Everypony knows Princess Celestia rules over Equestria. The land enjoys a thriving, prosperous existence, filled with peace and joy in the lives of countless ponies and other species. Some dare to call it a golden age.

But it wasn't always this way.

Before the Royal Sisters were born, before the emergence of the King of Shadows and the Lord of Chaos, even before cutie marks, the land was divided: the Crystal Empire, at the height of its power, had withdrawn from the petty conflicts of its southern neighbors into isolation. Griffons raided the coasts, and their longships struck fear into the hearts of ponies. Fearsome predators roamed the wilds. Many kingdoms, ruled by unicorn, earth pony, and pegasus alike, fought and bickered for supremacy. Brigands and thugs prowled the roads and woods. Life was hard, and often short.

In the Everfree Kingdom, a small country on the borders of Cyandor, a group of friends discover a terrifying secret . . . one that will change everything.