Blood in the Sand

“Fall back to the green smoke or were going to be overrunned. Rainbow I want you to provide suppressing fire on points A and B. Baxter you grab Applejacks left I’ll grab her right we gotta get her to the evac site now.” Roman said hoisting up his friend who is now bleeding out onto the sands of the battlefield. Baxter and Roman kick into overdrive dragging their wounded teammate as bullets whizz past her heads and grenades explode in the distance. After several minutes of running they reach a run down house and quickly get Applejack inside laying her out on a clean section of floor.

“Sir, she is loosing to much blood we gotta find away to stop the bleeding. Rainbow and Lansky can’t hold their position much longer.” Baxter said propping Applejack against a nearby wall. Roman runs over and kneels down next to her.

“How ya doin Applejack talk to me.” Roman said pulling out a small medkit from a nearby fallen member of the once large Titan Squad. As he is getting ready to patch up Applejack. Baxter, Rainbow, and Lansky come running back towards him.

“Sergeant were low on ammo and Prometheus is closing in fast we gotta hurry and get out of here.” Roman keeping himself calm and collected looks at Rainbow.

“Sergeant Dash I want you to get what ammo you can from our fallen brothers then I want you, Baxter, and Lansky to get to the green smoke for evac. Roman turns to pull out his radio. “Sierra 248 where the fuck are you I have two dead and one wounded and in critical condition. What is your position.? Over” After a few minutes of radio silence a voice rings over the walkie.

“Roger that Titans I see your smoke I’m five mikes to the evac zone ETA ten minutes. Over”

“Roger that Sierra 248 about damn time you got here. Who all is with you?” Roman asked cutting open Applejacks shirt to find the bullet hole.

“Just me and Rhino Company.” The radio man says before a familiar voice comes over the walkie.

“Staff Sergeant Roman are you there?” Roman smiles slightly “Yes sir commander Maxim I’m here and the situation is completely Fubar sir.” Roman says giving Applejack morphine and bandaging her up as she weakly speaks into his ear.

“I don’t want to die Roman, I still have to get you back for that prank you and Pinkie pulled on me.” She softly chuckles before coughing up blood. Roman who is now slightly crying takes her hand.

“Don’t worry Applejack you're going to be ok the evac is almost here that way we can get you back to the carrier and get you some actual medical treatment. For right now just save your strength ok.” she nods and passes out from blood loss as Rainbow runs over to Roman.

“Holy shit is she...dead?” Roman cleans the blood off his hands and puts gloves on.

“No she still has a pulse she just passed out from blood loss, thankfully our squad medics supplies were destroyed in that I.E.D blast but we have to get her airlifted out of her ASAP.” just then as the insurgents were closing in the helicopter arrives gunning down some of the enemies. Roman carries Applejack to the helicopter and loads her into it. As the helicopter makes it off the ground several missiles pound the area taking out several helos including the one with Applejack in it. The helicopter Titan Squad Climbed into got hit as well and spun towards the ground. More missiles pound the helicopters knocking them out of the sky and killing all of Rhino Company. The remaining helicopters and humvees retreated as Prometheus soldiers started combing through the downed helicopters.

Several months prior

“Ugh I hate math so much. I can’t wait to get this school year over.” Roman said running his hand over his shaved head.

“Oh stop being so melodramatic. ” Twilight says giggling and punching Romans arm.

“Easy for you to say Twi, your Miss Brainiac.” she blushes slightly at the compliment.

