With high annoyance, she had begrudgingly followed Daybreaker’s orders with simmering rage. The exhaustion and irritation she had just felt moments before had been replaced by furious action.

Gritting her teeth between breaths, she made her way to the side bathroom of the care facility.

She couldn't even vent her frustrations properly here, still unable to trust her surroundings without being reprimanded by the annoying yet constant alicorn for property damage.

She took a deep breath as she found the mirror of herself looking back at her with the same hunched shoulders and a look ready to throw hands. But all attempts to regain her composure were lost when she was even more disgruntled to find that her body would be subjected to wearing noble clothing.

The clothes on the sink counter mocked her, even as she noticed the A.I. disk beside it.

Ignoring the A.I. for now, she noticed the bumpy state of the dress shirt, which seemed to have something beneath it. She lifted the top piece of clothing from the bathroom sink. Her eyes twitched in disgust, and she recoiled at what lay underneath.

The brown dress shoes taunted her as they seemed to shimmer under the light, and deep crimson trousers peaked past the shoe's weight.

She hissed in disgust, looked back up to the dress shirt she was holding, and unfolded it, wanting to see the horror awaiting her. She studied the dark red suit jacket with glaring eyes.

It had white coveralls with buttons in the center and a dark red top that went over the shoulders and ended at the hips. The design was simple, but it raised some eyebrows. For instance, the jacket was long-sleeved, like it was meant for winter, but it felt much lighter than what she had worn previously.

What caught her attention the most, though, was a shiny pin attached to the cloth of the upper pocket. It was simply Daybreaker’s cutie mark; it lacked the usual colors and shimmered in complete gold plating. The pain was enormous, taking up most of the left side of the dress shirt. It looked as obnoxious as the mare herself.

'This must have been the I.D. the Empress mentioned before.' The lady thinks offhandedly. 'Let's hope it works.'

Unable to resist her curiosity, she unbuttoned the dress shirt and began to put on the clothes. To her own surprise, they felt like pajamas. Smooth, soft, lightweight, and strangely flexible, she realized they were nice clothes despite the overall look and seemed to even stay cool. She waited longer and still felt she was covered in ice.

Did the clothing itself contain its own personal cooler?

She swiftly grabbed her A.I. companion on the sink, feeling pressed for answers. With a quick touch of the strange metal material and the light of a hologram pony, she gave a quick greeting.

As soon as the introduction was over, she asked the electronic pony how her clothing consistently maintained a cooler temperature.

The electronic assistant responded without hesitation, "No doubt your clothing has magic properties. Depending on the caster, the quality of spells can differ, as can what spells can be cast on the material. It seems yours must contain a cooling spell." The human nodded at the information, relieved she wasn't going crazy. "Should I be worried that the spell needs a recharge?"

It shakes its head in response before divulging details. "It is a constant spell as long as the caster is still around or if the environment is full of magic. You need not worry about it ever becoming hot."

She breathed a sigh of relief, glad to see she wouldn’t need to take care of her clothing like a pet needing food and water. She smiles at the A.I. “Alright. Good to know.” She allows herself to get to the next topic of discussion, her mouth feeling as dry as a dessert. “Any chance you know where I can get some refreshments and find a nice outdoor location?”

She found herself outside in the royal gardens, sitting against a big tree trunk as she looked up at the side of the castle. Before she arrived outdoors, there was a table of free refreshments in one of the passing hallways on her way of getting here, and the moment she had drank a cup of water.

All felt right in the world. The water was much cleaner than what she was used to, and she thanked the pony for operating the drink cart. However, the pony gave an unfamiliar reaction, a nervous stare. But she didn't overthink it; the pony probably had never seen a human before.

The architect's outside decorations had significantly transformed from what she had seen before. Tapestries and many warm-colored flowers now adorned the walls, complete with decor shields bearing the Empress's cutie mark.

The women couldn't help but be fascinated by the stark contrast. Even if the details were small, the castle no longer felt like an abandoned piece of stone.

And thankfully, the inside hallways had undergone a remarkable transformation as well, now adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs.

There were even white-colored wall scorns that held a steady frame and custom-made carpets that had—to no one's surprise—a flame design and a gold-looking trim along the edges. The human couldn't help but appreciate the castle's new beauty, feeling awe at the intricate details.

She needed to talk to the Empress about picking more themes for the castle.

The walls also held tapestries of Daybreaker's symbol following curtains that were hung up in order. The pattern continued for as long as her eyes could see. At least she had something more to look at during her travels of those long hallways.

She took a deep breath and turned her attention away from the castle and onto the blue sky, the sun shining above her head and its rays peeking through the leaves and her vision before she closed her eyes.

Sadly, her mind would not allow her relaxation yet. She wanted to lie down on the grass, but her mind slowly began to wonder about Daybreaker. She didn't know what she was going to do with that ruler.

On the one hand, she was nothing more than a pain in the ass to her; on another, despite the Empress going about it terribly, she could tell, despite the initial confrontation, she generally seemed to care about her wellbeing.

However, whether or not the Empress felt it was an obligation as a ruler or was just doing it for another reason altogether remained to be seen. The mare still had yet to explain herself, and she had no plans to trust the ruler anytime soon.

At this point, it was a back-and-forth on who would give up on the other first. The lady needed to figure out what she wanted to do besides annoying Daybreaker with a constant plea for departure.

