The instructions don't match the test cases, and the test cases themselves are inconsistent. The in the expected output it adds two stars so each count is odd, but in the description it increases by one (odd, even, odd...). The spacing on the outside of the values is inconsistent in the test cases.

This kata requests a function that returns two different types of return values. This is BAD PRACTICE. This is a fine test of your programming skill, but it's a bad habit and promotes worst practices for writing re/usable code.

If you are trying to learn how to write code (tactics) this is an OK exercise. If you are trying to learn how to write reusable code effectively (strategy) this is a POOR exercise.

Have fun, just be aware! (I'm not sure if the "Issue" tag is appropriate; just let me know)

My solution won't evaluate in less than 6 seconds. My tests pass quickly, it runs well in a Ruby repl, but I can't get this site to even try anymore. Are there just too many test cases for it to even try?