Camouflageby TealChaptersCamouflageThings aren't quite the way they seemGoodbyeCamouflageI was lost and I knew it. Keeping down and taking cover in the thick jungle undergrowth that had been my position for the past two hours, I tried to read the map that I took from my dead platoon leader. But with darkness of the night and the moon’s light unable to penetrate the dense jungle cover, it was hard to see anything on it. Cursing myself, I slammed the map on the ground and shoved it back into my pack. It was no use, I can barely see the map and find out where I was. Then again, even if I were to find out where in this jungle I was, I doubted it if I could get out of here without getting shot. As if to remind me on how bad my predicament was, I heard a burst of gunfire echo in the distance, only to be followed by the sound of whistling bullets above me. Clipping the bush in front of me, they gave it a bit of a shave as I coated by the shredded leaves that were torn off. Cursing once more and flattening myself even lower into the ground, I tried my best to take cover on the small depression on the ground I was in, hoping that it would be enough to protect me. It wasn’t really the best place to hide out in and it surely wasn’t a fortress, but so far it has been doing its job. Surrounded by thick undergrowth and deep enough to give me some protection, this small piece of ground has been Equestria’s last citadel in this part of the jungle, while I became its last defender. Hearing a slackening in the firing and knowing what was soon to follow, I began looking around my position and prepare myself. Being careful as to now use my magic, as it would create a glow that would create unnecessary light, I picked up my rifle and held it tightly. Fumbling with it, I pulled out the empty magazine and replaced it with a fully loaded one. My last one. Then, cocking my weapon and crawling forward, I began to peer through my cover and try to look what was ahead of me. In the darkness, this was a difficult job, but keeping quiet and listening to the sound around me, I would at least be able to find the general direction of those approaching me through the sound of their steps. With no more firing, the jungle was filled only by the eerie silence that unnerved me by a bit. Here in the darkness and silence, anypony could be hiding. Keeping my ears up and concentrating on my surroundings, I tried my best to locate any unnatural sound. They should be coming up now, I knew that. They have followed the same plan for the past two hours and at this point I had little doubt that they would chance their patterns. Swinging my rifle to the right, I turned my attention to sound of rustling leaves I heard. Trying to locate what was there, I was able to see the silhouette of a bush a couple of yard in front of me. Not knowing what was behind it, I held back my fire, knowing that I could waste precious bullets shooting at something that could either be an enemy or just jungle wildlife. So I kept my rifle pointed at it, waiting and listening. There was silence once more and as I lay there in anticipation, I could feel my throat go dry and my body shiver. Then it came out, rushing from the bush I was pointing at and charging towards me. In the darkness, I was able to see its silhouette burst out towards me, coming at full force as its hooves thundered on the ground and moved towards my direction. It was going as fast as it could and could easily get to my position in the blink of an eye. But I didn’t blink and I didn’t allow it to get a step closer. Pressing my hoof on the trigger, I fired three shots at the body of the silhouette. The effects came immediately, as my target dropped and, with the momentum of its charge, skidded on the ground. Stopping just a yard from my position, I gave it a quick glance to see its dead body lay there. The zebra was young, probably a new recruit. Giving my fallen target a quick study, I noticed the blades gripped by its jaw and new that he was indeed a new recruit. It was part of their weird traditions, to go into your first battle with a blade and slay your enemy with it. It was a stupid and reckless concept, but then again the Zebra clans were always known for their hardheadedness when it came to their culture. Turning away from the dead Zebra and not allowing it take any more of my attention, I turned my rifle at the next sound I heard and waited. Behind another bush, I could hear the rustling of leaves and the sound of hooves and knew that something was behind there too. But whether it was wildlife of an enemy, I didn’t know. So just like before, I carefully waited till something came out of it. This time though what came out wasn’t a Zebra but a burst of bullets, which zipped and cracked nearby me. Reacting to this but a burst of my own, I allowed myself to get carried away and waste more bullets on one target that I should have. Managing to silence the enemy, but using more bullets