Maybe she could leave with something? Compensation for her unwanted arrival? Could she get away with a physical item or some parting knowledge? It might be worth the effort. She cringed at that last thought.

Because she knew it would, in fact, not be worth the effort.

But... if she stayed longer, she might find something worthwhile. This place was full of new wonders, magic, and possibilities. Perhaps she could find something or even someone else who lived like her. She could even take notes!

She scoffed at herself for her sudden optimism. But, with her initial annoyance and anger gone, it made its way into looking at her sudden dilemma in new avenues. She grumbled at herself as she couldn't deny that rushing into leaving might be wrong. But she grits her teeth as the memory of Daybreaker essentially choking her out is brought to the forefront of her mind. 'It will depend on how the mare treats me, though.'

She takes a deep breath as she rejects her thoughts. 'She cares in her own way, but she seems to lack the empathy to try to put herself in my position. I wonder if she even realizes what she has done. At the very least, I have a right to be angry. I was brought here against my own will, and I still don't know the reason why.'

She rubbed her face in annoyance and glanced at her arm sleeves, seeing the red cloth and feeling it between her fingers; the texture was still as clean and smooth from the moment she got it. Despite lying on the tree and grass, not a single sign that the cloth has been damaged.

She could at least study for a bit here. 'I'm going to be completely honest; I might just stay long enough to learn about how these damn clothes work.' She snorts at herself for being easily fascinated by new things.

'Some self-defenses might be a good idea too.' The image of the alicorn looking down at her in annoyance pops into her mind. 'No way! Are you freaking crazy?! Why would you give any excuse to be closer to that mare?!'

Just as soon as she asked that to herself, she sighed as she already knew the answer. 'Because being the ruler means being the most powerful. So, of course, you want to learn from the best. Unfortunate, but it looks like I should cut out some type of deal with the Empress.'

She grumbles out a curse because she once again has no idea what else the mare was going to do with her. She will likely have to ask or wait for the mare to spell out her terms. 'Let's pray for future me that I don't regret this later.'

With her mind already made up. She sighs and allows herself to relax her tense muscles. But her small moment of peace is interrupted as a sudden feeling of being watched pulls her out of her musings.

Instead of jumping out of fear like before, she felt more irritated than anything.

She grumbled in annoyance and ignored it unless something jumped at her.

The woman looked away from the castle walls and into the sunny sky. She had to note that the sun never moved here, which caused her to miss the moon's soft glow, starlight, and even the natural cooler temperatures.

With these thoughts present, she was suddenly overwhelmed by an urge to flip off the sun.

Its constant presence, always in the same spot, always burning the hottest, was a painful reminder of Daybreaker and her troubles.

But it didn't deserve her ire, even though it was currently the most annoying on this planet. Instead, she embraced her fate and adjusted her position to lie on the grass, not caring about anything around her.

She sank into bliss, closing her eyes and basking in the comforting warmth of the sun's rays.

Her thoughts wandered to the small joys in life—things that wouldn't be causing her complete tiredness or raging irritation.

Lemonade sounded like a good idea right now. Hopefully, this Equestria had the same type of drink.

She smiled despite the stressful day as the edge of her conciseness faded.

Strangely, she doesn't feel the same emotions right now as usual. Her survival instincts weren't screaming at her to keep her muscles tense.

It was peaceful.

But that feeling just seemed so out of place.

In addition, there was another feeling that refused to go away. It was a solid, unwavering feeling, unlike anything she had ever experienced. Her first instinct was to reject it, to deny its existence. But it clung to her, unyielding, until she could no longer ignore it.

Safety.

It was an emotion she longed for, one she believed came with a peaceful life. But she knew it was fleeting, a temporary respite from the storm. She would cherish it while it lasted.

And she would cry with relief.

Her ears picked up the sound of a high-pitched alarm going off. She recognized the small interval vibrations coming from her pant pocket.

The noise wouldn't let her mind drift back into sleep, and with annoyance, she registered the bright sunlight in her eyes. The drowsiness of just waking up from a nap and the residue of those out-of-place emotions were removed from her conscious mind.

She had a moment of wonderment before she realized that she had peacefully fallen asleep on the grass. Besides the alarm, she felt like she had honestly slept well.

That alone was unusual.

She had always been picky with her sleeping arguments, so much so that it sometimes felt like a ritual. And while she could technically sleep anywhere if she was tired enough, she never found it to be a truly restful sleep that did allow her at least a blanket or pillow.

As she sat up and removed the crust from her eyes, she decided to chalk it up to her body adapting to her new environment. Her mouth felt try

"I am absolutely parched," she hissed in pain when she stood up, her body protesting once more for not at least trying to stretch before she got up. She ignored it in favor of finally pulling out the object that still had yet to stop announcing its presence.

The human grabbed the device in her pocket, finding it absolutely burning. She cringed and hoped the electronic had some heat resistance. She flipped it over right side up and mentally prayed. If her AI GPS was gone, she would officially be doomed.

But relief washed over her as the AI hologram, a shimmering blue figure, flickered back to life.

The AI wasted no time getting to the point, and she had to thank its efficiency. "Good evening, human. My sensors tell me you were unconscious for three hours." She grits her teeth at the news, hating that she felt like she didn't sleep at all.

"Time?" she rasped out at AI.

"Six in the afternoon. Empress Daybreaker requested your response ten minutes ago." And that would explain why the AI device was trying to get her to wake up.

