejack as she started toward Dash’s house. “Twilight messed up a spell, so it wasn’t really Rainbow Dash who did this.” Applejack stopped. “Fine, I’ll listen. But there better be a way to get my apples back.” “Thank you,” Twilight said, then proceeding to explain the situation so far. “So you’re telling me it wasn’t actually Rainbow Dash who screwed up my farm, but a clone of her pranking side?” Applejack asked as Twilight finished. “Pretty much,” Twilight confirmed. “If anypony else was saying that, I wouldn’t believe them,” Applejack commented. “But I’ll go along with you for now.” (Author note: Applejack joins your party!) “Great, it’ll help to have another set of eyes to look out for the other Dashes,” Twilight said. “Now we should probably start looking around the apple, er, pear orchard, it’s going to be dark soon.” As the group headed into the orchard, they heard a familiar mocking voice. “Looking for someone?” The orange Dash called from her cloud above. “Why you-!” Applejack exclaimed. “Get down here right now and put my farm back in order!” “Who are you, my mother?” Orange Dash replied sarcastically. “You’re gonna have to catch me first!” “I don’t understand why you put so much energy into everything,” Green Dash commented from her reclined position on the cloud. “If you can catch me before sundown, I’ll consider putting the apples back,” Orange Dash challenged Applejack, ignoring Green Dash’s comment. “You’re on!” Applejack accepted. Orange Dash sped off, nearly throwing Green Dash off the cloud in the process. Applejack began to run after her when she suddenly felt her tail get yanked backward. Looking back, she saw Twilight holding her back. “Let me go!” Applejack yelled. “There’s half an hour left until sundown!” “And you’ll waste that time if you think you can catch up with her, especially considering she is flying!” Twilight retorted. “Unless you can sprout a pair of wings, I don’t think you have any chance of catching her.” “You’re right,” Applejack admitted, sighing. “So what did you have in mind to catch her?” “Well, I can bring her down with magic, but we have to find a way to catch up with her on land first,” Twilight explained. “I can run fast, but not that fast,” Applejack commented. “The only pony I’ve seen who can catch up with Dashie on land is Pinkie.” Twilight’s face lit up at this. “Pinkie said she was going to look for some of the clones here!” Twilight said excitedly. “Now all we need to do is find her.” At that moment, Pinkie popped out of one of the nearby trees, scaring the group. “You called?” She said. “Pinkie, I don’t know how you do it,” Rarity said, catching her breath, laying on her “fainting couch.” “Do what?” Pinkie inquired, confused. “Nevermind,” Rarity replied, dismissing the question. “Pinkie, can you help us catch up with the Orange Dash?” Twilight asked. “Of course, no problem,” Pinkie said, happily. Chapter 6Chapter 6 “Pinkie, can you help us catch up with the Orange Dash?” Twilight asked. “Of course, no problem,” Pinkie said, happily. “Daaaa-shie!” Orange Dash heard Pinkie Pie half-singing, half-calling through the orchard. “Come out, come out, wherever you are!” “Heh, do they really think Pinkie can catch me?” Orange Dash jeered, mostly to herself. “I know Pinkie can do some crazy stuff, but I’m the fastest pony around.” “What about that one time she caught you to play a prank on Spike?” Green Dash noted. “We don’t talk about that!” Orange Dash quickly retorted. “Hi Dashie!” Pinkie said, right next to Orange’s ear. “Celestia help!” Orange said, falling off the cloud. “How did you get there?!” “Balloons,” Pinkie giggled, showing Orange the balloons tied to her tail. “Sometimes I think I just shouldn’t ask,” Orange sighed. “Come down!” Twilight called up, the group on the ground just catching up. “Yeah, you heard her!”Applejack yelled. “Get down here and put back my apples!” “Why should I?” Orange called back down. “Pears are good too.” “It’s Sweet APPLE Acres, that’s why,” Applejack retorted. “I don’t even know how to care for pears.” “You can learn,” Orange replied. “I don’t have the time or bits,” Applejack argued. “Good point,” Green commented as she rolled over, “Way too much work. Now could you guys shut up? I’m trying to nap here.” Orange stuck her tounge out at Green before continuing. “Anyway, the sun’s down from-” Orange flew down to the bottom of the hill, “-here!” “You two!” Rarity finally exclaimed. “You two used to be good friends, so stop arguing! Rainbow, fix Applejack’s apples, and Applejack… I don’t know, bake her a pie or something. Anything to stop this arguing!” All of the other ponies were stunned by this outburst, but Orange Dash was the first to speak. “Fine, it’s just a simple illusion anyway. It was a potion Zecora made, and it comes off with a little bit of rain.” Orange Dash sped off and grabbed a rain cloud, washing the potion off to reveal delicous-looking red apples. “Now I expect that pie by the end of the week,” Orange Dash said. “But it’s Friday!” Applejack exclaimed. “Better get cooking then,” Orange Dash said with a smirk. “Sorry to leave ya’ll, but I’ve gotta get this pie started,” Applejack said, running back toward the house. “And I have to get the Dashes fixed,” Twilight said, surrounding the Orange and Green Dashes in a forcefield. “Hey! That’s no fair!” Orange Dash said, flying into the forcefield in a futile effort to get out. “It’s no use, this could contain an angry Ursa Major,” Twilight said, which of course Orange Dash ignored, continuing to fly against the forcefield. “I don’t see what you are getting so worked up about,” Green Dash commented. “It’s the perfect temperature in here for a nap.” “Shut up with your napping!” Orange Dash yelled back. “If she captures us we can’t fly around.” “She’s got a point,” Pinkie Pie agreed, getting a sharp “Shut up!” from Twilight and Rarity. “Now let’s head back to the library,” Twilight said, starting on the way. Later, at the building-tree contaning books… “Why is Yellow Dash tied down on my bed?!” Twilight yelled at the Purple Dash. “Reasons…” She replied, an innocent look on her face. “Ugh,” Twilight said, face-hoofing. “Also, where is Rainbow Dash?” “That, I seriously don’t know,” Purple Dash said. “Me neither, though I have an idea if you untie me,” Yellow Dash said, struggling against the ropes. “Oh yeah, forgot about that,” Twilight said, with an embarrassed smile,as she undid the knots with her magic. “How did you even tie these without magic?” “Methods…” Purple Dash said, once again with an innocent look. The group went down into the main room of the library, Yellow Dash keeping her distance from Purple Dash who was staying a bit behind and kept glancing at Yellow Dash’s and Twilight’s flanks. As they reached the room, they saw that Orange and Green