Why Rainbow Dash is Afraid of Snakes

Thump! The heavy box, filled to the brim with assorted snake foods, cleaning supplies, and Caring for your Highly Dangerous Snake for Idiots, slammed onto the sturdy wooden desk at the Equestrian Snake Protection and Preservation Center. The young receptionist paused to wipe her brow before handing Fluttershy a small stack of documents.

       "You need to sign these forms, which says that you have 50 square meters of space for your golden boa constrictor and that you promise to care for it adequetly and often," explained the unicorn behind the desk. "Please ask any questions now."

       "Um," began the butter pegasus. "If it's not too much trouble, c-could you ship him to my cottage? Unless it's too much trouble, you, um, don't have to, I mean, if it's ok with you..." Fluttershy's voice trailed off as she glanced nervously at the tiled floor.

       "Of course! For purchases over 100 bits, plus the fact you are part of our vonlunteer branch, you can have free shipping at out fastest service!" exclaimed the receptionist. "Besides," the unicorn said with a sly grin, "do you really want to carry a ten-foot reptile from Baltimare all the way to Ponyville?"

       The mare let out a low chuckle before handing a buisness card to Fluttershy. "Call me if you have questions. By the way, my name's Slytherra. I'll see you for his checkup in 6 months!" And with that, Fluttershy was ushered to the door of the large facility.

        ****************

       Fluttershy's boa had arrived 2 days later after she got home from Baltimare. Discord was coming over, and the pegasus was more than a little nervous. The golden constrictor, whom she had affectionately named "Mr. Cuddles," was a nervous wreck. He had actually tried to constrict Tommy Tweeters, a young cardinal, when the bird flew into Mr. Cuddles's pen. Luckily, the Stare was very effective on him.

       A pounding on the door startled both Fluttershy and Mr