than I wanted, I gave myself a curse before turning back to look for any approaching enemy. Frustrated at myself, but deciding that there was no time to complain about it now, I aimed my weapon once more and repeated the same procedure. It was when I was aiming at my seventh target when I noticed that I had ran out of ammo. Slamming on the trigger, but hearing nothing but an empty click, I knew that my time was up. Furiously slamming my rifle down, I let out a frustrated scream, knowing that my predicament went from bad to worst. As if to respond to my shout, loud bursts of gunfire echoed from afar, as the bullets began landing all over me. Knowing that there was no more point of exposing myself and being up here, I began crawling down to my small foxhole and took cover. There was no hope for me now. I was trapped here, pinned down by the enemy, and lost, unable to navigate away in this jungle. With no more ammunition and no way of finding my way back to camp, I knew that I was sure as dead. Sooner or later, the enemy would get close enough and one of those young recruits would stab me with their blades. Who would have thought that I’ll end up dying here? So far from home, here, deep in the jungle. I guess I had no say in ending up here, it’s not like it was my fault that I ended up getting pulled in by the draft. Just like thousands of ponies, I was called in to fight a war in a foreign land, in order to restore peace and harmony to its disorganized and war stricken population. ‘Survive thirteen months and you’ll be out. Don’t worry, the months will pass as if they were nothing.’ That’s what they said when I first arrived. Well, it’s just been my second month and new that the time was already up for me. Didn’t even last half my tour. I thought to myself ruefully. I knew I should have felt worst, more devastated, but I just couldn’t bring myself to feel more sorry for myself. The adrenaline was still in my body and the rush of excitement was lingering in my mind. Although I had a wife and two wonderful children to think of during these final moments, my mind just had trouble steering to them, especially knowing that there was still a battle to be fought. So despite such a devastatingly sad moment, I could not bring myself to feel such an emotion. There were still bullets flying over my head and I still had my bayonet with me. There was no time to feel to sad now, for there was still one more fight for me. Taking my now empty rifle and clumsily fixing the bayonet on its muzzle, I held my weapon tightly and waited. They’ll be here soon and once they arrived I’ll be sure to give them a nice surprise. Soon enough the bullets stopped flying and the sound of hooves in the distance started echoing. This time, the noise they made seemed to be louder, as if they were moving quicker than before. Maybe they realized that I ran out of ammo and that there was no need to take cover anymore? The sound of hooves grew closer and closer and I gritted my teeth as I waited. I got to be ready, I got to make the first strike before they do. Suddenly I heard some rustling from behind me, as if somepony was making their way through the bushes that covered my small position. Immediately, I shifted myself around and pointed the tip of my bayonet towards its direction, ready to shove it forward the moment the Zebra popped itself out of there. Sweating both in fear and anticipation, I could feel the rifle become heavier in my hooves as I held it. Keep calm… I thought to myself. …this is just like bayonet training during basic. Just stick it right into the Zebra’s chest. Keeping my eyes trained at the rustling bush, I waited for the Zebra to emerge. But instead of seeing an angry Zebra ready to pounce on me, what came out was a large earth pony gently trot out, a wide smile plastered on his face. Dressed in the Equestrian Marine’s uniform and armed a rifle of his own, the earth pony looked down at me we cool eyes as he moved down into cover. “Whoa there, partner.” He said, in a calm controlled voice. “You might hurt somepony with that thing.” Surprised by this and not knowing how to react, I stayed wordless as I stared at him with confusion. Bringing the rifle down and staring at him, I began to wonder if I was imagining things. But after a few more seconds of staring, I knew that there really was another pony standing in front of me. Light yellow, red mane, and considerably larger than me, the earth pony smoothly made his way into the small piece of cover I had and laid there beside me. Then crawling forward and peering to where the enemy was advancing, he gave an impressed whistle as he shook his head. “Been looking for you all night, partner.” He told me. “Really hard to find your way around the jungle, you know?” “Yeah-“ I said, finally finding my voice and managing to speak to him. “-it’s a real pain.” I still felt a bit shocked by this earth pony’s arrival and was still wondering where he came from. Glancing