were still in a forcefield in a corner of the library. “So we have Orange, Yellow, Green, and Purple,” Twilight said. “Which means that we still need to find Red, Blue, and the original. Now, I have a plan to keep you guys in one place. I’m going to move all of you to the basement, which I recently cleaned most of my valuble equipment from-” “You mean I did!” Spike yelled from the kitchen. “Okay, which Spike cleaned most of the valuble equipment from, and I’m going to put a forcefield over the doors and windows. You guys won’t be able to escape, but you will have some room to fly around if you want.” Twilight explained, shooting a glance toward Orange Dash. “Some rules though. No hurting each other, no breaking anything, and no molesting each other.” She shot a glare toward Purple Dash while saying this last rule, which Purple Dash met with an innocent look. “Now who here has any idea where the original Rainbow Dash went?” Twilight inquired. “Well, before I was restrained by this ruffian,” Yellow Dash said, geturing toward Purple Dash, “She said her wings were stiff and she was bored, so she was just going back to her house to get a Daring Do book and that she would be back in five minutes tops. Then Purple here did… things to me.” She completed with a blush and a distant look in her eyes. (I ship it so hard. -THEpandaman007) “Ugh, she had one job!” Twilight said angrily. At that moment, Rainbow Dash burst through the door, before stopping dead in her tracks seeing Twilight glaring at her. “I’m sosososo sorry, I mean, I was bored and wanted to grab a book and I assumed it would be fine but then I got caught up in the book, you know, and I just just just-” Rainbow Dash said quickly, trying to explain. “I get it,” Twilight said angrily, “But do you know what happened when you were gone?” “Do I want to?” Dash asked, noticing the desolate look in Yellow Dash’s eyes and Purple Dash’s blush. “Not really," Twilight said, “But now you’re coming with me. Rarity, Pinkie, can you just make sure these guys don’t try to escape from the forcefield and get concussions or anything?” “Of course” Rarity said. “Okey Dokie Lokie!” Pinkie said, cheerful as always. “Okay, thanks,” Twilight said. “Rainbow, come with me. I last saw them over by the market.” Chapter 3 (Finally!) (FIXED!)Chapter 3 “Would you mind coming back with me, so that we don’t need to worry about any of this?” “Sure,” Blue Dash said hesitating before continuing, “But… can I snuggle with you?” Rainbow Dash sighed but then decided to allow it. “But just this once!” Rainbow Dash said as the blue Dash leaned against her. Soon they arrived back at the library. “Hello?” Rainbow Dash called. “Other mes? You guys here?” Dash was responded to by the sound of muffled screaming. Rainbow Dash sped toward the sound, shoving Blue Dash away in the process. “Wait! Don’t leave me here!” Blue Dash sobbed, grasping at the feathers that hovered where Rainbow Dash had been seconds before. Rainbow Dash arrived at a closed door, behind which the screaming was clear. Rainbow Dash bucked open the door and found a scene which she knew would haunt her in her dreams that night. “Why are you two kissing?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, shocked to find her Yellow and Purple counterparts in the midst of making out. “It’s not what it looks like!” Yellow Dash exclaimed. “She forced herself upon me!” “You know you liked it though,” Purple Dash said with a sultry tone. “Not in the least!” Purple Dash retorted, greatly offended. “You were the one going on about how angry you were at the ponies against same-gender marriage,” Purple Dash muttered. “Oh will you guys PLEASE quiet down!” Twilight, who had just arrived, but had heard the yelling all the way outside, yelled. “Let’s not start on that subject!” “Thank you,” Yellow Dash said, “Now can you please take me with you! Anything to get me away from this lunatic!” “I’ll see what I can do,” Twilight said, annoyed, “Let’s just all go downstairs.” As they got downstairs, Twilight was shocked to find that the green Rainbow Dash was missing. “You have got to be kidding me!” Twilight yelled. “Where in Celestia’s name did that idiot go?!” “Oh dear, what happened?” Yellow Dash inquired. “I had the green one here, and now she’s gone.” Twilight sighed, facehoofing. “You probably scared her off with your denial of you true feelings,” Purple Dash whispered to Yellow Dash. “That’s it!” Yellow Dash yelled, snapping. “I’ve had enough of your flirting! I don’t roll that way! Please just leave me alone! This is why you have no friends!” Purple Dash was stunned by this sudden exclamation. “I-I thought you loved me…” Purple Dash stuttered. “What gave you that thought?” Yellow Dash snapped. “I never loved you! To be honest, you scare me!” Purple Dash ran up into Twilight’s room and slammed the door. Soft crying was the only sound that broke the stunned silence that remained in the library below. “Oh dear Celestia, what did I just do?” Yellow Dash sighed sadly. “I should probably go talk to her, shouldn’t I?” “Don’t ask me,” Twilight said, “Rarity described me as having the social skills of a kitchen chair.” “I’m going to go try and talk to her.” Yellow Dash said. “I’ll stay here, you go try to find the green one again.” “Okay, good luck.” Twilight said. “At least keep her in the library if you can.” “I’ll do my best.” Yellow Dash said. “good luck finding the other clones.” The Yellow Dash headed up to Twilight’s room, legs shaking. "Rainbow Dash? Could you stay here, just to make sure things don't get too out of hand?" Twilight asked, turning to Rainbow, who had been trying to nap during the conversation. "Sure thing, I've been wanting to catch up on the Daring Do books anyway," Rainbow Dash replied. "Thanks, I'll head over to Sweet Apple Acres to see if Pinkie has managed to catch our Orange friend yet," Twilight said, rolling her eyes. "Oh yeah," Rainbow Dash said, "I never asked, why are you here anyway?" "Rarity had stopped by to get a book on modern fashion, but had heard yelling, and deduced that I wasn't here," Twilight explained, "Then she found me at the Acres." "Yeah, you usually keep it pretty quiet around here," Rainbow Dash replied, chuckling. "Well it is a library," Twilight commented. "Now I'd better be going. I expect it just as quiet as now when I return." Just as Twilight finished, a crash was heard upstairs. "Can do," Rainbow Dash said with a grin. Twilight sighed as she headed out the door. She had not made it far when she was crashed into by another pony. “Rarity?” Twilight said, surprised that it was her, and not that one gray mare whose name she couldn't remember at the moment, who had bumped into her. "Oh I'm so sorry dear!" Rarity said, helping Twilight up. "Are you quite alright?" "Yeah, don't