I haven't felt this nervous since talking to Twilight about our relationship.

Rightly so, considering what was ahead. The train was ever slowing down, my destination inching closer and closer, the sound of the engines and ponies muffling from other compartments, radiating excitement over as to where they were going. Looks like I was the sole passenger feeling anxious with a taste of dread, folding my arms and regarding the wall before me with an expression perfectly matching my inward feelings.

You will be fine.

Then why did I felt like I won't be?

Specter's voice was a welcoming comfort, in brief replacement of the absent Twilight, Your guilt is understandable, my friend. But rest assured the kingdom harbors no ill feelings towards you, especially its rulers. Have faith in the forgiveness of your friends; they already expressed that towards you at Canterlot, did they not?

Right, on the day of Twilight's coronation. Still...

The speed of the train decreased with every second, the slowness making it blatant that we have arrived at the famous ancient kingdom. And spotting the glittering castle from the window by a glance, I stretched slightly and stood from my seat, my expression unwavering. In fact, I only felt more anxious.

You will be fine, Specter echoed his previous words, reassuring and calm as always.

I certainly hope so...

Hearing ponies exit their compartments, I swallowed and nodded, prepared to face the music, and exited my own small room, having wished for privacy the whole trip. With no one having accompanied me to the Crystal Empire, I didn't fancy having a chat with some random pony. Additionally, these moments of quiet contemplation to myself was starting to become a rarity.

Not that I don't enjoy the company of my friends, mind you.

Waiting for the other passengers to leave through the same door of the halted train, I followed after them, steeling my expression. And at the station, I was greeted by something I honestly should've expected.

Guards. Plenty of them. Regarding me with stern looks. And at the center was...

"You've got to be kidding me..."

The pegasus in gold armour didn't seem to hear my exasperated mutter, stepping forward with a stiff posture. Of all things- It's too early for this bull-[bEEP]! Sentry cleared his throat while passerbys watched curiously. "His Highness, Prince Shining, has requested we escort you to the castle posthaste!"

Oh, don't make a big deal out of it...

I slowly nodded, and the guards proceeded to form a circle around me, the bland pegasus leading the escort. And as we headed towards the beautiful sight of a castle, looking recently polished as always, one thing only came to mind as I glared in both irritation and exasperation at the back of the stereotype.

Worst. Welcoming committee. Ever.