at him once more, I tried to study him to see if I’ve seen him before. But searching my memory, I found no match. This pony definitely wasn’t from my platoon, so where was he from. “Hey…” I said to him awkwardly. “…are you part of a search party?” “Part of a search party?” He said, not looking away from his gaze towards the enemy. “Well, I am the search party, a search part looking for that lone marine fighting off these here Zebras. But aside from that, I’m all alone.” “Oh…” I remarked, feeling my spirits deflated. I was half hoping that he was a part of a bigger force that would help me get out of here. But from the looks of things, he’s just another lost marine separated from his unit. “So it’s just the two of us then?” “Pretty much.” He said calmly. “But I think we’re enough.” Turning around, I could see a smug look plastered on his face. “If one marine can do that much damage to them, let’s just see what two can do.” Picking up a couple of magazines from his pack, he tossed them off to me before picking up his own rifle. Grabbing the magazines and exchanging my empty one for one of it, I loaded my rifle and took a position opposite him to cover that side. “By the way, my name’s Night Light.” I told him in a somewhat hushed tone. Then, in a somewhat awkward voice, I asked: “What’s yours?” “Well, my platoon mates just call me Camouflage.” He replied. I found this quite an odd nickname for a pony like him. With his size and bright coat, he stuck out badly in the jungle. He was no camouflage to me and it made me wonder why they called him that. But I had no further time to contemplate about it, because right then the bullets started flying again. Things aren't quite the way they seemWe made our escape the moment the sun rose. For the entirety of the night, Camouflage and I had been fending off every attack the Zebras threw at us. Battling them with our rifle fire and trying to conserve as much ammunition as we can, we gunned down any Zebra that got close and gave them a real tough time. At many points during the night I thought that we were goners and that the enemy would overrun us. But Camouflage somehow always managed to take out the enemy before they got too close and I was really glad to have him because of that. When he first arrived at my position, I was doubtful on whether he would prevent the invertible. Sure, he brought ammunition and an extra rifle to fire at the enemy, but I was sure that he was only delaying our faiths. But once the bullets started firing and he started fighting, I quickly realized that he was the pony you would want on your side. Firing his weapon with skill and accuracy, it seemed to me that it only took him one shot to silence an enemy, even those hidden in cover. He must have a marksman badge somewhere, because only expert marines like that could probably pull off a one shot kill. He did most of the work that night and I felt that I was merely supporting him and taking out those he missed, which was rare since I think he got almost every single Zebra that attempted to attack us. Most of the time, all I did was watch, while giving careful nods after the excited calls he makes after every kill. Now, because of all his shots, most of the enemy fire was attracted to him. Seeing his muzzle flashes and zeroing in on his position, a majority of the enemy fire was aimed at him, as bullets landed all over Camouflage. But whether because the Zebras were bad shots or because he was blessed by Celestia herself, none of the bullets fired at him ever hit. It was surprising to see all the bullets lands around him and not find its target, but I was real glad that he ended up alright. This was a real marine here and not having him riddled in bullets was keeping me alive. Exchanging bullets with the enemy and wearing each other down, we stayed active all night long, occasionally slackening our fire, before suddenly going into an intense engagement. There was no sleep for the both of us, as we had to stay vigilant to make sure that the enemy didn’t get too close. Occasionally, I would find myself closing my eyes and dozing off from the exhaustion of it all, but Camouflage… He stayed up all night without flinching. As if he chugged down an entire bucket of coffee, he managed to stay awake with no problem, firing his rifle at new targets, before looking out to find another one. He was like a machine and I was not complaining. By the time morning came, there was little sign of the enemy. Aside from their lifeless bodies that littered the jungle floor around us, any Zebra who wanted to get us was gone. Taking this opportunity to make our break, we gave a quick study of the map I had and began plotting a route back to camp. Now with light giving good illumination, I was able to see the map properly and find where we were. Soon enough, we were making our way down a jungle trail, following it as it led us towards our destination. Leading the way was Camouflage, who