My very first time drawing this ship! Might not be OTP, but I find this ship extremely adorable. I was actually a bit disappointed that Rarity didn’t end up being Maud’s first friend in “Rock Solid Friendship”! Huge missed opportunity. ;o;

Lordy, here goes another attempt at story. Consider it an alt-universe to that episode. :’D

~_*~

Maud inspected the shiny surface of one of the diamonds she and Rarity had collected a few hours earlier. Her eyes narrowed and her gaze remained transfixed on the gem, occasionally turning it around in her hooves. Rarity was beside her, nervously biting her lip as she watched the mare do her inspection. She prayed that the sparkling diamond wouldn’t turn out to be another common gem. Yet, despite her worries, she couldn’t help but admire Maud’s focus and dedication as she studied each one. Really, they’re devotion to their respective jobs were identical…

“Rarity? Rarity.”

“Hm!?” Rarity shook her head, clearing her thoughts. “I-I’m sorry, darling. What were you saying just now?”

“I was saying that this diamond is of the colorless variety. It’d be perfect for the dress you have in mind,” Maud said in her usual monotone, gently placing the gem back down on the pile. Thankfully, most of the gems in Maud’s new home were very rare. She still felt bad for revealing most of the gems Rarity had been excavating for a while were common. Sometimes she could be a bit too blunt, and she hoped that she could smooth things over with her new friend. “We’ve got a good stock here. Should we go out and find some more…?”

Rarity brightened up, eyes sparkling. “Not at all, this is more than enough! Thank you so much for your help, Maud. With your expertise, I’m sure I’ll be able to craft even more gorgeous outfits than ever before!” The unicorn looked up at Maud with sheer admiration and gratitude. The taller pony almost looked a tiny bit bashful, her gaze looking away.

“It’s nothing.”

“You’re just modest. Honestly, I could kiss you!”

“… Then why don’t you?”

Rarity froze, speechless. Had she heard right? Surely not.

She studied Maud’s stoic, unchanging face. For the entire day they’d spent getting to know each other, Rarity learned it was extremely difficult to tell if Maud was joking or serious in some of the things she said. A unique, somewhat infuriating, brand of humor. Rarity would have considered this a joke had it not been for the very slight tint to the other mare’s cheeks. This brought a mischievous smile to the unicorn’s face.

“Alright, Miss Maud. I think I will.”

*~*~*~*~*

And I can’t believe I managed to do this in time. I’m so happy with both of them. I’m really glad Kilala’s contest gave me an opportunity to draw these ships. 💗