worry," Twilight replied, dusting herself off. "I'm so sorry, I was just distracted by this wonderful book I just got," Rarity said, showing Twilight the book, titled Modern Fashion Throughout Equestria: Volume V "Oh, I'm glad you finally found it," Twilight said. "I'm sorry I wasn't at the library when you stopped by." "Don't worry," Rarity said, "I never asked, why were you at Sweet Apple Acres anyway?" "Long story," Replied Twilight, wanting to get back to that location as soon as possible. “I’m assuming this is related to the strange numbers of Rainbow Dash I saw there?” Rarity asked. “Yeah, a spell didn’t quite go as planned.” Twilight replied sheepishly. “I was actually on my way to back to try to capture all of them." "Well I don't have anything else planned if you need some help," Rarity offered. "Believe me, we need all the help we can get," Twilight said, taking up Rarity's offer. "So sorry to keep you, dear, but could we make a quick stop by Carousel Boutique first?" Rarity asked. "I need to drop this book off there, along with some shopping I did." Rarity revealed a large amount of bags which Twilight hadn't noticed behind Rarity. "Sure," Twilight said, "It's on the way anyway."
Chapter 1Chapter 1 Rainbow Dash’s day started as normally as any other day. Weather patrol, sleeping, practicing her latest tricks, sleeping, and various other tasks around Ponyville. After reading a couple chapters of the latest Daring Do book, she headed over to the cafe for some lunch. As she started to eat her sandwich, she noticed Twilight Sparkle walking by. “Hey, Twilight!” She yelled, getting the unicorn’s attention. “Oh hi, Rainbow Dash!” Twilight replied, walking over, “Mind if I join you?” “Go ahead,” Rainbow replied, gesturing toward the other side of the table. “Thanks,” Twilight said, sitting down. “Would you mind coming by the library?” Twilight asked after they had both finished their lunches, “I have a spell I’ve been wanting to try, and you seem to be the bravest of our friends.” “What about Spike, you usually try spells on him,” Dash inquired. “He’s too busy running errands for me,” Twilight replied, “I promise, it’ll only take a couple minutes, and it won’t even affect you. It’s just a simple spell.” “Well, okay,” Dash said, “But make it fast, I have to practice some new tricks.” When they arrived at the library, Twilight pulled out a couple books, opened them, and set them down on a table. “If I’m correct, this spell should allow me to see your personality in depth,” Twilight explained. “You see, everypony has a couple personalities which make them up. If done right, this spell will allow me to see which ones make up you.” “Isn’t that an invasion of privacy?” Dash asked. “Not if you agree to it!” Twilight said happily. “Oh well,” Dash sighed, “Let’s just get this over with. Twilight’s horn began to glow and a wind picked up in the library, fluttering papers around. Her horn glowed brighter and brighter until the light exploded out in a blinding flash accompanied by a loud bang, knocking Rainbow Dash unconscious. “Rainbow?” Twilight’s voice echoed in Dash’s head. “Rainbow Dash? Are you okay?” “Ugh, my head...” Dash groaned, holding a hoof to her head. “What happened?” “Well,” Twilight said, hesitating, “The spell didn’t quite work as I previously thought it would.” “What do you mean?” Dash asked. “It was actually a concussion spell instead of a personality-sight-thing spell?” “Not quite,” Twilight said, “You might want to look around you...” Dash looked around to find 6 other ponies that looked just like her, except each one was a different color. Twilight handed her a mirror. “What’s this for?” Dash asked, in shock. “Just look in it,” Twilight said, hiding her face. Dash looked to find herself, but completely white staring back at her. “What the heck?!” Dash exclaimed. “What did you do to me?” “I’m sorry,” Twilight said, “I don’t know what happened. The spell was called ‘Personality Prism’, but I didn’t think it was literally a prism. I’ll find a way to reverse this, I promise.” “So all these other mes are my different personalities?” Dash asked. “Yes, I assume,” Twilight replied, “We’ll find out when they wake up, anyway.” They heard a groan from behind them. “What’s going on? Hey! Who are you?!” The voice yelled. Dash and Twilight whipped around to find the red Rainbow Dash looking at them with fury in her eyes. “I’m you - I mean you’re me!” Rainbow Dash said. “I know who I am, and there’s only one of me, and that’s me!” The red Dash yelled back. “What’s going on, who are all these ponies?” They heard a fearful voice say. They found the blue Rainbow Dash looking around, scared. “Oh great, another one?” Red Dash exclaimed, annoyed. “How many mes are there?” “Um, about 7 including you. You know, you could be more polite,” The yellow Rainbow Dash said. “Ugh, who is this snob?” The green Rainbow Dash said, also annoyed. “You know, you could always just sleep instead of being so polite. Sleep is always good.” “Who can sleep when there are so many things to do!?” The orange dash said excitedly as she flew around the library. “I mean, we could be doing tricks, or flying, or adventuring, or, or, or-!” “Dear Celestia, shut her up!” The red Dash yelled. “I don’t care if she’s technically me, I’m gonna punch her if she doesn’t relax!” “But she’s so cute!” A voice exclaimed. Everypony turned toward the voice to find the purple Dash awake. “I mean, she’s just so adorable!” She said excitedly. “I just want to give her a hug!” “Um, I’ll pass,” The Orange dash said awkwardly. "But you're SO CUTE!" The purple Dash exclaimed, leaping toward Orange Dash. "Gah!" The orange Dash yelled, flying away quickly, closely avoiding a high-speed hug, and accidentally causing Purple Dash to smash into the wall and fall unconscious. "Thank Celestia for that," Red Dash said. "I don't think I would have been able to stand another minute of that foal." "So what part of you is that personality?" Twilight asked with a smirk, causing Rainbow Dash to hide her blushing face. “So, we’ve got anger, fear, laziness, your good side, your braveness, and your... romantic side, I guess?” Twilight said, gesturing to each Dash in turn. “Good side?” Red Dash said. “More like annoying side.” “Was that really necessary?” Yellow Dash said, offended. “Well, what did I really expect from a brute like yourself?” “I ought to punch you along with the purple one over there,” Red Dash said. “Calm down everypony!” Twilight yelled, in a desperate attempt to stop all the talking. “I know, right?” Green Dash said. “Everybody needs to just chill.” “We should probably listen-” Blue Dash timidly said amongst the loud talking. “SHUT UP MES!” Rainbow Dash yelled, causing the library to become silent. “So, explain what happened, and how we can fix it.”