kept a careful eye on what was ahead of us, while I followed and watched our rear. “You doing alright over there, partner?” Camouflage asked me during one point in our trek. Tired from the entire night spent fighting, I let of a small grunt before speaking in a weary voice: “Yup, doing good.” “Heh, sounds like you could be better.” He told me. “Yeah, I would prefer being back home than slugging through a jungle.” I said. “Oh, don’t we all.” He said, letting out an audible long sigh, one that held loneliness and longing. Giving him a curious look, I stared at him for a second or two, surprised by this reaction. Throughout the time I’ve been with him, he was nothing but positive. But hearing him sigh, sounding so deflated, that was new. “Got any family, Night Light? A mare waiting back home?” “Uh, yeah.” I said, a bit shocked at the sudden change of topic. “A beautiful wife and two children, one colt and one filly.” Turning towards me and smiling, Camouflage nodded his head. “Same here. Although I have another one coming in and would probably be born in the next couple of months.” “Oh, congratulations.” “Thanks.” He said with a chuckle. “But I don’t think the Missis can handle another one after that. The two we already have are quite a hoofful already and even with my ma helping her, its still a tough job taking care of them. Makes me guilty having to leave the two to take care of all the children without me there to help. Add that to all the farm work they have to do...it must be a real nightmare back there.” “It’s not your fault, the draft called us all whether we liked it or not. And don’t worry; I’m sure you’ll be able to make it up to them once you get back.” I said. “Cause I know that’s what I’m going to do once I step foot back home. I’m going to make up all the lost minutes I had with the family.” “Yeah…when I get back home.” He said, a sad smile on his face. For a moment, I wondered why it made him so sad, the thought of going home. If anything, I thought it would rejuvenate him, to give him more energy. Cause it sure encouraged me. Thinking of my family helped me in a lonesome time like this and brought me a sense of hope, knowing that once this was over I would get the reward of going back to them. So I wondered why he felt so sad when thinking about them. Maybe he missed them more than I thought. “Do you think they’ll remember me?” He suddenly asked. “Do you think they’ll think back and remember they’re old pap?” “Why, of course they will.” I reassured him. “How can children ever forget about their father?” “I don’t know…” He said, his voice trailing. “I just get this feeling that they’ll forget about mean. It’s been a long time since I’ve been with them and you know how short the memory the young ones can be. After all this months, will they still remember me?” “They’ll remember you.” I said firmly, hoping to keep his spirits up. “It may have been a long time but-“ The rest of my sentence was cut off when the distant pop of a rifle echoed in the air, as the crack of its bullet rung in my eras. Acting on instinct, we both took cover and dropped to the ground. Lying flat on the dirt path, we looked ahead of us and pointed our weapons towards the direction of the sound, as more pops and bursts of fire shouted out from the distance, as bullets began landing all over our position. Being in an open dirt trail wasn’t exactly the best position to be in a firefight and knowing this I began crawling towards a bush towards my right, hoping to seek refuge there and get better cover. But the enemy seemed to have a good sight of me as I went and moving on the ground only seemed to make me a target for them. Bullets came by and riddled the ground around me, with many of them getting closer and closer with every shot. I was afraid that I wouldn’t make it to cover and I felt my heart racing for me. But just as I was about to give up on crawling towards better cover, I noticed something odd. Turning my head and looking up, and started on with shock as I noticed Camouflage standing before me, grinning madly as he held up his hoof and looked down on something he held with it. Lowering his hoof and showing it to me, I saw a spent bullet resting on it. Giving him a confused glare, I told him to get down and take cover. But he just shook his head and continued to smile. “Oh don’t worry about. Worry about yourself.” He told me. “This bullet here was meant for you.” Staring at him as if he were a madpony, which at that point I was beginning to think he was, I continued to urge him to go down. But instead he ignored me once more and glanced towards the direction of the enemy. “I think there’s another bullet meant for you coming this way…right about…now!” With the speed and suddenness of lightning, he moved his hoof forward in a slapping motion, creating a loud cracking sound as he managed to hit something. Echoing in my ears and watching with shock, I looked on in disbelief, as I realized at what