The train slowly pulled up to the station. Snow slowly spiraled down from the heavens, frozen tears of the sky, weeping. For the families watching their young colts leave, for the brave stallions about to stand for their country.
For the people of Equestria to die.
I looked back to my family. My mother, who had taught me to read. Who had broke into tears and wouldn't stop crying. Who tried to find a way for them to spare me.
My father, old and frail, who had taught me how to make his special fudge. Who had sat silently for hours when told of my fate.
My sister, who helped me find my cutie mark. Who embraced me and tried to reassure me of my future.
I smiled sadly at them. This would be the last time I will see them again for a long time, if I even make it back.
The train hooted its horn. Signalling the inevitable departure of the boy soldiers.
The draft came around, and stole something from everypony that year. Only a forth made it back.
I was not one of them.