Chapter 2Chapter 2 “SHUT UP MES!” Rainbow Dash yelled, causing the library to become silent. “So, explain what happened, and how we can fix it.” “Thank you Rainbow Dash,” Twilight said. “Now, it seems that I accidentally cast the spell a little too powerful, causing an amplified effect, therefore splitting your personalities into sentient beings. In short, the spell was so powerful it turned you personalities into ponies.” “So how do we reverse it?” Dash asked. “Well, I could attempt a counter-spell,” Twilight replied. “But there is a chance it could kill you in the process.” “Well then...” Dash said. “Let’s leave that as a last resort.” “I agree,” Twilight said, “The only option I currently have, as these books do not contain any reversal spells, is to write to Princess Celestia and ask if she knows of any solutions. It may be a bit before we get a response, though. Possibly a few days since she is in the Crystal Empire checking up on everything.” “Okay,” Rainbow Dash said, “I guess we can find a way to control these other mes until we get a response. It won’t be too hard, we just keep them in here.” “Oh yeah,” Twilight said sarcastically, “Nobody will find them hiding in the PUBLIC LIBRARY!” “Good point,” Rainbow Dash said. “Where can we hide them then?” “Well, there is your house,” Twilight suggested. “They technically are you, anyway.” “Okay,” Dash said, “But how are we going to get them up there without anybody seeing them?” “Well I do know a temporary invisibility spell,” Twilight said. “It should keep them invisible for about half an hour. That should be more than enough time.” “Yeah, that’ll be fine,” Dash agreed, “Lets cast it and then we can get them over there.” “Okay,” Twilight said, “Stand back, we wouldn’t want you to turn invisible too.” “Hold on a second!” Red Dash exclaimed. “What gives you permission to turn us invisible and keep us in a contained area until you can, practically, kill us?” “Yeah!” Orange Dash yelled in support. “Guys, you should probably think this through,” Blue Dash said worriedly. “We don’t want to get anyone mad...” “Well we created you guys!” Dash responded to Red Dash. “So you better listen to us!” “You know what?” Red Dash yelled, “SCREW THIS! I don’t need to listen to you guys!” Red Dash flew out of the library and into a cluster of dark clouds before Rainbow Dash could stop her. “Wait! Don’t leave me here! They’re going to be mad!” Blue Dash called flying after Red Dash. “Crap!” Dash cursed. “We’ll never find ‘em in those clouds. We can’t let any other Dashes escape.” “I’m going out to practice some tricks, if anypony wants to join me,” Orange Dash said, flying out a window at a high speed. “Ooh, some of those clouds look comfortable, wait up!” Green Dash called, flying after her. “You were saying?” Twilight said, an annoyed look on her face. “Well we still have the yellow one and the purple one here at least,” Rainbow Dash said. “Ooh, is that the Complete Illustrated History of Equestria?” The Yellow Dash said excitedly as she pointed to the book with a hoof, “I’ve always wanted to read that book!” “It’s one of my favorites,” Twilight Said, blushing. “I’ve read it five times.” “Oh my gosh!” Purple Dash exclaimed, rushing over to Twilight. “You’re so cute when you blush!” “Oh Celestia, she’s awake again,” Rainbow Dash sighed. “You’re so adorable and smart!” Purple Dash said, hugging Twilight. “Gah! What are you doing?” Twilight exclaimed. “Get off!” Twilight teleported away from the Dash, causing it to fall. “But-but I love you!” Purple Dash yelled, “Come back!” The Purple Dash began to run toward Twilight, surprising Twilight again. “I’m sorry to do this to you!” Twilight said as she froze the Dash with a blast of ice magic. “Well that’s one problem taken care of. Now the problem of the other four Dashes. I’m assuming the yellow Dash will stay here, as she is the smart one, correct?” “Yes, I’ll be fine here with so many books,” Yellow Dash responded. “So,” Twilight said, “What we need to do is-” Twilight was cut off by a knock at the door, followed by it bursting open with an explosion of confetti. “Hi Twilight!” Pinkie Pie said with her usual air of almost insane cheerfulness. “Oooh, who’s this frozen pony here, and why is there a yellow Rainbow Dash, and why is Dashie white, and, and, and-”
Chapter 2.5Chapter 2.5 Twilight was cut off by a knock at the door, followed by it bursting open with an explosion of confetti. “Hi Twilight!” Pinkie Pie said with her usual air of almost insane cheerfulness. “Oooh, who’s this frozen pony here, and why is there a yellow Rainbow Dash, and why is Dashie white, and, and, and-” “Geez, Pinkie,” Rainbow Dash said annoyed, “Do you even breathe?!” “Of course!” Pinkie replied happily, the joke being lost on her. “But why are there three of you Dashie?” “Well, it’s a long story-” Twilight began. “Let me guess!” Pinkie interrupted, “You tried a spell on Dashie to view her personalities, but it didn’t work and now all of her clones escaped and are running around Ponyville and you have to find them, and you are going to get me to help you so that we can have a giant cupcake party with them later!” Twilight and the three Dashes stared at Pinkie with their jaws dropped in amazement. “But… how?” Twilight stuttered in disbelief. “Oh, the author couldn’t think of any better way to explain the plot thus far.” Pinkie replied smiling. “Remember,” Rainbow Dash whispered to Twilight, “She’s Pinkie Pie.” Twilight shook her head to clear it and spoke to Pinkie. “Yes, you got that right, except for the cupcake party. I’m not sure where you got that from, but I think it’s linked to the high amounts of sugar you regularly