She couldn't help but sigh at hearing the annoying mare's name. What she needed right now was not the Empress but a cool glass of freshly squeezed lemonade.

And if the mare was going to take her time away from her to get a drink, then it was up to the Empress to get her one in the meantime. "Can you inform Empress Daybreaker to get some lemonade for me while I make it over there?" She asks.

The AI hologram nods in response, and the human continues. "Let her know that I fell asleep in the royal gardens and suffering the beginnings of a heat stroke."

"I can do that," the AI said in earnest. Please take caution not to worsen the alignment by your actions." The human just nodded in response to the AI's advice.

The AI begins to list directions as she walks into the castle doors. The gravel pavement does not do her any favors for comfort, and she even has to remove her shoes temporarily to shake out some pebbles.

As she stumbled back into the castle, making a few attempts to put back on her fancy brown shoes away from the harsh terrain, she found some noble-looking ponies nearly a few feet away. They both were dressed in similar attire to hers.

They stopped in her tracks when they noticed her shambling as she awkwardly got her last shoe on.

They were taken aback by the unexpected sight of a human before them, mirroring her astonishment at their presence.

They stared at her for a moment before she caught them looking at the large pin on her dress shirt, and they gasped in surprise before jogging away in fear.

The human can only blink in surprise at the aftermath. She expected a few snide comments and rude remarks. Possibly physical violence if the ponies were stupid enough to start something with her. Not running away in fear. She had gotten a similar look when she was earlier at the refreshment stand with that other pony.

Her gaze lingered on the pin, its enigmatic glimmer challenging her comprehension. "There's more to this," she murmured, her curiosity piqued. "What could this pin possibly signify?"

She looks at her AI companion in response, hoping to get some answers.

"The pin means you take direct orders from Empress Daybreaker. It allows the staff to know that you belong in the castle. But that pin comes with fear because anyone who wears them usually starts to question anyone else who stands on the ground. They only stop once they know every little detail. Besides the orders of the Empress, they are tasked with keeping track of staff, ensuring they are doing their duties and stopping any security risks."

"So, ponies think I'm going to interrogate them endlessly. They run away in hopes I don't catch up to them or stand there nervously, hoping I don't begin asking any questions." She sighs, wondering if Daybreaker deliberately chose that pin to keep ponies at bay.

The thought of confronting the mare for causing her unnecessary grief once more crossed her mind. It seemed like Daybreaker had orchestrated this situation from the start.

The AI called to her attention. Their voice was cold and calculated. "But you lack the loyal pin that normally comes under it. Be careful not to run into another individual with the same pin."

She raises an eyebrow in reply, feeling nervous before asking. "Why is that?"

The AI's ears fold in response. "Because they will notice that you lack the second half of it. They may become aggressive in retaliation, but not enough to react physically. You'll just be creating enemies, essentially. You have the same power as them, but without the loyalty badge underneath, they will question your purpose here."

She couldn't help but sigh, a mix of frustration and resignation, after hearing the unfortunate news; it sounded like politics and more things she would rather not deal with. Instead, the human shook her head, a gesture of defiance, and chose to follow the AI's direction again to the Empress, determined to not let the hierarchy of this magical world distract her.

When she finally turned the corner to her destination, she spotted Daybreaker, strangely waiting outside the room. The women take a few more steps and stands there awkwardly, seeing the flames behind the pony get larger as mare turns to her. At least she didn’t look as irritated as before. But there is no polite greeting either.

“Follow me,” Daybreaker ordered, sounding as emotional as a wall. The human wordlessly follows, knowing better than to object when the mare is like this. The woman enters the room, and the automatic doors close behind her.

She is greeted by the sight of a small meeting room. A cherry wood table with complimentary chairs surrounded the table. The chairs, at least, looked somewhat comfortable, with red cushions placed on the bottom of the seat.

There was also this strange smell that wasn’t in the hallway. It smelled like she had just entered a room full of mints. The peculiar, sweet fragrance seemed to surround the room, but she chose to ignore it because she didn’t find it unpleasant. Especially after she spots a large glass of lemonade on the left side of the table and rushes to sit down on that side.

Daybreaker’s voice, as she exhaled through her nose, was strained, as if she was struggling to contain her anger. “Is there any chance I can convince you to stay in my domain?” Daybreaker took her seat, her gaze fixed on the human. The woman’s initial instinct was to reject the mare outright. She didn’t need an alicorn, a vast source of complications, in her life.

But… she found herself with an unexpected moment of contemplation like she had at the gardens. A small, nagging doubt was making her hesitate. What if she was mistaken? What if this was the life she truly desired, and she was about to let it slip away?

She glances back at the alicorn, who will not leave her despite their negative opinion of each other. The mare could offer something later down the line that she might enjoy.

The human looked away from the mare in thought; she didn't want to. But…

Pulling herself out of her head, knowing that her heart had already been made up, she threw out the straw from the glass. She tilted the drink upwards to overflow her tastebuds with fresh lemonade.

As she took her first sip, she immediately could tell it was a perfect blend—not too bitter or run down by the water—and she would have to thank the bartender for their skill set. She sighed in relief when she was done chugging the glass; already, the lemonade was almost halfway gone.

She raises her arm, her elbow bent upwards and her hand into a fist, to let to know the mare she was going to speak soon. She looks down at the glass, her voice steady and resolute. "One year."

