//------------------------------//
// Chapter 35 - May The Best Pet Win! Kodiak's Growth Spurt! 
// Story: My Little Pony: Ren's Adventures In Equestria 
// by MaxTV1234 
//------------------------------//

"Ren..."

Ugh...what?

"Ren!"

"Huh?" What the? Ah! What the heck? Who just licked me in my sleep?! I immediately raise my head out of my pillow and looked around, wondering who licked me? It was probably Kodiak, but then again, it didn't sound like him. What happened to little cute kid's voice?

"Kodi? OOF!" And somebody just stepped on my groin, that just hurts...very much. "Oww..."

"Heh heh, sorry Ren." Huh? I looked up as I widened my eyes in shock, seeing who it was.

"K-Kodiak..." I muttered in shock. It was Kodiak, but not as a small pup, but a little bigger than well like he was already now a big dog. He wasn't that small cute puppy, so has he hit puberty already?!

"What? Surprise?" Kodi smirked. "Yeah, even I was surprise when I felt different this morning and when I looked at myself in the mirror."

"No way...looks like you hit your growth spurt, eh?" I chuckled nervously.

"Yep! Even my voice changed!" Kodi barked happily before repeatedly licking my face. "I'm so happy to finally grow a bit! I'm probably the same height as your legs!"

"Okay boy! Just calm down!" I laughed, getting ticklish from all his licking.

“Sorry Ren.” Kodi apologized with a light chuckle. “Come on! I bet the others will be joyed to see me like this!”

Kodi jumped off my bed and immediately headed out to the living room while I grinned softly at him. Well I think they’re gonna be more than surprise to know what happened to you.



Later
Yep, I stand corrected. The moment we came to the living room and the dining hall, everyone had different reactions. Kaede and Carrie were in awe over the bigger Kodiak, Jamie jaw-dropped upon seeing him while Mason looked over at him with a soft smile. I could see it through that scarf of his.

“Aww, he’s so cute!” Carrie cooed, scratching Kodi underneath the chin. 

“Ah yeah, that’s the spot! Yeah…” Kodi sighed happily while he wagged his tail.

“Yeah, I’m surprised that he’s finally outgrown himself.” Kaede said with a happy grin.

“W-well it makes sense for a dog to grow up, but I never seen one in real life!” Jamie exclaimed. 

“Yeah, I was even surprised to see him a little taller, along with his new voice.” I admitted, rubbing my head bashfully. 

“Well dogs do grow faster than us humans.” Mason said as he was focusing on making some omelettes for us. “Or in his case, talking dogs.”

“Yeah, seems so.” I shrugged with a grin before asking “But man, for him to grow like this must mean an entire year has past, right?”

“Well according to his height…” Jamie spoke up, rubbing his chin while looking at Kodi. “Dogs that has that height has to be ten months old in dog years. In other words, he should probably be at least 12 or 13 years old.”

“Whoa really, that’s amazing.” I said in surprised. So after my first few weeks of being here in Equestria, he must’ve been at least 2 months old or something. I don’t know, he never told me his age.

“Thanks you guys.” Kodi thanked as he nuzzled Carrie while Mason’s little squirrel friends looked at him curiously, amazed to see Kodi this way. “You know, I can’t wait for the others to see me like this. We should see them right now!”

“I see why not.” I nodded before I felt my stomach rumbling. “But first, let’s eat.”

“Yeah, I haven’t had a decent meal for a while.” Jamie said. “Haven’t been eating that much while I finished studying that book last week.”

“Haven’t been eating that much?!” Kaede gasped. “Weren’t you even starving at all?!”

“A little, but I was fine.” Jamie assured with a nervous grin. “So please calm down everyone. Anyway, M-Mason, do you mind if we have our breakfast please?”

“Yes Jamie.” Mason nodded as he finally finished making those omelettes for us and handed it to us. We soon enjoyed eating our meals, and as always, tasted so good. Even Mason made some special dog kibble for him, which he happily accepted. After we finished eating our breakfast and went to clean the dining Hall’s table, we heard a knock on the door as Carrie went over to opened it, revealing to be our friends.

“Hey everypony!” Carrie greeted them.

“HI Carrie.” Fluttershy chuckled, ruffling her hair a bit. “I was wondering if Ren was here.”

“Here I am, girls.” I said, walking towards the door with Kodi next to me. “Hey!”

“Hey Ren, good morning.” Twilight smiled as Owlicious was sitting on her head before she noticed Kodi’s…growth spurt. “What the? K-Kodiak?!”

“Yeah?” Kodi called, not knowing why Twilight and the others were shocked to see him like that.

“Hmm….you look different….” Pinkie said as I noticed Gummy biting onto Pinkie’s tail. Huh, come to think of it…Applejack brought a dog of her own while Rarity brought Opal, but it’s a good thing that Kodi hasn’t noticed because of if he did, he’ll end up chasing her. “Did your fur change?”

Kodi looked over himself, seeing that he had the same light red fur on his body. “No.” Kodi shook his head.

“You sure?” Pinkie asked, feeling suspicious of him.

“Uh, Pinkie Pie.” Applejack looked at her with a deadpan expression. “Kodiak just hit a growth spurt.”

“Oooh….” Pinkie said, realizing the difference now before she beamed at that. “That’s party-tastic! Oh Kodiak, you grow up!”

“Well it seems like old Kodiak is now a big dog.” Rarity chuckled, which made Kodi chuckle.

“Ahh, thanks.” Kodi blushed a bit.

“Yeah…” I rubbed my head bashfully before turning to Fluttershy. “Seems like you were right about him getting bigger, eh?”

“Yeah, but he only reached his teenage years.” Fluttershy explained with a soft smile. “You’ll really have to prepared yourself for his adult years.”

“Oh don’t worry, it won’t be that bad, right Ren?” Kodi looked at me with a smile, which I nodded in agreement and said “Exactly boy.”

“Ah, Twilight and co.” Jamie greeted her as he, Mason, and Kaede came over with smiles on their faces. “What brings you all here? Along with your…pets.”

“Oh, today’s the Pony Pet Playdate. It’s being held at the Ponyville park.” Fluttershy explained before showing us the basket around her hoof, revealing Angel. “I brought Angel with me for the playdate.”

“Ahh…” Carrie cooed at Angel, who made a smug grin on his face. Oh please…

“Yep, I even brought Winona with me.” Applejack introduced as Winona let out a bark before Kodi walked over and barked back at her. Soon after, they both started playing around outside, much to our joy. “Heh, I guess Winona is taking a liking towards Kodiak, eh?”

“Yeah, though I never knew you had a dog.” I said, feeling a little surprised by that.

“She’s our guard dog, and she helps out around Sweet Apple Acres whenever we need her.” Applejack explained. “You don’t see her quite often around our home.”

“Yes, though I’m glad Kodi hasn’t Opal because of their little…rivalry.” Rarity said with worried as she had her little pet cat in her bag. Good thing Kodiak will be busy having fun with his new friend.

“Anyway, we were wondering if you guys like to come with us.” Twilight offered.

“I’ll be glad to go to this Pet Playdate.” Mason smiled.

“Me too.” I nodded in agreement, eager to try it out. Besides, this new and older Kodiak would enjoy himself with playing with other animals. Though he may have met some of them, but I’m sure he’ll get along with them just fine.

“But…I don’t have a pet.” Carrie said sadly.

“Same here.” Kaede agreed.

“Sorry, I never had one before either.” Jamie added. “Although, I read a book about how to raise different kind of pets, so I know how to raise any type of animal but never own one.”

“That’s okay Jamie, we can share Owlicious together.” Twilight offered, showing Owlicious to him.

“Hoo!” Owlicious looked at Jamie, who smiled back at the owl. 

“Well I see why not.” Jamie said. “Okay, I-I’ll share Owlicious with you T-Twilight.”

“Anytime Jamie.” Twilight smiled back at him.

“And if you want Carrie, we can share both Maddy and Nate.” Mason offered, brightening up Carrie’s mood.

“Okay!” Carrie agreed.

“And we can share too Kaede.” I offered, but she shook her head and said “No thanks Ren, I…think I’ll be alright without one. I’ll just watch you guys have fun, that’s all.”

I simply looked at her with worried, hearing that from her. She may sound okay, but I can feel sadness from her. It must feel terrible for her not to get a pet. Hmm…

“O-okay.” I shrugged with a soft and worried grin before noticing that we’re missing one more pony. “Hey, where’s Dash? I don’t see her with you girls.”

“Oh…” Twilight and the other girls looked at each other with worried and looking sheepish at the same time. “About that…Rainbow Dash didn’t want to come because she doesn’t have a pet.”

