Captain of the Guard

Fluttershy strode in front of a row of Canterlot guards, glaring at each and every one of the ponies. Sometimes she would catch two ponies speaking in a hushed tone but she didn’t say anything, she just paced and waited. The yellow and pink mare didn’t have to wait long before the royal messenger galloped up to her and whispered in her ear.

After hearing what the messenger had to say Fluttershy straightened her shoulders and lifted her head to face the row of guards in front of her. The guards noticed this and shifted uneasily when the stalwart stare of the yellow Pegasus was directed to each of them in turn. The silence rung out for several long moments before the yellow Pegasus spoke.

“I am sure you have heard rumors by now that Nightmare Moon has broken free of her lunar shackles and returned to Equestria. But fear not, Nightmare Moon has been dealt with by the Elements of Harmony. Also, the Princess Luna will be returning.” Fluttershy's tone was hard and matter of fact as she addressed the guards.

“Princess Luna? Princess Celestia's sister? Captain is that safe... I mean... with Nightmare Moon being part of her and all?” A tall buff unicorn stallion asked the question and a murmur of agreement was heard from the rest of the guard.

“I don’t recall hearing permission to speak!” Fluttershy barked harshly and all the guard looked chastised.

“As for your question... Yes it is safe. All remnants of Nightmare Moon have been defeated and no longer reside in the Princesses mind. She is to be treated with the respect somepony of her stature demands. Do I make myself clear?” Fluttershy said with her fiercest glare yet.

“Yes Sir!” Was the cry shouted by all the guards.

“Then you are to return to your posts. Burned Earth, Sapphire Blade you are to be stationed outside the Princess Luna's quarters until further notice.” Fluttershy said with finality.

The guards all dispersed and Fluttershy watched them all go before she stretched out her wings and bent her legs pushing off the ground as she beat her wings powerfully and took to the air. She fluidly ascended above the cliff side castle and looked down watching guards at their posts and citizens going about their daily business.

A subtle stirring of air that most would fail to pick up on caused the yellow Pegasus to turn where she hovered and face the approaching alicorns. She nodded as the two princesses got close to her and was greeted with a small smile from the sun goddess.

“Fluttershy, I have never been able to sneak up on you.” Celestia said with a warm smile as the two princesses came to a hovering stop in front of the winged mare.

“I would be a pretty terrible Captain of the Guard if ponies could sneak up on me Princess.” Fluttershy said with a small trace of warmth in her voice.

“Of course.” Celestia said but was stopped from saying anything else when the smaller Alicorn beside her cleared her throat.

“I am sorry Tia, but did the Pegasus say she is the Captain of the Guard? How is that possible, she is a mare?” Princess Luna asked curiously.

“A lot has changed since you last set hoof in Equestria little sister. But Fluttershy here is the first mare in pony history to become a Captain of the Guard, the others are too intimidated by her to give her a hard time and she is no push over.” Celestia explained kindly to her little sister.

“Oh.” Was the small reply from the midnight blue alicorn.

“Fluttershy, will you come with us and have dinner? I believe we should discuss arranging a permanent guard for Luna.” Celestia suggested with a smile.

“If it is what you wish Princess.” Fluttershy said flatly.

“Shy, this will be an informal meal. Friend time.” Celestia said with a grin.

“Friend time. My favorite. Lead of then Celestia.” Fluttershy smiled at both of the princesses.