Daybreaker blinks in surprise as the human tilts the drink just enough to bite the ice cubes. The ice cubes yield under the pressure of her teeth. She doesn’t even flinch as she speaks with her mouth full of ice chunks, putting the glass on the table and watching the mare.

“If you can’t convince me to stay for one year-” Daybreaker’s expression gave way to genuine surprise, and she couldn’t blame the mare. She couldn’t believe the words coming out of her mouth, but she knew this would be the only way to settle this without guilt.

Once a year passes, she knows she can tell herself she wasn't being too hasty about her choice: "-then I leave for good." The lady continues her point, finally focusing on the ruler. "But if you convince me to stay, we can update terms—but only if we get there." She tilts her head to stretch her neck momentarily before staring down at the ruler as she continues her tangent.

"But in the meantime, I want a full-on legal contract that can't be broken by any means. And it has to contain terms you and I will fully agree on."

The human settles and waits for the mare. Daybreaker seemed speechless; for once, her response was thoughtful silence. Then she lightly nods. "Alright. I shall agree to handle it in this manner. Let us talk terms then." Daybreaker's horn glows a spark of red before the sound of teleporting magic goes off.

The human finds in front of her a blank sheet of paper and a bright orange pencil instead of a yellow one. It was strange because she was expecting either an ink and quill or a piece of technology.

She looks up at the Empress in confusion, and the mare explains herself. "Let's settle writing on paper until our terms are finalized. Then I shall make it electronic for each of us."

The lady nods and responds. "Alright. Let us—" She picks up the pencil and moves her hand to the left corner of the picture. "Start with your terms first. But let me just write this one-year rule thing first."

Daybreaker did nothing, so the human took that as permission from the mare, and she jotted down what was spoken about before. After she finalizes the note, she looks up from her paper only to see her handwriting on the other paper, completely copied.

She stared, not knowing Daybreaker made the paper magical, and realized the two papers were connected. After this realization, she ignores it and continues her verbal discussion with the flaming marshmallow. "You're the only one that can send me back. I need to bend by your terms first to adjust mine." Daybreaker shows a light smile. Seemly pleased that the human openly stated her power over her, the woman tries not to roll her eyes in front of the Empress. She continues with one final statement and waits for the alicorn. "I shall listen to what you have to say first."

Daybreaker breaks out into a full grin in response. Then, the mare speaks as if she is waiting for this moment her whole life. "The first term of order is I want open communication, human," Daybreaker states, and the human can't help but feel like the Empress herself is being a hypocrite here.

The mare continues, not aware of the human's rude thought. "If you decide you want to leave for any reason… I want to know the reason why and a chance to convince you otherwise." Daybreaker answers. "Your reason for leaving needs to have a logical conclusion behind it. Or at least a full explanation of the emotional reason why you feel a particular way. Any question I ask regarding this topic must be answered in full honesty."

The human can see the challenging stare a mile away. And just as she predicted, the mare does, her eyes glowing despite the warm light the fire behind her produces. "Are we in agreeance on this?" Daybreaker eyes lock onto the human, ready for any verbal disagreements.

But the human nods instead. "Yeah, that's fair. But I want no verbal backlash unless I am misinformed. Or just being plain dumb." She offhand comments, waving her hand for a moment.

"Understandable, let us continue on," Daybreaker said. "Second term, I want you to stop asking that annoying question about why you were summoned." The human can't help but squint her eyes in disdain. She knew Daybreaker was dodging the question at every chance, but not so much that she would be making an entire point on it. "Instead, you should focus on what you can make of this year of terms of agreement."

The human sighs in response. "Can I at least learn why that is the case?" She feels she is pushing her luck by asking this, but she must try.

"It is sensitive information I can allow you to have unless you wish to stay on your own merit." Daybreaker pauses, letting her words be heard before continuing. "That is all I will say on this matter."

Great, she was never going to get that answer. Not if she wanted to leave as planned. She might approach the problem differently if Daybreaker spills the beans. However, then again, she still feels like she will be used in some manner anyway. So, the end result will be the same. Leave before that becomes a reality. 'Alright.' She thinks and settles on her resolve. 'I absolutely hate it. But it won't matter in the end if I leave anyway. Not knowing what an alicorn thinks might be the better option for a sense of peace.'

The lady opens her mouth to hiss out. "Fine." She said and asked. "Any more terms?"

"The third and final term." Daybreaker pauses and raises her hoof on the table, making it shake momentarily before she speaks again. "I want you to do whatever is necessary to get up to date on my empire. Study, take classes, or use any method that works with your learning style if needed. And to find hobbies and even friends later if you so choose." Daybreaker puts her hoof back down. "In other words, I want you to develop a productive yet satisfying lifestyle in the empire."

She was utterly floored by the Empress's thoughtful term. She can't help but mentally grumble, 'How is it possible for the mare to be the most thoughtful when it comes to others, but when it comes to her own actions, she is the most stuck-up thing I have ever met.' She mentally continues, wondering how the mare can continue to be a walking contradiction.

She focuses her mind back on that last term, making her own mental observation as she replays the Empress's words. 'Considerate. And willing to work to my needs. She's still keeping up to that.' The woman thinks as she shudders in fear.

Unlike the other two terms, this term was straightforward and clear. Still, it felt heavy with responsibility and an unknown threat. She couldn't help but go back to thinking of worse-case scenarios as she questions in her head. 'But will your tune change later if you don't get what you want?'