“Hm? So she doesn’t have one, huh?” Mason rubbed his chin.

“Yes, and we were thinking on inviting her over but…” Fluttershy couldn’t find the right words to explain this, but that’s when Rarity chimed in and said “But she rather take her afternoon beauty sleep than spending time for the Ponyville Pet Playdate.”

“Yeah, besides, I think she wouldn’t be missing out on this.” Applejack added.

“Well, that yes.” Fluttershy nodded.

“Oh, well that’s sad.” Jamie said, feeling bad for Rainbow Dash. So even Dash doesn’t have a pet either? That’s sad as well. First Kaede, now Rainbow Dash. They must feel terrible for not having pets, right?

“Well either way, you guys should go on.” Kaede offered with a sad smile. “I-I mean, you wouldn’t want to miss it, right?”

“Come on Kay, you should come too. Like I said before, you can share with me by playing with Kodi.” I stated with a smile, surprising her. 

“W-well…I see why not. Alright, let’s go.” Kaede smiled sheepishly while Twilight smiled and said “Alright everypony. Let’s head over to the Ponyville Park.”

We all nodded in agreement before we headed over to the town’s park, and as we progressed through there, Kodi and the other animals were feeling energetic as they ran ahead of us, heading into the park before us. Soon after we arrived to some part of the Ponyville’s park and walked over a hill, we started chatting with each other while our animals began playing tag with Opal, or more like chase because when Kodi found out Opal was here, he couldn’t resist the urge to chase her since it seems to be a habit between a cat and a dog to fight with each other like this. 

“I guess they’re getting along, in their own way I guess.” Jamie said, raising a brow to see them chase Opal around, mostly Kodi. 

“Well, it’s in their nature to act wild, but then again, they’re sure are cute, aren’t they?” Mason smiled softly at them.

“Yeah, they’re sure are…” Kaede muttered, watching them playing around until Opal hopped onto a tree. That’s when I noticed Rainbow Dash up there, who was busy taking a nap since she was snuggling against a pillow in her hooves.

“Huh? Hey, is that Dash?” I called, causing the others to look up to see her as well.

“Oh yeah, it is her. Seems like Rarity wasn’t kidding about her sleeping in the afternoon.” Mason said, looking over at her.

“Yeah, but we don’t mind if she doesn’t want to join in, despite us asking many times for her to come with us and share one of our pets with us.” Applejack rolled her eyes before noticing Winona playing around with Kodi by rough housing each other. “Heh, seems like old Winona and Kodi became fast friends, eh?”

“Yeah, seems so.” I smirked. Guess Kodi is finally enjoying himself with the other pets. That’s what I like to say. We soon began playing with our pets like Pinkie allowed Gummy to chew on her hoof before he jumped and clenched on to her forehead with his gums and then moved onto her tail, causing her to giggle.

Owlicious had flown over to Twilight and Jamie while Applejack threw a stick at Winona to go and fetch. Fluttershy, Angel, Kodi, and me ran with each other, enjoying the breeze of the wind. Mason and Carrie were feeding Nate and Maddy some nuts they found around the ground. You know, I feel pretty happy hanging out with all of our friends, well almost. Kaede doesn’t have a pet along with Dash. It just not fun to leave them out on the fun.

“Hey guys…” Huh? We all looked over to the tree, seeing Rainbow Dash stretched her back a little before looking down at us. “Uhh…what’s going on?”

“Oh! Our sincerest apologies, Rainbow Dash, if our pets were bothering you.” Rarity apologized before looking over at Opal with a stern look. “Say you’re sorry, Opal.”

Opal replied by hissing at her. “She’s…sorry.”

“That wasn’t a sorry. That was more like a threat.” Mason stated. 

“Yeah, that did sound like one.” Jamie agreed.

“Anyway, what are you all doing out here?” Rainbow asked curiously.

“We’re here for a Pony Pet Playdate!” Kodi explained, which made Dash surprised to see him like this.

“Whoa! What happened to you?!” Rainbow gasped as she flew down from the tree and looked around his body. “I don’t remember you being this big!”

“Right…I kinda hit my growth spurt.” Kodi replied before licking Rainbow’s face, much to her chagrin. 

“Ew!” She tried to wipe away the slobber from his spit.

“But I’m just happy that your surprised and excited to see me like this!” Kodi exclaimed, wagging his tail in excitement as Rainbow managed to get all the slobber off her face.

“Yeah, sure it is.” Rainbow muttered, rolling her eyes while crossing her hooves before asking “So this Pony Pet Playdate…what’s that?”

“Oh, it’s a special playdate where everyone enjoys themselves with their pets while the pets get to know each other.” Jamie explained before adding “Or so I was told by Twilight and the others.”

“Yep!” Applejack nodded in agreement. “Why, we always round up our critters for a regular ol’ Pony Pet Playdate in this park.” Applejack ran past Rainbow and threw another stick for Winona.

“Uh…you do?” Rainbow questioned.

“Same time every week.”

“We even came over to enjoy the playdate so our animal friends could spend time with each other.” Carrie replied. “Oh, but Kaede, Jamie, and I don’t have pets so we’re sharing some of our friends’ and my big brother’s.”

“Yeah, but I rather watched them over than playing since I don’t have a pet and I didn’t want to share, that’s all.” Kaede said, feeling a little down but held her smile.

“Though I’m surprise you didn’t know that, but it makes sense I guess.” I shrugged, confusing Dash.

“What the hay you talking about, Ren?” Rainbow asked.

“Well…” Twilight spoke up before giving me a glare, causing me to smile sheepishly. Did I say something wrong? “What Ren is trying to say is that we were initially planned on inviting you Rainbow, but well-”

“We were totally gonna invite you, Rainbow, then Twilight remembered that you don’t even have a pet, and Rarity remembered that you really like to take naps in the afternoon, so Applejack figured you wouldn’t be missing out on anything away, and we told Renny and the others about you not owning a pet while Fluttershy and I nodded our heads like this.” Pinkie explained everything to her while grabbing her and Fluttershy’s head, imitating a nod.

“You didn’t have to tell her everything we were talking about earlier.” I said with concern.

“What? I was just saying.” Pinkie shrugged.

“Okay, but how did you speak like that without loosing a breath?!” Jamie gasped, immediately pushing me aside with his journal in his hands.

“It’s Pinkie Pie, that’s all you need to know or so I heard.” Mason said.

“Exactly!” Pinkie nodded.

“Oh, but that doesn’t make any sense!” Jamie complained. Since when did anything around here makes sense?

“Oh, please don’t be mad at us.” Fluttershy pleaded.

“Oh, I’m not bad. You all are right. Not much point of a Pony Pet Playdate for me if I’m a pony without a pet, right?” Rainbow asked.

“Eeexactly. So, if now you’ll excuse us…”  Applejack threw another stick for Winona to fetch and bring back while the rest of us continued to join with their pets. Me and Kodi played around a bit till we noticed how sad look Rainbow Dash was acting, along with Kaede. 

“Hey Kaede, Dash.” I called for them, gaining their attention. “Why not you both share with Kodiak? That way you both don’t have to feel out.”

“F-feel out?” Kaede sputtered. “Come on Ren, you don’t have to do this for me.”

“But I want everyone to enjoy themselves, and I hate seeing people that way. So why not?”

“Yeah! I don’t mind playing around with you guys.” Kodi smiled.

“Nah, I’m good.” Dash waved her hoof while trying to get back to her nap.

“Well…” Kaede looked down for a minute before looking at me with a grin. “Maybe I can try and find my own pet. That way I don’t need to feel left out.”

“Really?!” Suddenly, I was pushover by Fluttershy as she overheard what Kaede said. “Y-you really want a pet, Kaede?!”

“Yeah?” Kaede nodded, feeling surprised to see her act like that. I soon got up before dusting myself off, looking at the two with a smile. Wow, I never seen Fluttershy act like that way before.

“Amazing! That’s wonderful to hear!” Fluttershy exclaimed.

“Wow, I never seen her act like that before.” Kodi whispered to me, which I replied “Yeah, but it makes sense since she does love animals and all that.”

“Hey, now wait a minute!” Rainbow flew down between us as she exclaimed “Just because I don’t have a pet now doesn’t mean I never want a pet!”

“Rainbow Dash! Y-you…oh really? You really want a pet?! Really?” Fluttershy asked, flying around Rainbow energetically. “Cause I’ve go so many wonderful choices at my house.” She soon began dragging Dash around as she flew and continued “Oh, and I know that you and Kaede will love them, and they’ll love you, oh!”

“Wow, you’re really that excited for us to receive our first pets, eh?” Kaede chuckled with a soft grin.

