As the Mane 6 attempt to come to terms with the events following "Magical Mystery Cure", dark forces mass around the distant, isolated Crystal Empire.

While the rest of their friends struggle with their fears and nightmares, and Twilight attempts to adapt to her new position in life, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy are in the Crystal Empire to help their athletes prepare for the games but they find themselves embroiled in something far more dangerous than either of them had expected.