The silence is tense as the Empress waits for the woman's answer. The human finally sighs as she brings up her concerns. "Okay. But what is exactly that standard? And the consequences for not following this rule."

Daybreaker's expression changes quickly, and she leans her head back in surprise and looks concerned. "If you are already thinking of consequences. Then, I will need to keep more of a watchful eye on you. I shall bring the issue up if need be. Give me time to make a basic schedule for you, and we can discuss the details later. This term also needs to clarify that I will constantly ask for updates about you."

The human sighs and nods, and her hands reach for her face in exhaustion. 'Should've known better. The mare doesn't seem to enjoy when I ask questions that seem obvious to her.' She smiles in amusement at the mare's antics, finding it funny for once instead of just finding it frustrating. 'What a strange and new feeling.' She thought as she lifted her head away from her hands.

Daybreaker begins to write down her terms on the paper, the sound of scribbles being heard as the human watches the words appearing one by one on her own piece of paper. Daybreaker's handwriting- hoofwriting?- has a fancy flare to it. The letters have a tail end, but not in complete cursive.

As the last term is written out, she sees that the paper will not hold enough space for her terms. The human looks up at the mare to see that the alicorn noticed the same thing. With another flare of magic, she sees the paper suddenly double in length and look more like the size of a scroll.

'Damn, magic is useful.' She comments to herself.

"List your terms, human," Daybreaker said, impatiently waiting for the human to begin.

The lady didn't hesitate any longer and spoke her mind: "I would like a guarantee of safety while I am here."

"That goes without saying," Daybreaker said plainly. "You are under my responsibility." The human couldn't help it; by God, she hated that word and the mare saying it.

"Perhaps. But your words still mean nothing to me." That comment seemed to string a nerve with the alicorn; she didn't physically jump in anger, but the human noticed the alicorn clutching her jaw.

She continued her point despite the clear signs of danger. "But I have no choice but to believe you for now. But I want it in writing in the contract." She pauses and decides to add to her comment. "It would be better for you to write anyway; your words hold more power than mine."

She glares at the mare, ready to drive her verbal point. "You fail, and it will be on your consciences anyway. That is if you truly care about preserving life."

"I do," Daybreaker said, her words heavy as she elevated the pencil. The human sighed at Daybreaker's response to her angry threat. "Make sure you include emotional and mental harm there as well, and I will say nothing else on the subject."

Daybreaker nods to the side and says nothing as she continues writing; the human gives her a moment until she sees the mare stop writing. Daybreaker glances up to

"The second term I have is that I would like compensation to take with me. I am unsure if time moves differently there, but I will be gone for a year if it is the same. I will have a lot of payments to make up for. And not just paying bills. But if I could take something worth a lot of money in my world, I won't say anything more about this topic."

The mare raises an eyebrow. "What materials are you requesting to take with you?" Daybreaker drawls out.

She puts her backhand on her chin, moving her leg to allow her elbow to rest on it. "I don't know. My first thought would be gold or silver. And I assume you will not allow any technology to cross over?" The woman tilts her head.

Daybreaker notices the human's innocent gesture and then forces her mind back on topic as she nods. "That would be correct. I will only settle by sending a base material with you."

The lady sighs at the expected answer and decides she'll settle for that. "Alright. Then I'll settle with a large amount of gold and a sliver of compensation for my time here."

Daybreaker doesn't. Was the mare displeased? She couldn't figure out why the mare could be so expressive for a moment and then as expressive as a stone brick the next. Meanwhile, the alicorn finalizes the second term of the written paper and looks up at the human once more.

Since Daybreaker would not say the reason behind her summons, she had little to go on. But when her anger cleared, she knew she had to take advantage of the situation even if she didn't want it. And as much as she hated it, even adversaries can help improve oneself. And considering Daybreaker also wrote a term on the same topic, she believed she had a high chance for the term to be added.

"I would like you specifically to train me in combat."

Daybreaker lost her focus at the declaration. She dropped the pencil from her magic. The mare didn't say anything; she just stared blankly, and the human took the chance to explain herself. The mare's response was creepy, but she ignored it in favor of trying to convince the pony. "As you know, I want a peaceful and lazy life. But even I can admit I might come across sudden conflict. Even if I avoid the plague at times. At the very least, I would like to defend myself against other humans."

She mumbles as she adds to the list of reasons. "Also, it would be nice to have a healthier body, too. I miss having confidence in my body."

Daybreaker doesn't give a single reaction. Then, finally, she breaks her still frame as she silently jots down the term. The reaction was strange, but the woman wouldn't stop her.

She hated Daybreaker, but if the mare has military as the second most spent budget. She must have a brutal training regimen and is military-focused. She was going to wrung through the wringer. If Daybreaker was stern in a verbal confrontation, she wouldn't even want to think about what the mare would do to her in physical training. She would be in so much pain, especially how she didn't get along with the mare, but at least she'd come out from the other end. That's the plan anyway. Hopefully, it will be worth it, even if she has to deal with more of the insufferable alicorn.

"Your name, human," Daybreaker states suddenly. "I want it. You have yet to object to me calling you your own species. And I am getting tired of waiting for this answer." Daybreaker adds. "Originally, with your brash demand for respect- you had not yet earned- I had thought you would say it by now."