“Yes! And you’ll be best friends forever and ever! Oh!” Fluttershy exclaimed and began flying out of the park.

“Hey wait! Where you going?!” I exclaimed, running off with her along with Kodi, Rainbow Dash, and Kodi. If i have to guess, I say she’s going to the one place where you can get a pet. 

Later
And once again, I’m right again. We followed her all the way to her cottage’s backyard, where many animals could possibly be pets for either Kaede or Rainbow Dash.

“So what pet is Kay and Dashy gonna get Ren?” Kodi asked curiously.

“I…have no clue.” I shrugged. “But I’m sure we’ll found soon.”

“That is true, I’ll admit.” Kodi nodded in agreement as Fluttershy came over in front of Kaede and Rainbow Dash with a happy grin.


(Fluttershy):
Now, Rainbow, Kaede, my dears, I cannot express my delight
It's abundantly clear that somewhere out here
Is the pet that will suit you just right

(Rainbow Dash):
I can't wait to get started, but first let me set a few rules
It's of utmost importance
The pet that I get
Is something that's awesome and cool!

(Kaede):
And my pet needs to be something that I can love!
Something that is cute...sort of!

(Fluttershy):
Awesome, cool, love, cute, got it!
I have so many wonderful choices, just wait, you will see!

(Rainbow Dash):
I need something real fast like a bullet to keep up with me!

(Kaede):
And something that matches my personality!

(Fluttershy):
Sure! How 'bout a bunny?
They're cutesy and wootsie and quick as can be!

(Rainbow Dash):
Cutesy? Wootsie? Have you even met me?

(Kaede):
I don't know if that's right for me.

(Fluttershy):
Rainbow, Kaede, have faith
You see, I will bet you
Somewhere in here is the pet that will get you!

(Kaede):
Come on, the sky's the limit!

(Rainbow Dash):
Sky is good. I'd like it to fly.

(Fluttershy): 
Really? Because I think this widdle putty tat has your name written all over it. 

Fluttershy held a cute little kitty cat in front of Kaede and Rainbow Dash, which made Kaede cooed while Rainbow scrunched her face at it.

(Fluttershy):
Yes, he does. Aww, look, he likes you.

(Rainbow Dash):
Pass!

(Kaede):
I think it's so cute!

(Fluttershy):
I have so many wonderful choices for you to decide
There are otters and seals
With massive appeal

(Rainbow Dash):
Otters and seals can't fly.

(Kaede):
Maybe not, but I've seen that particular seal catch ten feet of air when he breaches the water!

A seal clapped his flippers and barks happily.

(Rainbow Dash):
That's it. I'm outta here.

As Rainbow Dash tried to walk away, I noticed a small turtle walking towards her. Aww, he looks cool and cute at the same time.

(Fluttershy):
Wait! There must be a pet here!
That will fit the ticket
How 'bout a ladybug, or a cute cricket?

(Rainbow Dash):
Bigger. And cooler.

(Fluttershy):
Bigger, cooler. Right.

Unfortunately, neither the girls noticed the small turtle, much to me and Kodi's disappointment. You know, he's not a bad pet to own. I heard that turtles can practically live for 1,000 years, which is a really long time.

I've got just the thing in that tree, Dash.
Meet your new fabulous pet, Squirrely!

She showed us a brown squirrel, who made cute sound, much to Kaede's joy and Rainbow's annoyance.

(Rainbow Dash):
It's just a squirrel!

(Fluttershy):
Not just any squirrel. A flying squirrel!

Squirrely jumped off her hooves and began gliding around with its wing before it cling itself into a tree.

(Kaede):
That's amazing!

(Rainbow Dash):
...Yeah. So, like I was saying...

I then noticed the same tortoise again, trying its best to gain Rainbow's attention, but it was ignored once more, much to my disappointment. Seriously Dash, do you not see the poor turtle?!

Fluttershy, pal, this won't cut it
Me and Kaede need a pet to keep up with us
Something awesome, something flying
With coolness that defies gravity!

(Fluttershy):
I'm sensing you want an animal that can fly.

(Rainbow Dash):
Ya think?

(Fluttershy):
I have plenty of wonderful creatures who soar in the sky
Like a sweet hummingbird or a giant monarch butterfly

Okay, I gotta admit. Those sound awesome animals that I've never seen in real life.

(Rainbow Dash):
Better, but cooler.

The turtle tried tapping Rainbow's back leg, but she merely pushed it away, causing it to wobble away. Aww...

(Fluttershy):
I see. How 'bout an owl, or a wasp, or a toucan?
There's so many wonderful creatures the likes of that
There are falcons and eagles
They are both quite regal
Or perhaps what you need is a dark and mysterious bat?

(Kaede):
 Oh, there's so much to choose!

Fluttershy grabbed Dash by the hooves as they flew to the skies while Kaede, Kodi, and I looked up with awe and amazement!

(Rainbow Dash):
Who cares? Now you're talking! But instead of just one standout, now that's too many.
So many choices, and such richest aplenty

(Fluttershy):
Not a bad problem to have, if you ask me.

(Rainbow Dash):
The bat would be awesome, but the wasp I'm digging too
Do you have something in a yellow striped bat?

(Fluttershy):
No. I've got a hot pink flamingo, just dying to meet you.

The flamingo held out it's foot to shake with Rainbow Dash's, causing me, Kaede, and Kodi to chuckle at that.

(Rainbow Dash):
What to do, what to do?

She suddenly gasped with widened eyes as she formed a big grin! 
A prize! That's it! There's really just one way
To find out which animal's best
Hold a contest of speed, agility, and guts
That will put each pet to the test!

(Ren):
That doesn't sound like a bad idea!

(Fluttershy):
Don't forget style, that should be considered.

(Rainbow Dash):
Then we'll know for sure who's best of the litter!

(Fluttershy):
The one who is awesome as cool!

(Rainbow Dash):
Just like me
Can't settle for less, 'cause I'm the best!

(Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash):
So a contest we will see!

(Rainbow Dash):
Who's the number one, greatest, pefectest pet!

(Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash):
In the wold for me!

(Fluttershy):
May the games...

(Rainbow Dash):
Begin!



"May the best pet win!" Rainbow exclaimed, raising her hoof into the air as the animals that interested Rainbow cheered alongside her.

"A contest..." Kaede thought before noticing a little kitty cat that has gray fur and yellow eyes and black little stripes around it's body looking at her as it let out a cute meow. "Ahh, you're so cute."

Kaede raised the little kitten in the air and smiled happily. "You know, I think I found my new pet friend."

"Hey, good for you, Kay!" I smiled happily, relieved that she finally has picked her pet.

"A kitty cat?" Rainbow questioned. "You're gonna pick a kitty cat?! Come on Kay! You should totally pick a different pet that!"

"Rainbow, this is her choice and she decides on what she picks." I exclaimed, standing up for her. 

"Ren's right. Kaede chose which pet she wanted Rainbow Dash. Besides, didn't you say a minute ago that you want to hold a contest to choose which pet you think is more bigger and cooler as you?" Fluttershy questioned.

"Exactly!" Rainbow nodded. "But I guess you're right. I'll see you all later!"

Rainbow then flew off, leaving a rainbow trail behind while the other animals followed after her, along with the turtle, who was slowly walking to catch up with Dash. Kodi looked at the small kitty cat and started sniffing it, causing it to let out another cute meow

"Kodi..." I looked at him with confusion. "Are you okay? You're not growling at it?"

"Well she looks so cute and is so friendly like me and the other animals, except Opal." Kodi said, rolling his eyes before the kitty jumped off Kaede's hands and landed on Kodi's head before she gently licked him.

"Aww, that's so adorable." Kaede cooed. "Kodi, you're such a nice doggy to let a cute kitty like her to lick you."

"Y-yeah...I don't mind that at all." Kodi blushed a bit.

"So wait, if you don't want to hurt her because she's a kitty? Then why attack Opal?" I asked curiously.

"Oh, because she's mean." Kodi answered bluntly. Well, he's not wrong. She loves to hiss at Rarity and scratches her whenever she tries to touch her, but maybe she does loves her...in her own way. "And I can't stand her like that."

"Oh...okay." I said, rubbing my cheek in embarrassment before turning to Kaede and asked "So what are you gonna name her?"

"I don't know. I guess I'll think of it later when this contest Rainbow talked about takes place." Kaede replied as the kitten snuggled on Kodi's head, causing him to laugh.

"Alright little girl, you can stay on my head if ya want." Kodi offered, much to the little kitten's delight.

"Aww, you're so nice Kodiak." Fluttershy smiled before noticing me looking at the turtle. "Hm? Ren? Is there something with this little friend?"