just happened. Did he…did he just swat away that bullet? Blinking my eyes and trying to find out if I just imagined what I saw, I was beginning to think that it didn’t really happen, when out of nowhere he did it again. Creating another cracking sound as he slapped another bullet away, he had delight and accomplishment plastered on his face as he continued to repeat this action over and over again. “Now, I know this is real entertaining and all, partner, but it’s quite tiring.” He sudden told me. “So how about you go take cover on that bush you were planning to hide in, while I protect you as you go. Okay?” “But…but…” I said, stammering in complete confusion. This was too unreal. This couldn’t be actually be happening. “Oh, don’t you worry about me, I’ll be fine. You on the other hoof won’t, if you continue to stay here in such an exposed area. So move.” Without awaiting a further word from this unbelievable pony, I began crawling towards the bush, as he continued to swat away those bullets that were supposed to be meant for me. It was quite a strange and impossible sight and I wondered if this was really happening. But I didn’t let my thoughts stall my from moving and soon enough I was safely behind the cover of the bush, digging in on a small depression behind it. “Now, stay there and wait awhile.” Camouflage said, as he stood before me as bullets zipped pass him. “I’ll take care of those Zebras over there and I’ll call you when everything is clear.” Looking at him with baffled eyes, I watched him trot away and disappear from my sight as the bush in front of me covered my line of sight. Staring off at sky and ignoring the bullets that were cracking nearby, I began to wonder on whom exactly did I ended up with. What I saw was definitely real and it was also impossible. How could one just swipe a bullet like that? One would need to have a beyond normal eye to be able to spot a bullet in the air, as well as a hoof made out of titanium to be able to swat it without getting seriously injured. Maybe my mind was just making this all up? Maybe it was just all my imagination. Because of the rush of the moment and the adrenaline in my blood, I might be seeing things differently to what they were. It might be possible that my panicked mind invented such feats and such an idea did make more sense. But no, I was sure at what I saw. I couldn’t possibly imagined such thing… Hearing an odd crunching sound, I was forced to go away from my internal debate and turn my head towards the direction of the sound. Strange… I thought. …it sounds like a tree falling. Crawling gently forward and peering through the bush in front of me, I tried to look around and find the source of the strange sound. But as I gazed along the dirt path and located what I was looking for, I found something that brought more confusion to my earlier wondering. It was amazing, yet was I seeing true? From where I was, I could clearly see Camouflage lifting a tree off of the ground and swinging it off before tossing it towards the direction of the enemy fire. Flying far and landing just on target, the tree slammed onto the ground and most likely knocked out a couple of Zebras as it did, for the firing from that side began to lessen. Now, it was hard enough for a good unicorn to lift a tree out of its roots and toss it as far as that, but for an earth pony to be able to do that, impossible! Sure, he was bigger and looked stronger than averge earth pony, but even he could simply pull a tree like that with ease and toss it away as if it were nothing. Wide eyed and frozen, I watch him repeat this by picking up another tree and tossing it out again, doing the process over and over till the firing stopped completely. There must be something more to him that he wasn’t showing. I was beginning to doubt Camouflage’s identity and begin to wonder if he truly was an earth pony. Because from what I was seeing, he seemed more like an alicorn that just an ordinary earth pony. Things were definitely not what they seemed to be. GoodbyeThere it was, my camp. Standing on the edge of the jungle and looking out at the distance, I could see the sandbag surround community of shelters. From where we were, I could see activity going all over the camp, as the ponies there went by with their everyday business. After spending an entire night fighting for my life and after navigating through the jungle all morning, I was very glad to see it. Moving through the jungle was quite a difficult feat and a dangerous one too, especially for just two ponies. But having Camouflage with me seemed to make the task easier than it was supposed to be, with the only hard part being the only the countless hours trotting through difficulty terrain. But despite having such a powerful pony accompanying me, one who can fight an entire company of the enemy without any difficulty, it still unnerved me a bit to be with him. Ever since the first strange encounter, when I saw him lifting