She sighs, getting tired of Daybreaker putting her down. "There is a reason why, Empress." She turns her head to the mare, eyes cold with hostility. For the first time, she invades the mare's personal space. "I still don't trust you. And I hope I never do. You're covered in multiple centuries of secrets, not someone I want to associate with. I'm only making in expectation with training because I find it worth the cost of dealing with you."

Daybreaker hisses through her teeth, the sharp, glimmering pearls on display. She raises her head backward as her jaw clenches in anger. “You dare-”

“I dare object to being held against my will to humor your ego and whatever foul-mouth plan you have. Yes.” The human snaps and interrupts the mare. She closes the remaining distance, their noses nearly touching, and the woman gets rising heat for her efforts. “Your empire may live in prosperity, and your citizens are treated even better than my home planet. But you have yet to prove that you are a good mare. All you have done is order me around, and you dare ask me to prove myself to you even when I never even asked to be here in the first place.”

The human can feel herself losing all her initial fear of the alicorn as she still doesn’t back down and is uncomfortably close to the mare. The heat feels like it’s burning her now, but she still doesn’t move. “Even me being the hermit I am. I still have family members and friends who are like family to me, or even places I miss that I want to return to. And even if the possibility of me not returning was up on the table, I still would try just some form of communication. I owe someone, at least someone, a proper explanation for why I suddenly disappeared. I need to try Daybreaker. It’s the least I could do. And bugging you about returning seems to be the only way I have a chance.”

The lady finally physically backs off, her anger and frustrations still strong but far less so than just a moment ago. She takes a deep breath and tries to regain some composure. “So yes, I want to go back, not because I think the empire is overwhelming or even if I think the prime ruler is a bitch. It’s because I am now obligated to do the right thing, return, or at least give a proper goodbye. A proper send-off. Even my world allows soldiers to say goodbye to their families when they can. I didn’t get the luxury, so of course, I am upset.” She scoffs, turning her head away and facing the mare again when she speaks out with her racing thoughts.

“This summons wasn’t an accident either. So, of course, I would be upset at you specifically on top of all that.” She points her finger at the mare before she allows her arms to give up in a silent plea. “At least you were willing to make up for it by trying to care for me, but it doesn’t make the initial problem disappear.”

The human leaves without another word. And the mint smell of the room sours as Daybreaker’s eyes glare with promise.

She groaned at her Wikipedia pony. The A.I. continues to spiel relentless information despite the human's sudden outburst.

"It's important to note that each planet does have its own complications and social issues, as each Overseer rules the planet slightly differently. But all Overseers have to keep the Empress's own rules and regulations. The Daylight committee is usually responsible for ensuring that Daybreaker's ruling is not undermined in the smaller details. While difficult to regulate, there is a set roster in the committee to see things through and-"

Suddenly, the A.I. hologram disappears. She blinks in confusion before studying the disk to see if it will come back online.

It takes her brain a moment to figure out why the A.I. would disappear mid-sentence as her heart squeezes in fear before her mind can fully recognize the implications.

Not a moment too soon, she jumps in alarm to hear her door open, revealing the fiery alicorn on the other side. Once she gets over her initial heart attack on a platter, her expression turns grim as the lady can't help but just stare at the mare in an angry defense. The fiery alicorn doesn't react after seeing the human give off that spiteful look.

The Empress simply stares, and the human can't help but feel the suffocating silence. She waits another moment before deciding to break it.

"Can I help you, Empress?" She asks with wary suspicion, ready to jump at a moment's notice in case she finds herself in the crosshairs of a fire projectile.

The mare's horn lights up, and the human can't react appropriately as she gets picked up with magic. Her entire body glowed with a deep, sparkly red. The magic feels like a strong squeeze, covering her from head to toe. She has no choice but to be dragged and carried by the alicorn off her bed. Her muscles tried to resist, but just like before when the Empress pushed her onto the bed with her hoof, she found the magic held overwhelming power she couldn't hope to fight against.

Like a grandmother dragging their misbehaving grandchild, she was carried out of the room, and the A.I. device was left behind on the bed. She opens her mouth to begin protesting, but despite her brain trying to move her mouth, She finds herself unable to object to the mistreatment.

Completely powerless, she settled her anger by glaring at the back of the mare's head.

They passed countless decorated hallways; the human didn't know where Daybreaker was taking her, only that it seemed to be somewhere she hadn't traversed before. The further they go, the more guards they seem to encounter; she can barely see them, relying on her peripheral vision because the magic wasn't allowing that simple mercy. Any moment she tried to move anything; it was like it was shut down before any action could be taken.

'Just how powerful is this alicorn?' the woman asks in her head. Then suddenly, the alicorn stops for a moment, followed by the noise of clinking hinges and scarping stones. They were going to pass through a large door.

She could only make out the throne in her peripheral vision, a blur of gold and bright orange before she lost sight of it.

Daybreaker continues; the human could see they were going to a side room instead. A complete red door with a sharp point at the top framing. Four guards were standing by it, two ponies, a griffin, and even a Kirin. They bow to the mare, and the alicorn doesn't pay them any mind as she walks past them and through the red door. The human realizes she has enough context clues to craft a theory of where she is going. Somewhere important anyway.

She can spot a room up ahead- the doorway holding the Empresses cutie mark in the center, it’s a large and imposing door covered in a dim orange color, and the human assumes that has to be the mare’s bedroom. She wondered why the alicorn would lead her to her own private bedchambers when they last left off in a argument. She is left in surprise and suspense though when the mare just walks right pass it.

