I expected a lot of things to happen this morning.

This wasn't one of them.

Being escorted through the kingdom via ride on a rather comfy chair carried by two large crystal guards, their pace rather hurrying as I was guided straight to the castle. Upon arrival, I had offered to help Spike with the luggage, but instead I was whisked away from the dragon and Crusaders at the station by two stallions who carried me off despite my initial objections.

Although despite this, still a better welcoming party than the last time I visited the Crystal Empire.

And waiting for us outside the castle were none other than Twilight and Cadence, both smiling warmly in greeting. Both stallions halted before them and bowed-

Oof!

One of the guards spoke humbly from behind as I rubbed my flank. "A thousand pardons oh great and honourable Stardust the Crystal Champion."

...What did he just call me? "The what the who now?"

"Thanks for bringing Stardust to us." The two large crystal guards departed upon Cadence saying that, then addressed myself. "Come on Stardust, we should get inside where-"

"Hang on a minute!" I exclaimed, both baffled and exasperated. "Why did that guard call me that... What was it...?"

Twilight and Cadence exchanged humoured glances, the former answering in fond pride, "It's in recognition of your part." My part?

"In saving the Crystal Empire from the dreaded King Sombra," Cadence clarified next, "The ponies throughout this kingdom here now acknowledge you as the Great and Honourable Stardust Balance, Crystal Champion of the Empire." The pink alicorn then gestured around, citizens walking by gazing at us - especially me - in hushed whispers and short bows.

...Huh. Well that's... Hm...

Didn't know whether to be humbled or amused.

Wait a sec. "I don't recall receiving this type of welcome the last time I came here."

"You knew you weren't fond of the attention, so we kept the knowledge about your involvement from our subjects until now." The Princess of Love explained. "But now, in light of the Equestrian Games, considering you shall be lighting the torch which will commence the games, it was unavoidable."

"I'm so proud of you Jack." Before I could process everything that was going on here, Twilight enveloped me in a brief but warm hug, which incited my own smile. My girlfriend then pulled back, beaming. "Not just anyone gets the chance to begin the opening ceremony. You deserve this honour."

Just her saying that made me feel more proud of myself than I should feel.

My hoof rubbed the back of my head, my own silly grin appearing. "To be fair, love, I'm doing this because Shining asked me to in his stead."

"And we are grateful for it," Cadence responded merrily, "Shining is busy enough as is organizing the teams for the upcoming games."

"And who knows, you might actually enjoy all this after igniting the torch." Twilight winked playfully, gesturing for me to follow. "I know you said you weren't fond of sports games, but you've come here regardless, haven't you?"

"Only because you practically begged me to come..."

Twilight only smirked, whereas Cadence observed us over her shoulder in amusement. The purple alicorn said knowingly, "I seem to recall you submitting to my insistence after giving you just one look."

Scoffing, I turned away at that. Goddammit Twilight... "Not my fault you're hopelessly adorable to say no to..." My ears felt like burning up at the light giggles exchanged between both mares as we entered the castle.