The neighboring country of Griffonicus has declared war on Equestria. Now ponies are being drafted into the military, including Shining Armor and Flash Sentry. While on the battlefield, they witness unspeakable horrors and the pain and stress of a bloody war.

On the home front, Princess Twilight has to help Princess Celestia and Princess Luna watch over Equestria and keep the nation from splitting apart while comforting and strengthening Princess Cadence and dealing with the own pain she has as she fears the fate of the two stallions she cares for the most.

Twilight has just gone through eye surgery, and needs to recover. Which means her eyes are covered and she can't see. Without anything to do, she can only wish she could read a new book she's been reading. And somepony is there to grant that wish.