She mentally hissed at the sunlight invading her eyes without any prior warning. It took her eyes a few moments to adjust before she could see grassland and trees everywhere, seemly the land being left its original natural state.

'A secret garden?' She couldn't help but think. She wanted to move her head to look around again, but Daybreaker's tight-squeezing magic wasn't allowing her the luxury.

Daybreaker turns a small margin, just enough, and the human body is taken along with the movement. She sees another surprising sight up ahead.

There was a small mound of dirt. But it was vastly different from the rest of the land. The entire hill lacked any green foliage or essential grass and was clearly a dirt hill. Letting the human know that Daybreaker had sat her many times before, the grass suffering the fate of her endless burning tail. If it wasn't for the magic, she would burst out laughing.

Daybreaker plopped down her butt as if to prove the human's point, and she found herself being released from the mare's magic. Still, consequently, it caused her to hit the ground in a less-than-gentle manner. She immediately wants to object to the harsh treatment.

But, with Daybreaker not even looking at her, the mare's face seems serious despite the same expression she always carries. She decides to wait instead.

Finally, after an awkward amount of silence and staring. Daybreaker speaks up, her voice somber. She turns to the human. "I made an incorrect assumption about you, human." The mare admits.

As the woman stood there, her heart pounding, she couldn’t fathom the words that had just escaped the mare’s mouth. The alicorn, seemingly indifferent, cast a brief glance at the woman to gauge her reaction before returning its gaze to the vast expanse of the sky.

Despite the utter surprise look the woman sends her way, the Empress explains tightly. “You see, while incredibly rare, during my travels to conquer planets across the multiverse-” Did she just say multiverse?! “-I have met a small hoof of humans before you.” She blinks in surprise at the Empress’s admission. That would explain a lot. “Anytime I came across a planet that held pony life, there was usually at least one human. Or soon-to-be one- that would come to their world through magical means. And sometimes, they would wake as a pony. But their very existence cannot be lied to me. I can sense, feel, and see the emotions of souls.”

The human can only blink at the statement before her emotions and thoughts finally catch up. 'Okay. I see how it is, universe. Give the most insufferable mare the most overpowered abilities and magic, and pray she doesn't blow up.' The woman paused, realizing where her thoughts were taking her. 'The mare- while a true tyrant- doesn't seem like she'll do that. She mentally 'She actually cares. Remember that.' She chastises herself, and with her custody peaked, she asks, "And my soul?"

The mare smiles cheekily, not answering. The human glares as the alicorn's not-so-subtlety changes the subject.

“I mostly watch any planet life before considering contacting the main establishment. That is if I find it safe enough to even do so in the first place. You’d be surprised by how many dangers my ship sensors pick up on a planet can contain in wildlife or the ponies themselves.” She grumbles, seemingly recalling her frustrations. “Lately, one such example is the multiverse has contained many alternative planets where the most heinous diseases or plagues overran the entire populace as of late. I am unsure why this is the case. But I will continue to look into it.”

The mare sighs, seemingly recalling the strange phenonium of planets with unruly diseases. The alicorn clears her throat and attempts to get back on topic.

“Many of them were not-” She pauses, seemly unable to put her thoughts into words. “As serious or as-” she pauses again, looking down at the dirt and blinking momentarily. The women didn’t think the mare could even be this tongue-tied. The alicorn looks up, finally finding her words. “Or as pure as you. I suppose are the words I wish to say.” She shifts her head in response to her own comment. Sounding awkward all of a sudden before she continues.

“I had three expectations as soon as I realized I summoned a human.” She finalizes, and the human nods to give her the go-ahead to let the mare speak her mind.

“Expectation one. After you overcame your shock, I expected you to try to bed any pony you come across, including myself.” You had to resist a genuine laugh, but a snort did come out of your mouth. You were not surprised in the slightest about that one. If Daybreaker traveled across the multiverse, you wonder how many horrors she’s seen.

“Number two. I had expected you to be power-hungry. Either in attempts of influence or magical prowess.” You raise an eyebrow at her, then interrupt her spiel. “Isn’t that what I was doing when asking you to train me?”

Daybreaker shakes her head, the flames behind her flickering from the movement. "But not in that way involve me in such a close manner. I had expected you to conspire against me. I have been told by many alternate ponies and humans alike that I am considered a villain in their universe."

You blink in utter bafflement at her. It was hard to believe that she was already aware of her basic reputation. Daybreaker, a character of surprising self-awareness, continues on as if she were talking about the weather and not her overall representation. You had to wonder if she is an alter ego now or has always been this way.

"Did you once hold the name Princess Celestia?" She can't help but blurt out. Then, mentally cursed her unrelenting curiosity.

"You know of my alternative versions?" Daybreaker asks in a sudden burst of surprise, her eyes expanding wider in revelation. The lady, caught red-handed, coughs in embarrassment.

"I… yeah. I heard of you through-"

Daybreaker interrupts her and gets to the point. The mare drops another bombshell of information. "A cartoon? Yes, I am aware of that." The women sputter in disbelief, completely caught off guard. But if she knew that, then why-

The Empress's eyes bore into the human with serious intent. "And I would like to clarify that I never once held the name Celestia. I have always been Daybreaker since the moment I have been birthed from the stars."

"Birthed from the stars?" The women frowned at the mare with confusion. "You don't mean that in a literal sense, do you?"