“I’m not a brainiac I just study, if you spent more time studying and less time doing athletic things with Rainbow Dash maybe you wouldn’t find math so stressful.” Sunset said as they walked into the lunchroom and saw there friends seated at their usual table. Sure high school was stressful but Roman didn’t care he was always one for doing the impossible and muscling through tough situations. He had several family members in the military so he knew all too well how to properly deal with high levels of stress. As for his friends he had a good amount. The six girls all knew each other since they were little and Roman has been there friend since Freshman year. Although him and Rainbow knew each other since middle school they remained close friends the whole time. Rarity was Queen Diva, on top of that she was also gorgeous and on more than several occasions he would stare at her ass without her knowing. There was Fluttershy who is the animal caretaker of the school and on several occasions she would sneak animals into her backpack. On top of that she was a shy girl, but despite her shyness that didn’t stop her from being cute, at least to Roman that is. To be fair all of his friends were cute.

Then, there was the new girl that joined the group shortly after Roman did. Sunset Shimmer, at first she was Queen Bitch everyone hated her. Granted Roman didn’t hate her but that's simply because Roman didn’t have a bad bone in his body. Like most of his friends Sunset was just as attractive. Needless to say Roman always liked her a little bit more than he did Rarity.

“hey everyone.” Roman said sitting down at the table with his lunchbox. Roman never did like school food it always made him sick.

“What ya got to eat today dude.” Rainbow asked putting her arm around him and hugging him.

“The usual sandwich, apple, banana, trail mix, and protein shake.”

Rainbow chuckles at him rubbing his head. “Oh trying to maintain that new body of your huh she says touching his stomach. Back in his Freshmen and Sophomore year Roman was a pretty chubby kid but after he started talking sports with Rainbow he soon began to eat healthy and take care of himself.

“Well, what can I say I like the new me the new me feels a lot better than the old me.” He says flexing and acting like a goofball.

“I do have agree darling I rather like the new handsome you.” she says fluttering her eyes at Roman.

“I for one liked the old Roman.” Fluttershy said softly. Pinkie buts in on the conversation.

“Ya chubby Roman was awesome to hug he was like a big squishy ball of dough.” Pinkie said giggling before falling out of her chair in laughter.

“You ok there Sunset?” Roman asked “You’ve been quiet this whole time.” she looks up and blushes with embarrassment. As Applejack leans in and the girls follow.

“So, Roman have you decided who you're going to the prom with?” Applejack says laughing at the now awkward silence over taking the table.

“No I haven’t to tell you the truth I never liked proms. Apart from spending time with you guys everything else is just boring ya know.”

Never once did Roman ever like the idea of school functions. Not because he was not popular or didn’t have anyone to go to these functions with it’s just stuff like that didn’t interest him. All he liked to do was hang out with his friends, work on his car, or play sports with Rainbow Dash. Still, though going to something like the prom may be fun especially with the right person. If the situation presented itself he probably wouldn’t say no. Soon after finishing his lunch Principle Celestia came over the loudspeaker with an announcement.

“Attention students after lunch a army recruiter here to talk students about enlisting after high school. All those interested in attending please come to the gymnasium after lunch.” Hearing this Romans eyes lit up noticing this the girls get a worried look on their face.

Twilight was the first to speak up. “Roman I know your entire family was military but that does not mean you have to go into something that dangerous. I mean what if something happened to you your family would be devastated and so would we.”

“It’s true darling just the thought of you in those tacky military outfits and all the dirt and grime just makes me sick.” Everyone stares daggers at her. “Oh and of course you could get hurt or worse.” Roman stands up cracking his knuckles.

“Girls I Appreciate your concern but this is something I want to do, I have always wanted to be a soldier. Sunset stands up visibly angry.

“Roman think about what you're doing, did you once ever think about our feelings, did you ever think that if anything ever happened to you we would just lose it.” She angrily walks out of the lunchroom. As Roman chases after her.

“What's her problem?” Rainbow Dash asked. Twilight looks at the girls and then to Rainbow.

“It’s because she has a crush on Roman, and he doesn’t realise it. Honestly I’m the only one she has told about it and I just gotta say she is head over heals for him.” Twilight says drinking her water and finishing her apple

“Ya well he isn’t the only on enlisting.” Rainbow said pointing at herself. The girls look at he shocked at the statement. “He has been my friend since middle school I’m not about to let go the distance alone. Although I have to agree with you Twilight it is a bad idea but you know how Roman is, once he sets his mind to something he goes through with it.” Rainbow then takes her backpack and gets up to go find Roman. As she gets up Applejack grabs Rainbows arm.