trees as if they were nothing, we never again made an attempt in having a conversation. Although he was helping me, there was just something about him spooking me. So as much as possible I kept silent throughout our journey, only speaking when absolutely necessary. But now, back in the safe zone again and near the vicinity of my camp, I knew that I had to still thank him. He may be strange and out of the ordinary, but he still helped save my life. And I owed him that. Turning towards him and seeing the usual smile on his face, I gestured towards my camp and said: “Well, there’s my camp. I better head back there and report myself.” “Yup, you best do that.” He said, nodding knowingly. Nodding back, I glanced towards the camp before glancing back towards him. I knew that I could just end it here and head out to my camp, but I knew that I couldn’t just end it like that. That would be too rude and this pony, he deserved more. “Hey, uhhh…” I said, a bit unsure. “…thanks for all you help. If it wasn’t for you, I would probably still be stuck there, trapped in the middle of the jungle, or even worst, dead. You came just in the nick of time and saved me in more than one occasion throughout are trek and I may not know how you managed to do some of the things you did, well I’m just glad you can and you did.” Chuckling, he nodded his head. “Don’t sweat it; I’ll do anything to help a fellow marine. But now my job is done and I have to go.” “Oh, well…” I said awkwardly. “…how about you head to my camp first? I’m sure we can arrange some kind of transportation for you so that you can get to your camp quicker and safer.” “Nah, no need for that, I can handle myself..” He said. “Besides, I really need to go now, I can’t linger here any longer. Goodbye, Night Light, you take care of yourself.” “Goodbye to you too…” I called out, as I watched him turn around and head towards the jungle, soon disappearing from sight. “…Camouflage.” *** I trudged into camp, ragged, dirty, tired, and ready to collapse. Having eaten nothing but crackers since my patrol left camp, I was badly out of strength. Receiving stares from the ponies around me and having a blank expression on my face, I made my way towards the base headquarters, saving my last amount of strength to do the duty of reporting the loss of my platoon. Approaching the headquarters tent and attracting the attention of the staff personnel attending the headquarters, as stood up from behind his desk and met me as I entered. “Whoa there, marine, what happened to you?” He asked. “Ambush.” I told him, my voice showing my exhaustion. “I was in 3rd Platoon when we were hit by the enemy yesterday.” “Wait, you’re from 3rd Platoon?” He said, eyes wide. “Well, I better tell the Captain they you’re back. He’s been out in the jungle with 1st Platoon trying to find you guys. Say, tell me, how many of you came back?” “Just me.” I told him grimly. “Just you?” The shock in his voice was evident. Shaking his head and muttering something I couldn’t hear. Looking back at me with amazement, he studied me for a while before saying: “Well, you best get yourself some food and rest after that, you deserved it marine.” “Yeah, rest…” I said, feeling the weariness on me and wanting to lay back and relax my muscles. But before I moved away from the tent, I turned towards staff member that I was taking to and asked: “Hey, uh, can I ask you a favor first though?” “Sure, what do you need?” He asked. “Well, I had this marine help me get back here, said he was called Camouflage, and I was wondering if you can help me find him. I don’t know much about him, but that pony deserves a medal after all he’s done to help me.” Glaring at me with unblinking eyes, he gazed at me with a long stare, his face plastered with an expression of disbelief. Stuttering as he spoke, I returned his amazed stare with a confused one. “Did…did you say Camouflage?” “Yeah…” I said carefully as I nodded. “That’s what he said they call him. Would it be too hard to find him?” “Well…it wouldn’t be too hard to find him…” He said hesitantly. “…cause he’s…he’s here in this camp.” “What?” I said in shock, not really expecting to hear that as an answer. “He is? But he can’t. Well, he did say his camp was nearby, but he didn’t say that this was his camp.” “Wait, marine, slowdown. Are you seriously telling me that you talked to Camouflage just recently?” He said, his voice regaining composure as his face had a raise eyebrow on it. “Yes, that what I said.” I reminded him. “He’s the one who helped me get back here. If it wasn’t for him, I would have been dead by now.” Sighing, the pony in front of me shook his head, before looking at me with a deadpanned expression. “Marine, I don’t think you know how much confusion and worry you’re giving me right now.” “Confusion and worry?” I said, staring at him with an annoyed look. “I fail to understand why you’t confused and worried right now.” “It’s because-“ He began, before cutting