An archaeological expedition in the Badlands uncovers an ancient structure unlike anything seen before. After they gain access to the structure, they find it remarkably well preserved, and make an unexpected discovery, which sets into motion events long since predestined to pass.

Following the discovery, Princess Twilight Sparkle sets off to investigate, invited down to the dig site by Daring Do. As she sets hoof inside the structure, it begins to awaken, but even as the structure returns to life, the mystery only deepens.