eat. But, yes, we’re going to need all the help we can get to catch Rainbow Dash’s personalities.” “Do you think we should unfreeze this one?” Dash asked, gesturing toward the Purple Dash. “Well, she might be able to help us.” Twilight replied hesitantly as she fired up a heating spell. In a few seconds the Purple Dash was unfrozen. “I’ve been watching you.” The Purple Dash said with a sultry tone. “Are you sure we need her?” Twilight said with a terrified expression. The Purple Dash approached the Twilight with half-closed eyes… and booped her on the nose before running off giggling. “I like her!” Pinkie said giggling along. “Alright,” Twilight said, relieved to be out of an awkward situation for the moment, “We need to focus for the moment. Do we have any idea where the other Rainbow Dashes are?” “I saw a red one arguing with shopkeepers about the price of cherries!” Pinkie said, “I thought it was just Dashie trying to get low prices as usual. It looked like it would get violent soon.” “Pinkie! Why didn’t you do anything?” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Well I was on the way to get some cupcakes…” Pinkie began, causing both Twilight and the three Dashes to facehoof. “Okay, lets go over to the market and see if she’s still there,” Twilight said, “You guys stay here, okay?” Twilight told the Yellow and Purple Dashes. “I’LL NEVER LEAVE YOU!” The Purple Dash exclaimed, grabbing Twilight close. “Great,” Twilight said annoyed, pulling the Dash away with a spell, “Please, please, PLEASE just stay here.” Twilight, Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash walked out the door, closing and locking it behind them. “So… Twilight?” Dash said with a worried tone. “What?” Twilight said, confused about the worry in Dash’s voice. “How do I explain looking all faded?” Dash inquired, “I mean, last time I looked like this, I was Discord-ed.” “How did I not think of that?” Twilight exclaimed, face-hoofing.
Chapter 2.7Chapter 2.7 “How did I not think of that?” Twilight exclaimed. "Here, this is a temporary spell that will make you look normal to everypony. Be careful, though; it will wear off after an hour." "Okay," Rainbow Dash said after she had been disguised, "So we have an hour to find and round up all the other mes." “We’ll need to split up,” Twilight said, “Rainbow, you take the market and see if you can get our red friend to not kill anypony. Pinkie, you come with me and we’ll see if we can find the others. I think I might know where they are.” “Oooh! It’s like a big game of hide and seek!” Pinkie exclaimed joyfully. “Yeah, sure,” Twilight said, “You think that.” “Don’t we have to count though, so that they can hide?” Pinkie asked. “They’ve had time enough,” Twilight said, clearly annoyed at how long Pinkie’s questions were taking. “Now let’s go.” Rainbow Dash dashed off toward the market, scanning below her for her red doppelganger. As she approached the market she noticed a strangely high number of red ponies. She flew down, intrigued at this observation. She stopped a passing red pony. “Dude, what’s with all the red ponies?” She inquired. “It’s red pony appreciation day, didn’t you hear?” He responded. “Of course that would be today,” Rainbow Dash said, annoyed. “Well sorry that you have something against us!” The red pony snapped, walking away. “Ugh, I’ll never find her in this crowd!” Dash complained. “I am not paying two bits for a cherry!” A familiar voice yelled to Dash’s left. “How long have we been having this argument now? 10 minutes?” The shopkeeper said annoyed. “The price isn’t going to change! Two bits, or no cherry!” Rainbow Dash ran over to the stand to find her red counterpart looking even redder than usual with anger. “Well you know what I think of this stand?” The red Dash yelled, preparing to smash the stand. “You think it’s a wonderful place, and you plan to shop here again!” Rainbow Dash said, quickly restraining the Red Dash. “Please don’t,” The shopkeeper said as Rainbow Dash dragged the red Dash away. “What are you doing?!” Red Dash yelled once they were safely out of the crowd. “Can you not just leave me alone?!” “No, I can’t!” Rainbow Dash yelled. "If I let you just wander around you'll end up ruining my awesome reputation!" "And what's that supposed to mean?" The red Dash said, offended. "Are you saying I'm a bad pony?" "Well yeah," Rainbow Dash rebutted, "You're rude to everypony! Can't you be nice for once?" "Why should I be nice to anypony when they are all mean to me?" The red Dash asked angrily. "The only reason they are mean to you is because you are to them!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "You would see that they are all nice if you tried being nice for once!" “Just shut up!” The red Dash yelled. “I don’t have to listen to you rant on about your friendship! I don’t need friends!” Red Dash sped off into the sky in a blur of red, leaving a few red feathers floating where she had been standing only moments before. “Is she gone?” A quiet voice asked nervously. Rainbow Dash turned to find her Blue Dash cowering behind a bush. “Yeah, she’s gone,” Rainbow Dash replied, trying to comfort the scared pony. “I hate it when ponies fight,” The blue Dash said, tearing up, “It’s so loud and scary. Why were you guys fighting?” “Well I’m just trying to get all of you guys back so that we can fix this mess,” Rainbow Dash explained. “Would you mind coming back with me, so that we don’t need to worry about any of this?” “Sure,” Blue Dash said hesitating before continuing, “But… can I snuggle with you?” Rainbow Dash sighed but then decided to allow it. “But just this once!” Rainbow Dash said as the blue Dash leaned against her.