"Well...I noticed this turtle has been trying to gain Dash's attention during the entire song, but kept failing to do so." I explained, turning to Fluttershy with a worried look.

"Umm, Ren...that's a tortoise." Fluttershy corrected me.

"Wait what? A tortoise?" I asked.

"Yeah, that's a tortoise, not a turtle. You know, turtles have flippers while tortoise has feet like this one." Fluttershy pointed out.

"Yeah, she's right Ren." Kaede agreed. I blushed a bit in embarrassment, rubbing my head bashfully. Okay, well I'm sure anyone that saw him might make the same mistake as I did.

"W-well anyway, I was wondering if 'tortoise' might be a good pet for Dash." I said, which made Fluttershy sad.

"I'm sorry Ren, but I don't think it might possible for her to love him." Fluttershy sighed sadly. 

"Well she did say that she wants an animal that is both big and cool like her." Kodi pointed out.

"Hmm...that is a problem." Kaede wondered.

"Well then...why not we help him out get chosen by Dash?" I offered, much to their confusion. "Rainbow Dash is going to be having a contest for the animals she chosen from that musical number a while ago, so if we help the tortoise on getting chosen as Rainbow's pet, then he won't feel sad anymore."

I saw the tortoise slowly making a smile at me, probably glad for coming up with that kind of idea.

“Hmm….that doesn’t sound like a bad idea. Thank you Ren.” Fluttershy smiled.

“Well, I’ll help out too. I want to help Dash on finding the perfect pet just like I did.” Kaede said, smiling over at the little kitty cat as she was sleeping peacefully on Kodi’s head.  

“Me too. I’m sure the little tortoise will find a good home with Dash.” Fluttershy smiled.

“Yeah! I can even compete in the contest. Just to help the turtle-”

“Tortoise.” I corrected him.

“The tortoise out in the contest to show how awesome he is, and also maybe show the other animals what an awesome pet I am.” Kodi smirked. Why I do have the feeling that he was boasting about that?

“Well then, why not we head over and give this tortoise a chance?” I offered, which everyone nodded as Fluttershy picked up the tortoise as we headed back into town for this big contest Rainbow was talking about.



Later
Huh…she’s really taking this thing seriously. She rounded up any animal she took liking of as they were stood in a straight line as we all cheered for them, even Kodiak, and the tortoise joined in.

Rainbow then blew her whistle, shutting us up. “Shh!” She shushed us before turning back to the animals. “So! You all think you’ve got what it takes to be my pet, do ya? Well, we’ll see about that!” She pressed her nose against the flamingo, who let out a long gulp. “If any of you don’t think you can handle it, bow out now before you humiliate yourself in front of your peers. This competition isn’t for the weak. You’d better be prepared to step up your game!” 

She then noticed the monarch butterfly as she pressed her face closer to it. “You call that flapping?” She asked, making the butterfly flapped its wings larger. “That’s better There’s only room on Team Dash for one of you, and my future pet needs to be able to take it to the extreme! Any questions?”

“Uhh…is this contest really necessary?” Jamie whispered. “I mean, it can’t be that hard to choose a pet, right?”

“True, but remember that finding a pet that fits the perfect bond with its owner is the most important thing.” Mason explained. “I understand this contest might be…stupid, but we have to trust Dash on this one if she wants to find the perfect pet for her.”

“Okay, but does she even understand what a pet really needs?” Applejack asked with a raised brow.

“Well, they do need love.” Carrie pointed out.

“Yeah, along with care and attention.” Twilight answered. “Love and affection-AH!” Winona walked over and licked Twilight on the cheek, causing us all to smile. “Ugh…And breath mints!”

“Those are good facts for an owner to do for their pet.” Jamie nodded before turning to Kaede. “So Kaede, you said that you chosen that little kitty, right?”

“Yeah, she felt so cute and kept looking at me, like we were destined to meet each other.” Kaede stated, petting her little cat while it rest in her arms.

“She is so cute.” Carrie cooed.

“Now, you just pay attention, and try your best, and-” Rainbow stopped her explanation as she noticed Fluttershy and I with the tortoise and Kodi. “W-what the? Seriously, Fluttershy?! The turtle?! What did you bring that thing here for?” She pointed at him, causing it to flinch.

“Rainbow…that’s a tortoise.” I pointed out, much to her annoyance.

“And what are you doing here?! Kodiak belongs to you!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“I thought I could participate along with the tortoise. It’s just for fun, that’s all.” Kodi replied with a grin on his face.

“And he’s always dreamed of being somepony’s pet. He just wants a chance to compete, he won’t get in the way. You won’t even know he’s here.” Fluttershy added as she pointed at the tortoise. Rainbow looked at it for a moment before scoffing “No.”

“Oh, just let him try.” 

“Yeah! He deserves a chance! This is so unfair, you know.” I added, backing up Fluttershy.

“Ugh, but there’s no way he can possibly keep up.” She exclaimed, pushing the turtle away before it accidentally rolled on his back and return to his original position. “Look at him!”

“It won’t hurt to let him try.” Fluttershy said, holding him towards her.

“But-”

“Come on Rainbow! He wants to do this! Please!” Kodi begged, giving her the puppy dog stare. Rainbow looked at him for a minute, her face showing off a feeling of guilt as she groaned “Ugh, okay! Okay! Fine!”

“Yes!” Kodi muttered with a grin. Ha, oldest trick in the book. Good one Kodiak.

“I’ll let you and the turtle-”

“Tortoise.” Fluttershy pointed out.

“Whatever, I’ll let you two join in, but don’t come crying to me when this competition gets too intense.” Rainbow said with a serious expression.

“How intense we talking here?” I asked curiously.

“More intense than you ever witness.” She replied with a cocky grin. 

Oookay….not the answer I was hoping for, but I’ll take it. I bent down and petted Kodi on the head and said “Good luck boy.”

“You got it, Ren.” Kodi winked as soon as Fluttershy gently placed the tortoise down on the ground.

“But don’t say I didn’t ya two! This isn’t a game you know!” Rainbow warned, glaring at both Kodiak and the tortoise, which the latter flinched by hiding into its shell. She then looked back at the animals and said “Alright, now these games will determine which one of you has the most important qualities. I’m looking for a pet.” She sped around the place, causing the turtle to spin around on his shell. “Speed!” Rainbow shouted before maneuvering through each animal quickly. “Agility.” She then stopped by the others and puffed herself up. “Guts!” She flew towards a cloud and creating something with her flight skills. “Style!”

She flew back down with a big grin and said “Coolness”. She then formed a pose and added “Awesomeness.” Finally, she placed the cap she had before and turned it backwards, crossing her hooves together and wore some dark shades. “And radicalness.”

“Umm…Radicalness isn’t even a word.” Jamie pointed out.

“And aren’t those all the same thing?” Twilight added.

Rainbow turned to them with her shades down and said “You would think that, Twilight and Jamie. And that’s why neither of you would never qualify to be my pet.”

“I…rather not, thank you.” Jamie said, feeling annoyed by that along with Twilight as she gave an annoyed glare at her. Me and Fluttershy walked over to them as I said “Don’t worry guys. You know how Dash is.”

“Yeah, though I don’t know why but that comment stung a bit.” Jamie sighed.

“Just ignore her comment. Besides, like Ren said, you know how she is.” Twilight assured with a soft grin.

“Okay…” Jamie nodded as we watched over Rainbow Dash began the Who’s The Best Pet contest as she moved to the first challenge.

“Speed!” Rainbow announced, much to my shock. Kodi can handle it, but the turtle…no. Now that’s a problem! This is really unfair and she knows that! “On your marks…get set…” The animals, Kodi, and the tortoise prepared themselves for the starting line as Rainbow blew the whistle, making them run as fast as they could. As Kodi and the other animals crossed the finish line, Rainbow analyze them.

“Hmm…sorta speedy…not speedy…pretty speedy…could be more speedy…” The falcon let out a cry and instantly flew with a rapid spin and stopped at the line. “Yeah! That’s speed!”

We all cheered while Kodi let out bark of joy before noticing the tortoise going too slow to cross the finish. He then walked over and picked him up on his floor and crossed the finish line with him, much to Rainbow’s disappointment.

“That’s just sad.” Rainbow said blankly, much to my concern. Ooh, I just hope that turtle really does get picked by Dash.



“Agility!”

The butterfly began, swiftly moving through the hoops while remaining in control, but Rainbow must’ve though how it was doing it too soft.

“Sorta agile…”  The flamingo went up next and tried to maneuver on a sort of see-saw obstacle, but failed by slipping and falling onto the ground. “Not agile…” The toucan went up as it flew through the curved and covered hoop, pretty swiftly and elegant. “Pretty agile…” The bat flew through a hoof quite easily like it was nothing. “Could be more agile…”

The tortoise went up next, but failed due to him trying to jump, but only stretched. “Wanna know the opposite of agility? That.” 

