Ancient prophesy points to the awakening of an evil to outstrip Discord and Tierk. In a distant land something dark is moving, gaining strength, and if left unchecked it could threaten even Equestria.
Princess Celestia and Princess Luna have gathered together the bearers of the Bearers of the Elements of Harmony, and requested they travel beyond the borders of Equestria, beyond the limits of their world, to stop this dark power from regaining control.

But this new world is not as kind as the last, and the brutal tasks they will have to do simply to stay alive might break these peaceful ponies before they can reach their goals.