Chapter 4 (or 3.5 if you prefer)Chapter 4/3.5 As Twilight and Rarity neared Carousel Boutique, it became clear that something was not quite right. “Twilight,” Rarity said, stopping her, “Do you smell something?” Twilight stopped and sniffed. There was a strange, bitter odor in the air. “Yeah,” Twilight agreed, “But I can’t quite put my hoof on it.” “It reminds me of Sweetie Belle’s-” Rarity gasped, her face somehow managing to pale, “-cooking!” Rarity broke into a sprint, running faster than Twilight thought she could run. I should recommend her for Running of the Leaves this fall, she nearly beat Usain Colt’s record. Twilight ran after Rarity, the air getting thicker with smoke. Twilight soon reached Carousel Boutique to find the air thick with smoke pouring out of the upper-level windows. A quick forcefield allowed Twilight entry into the boutique while keeping her safe from any fires she might encounter along with the heavy smoke. Twilight ran into the boutique, looking around for the stairs to the upper level. She found them after a minute and dashed up them. As she opened the door to Rarity’s bedroom on the top floor, a tidal wave of smoke poured out of the door, completely obscuring her vision. Stumbling through the room, Twilight was hit by another wave, although this one of realization. The entire time she had been in he boutique, she had not seen one flame yet. Her suspicions were soon confirmed when she found the source of the smoke, an industrial-grade smoke-pack, used most commonly by the Wonderbolts for their shows. After deactivating it’s enchantment, she brought it outside and threw it down at Rarity’s feet, an unamused look on both their faces. “If I find the pony who did this,” Rarity started, before hearing a familiar laugh from the clouds above her. “Oh you think this is funny?!” Rarity yelled. “To see me in such a state of emotional distress? Why don’t you come down here, Rainbow Dash?!” As Twilight cast a spell attempting to bring the cloud down, they saw an orange blur dart out from the cloud and head to Sweet Apple Acres. “Brilliant,” Twilight muttered, rolling her eyes, “Now we’re playing chase.” “Why when I get my hooves on her…” Rarity began. Twilight and Rarity began walking toward Sweet Apple Acres. “So could you explain what exactly is going on?” Rarity asked Twilight as they walked. “I mean, I know Rainbow Dash is fast and all, but I have seen her more than usual today, and in a wider variety of hues.” “Well, I was trying out a new spell this morning, and, in short, it ended up splitting her into six ponies by accident,” Twilight explained. “Oh that sounds wonderful,” Rarity said, unamused. “Yeah, magic can be unpredictable sometimes,” Twilight said sheepishly. “Please tell me there is a solution to this,” Rarity said. “Yes, thank Celestia,” Twilight said. “All we need to do is get all of the clones in one place so I can cast the counter-spell.” “Well that sounds simple,” Rarity commented sarcastically. “I’ve already gotten three of them at the library, including the original,” Twilight said, ignoring the comment. “That means there are only four more to find.” “Well at least we know where one of them is,” Rarity said, gesturing toward Sweet Apple Acres, now filled with pear trees. “How the…” Twilight exclaimed, her mouth hanging open. “I’ve seen some pretty crazy pranks, but this is just… incredible!” “This certainly is an impressive prank,” Rarity agreed. “If I didn’t know better, I would have thought Discord had done it.” “What in tarnation?!” Twilight and Rarity heard Applejack exclaim from the other side of the field. “We should probably hurry over there and explain the situation to her,” Rarity said quickly, looking at Twilight. Twilight agreed as they started running over.
Chapter 5 (4.5)Chapter 5 (4.5) “What in tarnation?!” Twilight and Rarity heard Applejack exclaim from the other side of the field. “We should probably hurry over there and explain the situation to her,” Rarity said quickly, looking at Twilight. Twilight agreed as they started running over. As Twilight and Rarity reached the Apple Family barn, they found Applejack angry to the point she was red in the face. “If I find the pony who did this…” Applejack muttered, pacing back and forth. “Applejack, calm down, we can explain,” Twilight said, approaching her. “Oh, so it was YOU who did it?” Applejack accused, advancing toward Twilight. “No, no, no,” Twilight quickly said, backing away from Applejack, “I mean that I know who did it.” “Who is it?” Applejack demanded. “Why, when I get my hooves on them.” “It was Rainbow Dash, but we have to explain something first-” Twilight started. “Rainbow Dash! I knew it!” Applejack yelled. “Please, Applejack, listen!” Rarity begged, trying to stop Applejack as she started toward Dash’s house. “Twilight messed up a spell, so it wasn’t really Rainbow Dash who did this.” Applejack stopped. “Fine, I’ll listen. But there better be a way to get my apples back.” “Thank you,” Twilight said, then proceeding to explain the situation so far. “So you’re telling me it wasn’t actually Rainbow Dash who screwed up my farm, but a clone of her pranking side?” Applejack asked as Twilight finished. “Pretty much,” Twilight confirmed. “If anypony else was saying that, I wouldn’t believe them,” Applejack commented. “But I’ll go along with you for now.” (Author note: Applejack joins your party!) “Great, it’ll help to have another set of eyes to look out for the other Dashes,” Twilight said. “Now we should probably start looking around the apple, er, pear orchard, it’s going to be dark soon.” As the group headed into the orchard, they heard a familiar mocking voice. “Looking for someone?” The orange Dash called from her cloud above. “Why you-!” Applejack exclaimed. “Get down here right now and put my farm back in order!” “Who are you, my mother?” Orange Dash replied sarcastically. “You’re gonna have to catch me first!” “I don’t understand why you put so much energy into everything,” Green Dash commented from her reclined position on the cloud. “If you can catch me before sundown, I’ll consider putting the apples back,” Orange Dash challenged Applejack, ignoring Green Dash’s comment. “You’re on!” Applejack accepted. Orange Dash sped off, nearly throwing Green Dash off the cloud in the process. Applejack began to run after her when she suddenly felt her tail get yanked backward. Looking back, she saw Twilight holding her back. “Let me go!” Applejack yelled. “There’s half an hour left until sundown!” “And you’ll waste that time if you think you can catch up with her, especially considering she is flying!” Twilight retorted. “Unless you can sprout a pair of wings, I don’t think you have any chance of catching her.” “You’re right,” Applejack admitted, sighing. “So what did you have in mind to catch her?” “Well, I can bring her down with magic, but we have to find a way to catch up with her on land first,” Twilight explained. “I can run fast, but not that fast,” Applejack commented. “The only pony I’ve seen who can catch up with Dashie on land is Pinkie.” Twilight’s face lit up at this. “Pinkie said she was going to look for some of the clones here!” Twilight said excitedly. “Now all we need to do is find her.” At that moment, Pinkie popped out of one of the nearby trees, scaring the group. “You called?” She said. “Pinkie, I don’t know how you do it,” Rarity said, catching her breath, laying on her “fainting couch.” “Do what?” Pinkie inquired, confused. “Nevermind,” Rarity replied, dismissing the question. “Pinkie, can you help us catch up with the Orange Dash?” Twilight asked. “Of course, no problem,” Pinkie said, happily.