Ouch, that comment really stung. Kodi went up next, jumping hoop through hoop, impressing Rainbow a bit. “Okay, that’s a little agile.”

The hummingbird went up last as it swiftly past through each hoop while it was maintaining its speed, much to Rainbow’s joy.

“Yeah baby, now that’s what I call agility!” She raised her hoof in front of the hummingbird, much to its confusion. “Come on! Don’t leave me hanging!” The hummingbird slapped one of its wings on Rainbow’s hoof, but it made it fall on itself before re-flapping its wings and looked at Dash with a nervous look. “Yeah…I’m gonna have to shave a point off your score for that.”

Well, at least it’s still managed to impress Rainbow earlier, right?



“Okay! Which of you has the guts to try and get Opal’s favorite toy away from her.” 

So it’s a strategy on how to steal a toy from her? Well I think Kodiak can handle her…I think. Wait, I think I might be wrong about that. Kodi went up first and growled at her, causing her to hiss at him as they began chasing each other.

“Okay, maybe he has some guts but I’m gonna score him off because he didn’t get the toy like I asked.” Rainbow said, writing something in her clipboard. I face-palmed myself while seeing Kodi kept chasing Opal. Man, I should’ve realized this would happen. After we managed to calm both Opal and Kodiak down, the butterfly went up next and tried to get the toy mouse, but Opal stopped herself as she exited out of her cat cage and growled at it. The monarch butterfly showed off its wings, causing the cat to feel like to be hypnotized. Once she was distracted, the butterfly swiped the toy mouse away and gave it to Dash.

“Now that takes guts!” Rainbow exclaimed, impressed by the butterfly’s strategy. We all became surprised and stared in awe at just how brave the butterfly was.

“Wow, who knew a butterfly can do!” Carrie said in awe.

“Of course, a butterfly uses its wings to hypnotized its predators so that it can escape from danger.” Jamie explained.

“That I agree.” Mason nodded, crossing his arms while watching over the contest. Soon, the turtle went up next and slowly tried to snatch the toy from Opal, but that nasty cat saw it coming as she tried to slash him, but he went back inside of his shell to defend himself. Opal continued to slash him, but it won’t work since his shell is like a tank. Rainbow gave off an uninterested look and sighed heavily. Oh come on! He’s defending himself by hiding in his shell! I say that’s a pretty cool thing to do.



“Style!” 

Rainbow asked Rarity to take some pictures of her and the animals. Up first was the bat as he wore dark shades, next was the falcon as he stood on Rainbow’s shoulder as she stood valiantly. The next one was the hummingbird as it was fencing with Dash.

Soon, Kodi went up and licked Dash on the face, causing her to make a soft grin at him. She then wore a dress and stood on several books with the owl, and the other was she was playing with something that had brooms involved with the hawk. She then just finished taking pictures with the butterfly as Rarity walked over and removed the accessories from her and puffed her cheeks in powder.

“Any pet of mine’s gotta look good, ‘cause you gotta make me look good!” Rainbow said as she went over to the next competitor, which revealed the tortoise as Kodi put a red bow on his shell, trying to make him look good, but right when Rarity took a picture of her and the tortoise, he cowered in his shell while Rainbow made an uncomfortable and disappointed look on his face.



“Coolness!”

She then tested every animal that can make its sounds. She first pointed at the owl, who made a ‘hoot’ sound. 

“Sorta cool.”

She then pointed at the duck, which made a quack sound. 

“Not cool.”

She then pointed at the bat, which made a loud cry. “Pretty cool.”

She pointed at the toucan, but once it cried, it sounded more like it was choking or something.

“Could be cooler.”

She pointed at the ground, as we looked down to see a Wasp as it just let out a buzzing sound.

“Not what I had in mind.”

“But don’t bees make that sound?” I asked, sweat-dropping a little.

“Yeah, but then again, this is Rainbow Dash we’re talking about.” Mason replied, also sweat-dropping.

Rainbow soon moved on the butterfly, but all it did was flap, not making a single sound. 

“I can’t hear you!”

“A butterfly can’t make a sound, Rainbow Dash.” Jamie pointed out, much to her annoyance. Soon, we moved to Kodi and the tortoise as he let out a bark, which sorta impressed Dash.

“Uhh…could be cooler.” Dash said, disappointing Kodi. Well I think his bark was awesome. Anyway, the tortoise tried to make a sound, but his cry was too dry to hear.

“Eugh.” Rainbow rolled her eyes while returning a disgusted look at him till she heard the eagle let out a powerful cry. “Okay, now that’s a cool sound!”

Well, I’ll admit, that was a cool sound. Sorry guys.

She then went over to her awesomeness contest, but like Jamie and Twilight stated, it was the same thing as the last three words she spoke about before this thing started. It started off with the bat as it hang itself on a tree in an upside down position while it flopped his ears.

“Sorta awesome.” Rainbow shrugged.

“What’s it doing?” I wondered aloud.

“It’s using its sound waves.” Jamie muttered aloud, gaining our attention. “Since bats are blind, it uses sound waves to identify it preys and enemies.”

“Oh, so that’s what its doing!” Pinkie said, surprising Jamie, who didn’t realize that he was talking aloud again. “I thought he liked flopping his ears like I do!”

Pinkie flopped her ears around, much to his surprise. “B-b-but how?!” Jamie demanded.

“It’s Pinkie Pie.” We all answered, not wanting him to go there like Twilight did.

Anyway, the awesomeness contest went over with the toucan and made a really weird noise. 

“Not awesome.”

The flamingo stood on one leg easily, which sorta impressed her.

“Could be more awesome.”

The owl started twisting his head around, which impressed her a lot.

“Hohoho, yeah, that is awesome!”

Kodi, along with the tortoise went up next as Kodi settled the tortoise down to allow him to do an awesome trick, but all he did was put his head back in his shell.

“Uh, you did that already. That’s pretty much all you can do, huh?” The turtle felt hurt by her words, along with the rest of us. “And what can you do, Kodiak?”

“Uhh…I can do this.” Kodi picked up a stick and handed it to her, much to Rainbow’s confusion before realizing what he was trying to do. She sighed and thew the stick away, making him go fetch it.

“I got it! I got it!” Kodi called, rushing towards the stick.

“Yeah…needs more work.” Rainbow rolled her eyes. Sorry Kodi, but that’s something I’m afraid that you won’t win.



The next and final part of the contest is for animals to present their radicalness. You know, I have to agree with Jamie. That really isn't a word. Anyway, they were resorted into what it seems like a talent show. The duck went up first by tapping his feet with a cane in his wings as well as wearing an old fashion hat. Hmm, why do I have the feeling that I've seen something like that before?

The eager went up next and knitted Dash a sweater, much to our surprise, but mostly Jamie.

"H-how?!" Jamie gasped.

"I...have no clue." Kaede answered.

Soon, the falcon went next and failed in some card trick, and the wasp was making some shadow puppets, which surprised us.

"Did you teach these animals all of these tricks, Flutters?" I asked curiously. She blushed a bit and smiled sheepishly and replied "Maybe..."

Soon, all these talents started boring Rainbow Dash and just as the bat arrived, he hung himself upside-down with several mirrors around him as he began singing some sooth song before letting out a high pitch scream, breaking all of the glasses, impressing Rainbow Dash herself.

"Whoa! That was truly awesome!" Rainbow exclaimed, making the bat happy. "But I'm afraid this is the radicalness competition, so I'm gonna have to take some points off."

Oh well, I give it a 10 out of 10. 

Soon, both Kodi and the tortoise went up next, and I gotta say, this tortoise is really determined to win this race because they made a dangerous yet cool obstacle course. 

"Alright little guy, good luck." Kodi said with a smile. The tortoise slowly nodded before turning as he was about to jump off the chair he was standing. But unfortunately, the moment it jumped, it fell back on the ground and on his shell. 

"Uhh...ta-da?" Kodi laughed nervously while Dash returned the disappointed look on them as she walked over with a sigh and said "Listen, turtle..."

"Tortoise." Kodi corrected him, angering Rainbow.

"Whatever!" Rainbow exclaimed, causing Kodi to smile sheepishly as we all walked over with worried and concern looks while Mason returned a stern look at her as Rainbow continued "You've had your fun, but I think you and I both now who made the cut and who didn't."

The tortoise only blinked in confusion before letting out a croak. 

"You didn't." Rainbow replied, much to our surprise and annoyance.

