Spike's relationship with Twilight has changed, and his blossoming romance with Rarity is making him the happiest dragon in Equestria, not to mention the fact that he's made a new friend. So what is the new shadow that's hanging over him, and how will that affect his standing in Ponyville?

Twilight is ready to give Spike bigger responsibility and sends him out on his own. However, when a villain bent on revenge makes its move, a monster that is all too familiar returns to wreak havoc. In the battle to come, winning may not mean victory.