Chapter 6Chapter 6 “Pinkie, can you help us catch up with the Orange Dash?” Twilight asked. “Of course, no problem,” Pinkie said, happily. “Daaaa-shie!” Orange Dash heard Pinkie Pie half-singing, half-calling through the orchard. “Come out, come out, wherever you are!” “Heh, do they really think Pinkie can catch me?” Orange Dash jeered, mostly to herself. “I know Pinkie can do some crazy stuff, but I’m the fastest pony around.” “What about that one time she caught you to play a prank on Spike?” Green Dash noted. “We don’t talk about that!” Orange Dash quickly retorted. “Hi Dashie!” Pinkie said, right next to Orange’s ear. “Celestia help!” Orange said, falling off the cloud. “How did you get there?!” “Balloons,” Pinkie giggled, showing Orange the balloons tied to her tail. “Sometimes I think I just shouldn’t ask,” Orange sighed. “Come down!” Twilight called up, the group on the ground just catching up. “Yeah, you heard her!”Applejack yelled. “Get down here and put back my apples!” “Why should I?” Orange called back down. “Pears are good too.” “It’s Sweet APPLE Acres, that’s why,” Applejack retorted. “I don’t even know how to care for pears.” “You can learn,” Orange replied. “I don’t have the time or bits,” Applejack argued. “Good point,” Green commented as she rolled over, “Way too much work. Now could you guys shut up? I’m trying to nap here.” Orange stuck her tounge out at Green before continuing. “Anyway, the sun’s down from-” Orange flew down to the bottom of the hill, “-here!” “You two!” Rarity finally exclaimed. “You two used to be good friends, so stop arguing! Rainbow, fix Applejack’s apples, and Applejack… I don’t know, bake her a pie or something. Anything to stop this arguing!” All of the other ponies were stunned by this outburst, but Orange Dash was the first to speak. “Fine, it’s just a simple illusion anyway. It was a potion Zecora made, and it comes off with a little bit of rain.” Orange Dash sped off and grabbed a rain cloud, washing the potion off to reveal delicous-looking red apples. “Now I expect that pie by the end of the week,” Orange Dash said. “But it’s Friday!” Applejack exclaimed. “Better get cooking then,” Orange Dash said with a smirk. “Sorry to leave ya’ll, but I’ve gotta get this pie started,” Applejack said, running back toward the house. “And I have to get the Dashes fixed,” Twilight said, surrounding the Orange and Green Dashes in a forcefield. “Hey! That’s no fair!” Orange Dash said, flying into the forcefield in a futile effort to get out. “It’s no use, this could contain an angry Ursa Major,” Twilight said, which of course Orange Dash ignored, continuing to fly against the forcefield. “I don’t see what you are getting so worked up about,” Green Dash commented. “It’s the perfect temperature in here for a nap.” “Shut up with your napping!” Orange Dash yelled back. “If she captures us we can’t fly around.” “She’s got a point,” Pinkie Pie agreed, getting a sharp “Shut up!” from Twilight and Rarity. “Now let’s head back to the library,” Twilight said, starting on the way. Later, at the building-tree contaning books… “Why is Yellow Dash tied down on my bed?!” Twilight yelled at the Purple Dash. “Reasons…” She replied, an innocent look on her face. “Ugh,” Twilight said, face-hoofing. “Also, where is Rainbow Dash?” “That, I seriously don’t know,” Purple Dash said. “Me neither, though I have an idea if you untie me,” Yellow Dash said, struggling against the ropes. “Oh yeah, forgot about that,” Twilight said, with an embarrassed smile,as she undid the knots with her magic. “How did you even tie these without magic?” “Methods…” Purple Dash said, once again with an innocent look. The group went down into the main room of the library, Yellow Dash keeping her distance from Purple Dash who was staying a bit behind and kept glancing at Yellow Dash’s and Twilight’s flanks. As they reached the room, they saw that Orange and Green were still in a forcefield in a corner of the library. “So we have Orange, Yellow, Green, and Purple,” Twilight said. “Which means that we still need to find Red, Blue, and the original. Now, I have a plan to keep you guys in one place. I’m going to move all of you to the basement, which I recently cleaned most of my valuble equipment from-” “You mean I did!” Spike yelled from the kitchen. “Okay, which Spike cleaned most of the valuble equipment from, and I’m going to put a forcefield over the doors and windows. You guys won’t be able to escape, but you will have some room to fly around if you want.” Twilight explained, shooting a glance toward Orange Dash. “Some rules though. No hurting each other, no breaking anything, and no molesting each other.” She shot a glare toward Purple Dash while saying this last rule, which Purple Dash met with an innocent look. “Now who here has any idea where the original Rainbow Dash went?” Twilight inquired. “Well, before I was restrained by this ruffian,” Yellow Dash said, geturing toward Purple Dash, “She said her wings were stiff and she was bored, so she was just going back to her house to get a Daring Do book and that she would be back in five minutes tops. Then Purple here did… things to me.” She completed with a blush and a distant look in her eyes. (I ship it so hard. -THEpandaman007) “Ugh, she had one job!” Twilight said angrily. At that moment, Rainbow Dash burst through the door, before stopping dead in her tracks seeing Twilight glaring at her. “I’m sosososo sorry, I mean, I was bored and wanted to grab a book and I assumed it would be fine but then I got caught up in the book, you know, and I just just just-” Rainbow Dash said quickly, trying to explain. “I get it,” Twilight said angrily, “But do you know what happened when you were gone?” “Do I want to?” Dash asked, noticing the desolate look in Yellow Dash’s eyes and Purple Dash’s blush. “Not really," Twilight said, “But now you’re coming with me. Rarity, Pinkie, can you just make sure these guys don’t try to escape from the forcefield and get concussions or anything?” “Of course” Rarity said. “Okey Dokie Lokie!” Pinkie said, cheerful as always. “Okay, thanks,” Twilight said. “Rainbow, come with me. I last saw them over by the market.”