"Come on! He's trying his best!" Kodi complained. "I've been trying to show him and myself how awesome we are as pets, but you keep shunning him like that! I don't mind if some of my tricks are boring to you, but being too rude to him like that because he's slow is just mean!"

"He's right." Mason nodded in agreement. "While you see the tortoise as weak, he has some strengths. Every animal has different weaknesses and strengths that helps others."

"Pfft! Yeah right." Rainbow rolled her eyes, not bothering to hear any of our complaints before turning to the tortoise and said "Oh well, 'A' for effort and everything, you gave it your best shot, maybe I've got a gold star sticker around here somewhere you can have, but seriously, go home. You're starting to creep me out."

"No!" I shouted, surprising her. "This little guy was trying his best to be owned by you, Dash! Right now, you're acting like a jerk. Can't you just accept him and let him be your pet by default?"

"Sorry Ren, but no second chances." Rainbow shrugged, looking at me with a sorry look. "I mean, he can't fly, but I can. That's why I can't accept him."

I sighed sadly until Kaede patted me on the back and said "Hey, don't feel bad. I'm sure we'll change her mind on letting her have that tortoise."

"Yeah." I nodded as Rainbow spoke with the animal competitors.

"You're all outstanding competitors, but there can only be one of you who's number one. So the final, tie-breaking contest is going to be..." She turned the other way for a moment until she said "...Pause for dramatic effect...a race against...me! Through Ghastly Gorge! Dun dun dun!"

"Ghastly Gorge?" Carrie asked. 

"That sounds like a scary name." Kodi said in concern.

"And with a name like that, it has to be extremely dangerous and you know that, Rainbow Dash!" Jamie pointed out.

"Nah, it's okay." Rainbow waved it off. "Ghastly Gorge isn't scary. It's fun. Heh. I've flown through it a million times myself, so obviously I'll be at the front of the pack."

"Rainbow, are you sure about this?" I asked curiously. "What happens if one of the animals gets hurt?"

"Or even you?" Kaede asked. 

"I told you guys that I've been flying through that place like a million times, so I know this place like the back of my head." Rainbow knocked on her head with a confident grin on her face.

"...Okay, just stay safe and make sure nothing goes wrong." I replied.

"Pfft! I'll be fine." Rainbow rolled her eyes before noticing the tortoise. "Oh, and make sure that tortoise doesn't try to follow me. Not that he could catch up to my speed, that is."

"Ugh...fine." I sighed as she and the other animal competitors headed over to Ghastly Gorge. Kodi and Kaede's little kitty friend, who came over and nuzzled his face, watched over to see them head over to Ghastly Gorge. "What am I gonna do with her? She's so stubborn."

"Yeah, just like my big brother." Carrie sighed, noticing the raised brow from her older brother. "Umm...no offense."

"None taken..." Mason sighed.

"Well I still want the tortoise to be won over by Rainbow Dash." Kodi sighed as the kitty sat on his head, causing him to smile. You know, this kitty seems to really take a liking to him. "Ahh, thanks little girl."

"Seems like Rosy likes to be around Kodiak, like she thinks of him like a big brother." Kaede chuckled.

"Rosy?" I asked curiously.

"Oh, that must be the name of your new kitty pet, right?" Jamie asked.

"Yep, it's a cute name, right?" Kaede chuckled.

"Indeed, and I hope your little kitten friend isn't as vial as Opal." Rarity said, eyeing her pet cat with a sigh.

"Rosy?" Kodi repeated before looking over Rosy. "Alright, Rosy, so you think of me as a big sis, right?"

"Meow." Rosy replied, licking his face, causing him to chuckle.

"Okay girl, that's enough." Kodi laughed before he and I noticed the tortoise trying to follow where Rainbow Dash and the other animals went off.

"Huh? Where's he going?" I wondered.

"He's trying to go where Rainbow Dash went." Mason said, confusing us. "That's what he's trying to do."

"Wow! He's really determined, eh?" Carrie said in surprise.

"Same here. This turtle got some guts, I'll tell ya that." Applejack added.

"Ren, can you take him to Ghastly Gorge and help him get to Rainbow Dash?" Fluttershy asked nicely, much to my surprise.

"Me?" I asked in surprise.

"Yes, I want him to find the perfect owner that can give him the love and attention he needs and I think Rainbow Dash is that perfect owner if she finds out the turtle's true potential." Fluttershy explained before pleading "So please, can you do this for me?" 

I looked at her and realized that she was right, this tortoise really wants to be owned by Dash and will do anything to gain her attention, so I have to! Rainbow Dash needs to see how much the turtle needs her and that she needs him!

"Alright! I'll do it!" I replied in determination. 

"Well I'm coming too!" Kodi added, wanting to help as too.

"Meow!" Rosy said. I'm no cat-translator, but I think she wants to join in as well.

"Well, if Rosy is coming along, so will I." Kaede said with a smile. "After all, I don't want to the tortoise to feel left out by Rainbow Dash!"

"Alright! Let's go!" I took out the capsule ball, pressing on the button before throwing it into the air and transforming into my hoverboard. I leaped onto it, along with Kaede as she grabbed ahold on my back while Rosy sat on her head as well.

Whoa, it's kinda getting a little too roomy on this board. 

"Kodi, I don't have enough room in here." I said, which made him shook his head as he replied "Don't worry, I'll try to catch up with you. But are you sure you'll be carry all that weight on your board, along with the tortoise?"

"Don't worry, we'll be fine. Now let's go!" I exclaimed before blasting off, much to Kaede and Rosy's surprise. Kodi began running behind, trying his best to keep up with us. 

"Good luck Ren! We'll see you at the finish line!" Twilight yelled as we were out of their sight, heading towards Ghastly Gorge. I looked over at the tortoise, who was relaxing in his shell, causing me to smile. It's nice to see him relax when we're trying to help him out in this situation. 



So this is Ghastly Gorge. Gotta say, it's feel like we're inside of a haunted house from Super Mario Bros. Only except, this is a gorge.

"Wow, this place just gives me the creeps." Kodi muttered as he used a long edge cliff path to travel down here as we flew down, or in Kodi's case, running as we tried to catch up to Dash and the other animals. Oh, I just hope they're alright.

"Ren, look out!" Kaede pointed, showing something appearing right out of the holes, causing us to dodge them. I took out my Hacking Gun and shot 'Break' at them, causing them to get hit in the eyes before returning back to their caves.

"Phew, that was a close one." I sighed, putting away my Hacking Gun. 

"And she tells us this place is safe..." Kaede said in a deadpanned expression. Yeah, that I agree. Next time Dash is going to take us to a place that seems to have a weird and dangerous name, we should consult this about if there are any dangers of this place. "Oh well, thank goodness you brought over your Hacking Gun."

"Yeah." I said, using my right hand to put away my Hacking Gun while I wrapped my left arm around the tortoise's shell. You know, it's been a while since I last used my Hacking Gun. I haven't been using this thing for a while. Jamie once said that his father created this thing and it was still a prototype. So why do I have it? I never thought of that...

"HELP ME! HELP!" Huh? What was that Rainbow Dash? And was she calling for help just a minute ago? We swooped down as we found Dash, but had her left wing trapped inside of a boulder.

"Rainbow!" Me, Kodi, and Kaede called as we flew down and got off the hoverboard, rushing towards her. "Are you okay?!" I asked in concern, looking over her wing.

"Y-yeah, I think so. But woo-hoo!" Rainbow cheered. "My prayers have been answered! Oh, thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

"Okay, relax Dash." Kaede assured. "But what happened to you?"

"There was an avalanche all of a sudden and my wing got trapped in it." Ooh, that's gonna leave a mark. "I tried to get the other animal's attention, but they didn't hear me and kept going to the finish line!"

"And you said this place was fine to fly threw." Kodi rolled his eyes, ignoring the glare from Rainbow Dash.

"Whatever, just get me out of here!" Dash commanded.

"Alright, alright, just stay calm and we'll-Huh?" Suddenly, the turtle got out of my hands as he landed on his back before managing to get back up, and walking slowly towards Dash, much to her shock.

"You?! What's he doing here?!" Rainbow demanded.

"We brought him over to be able to convince you that he wants you as his owner." I explained.

"Are you crazy?!" Rainbow exclaimed angrily. "Great! Just great! Not only am I doomed! But stuck here with the annoying animal in all of Equestria!" 

"Calm down! He's trying his best to help you out." I pointed out.

"Yeah, just give him a chance!" Kaede added, frustrating Dash.

"Oh great! Just great! I'm really am doomed forever! Doomed, I tell you!" Rainbow cried.

"Jeez, I've never seen her act like this before." Kodi said in worried.