“Hold on there partner, you're not going by yourself I’ll enlist with you Rainbow.” Twilight interrupts the two girls.

“Were you two not listening when I told Roman how dangerous it is. Why do you all want to enlist so badly?” Twilight says groaning.

“Because Twilight like I said before Roman is my closest friend I’d follow him to hell and back and never ask myself why.” She walks out of the lunchroom after Roman.

“Why are you going Applejack?” Pinkie Pie said tilting her head as she puts her food away.

“Someone has to go and keep those two from getting themselves killed don’t they.” Applejack smirks and walks away. “Don’t worry girls everything will be fine I promise.” Applejack walks into the hallway and heads for the gymnasium.

Meanwhile, in another part of the school

“I can’t believe you would do this, do you know what would happen if I lost you. You goddamn fool I love you. Ok ever since I first got here you have been nothing but a good friend to me, but I wanna be more than friends ok.” Sunset says tears in her eyes as she grabs Roman and clings to his chest. “I don’t wanna lose you.” Roman just stops and takes in what just happened. Roman just holds her tight rubbing her back.

“Don’t worry Sunset you won’t lose me. I promise when I get enlisted I’ll write to you Skype with you, and when I finally come home I’m gonna walk off that ship run up to you and hug you so tight that your back will pop.” he said mocking a bear hug as he lifted Sunset up as she giggled slightly.

“Besides, I won’t anything happen to that big teddy bear.” Rainbow says walking up to them. Me and Applejack are enlisting with you. I’d never let my best friend go the journey alone, especially something as dangerous as the military. Applejack is also coming to keep us in line so we get home safely.” Applejack soon comes up behind Rainbow and fixes her hat.

“Don’t worry Sunset nothing will happen to your man I promise.” Sunset looks at the three of them before laughing.

“Seeing you guys in uniform is gonna be weird.” Roman looks at her surprised and then he hugs her tightly.

“So, you’re ok with me enlisting.” Roman says rubbing Sunsets face as she leans into his touch.

“Yes but only you three promise to come back to us unharmed, ok.” Sunset then hugs all three of them as the lunch bell rings and the three of them head to the gymnasium. As they get to the gym they took their seats on the bleachers and watched as the recruiter gave his speech on the history of the Army and the many roles the Army offers. The presentation ends and another man in uniform walks in.

“I want to thank everyone who attended the presentation and a big thanks to principal Celestia for letting all this happen. Now, if anyone is interested in enlisting please come down now and grab an enlistment form, fill it out completely, and then bring them to me after your done then head back to class you will be notified by letter in two weeks if you were accepted.” No one stands up they just sit there and mumble and giggle sensing the other recruiters annoyance build up. The three of them quickly stand up.

“We want to enlist sir.” Roman says as he walks down the bleachers proudly with Rainbow and Applejack as they stand at attention in front of the recruiter.

“Tell me you three why do you three want to enlist in something as dangerous as the military. You first son.” The recruiter looks at Roman as he clears his throat.

“Simple sir I have people I want to protect, and to honour my family who have all served in the military.” He said proudly looking at Sunset.

“A valiant effort son, what's your name?”

“Andrew Roman sir but I prefer to go by Roman.” the recruiter hands him the enlistment form.

What about you Miss, what's your name?” the recruiter says putting the microphone near Rainbow.

“Rainbow Dash sir.”

“Why do you want to enlist in the military?” she thinks for a few before putting her arm around Roman.

“Because me and this guy are the best of friends and I’d follow him to hell and back if I have to. I’d even take a bullet for this man and he would do the same for me.”

