The legend of Starswirl the Bearded is a long one, full of myth and speculation. Twilight has long admired him for his accomplishments in the field of magic theory; others know him as a hero who saved Equestria more than once.

When Twilight and her friends decide to write a play honoring Starswirl's legacy, a disagreement between Twilight and Rainbow Dash over the historical details takes an unexpected twist in the form of an ancient evil seeking revenge on its old nemesis.