"Yeah, me neither." I nodded. I just hope we'll find a way to get her out of that rock, but I think that the tortoise got a plan for this. Soon, he dug through the dirt and put his head underneath the rock. We all watched to see lift that giant rock off of Rainbow's wings.

"Whoa..." I muttered. That's one tough tortoise.

"See Rainbow? Still think that tortoise isn't lame?" Kaede smirked.

"W-well..." Rainbow glanced at us before she crossed her hooves and scoffed "S-so what? I could've done that."

"Then why didn't you do that earlier and just started calling for help?" Kodi pointed out, causing her to widen her eyes before growling at him. Now that was a sweet burn, Kodiak. Good for you.

"W-whatever! Now do something and carry me back to the others! I got a sprained wing." Rainbow said, showing us left wing. Ooh, it looked really sprang from when that boulder landed on her wing. 

"Man, that boulder must've really landed on your wing, huh?" Kaede said in surprise.

"Yeah, took me by surprise. Don't know what caused that avalanche in the first place." Rainbow said, slowly trying to get up, only to feel the pain coming from her wing. Wow, it really is that badly hurt. "Now hurry up and do something!"

"Hold on Dash, I'll carry on my board and-"

"Ren wait! Look!" Kaede pointed out, seeing the tortoise slowly walking over to Dash and attempting to pick her up. He soon managed to get Rainbow Dash on top of his shell and slowly began to walk. 

"Wow, who knew he had it in him?" Kodi chuckled.

"Yeah, same here." I nodded in agreement. Guess what the tortoise needed was confidence and love.

"So what now? Should we stay with them?" Kaede asked curiously, wanting to know what to do next.

"Hmm...I guess why not. Just in case they're any more danger." I pointed out, which they nodded in agreement as we began to make our way towards the end of the Ghastly Gorge. Hmm, doesn't seemed to look so eerie except encountering those weird things from out of those holes. Speaking of which...

"Say Dash, what are those things that come out of the holes? We encountered some of those things from those holes when we came looking for them." I said with a curious look.

"Oh, those are Quarray Eels. Don't worry, I was able to pass through them. It was no challenge for Rainbow Dash to handle." Rainbow boasted, causing us to roll our eyes.

"Sure you did..." Kaede muttered, which I nodded in agreement. 

"Okay, but will they attack us?" Kodi asked in worried.

"Nah, don't worry." Rainbow assured with a confident grin. "As long as they don't popped out of their holes, we'll be fine."

Unfortunately, that was a bad choice of words for Dash to say as we began to hear some rumbling as a bunch of giant eel like monsters, the same ones before appeared out of their holes, glaring down at us.

"Well that's no good..." Kaede muttered as she held on her kitty, who shrieked in fear. 

"Okay, maybe I spoke too soon." Rainbow chuckled.

"Gee, you think?" I asked in a deadpan expression before taking out my Hacking Gun and pointed at them. "Paralyze!"

I shot 'Paralyze' at them, freezing some of them in shock as the ones who weren't attacked tried to attack us by snapping its jaws at us.

"Watch out!" Kaede exclaimed as we kept avoiding them while we tried to protect both Dash and the tortoise from getting killed. I managed to shoot the ones I missed by using 'Dance', causing them to wiggle their heads around like they were getting the beat of a good and catchy music.

"Alright, try to finish them off Ren!" Kaede said, which I nodded. I then set it up on 'Break' and shot them while they were still dancing and still paralyzed from the 'Paralyze'. Once they were shot down, they immediately retreated back in their caves, causing me to smirk.

"Oh yeah! In your face, Quarray Eels!" I exclaimed with a smirk on my face.

"Well at least we're safe, especially the tortoise and Rainbow Dash." Kodi said, looking over to see the tortoise still carrying Rainbow Dash on her back.

"Yeah, good job Ren." Kaede smiled, which I nodded back.

"Sorry, I guess you were right about this place being too dangerous." Rainbow chuckled nervously, causing us all to raise our brows at her, irritating her. "Okay! Okay! It is dangerous! I should have known better but I come here everyday and always practiced my flight skills. Sorry if I put you guys in so much danger..."

"It's alright Dash, it's not your fault." I assured. "Besides, everyone makes mistakes."

"Yeah, but promise us that you never put yourself in somewhere danger like that again, please?" Kaede asked

"Please! Danger is my name." Rainbow said cockily, causing us to sigh. Of course she wouldn't promise something like that.

"Hey guys! I think I see the finish!" Kodi pointed as we looked over up the cliff to see a finish line along with everypony there. Oh wow, we've gotten there fast.

Soon, as the girls, Mason, and Jamie noticed us, they started cheering for us as we began walking over to the top, and I don't know how long it taken for us to reach to the top, but I gotta say: that turtle got guts. I offered Kaede, Rosy, and Kodi a ride on my board, which took a lot of weight off my board, but managed to reach to the top of the cliff while the turtle managed to climb to the cliff with Dash still on his shell as we began to walk over to the finish line.

"So should we cross the finish line?" Kodi asked me, which I replied "Nah, I think we should let him have the victory."

"That's what I think too." Kaede agreed as the others walked to the sidelines with us and we began to cheer for them to reach to the end.

"What took you guys so long?" Mason asked.

"Uh...it's sorta a long story." I chuckled nervously while Rosy jumped off of Kaede's hands and sat next to Kodi as we began to watch the tortoise and Dash about to cross the finish line. Unfortunately, we noticed how slow it's taken them to reach to the finish, much to our disappointment.

"...Maybe we better could go meet him halfway?" Fluttershy suggested.

"Yeah, I think that's a more better idea." Jamie agreed as Twilight used her magic to lift the finish line closer to Dash and the tortoise, and once it crossed, we all let out a cheer.

"Huh. Way to go, little guy!" Spike praised, patting him on the head.

"Yeah! He did great!" Carrie added, smiling towards the tortoise.

"Oh, thank goodness you're not hurt, Rainbow!" Twilight exclaimed in relief.

"Just my pride..." Rainbow muttered, dusting herself off.

"And her wing." Kodi pointed, showing the others her left wing sprained.

"Oh man..." Mason took a look at it before turning to Dash. "It's a good thing I brought over a first aid kit in case something like this happened."

"Yeah yeah...." Rainbow rubbed it off before saying "But...thank you I guess."

"Well still, I certainly hope all of this dreadful dust was worth it." Rarity added before some of the dust that was from Dash flew over to her, causing her to sneeze loudly.

"Bless you." Carrie said.

"Thanks Carrie, darling." Rarity smiled.

"It sure was, if'n it means Rainbow gets to have her own little critter just like the rest of us from now on." Applejack smiled as she petted Winona on the head. 

I then noticed the tortoise slowly looking up at Rainbow, eager to know about her decision on which pet she wishes to choose.

"Uh...thanks." Rainbow thanked as she slowly hopped of the shell while I helped her due to the sprained wing. She turned to the tortoise with a smile and said "What you did...I owe you one."

"So what now?" Kaede asked curiously.

"Umm..." Rainbow rubbed her chin for a minute, unable to choose which pet she wants. Please be the tortoise, please be the tortoise...

"Rainbow!" Fluttershy called. "Your new pet is over here waiting for you!" She presented the falcon that was sitting on her back, who spread his wings and flew over to Dash, landing above her bandaged wing, which Mason bandaged up.

I noticed the turtle looking at her sadly, causing me, Kaede, and Kodiak to look at each other with sad and worried looks. Come on Dash, after the trouble on him saving you, are you really gonna choose the falcon over the tortoise.

"Oh...right...yeah that." Rainbow said, her voice showing uncertainty about this. So...is she thinking what I hope she's thinking?

"What's the matter?" Spike asked in concern.

"You got your perfect pet, right?" Pinkie added, patting the falcon's head.

"And I thought that the falcon might be a cool pet for you since you both can fly super fast." Carrie pointed out.

"The best of the best like you wanted, remember? It can fly and it's not a squirrel!" Fluttershy agreed. "Should we sing about it again?"

"A falcon sure looks good on ya, Rainbow." Applejack commented.

Rarity placed her camera in front of Dash and took a picture of her and the falcon, which caused the turtle to hide and cower in his shell the moment he saw the flash.

"Easy, fella. Nothing to be afraid of." Rainbow assured, patting on his shell with a soft smile. "The falcon sure does look cool..." The falcon puffed his chest proudly. "He's absolutely everything I wanted in a pet."

"...Yay?" Fluttershy cheered, but in a questionable matter.

"Which means?" I asked, hoping to hear what I think she's about to see.

Rainbow turned to me, Kaede, Rosy, and Kodi with a grin and answered "But I said whoever crosses the finish line with me gets to be my pet."

"You did! You did say that!" Pinkie exclaimed, remembering Rainbow's words. "She did say that, that was the rule!"