Chapter 3 (Finally!) (FIXED!)Chapter 3 “Would you mind coming back with me, so that we don’t need to worry about any of this?” “Sure,” Blue Dash said hesitating before continuing, “But… can I snuggle with you?” Rainbow Dash sighed but then decided to allow it. “But just this once!” Rainbow Dash said as the blue Dash leaned against her. Soon they arrived back at the library. “Hello?” Rainbow Dash called. “Other mes? You guys here?” Dash was responded to by the sound of muffled screaming. Rainbow Dash sped toward the sound, shoving Blue Dash away in the process. “Wait! Don’t leave me here!” Blue Dash sobbed, grasping at the feathers that hovered where Rainbow Dash had been seconds before. Rainbow Dash arrived at a closed door, behind which the screaming was clear. Rainbow Dash bucked open the door and found a scene which she knew would haunt her in her dreams that night. “Why are you two kissing?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, shocked to find her Yellow and Purple counterparts in the midst of making out. “It’s not what it looks like!” Yellow Dash exclaimed. “She forced herself upon me!” “You know you liked it though,” Purple Dash said with a sultry tone. “Not in the least!” Purple Dash retorted, greatly offended. “You were the one going on about how angry you were at the ponies against same-gender marriage,” Purple Dash muttered. “Oh will you guys PLEASE quiet down!” Twilight, who had just arrived, but had heard the yelling all the way outside, yelled. “Let’s not start on that subject!” “Thank you,” Yellow Dash said, “Now can you please take me with you! Anything to get me away from this lunatic!” “I’ll see what I can do,” Twilight said, annoyed, “Let’s just all go downstairs.” As they got downstairs, Twilight was shocked to find that the green Rainbow Dash was missing. “You have got to be kidding me!” Twilight yelled. “Where in Celestia’s name did that idiot go?!” “Oh dear, what happened?” Yellow Dash inquired. “I had the green one here, and now she’s gone.” Twilight sighed, facehoofing. “You probably scared her off with your denial of you true feelings,” Purple Dash whispered to Yellow Dash. “That’s it!” Yellow Dash yelled, snapping. “I’ve had enough of your flirting! I don’t roll that way! Please just leave me alone! This is why you have no friends!” Purple Dash was stunned by this sudden exclamation. “I-I thought you loved me…” Purple Dash stuttered. “What gave you that thought?” Yellow Dash snapped. “I never loved you! To be honest, you scare me!” Purple Dash ran up into Twilight’s room and slammed the door. Soft crying was the only sound that broke the stunned silence that remained in the library below. “Oh dear Celestia, what did I just do?” Yellow Dash sighed sadly. “I should probably go talk to her, shouldn’t I?” “Don’t ask me,” Twilight said, “Rarity described me as having the social skills of a kitchen chair.” “I’m going to go try and talk to her.” Yellow Dash said. “I’ll stay here, you go try to find the green one again.” “Okay, good luck.” Twilight said. “At least keep her in the library if you can.” “I’ll do my best.” Yellow Dash said. “good luck finding the other clones.” The Yellow Dash headed up to Twilight’s room, legs shaking. "Rainbow Dash? Could you stay here, just to make sure things don't get too out of hand?" Twilight asked, turning to Rainbow, who had been trying to nap during the conversation. "Sure thing, I've been wanting to catch up on the Daring Do books anyway," Rainbow Dash replied. "Thanks, I'll head over to Sweet Apple Acres to see if Pinkie has managed to catch our Orange friend yet," Twilight said, rolling her eyes. "Oh yeah," Rainbow Dash said, "I never asked, why are you here anyway?" "Rarity had stopped by to get a book on modern fashion, but had heard yelling, and deduced that I wasn't here," Twilight explained, "Then she found me at the Acres." "Yeah, you usually keep it pretty quiet around here," Rainbow Dash replied, chuckling. "Well it is a library," Twilight commented. "Now I'd better be going. I expect it just as quiet as now when I return." Just as Twilight finished, a crash was heard upstairs. "Can do," Rainbow Dash said with a grin. Twilight sighed as she headed out the door. She had not made it far when she was crashed into by another pony. “Rarity?” Twilight said, surprised that it was her, and not that one gray mare whose name she couldn't remember at the moment, who had bumped into her. "Oh I'm so sorry dear!" Rarity said, helping Twilight up. "Are you quite alright?" "Yeah, don't worry," Twilight replied, dusting herself off. "I'm so sorry, I was just distracted by this wonderful book I just got," Rarity said, showing Twilight the book, titled Modern Fashion Throughout Equestria: Volume V "Oh, I'm glad you finally found it," Twilight said. "I'm sorry I wasn't at the library when you stopped by." "Don't worry," Rarity said, "I never asked, why were you at Sweet Apple Acres anyway?" "Long story," Replied Twilight, wanting to get back to that location as soon as possible. “I’m assuming this is related to the strange numbers of Rainbow Dash I saw there?” Rarity asked. “Yeah, a spell didn’t quite go as planned.” Twilight replied sheepishly. “I was actually on my way to back to try to capture all of them." "Well I don't have anything else planned if you need some help," Rarity offered. "Believe me, we need all the help we can get," Twilight said, taking up Rarity's offer. "So sorry to keep you, dear, but could we make a quick stop by Carousel Boutique first?" Rarity asked. "I need to drop this book off there, along with some shopping I did." Rarity revealed a large amount of bags which Twilight hadn't noticed behind Rarity. "Sure," Twilight said, "It's on the way anyway."
