Saddle Arabia is a vast and prosperous nation. It is not just deserts, but flowing plains, peaceful lakes, sprawling cities and contested northern forests full of resources. Trade and industry are growing rapidly. Yet there is discontent. Cyrus the donkey is born into a rigid social structure that places little value in him, or any non-horse/pony. Growing up in a time of perpetual conflict with the griffin kingdoms, he gets a lucky break when he gets the opportunity to travel to Equestria.