"Pony Island Part 1" centers on Professor Nora Jackson, a tenured political science professor at Carlton University, who addresses academic misconduct with her student, Robert. Nora discovers that Robert’s final paper, initially graded an A, was plagiarized. She confronts him, explaining that university policy requires reporting the issue to the academic board, which would lead to his expulsion. Knowing Robert’s father, Dr. Lucien Lavel, is a prominent alumnus and donor, Nora offers an alternative: if Robert submits a letter to the dean by the next day announcing his voluntary withdrawal, she will not report the plagiarism, and his grade will be recorded as "Incomplete" instead of a failing mark. Distressed, Robert contacts his father, the authoritarian ruler of the Caribbean island Ste. Katherine, known for his strict control.

To protect his family’s reputation, Dr. Lavel orchestrates Nora’s relocation. She is unexpectedly taken and wakes up confined in a Maryland basement. Robert reveals his involvement, stating his father’s influence is behind her situation to prevent any threat to their name. Nora faces intense pressure and manipulation, grappling with fear and confusion as she learns she will be moved to Ste. Katherine. Despite her efforts to resist, she is overwhelmed by the circumstances.

Meanwhile, Lavel’s operatives, posing as officials, detain Nora’s sister, Annalise, to ensure no one reports Nora’s absence. Both sisters are transported to Ste. Katherine, where Dr. Lavel confronts Nora, questioning her to confirm no one will look for her. The sisters are coerced into compliance under Lavel’s oppressive authority, enduring strict control and forced obedience. The story concludes with their challenges continuing, setting the stage for further developments in Part 2, exploring themes of power, betrayal, and authority.