Daybreaker expression bores a sharp grin, her teeth glinting against the sunlight and shade from the leaves of the tree. "I mean that in every sense of the word, nameless human."

And just as quick as that expression appeared, Daybreaker returned her face back to its bored look. "But this topic is heavy with details and one we do not have time to discuss now." Daybreaker suddenly pulls her towards the human, and she stares at her in confusion. Was she supposed to accept it and shake the hoof?! She didn't know pony customs- but instead, the mare just lowered her hoof back down, and the lady released it as just a hoof gesture.

Feeling silly, she looks back at the mare, only to realize the mare seemed to have picked up her sudden panic. The mare’s grin seemed to have softened a bit more, looking more genuine and spared the human from any more embarrassment. The alicorn only makes a teasing remark as she gets back on topic. “I must give you my last expedition concerning you.”

You nod at the mare, trying to save face as the alicorn speaks her mind. “It was that you would cause me relentless trouble or even attempt to harm my ponies in some manner.” Daybreaker scoffs, seemingly finding the mere thought ridiculous now. “Instead, you’ve just been awfully quiet. You just stay in your room to sleep or do nothing in the gardens.” Daybreaker states in a dead manner and soon mumbles something else, but the woman can still hear it. “Arguably so much that it concerns me.”

You can’t help but roll your eyes at the fact that the Empress doesn’t seem to know what an extreme introvert is. “That’s just me being myself, your majesty.”

Daybreaker seems worried as her eyes study the human beside her. “And this is considered to be normal for you?”

You give an honest laugh of amusement. The mare’s expression looked generally concerned. How was it possible for the mare to not know this? She takes pity on the burning marshmallow for once. “Very much so. I have no desire to bed anyone, gain power even if it is appealing, or cause trouble unless my basic needs of housing, food, and water are not being met.”

“And like I said before. I would like to be trained by you to get a basic understanding of self-defense. You seem like you would be a good teacher, despite your-” You pause. “Eccentric personality.” And that was putting it lightly. The alicorn seemed to have read the human’s mind because she snorted at the woman’s attempt to put it that way.

The mare then sighs and admits a bit of defeat. “I am aware of how I am at times.” She shifts her hooves and body towards her, no longer facing the sun and sky. “And for that, I apologize.”

She looks at the mare as if she had grown an extra head. And she was utterly tongue-tied. She had not expected the boisterous Empress to apologize. Daybreaker continues, smiling briefly, aware of the human’s surprised reaction and then ruining the mood by bringing forth another issue between the two.

“I have looked into this issue that you have yelled at me over.” She cringes at Daybreaker’s truthful words and wonders where the alicorn was going with this comment. “I cannot give you the luxury of at least sending a note to your friends and family.”

“Dammit.” She curses and then looks up at the mare with a pleading tone. “Then can you at least send me back temporarily?”

“While I can send you back. I will not be able to summon you back again. It is a one-way ticket unless I do some complex and invasive spells to track you through your universe.”

The human sighed in response, hating her overall situation. But when she looked at the mare that caused this endless headache, she couldn’t find herself as mad as before at the flaming marshmallow. The mare actually put in some effort. “Okay, if that option is out, I guess I’ll settle with staying here. Even if it will cause some headaches for me in the future.”

Her words make Daybreaker pause, and the mare looks at her regretfully and seems to speak from the heart. “I still cannot share the reason for your summons unless you stay during your time here- I would like this to become more of a positive relationship.” The lady looks at the pony and sees a pleading look from the alicorn.

“So,” Daybreaker clears her throat, sounding bashful. “Can you forgive this mare for her inconsiderate summons and allow your anger to be temporarily quenched until another issue arises?”

She stares at Daybreaker, seeing the mare’s eyes as it glows with her armor. She can’t help but nod in response before giving a heartfelt smile. “Alright. Fine.” The human decides to give her the benefit of the doubt, allowing her paranoia and mistrust to rest for now. “Now, when will I be taught self-defense from you?”

Daybreaker’s smile suddenly turns a lot more mischievous and threatening. The lady can’t help but feel her heart sink to the bottom of her stomach seeing that expression.

“That is also why I brought you out here. I have not forgotten your angry outburst upon your temporary Empress.” The mare’s horn lights up once more, and the human finds herself in case of magic again. Daybreaker quickly sends her off the miniature mound until she is gently set down on the flat ground; the mare’s magic was much more thoughtful behind her movements than beforehand.

Once the mare sees the lady on the lower ground, she jumps quickly and flies off. The mare’s wings give a powerful flap, and the wind bustles as she follows that direction until she lands right in front. Daybreaker’s grin is on full display.

“Attack me without any hesitation.” Daybreaker proudly ordered. “I must see for myself where you lie in terms of your knowledge and capabilities. Then I shall assess you from there.”

The woman stared at the alicorn with suspicion. The pony was still entirely dressed in her powerful armor—there was no way she could even dent it.

And with an ego as big as the sun she represents, there was little doubt in her mind that the alicorn wouldn’t give her the mercy of being able to punch her in the face. With impossible odds, she was not motivated to do what Her Majesty just said.

She should take back her comment about Daybreaker being a good teacher.

Author's Note

The author slaps her table. "Another one!" she shouts in achievement. "It only took-" She glances at the calendar. "A month and a few days!" She blinks as she realizes what she just said. "Dang it!"