This movie is somewhat similar to My Little Pony: Journey of the Spark, but with multiple differences. It also serves as the prequel of My Little Pony Equestria.

Twilight failed to prevent a disaster, during her first job as a princess, given by Princess Celestia. This cause everyone into hating Twilight having her forfeit her alicorn status and Element of Magic.

This causes a mental breakdown that forces her to run away, feeling as though everyone can never forgive her and will neglect her.

During her self-exile, Twilight meets Starflare, a former student of Celestia and professor of Canterlot, he reveals to Twilight that he too had suffered from what Twilight's had been through. He told Twilight that there are others like her that had fallen to despair by friendship. He told her that his master will make all the pain go away. Guilt-stricken for the events she has caused, Twilight agrees to a deal with Starflare that will forever separate her from everyone she ever loved.

Now, things begin to look grim, as darkness begins to cover Equestria. The rest of the Mane 6, including Princess Luna and Spike, must venture beyond the reaches of Equestria to find Twilight and rekindle their lost friendship if they wish to restore the Elements of Harmony once again. However in order to save Twilight they must get past Twilight.

In the meantime Celestia herself is captured by the enemy.

Shining Armor and Cadance is suspicious of the events as they are too organized and beyond possibility. They take off to investigate, who is aiding the enemy.