"But...what are you trying to say?" Jamie asked curiously. "Are you saying that the falcon is no good?"

"Yeah, but though the falcon crossed the finish line first..." Rainbow pointed out before softly smiling towards the tortoise. "The only racer who crossed the finish line with me, was the one who stopped to save me when I needed help." The falcon looked at her, wondering what she meant. That's when she chose which animal she wanted as a pet. "The tortoise!"

Rainbow picked him up and nuzzled her nose against his, which made him smile.

"What?!" Jamie gasped. "But why? Didn't the falcon cross the finish line first?"

"True Jamie, but the falcon may have won the race by speed, but what the tortoise won was a heart and courage it did to save Dash, with us along the ride that is." I explained with a smile.

"I see...I'll try to remember those words, Ren. Thanks." Jamie said, writing it down in his journal. 

"Hey guys, I don't think that falcon is taking its rejection too well." Kodi said in a worried tone as we watched over to see the falcon sulking off before flying over to Dash and the tortoise.

"What's he doing?" Mason wondered till his question was answer upon seeing the falcon shaking his wings with the tortoise before walking away in defeat. Oh well, maybe you'll find a perfect owner one day, falcon. Dash walked over and placed her hoof on his shell, causing him to look back and slowly smiled at her.

"Would you look at that? He even smiles slow." Applejack commented, causing us to chuckle and awe.

"You know, I think you learned you lesson, Rainbow Dash." Mason smiled. 

"Yeah, and you should send a message to Celeste to tell her what you learned today." I added.

“Yeah you’re right.” Rainbow smiled before turning to Spike.  “Spike, take a letter.”

“Sure!” Spike nodded before taking out a scroll and quill and began writing down what Dash said.

“Wait!” Kaede stopped them. “I want in on it too. After all, I learned something after meeting Rosy.” She turned to her pet cat as she was playing around with the stuffed cat toy Kaede kept in her pockets.

“Alright, let’s hear what you both got to say.” Spike said, waiting for one of them to speak. Soon, Rainbow Dash began:

“Dear Princess Celestia, I used to think that the most important traits to look for in a pet, or any best friend, were all physical competitive abilities. But now I can see how short-sighted and shallow that was.”

“Today, me and Rainbow Dash learned what the most important quality that’s the mark of a real winner. And my fellow kitten friend, Rosy, and the tortoise that saved Dash’s life.” Kaede said, finishing up the last part of the letter.

“Tenacity.” Twilight offered.

“And diplomacy.” Jamie added, writing it down on his notebook, presumable the entire friendship report from what he heard from Dash and Kay.

“Gesundheit.” Rainbow responded, causing Mason to rolled his eyes.

“That’s not what they meant, Rainbow Dash.” Mason said sternly, causing her to smile sheepishly.

“Anyway…” Rainbow looked at the tortoise for a second. “What am I gonna call you?”

“How about Tank?” I offered. “I mean, his shell is as hard as a tank, right?”

“Hmm…Tank…yeah.” Rainbow brightened up on that name. “Alright! Tank it is! That good, Tank?”

The tortoise or Tank now, slowly grinned. Guess that means that he does love the name.

“That’s so cute. I’m so glad that the both of us gotten our pets.” Kaede smiled, picking up Rosy and kissing her on the forehead.

“Meow…” Rosy smiled before nuzzling her chest, causing her to laugh.

“But Rainbow, I thought you wanted a pet that could fly with you, right?” Carrie pointed out.

“Yes! Carrie makes a good point.” Fluttershy nodded in agreement. “What are you gonna do about it?”

“Hmm….” Rainbow looked at Tank for a second before grinning. “I got one! Meet me tomorrow at the park!”

Before any of us could respond, Rainbow flew off with Tank on her back.

“I wonder what she got plan for him?” Carrie wondered.

“Same here, though I’m glad that she got to pick Tank as her pet.” Kodi smiled before nuzzling my legs. “You know, when we first met back then, I sorta surprised when you learn that I could talk, but accepted me quickly than anypony else.”

“Well I gotten used to Equestria for a while, and plus, it was quite awesome to encounter a talking dog like you. I’m just happy that I decided to take you in, Kodiak.” I smiled, causing Kodi to smile happily as he pounced on me and started licking me on the face. “HA HA HA! Stop that! I told you that tickles!”

“Sorry, but I couldn’t help myself.” Kodi replied with a grin, letting his tongue out a bit. We all began to laugh, seeing the bond between me and Kodiak. Thanks boy, I really needed that. Though, I’m finally glad that Rainbow Dash finally chose the tortoise now. Though, she is right, the true meaning of owning a pet is to show how you truly love them and far you care for them like how Tank tried everything to gain Rainbow’s approval. 

Meanwhile
Somewhere on the cliff of Ghastly Gorge, the mysterious figure villain is seen watching over Ren and friends celebrating off a mile away.

“Great…just when those boulders was about to crush and kill that foolish mare, those humans along with that tortoise came over and saved her. If I just eliminated her and the rest of the bearers, I could’ve taken the Elements of Harmony back. Those Elements were mine and belong to me only. If I hadn’t been sleeping and those princesses found them 1,000 years ago to seal Discord in his statue prison, then I could’ve used them to teach these ponies and everyone in the entire world true fear. Tell me Elements of Harmony, why choose these girls as your protectors? Is it because…you’re afraid of me?”

The figure threw a smirk and said “Well then…I guess I’ll take my leave then. Farewell for now, Ren Loodan and friends.”

With that, the figure disappeared out of sight without leaving any trace behind.




The Next Day
Okay, so where is she? She said she would be here now. We arrived to the park today like she asked as we began waiting for her. Kodi was playing around with Rosy, making sure that the little kitten didn’t get herself hurt. Yep, Kodiak is acting like an older brother for Rosy, that’s nice to see.

“It’s been half and hour, where could they be?” Mason wondered.

“M-maybe they forgotten?” Jamie guessed. “I-I mean, after what happened yesterday, maybe Rainbow Dash just forgotten and is taken a break for her wing to be healed?”

“I don’t know, Dash would never back down from a promise.” I said.

“Yeah! That’s what makes her Rainbow Dash! She awesome!” Pinkie added.

“Exactly Pinkie!” I nodded in agreement before hearing something. “Hey, what’s that sound?”

“It sounds like…a propeller?” Kaede thought.

“Hey guys! Look!” Kodi pointed, lying next to Rosy as he pointed his paw over to the hill. That’s when we saw Rainbow Dash flying over with an excited grin on her face.

“Hey guys! I’m back!” Rainbow called.

“There you are. What took you so long?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Just putting something for Tank to wear to help me with my flying problems.” Rainbow replied, much to our confusion. What is she talking about? Suddenly, that’s when we heard the propeller sound again. “Oh yeah! Come on Tank! Don’t wanna be late for the Pony Pet Playdate!”

As she flew down towards us, we saw Tank…flying?! Apparently, he was attached with some contraption with a propeller around his shell and is seen wearing goggles as he flew down towards us.

“W-what?!” Jamie exclaimed.

“Whoa, Tank’s flying!” Carrie giggled.

“And I take it you were the one behind it, right?” I asked with a smirk.

“Yep!” Rainbow nodded. “I found a bunch of spare parts around the area and thought of using it to make that for Tank.”

“Well I gotta say, that’s pretty impressive.” Mason smiled.

“Y-yeah, though I’m shocked to see that you were able to make something like that for a tortoise.” Jamie said in surprise. “I never would’ve thought of something like that. Hmm…I better remember this for when we’re able to get back home.”

“Jamie, just relax and calm down.” Twilight assured with a soft grin. “Come on, let’s just enjoy with our pets and friends. You do need a break.”

“She’s got you there, Jamie.” I said, which made Jamie looked at her for a moment before sighing and said “Yeah, I-I guess so. I’ve haven’t been out lately…so sure, I guess.” 

That’s what I wanted to hear Jamie. Soon, he and Twilight began playing around with both Spike and Owlicious while the others played with their pets.

“You know, I’m very glad Rainbow taken Tank as her pet.” Fluttershy said as she and Kaede stood next to me. “Even you Kaede for picking that baby kitten. I raised her just two months ago, but she’s quite a little shy.”

“No worries Fluttershy, I’ll take good care of her. And I think Kodiak will do the same as well.” Kaede pointed out as we saw Kodi snuggling Rosy next to her as she let out a meow before falling asleep, causing us all to laugh. 

Well Kodiak, you may have now grow a little bigger like probably in your teenage years, but you’ll always be a big softy and older brother figure to that little kitten. But even so, you’re the best friend a guy like me could ever ask.
To Be Continued