Our hunter awakens to find himself in a place between life and death...
The clouds parted, revealing a full moon against the backdrop of five multicolored nebulae. Steelshield fell to one knee as an indigo mare landed next to him.
"Hello Princess Luna."
"Hello my hunter. Do you know why you are here?"
"I've failed. I died, didn't I?"
He can't be dead! It's just getting good!
Her voice is like velvet as she speaks, "No, my hunter. You are... Merely injured. You will live to fight another day.
"What concerns me more is the mare you've given sanctuary to."
"Her name is Rarity, your Highness."
"Yes... Rarity." Her voice has taken a strange tone. "She is a..." Her words fail her for a moment, "She is more than she appears, Hunter. Be careful with her. Powerful enemies lie in your futures."
"Thank you for your concern Princess, but you chose me for my ability in a fight. I can handle them."
"Your bravado has served you well in the past Aegis... But if you are not careful, it will be the end of you. The enemies you must face are more powerful than any you've fought before. They make the mountains shake in fear, the oceans tremble. They are more powerful than you could possibly imagine. Be mindful of where you tread. I cannot always be there to protect you.
"I ask you Aegis... Will you be careful?
He bows, "Yes, my Princess... I will be careful. I promise."
She smiles down on him, "You have served me well Aegis, and I will never forget that. May fortune smile on you."
"And may it smile on you as well."