“That's very loyal of you Miss Dash.” he hands an enlistment form to Rainbow and he finally walks over to Applejack.

“What's your name Miss?’ he once again asks clenching the enlistment form in his hands.

“Applejack sir.” she says nervously.

“Why do you wanna join the military Miss Jack?’ she looks to Sunset and her friends and smiles.

“Because I promised my friends that I’d make sure these two make it home.” with a proud look on his face he hands the form to her and salutes her.

“You see kids three of your fellow students want to enlist and there reasons for doing so are selfless and the friendship between these three is unbreakable. Alright students well its time for you all to head back to class thank you for attending and have a good day.” Roman hands him back all three forms signed.

“Well that was fast.” he said with a look of surprise.

“Ehehe were really eager to join.” Rainbow said with a smile.

“Always nice to see so much enthusiasm. Well, kids I thank you for your time you guys go back to class and I’ll get these filled.” The three of them run off to finish off their day. As the day crept on the three students couldn’t stop smiling at their chances of getting in. Once everything was said and done Roman headed for his locker. Everyday after school he always works out with Rainbow for an hour or two. Tonight however he can only exercise for an hour as he is planning on spending time with Sunset. Since there is a good chance that in two weeks he won't see her for awhile. The workout went as normal and ever rainbow and Roman took turns spotting and lifting and talking about the day and there excitement for the military.

Soon an hour comes to an end and the two of them wipe off the equipment and hit the showers before saying goodbye and parting ways. Roman soon arrives at his apartment and walks in throwing down his backpack and relaxing on the couch. Roman loved his family but he never knew how nice living on your own was. He soon got out his phone and called Sunset so she could come over and they could hang out for a couple of hours. He pulls up Sunsets contact info and dials her number.

“Hey Roman what's up?” Sunset said with an audible spark in her voice.

“Well, I wanted to see if you wanted to come over and hang out for a few hours. I can make dinner and we can watch a movie or two.”

“Sure I’ll be over in about thirty minutes, see ya soon babe.” Sunset hangs up and gets ready to go. Back at Roman's place he begins to get ready for his date with Sunset. He shaves his beard down to a light amount of stubble and shaves his head he then puts on cologne and freshens his breath. Once out of the bathroom he gets out the proper ingredients and begins cooking a nice dinner. Roman was no five star chef but when it came to pasta and grilled food he was the master at cooking. Thirty minutes later he hears a knock on his door. He steps away from the stove throwing the towel over his shoulder and answers the door.

“Hello beautiful.” Roman says looking Sunset up and down instead of her normal leather jacket, dress, and jeans. She shows up wearing a purple top with skinny jeans on and black and white high tops. Sunset blushes slightly at his compliment before pushing him.

“Are you gonna let me in or are you just gonna stand there and look at me.” getting a smirk on her face Roman steps aside letting her in. She inhales deeply as the smells of freshly cooked steak fill the air. She breathes out and sighs and relaxes on the couch. “so how long until the foods ready I’m starving.” She says tilting her head back and rubs her stomach. Roman comes around handing her a plate of potatoes, steak, and asparagus.

“Holy shit this looks amazing. How did you make all this so quickly?” Sunset said taking a bite of the steak as she shudders at the taste. “Your handsome, Kind, and you can cook. Damn I won the lottery with you.” Sunset said giggling as she continues eating. Roman puts his plate down and goes to get his remote and grabs two movies from the shelf.

“So, what are we watching?” Sunset said drinking some of her wine.

“Well, I have The Notebook and Titanic.” Roam says putting the Notebook in his DVD player and he sits down as Sunset cuddles up close to him. They sit there in each others arms kissing every so often as they watch the movies. Sunset soon falls asleep in Romans arms. He kisses her head and carries her upstairs and tucks her into his bed and he goes downstairs and sleeps on the couch. Soon after laying down Roman quickly falls asleep today was without a doubt the best day of his life..