himself off. “You know what, I think its best that I just show you instead. Here, follow me.” With that, he led the way out of the tent, as I followed him behind. Bringing me to another large tent, he opened the flap and urged me to go inside. Once in, I looked around to see rows and rows of cots, each one of them covered by a large blanket on top. But giving the cots a careful study, in began to notice hooves popping up on their ends, making me suddenly realize where I was. “Why did you bring me here?” I asked, as I watched the staff pony walk and stop in front of a particular cot. “Because of him.” He said, gesturing towards the cot. Confused, but following him internally, I stared at the cot he was pointed at, feeling unsure at what he was trying to achieve. “I still don’t understand.” I told him. Sighing, he moved forward and grabbed one end of the blanket and pulled it up. “This is Camouflage. He’s been at camp almost all week, stuck here because of malaria before he passed away yesterday.” He simply said, as he revealed a familiar looking bright yellow earth pony to me. Looking down at the body that lay on the clot, I felt my heart stop and my body freeze. Staring at him as he lay there, unmoving and still, I felt that I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. “But, but, this can’t be.” I stammered. “I was just with him, I saw him alive only minutes ago. He can’t be…be dead.” “I’m sorry, marine, but what’ you’re seeing here right now is true.” He said solemnly, before placing a hoof on my shoulder. “Now, I’m not saying what you said might not be true, but its just hard to believe.” I kept silent, not knowing what to say. I just stared down at him and glanced at the dogtag wrapped around his neck. Reading it, I saw the name Bright Macintosh inscribed on it. So… I thought to myself. …that’s what his real name was. “If it helps…” The staff pony suddenly said, as he spoke up. “…he did say something yesterday, just before he died.” Not knowing what to feel and curious at what he meant by that, I looked up at him. “And what’s that?” “He said: ‘There a lost marine out there, alone and needing some help. I’m going to find him and bring him home.’” Hearing this made me feel shattered, as I felt an unexplainable emotion build up within me. He was dead and yet he somehow saved me. I felt the fur behind my back stand up and the thought of a spirit helping me, yet I still was thankful that he did. If he didn’t, then I would have been nothing but a spirit too. So shaking my head and moving closer towards the lifeless body, I looked down and whispered: “Thank you, Camouflage.”
CamouflageI was lost and I knew it. Keeping down and taking cover in the thick jungle undergrowth that had been my position for the past two hours, I tried to read the map that I took from my dead platoon leader. But with darkness of the night and the moon’s light unable to penetrate the dense jungle cover, it was hard to see anything on it. Cursing myself, I slammed the map on the ground and shoved it back into my pack. It was no use, I can barely see the map and find out where I was. Then again, even if I were to find out where in this jungle I was, I doubted it if I could get out of here without getting shot. As if to remind me on how bad my predicament was, I heard a burst of gunfire echo in the distance, only to be followed by the sound of whistling bullets above me. Clipping the bush in front of me, they gave it a bit of a shave as I coated by the shredded leaves that were torn off. Cursing once more and flattening myself even lower into the ground, I tried my best to take cover on the small depression on the ground I was in, hoping that it would be enough to protect me. It wasn’t really the best place to hide out in and it surely wasn’t a fortress, but so far it has been doing its job. Surrounded by thick undergrowth and deep enough to give me some protection, this small piece of ground has been Equestria’s last citadel in this part of the jungle, while I became its last defender. Hearing a slackening in the firing and knowing what was soon to follow, I began looking around my position and prepare myself. Being careful as to now use my magic, as it would create a glow that would create unnecessary light, I picked up my rifle and held it tightly. Fumbling with it, I pulled out the empty magazine and replaced it with a fully loaded one. My last one. Then, cocking my weapon and crawling forward, I began to peer through my cover and try to look what was ahead of me. In the darkness, this was a difficult job, but keeping quiet and listening to the sound around me, I would at least be able to find the general direction of those approaching me through the sound of their steps. With no more firing, the jungle was filled only by the eerie silence that unnerved me by a bit. Here in the darkness and silence, anypony could be hiding. Keeping my ears up and concentrating on my surroundings, I tried my best to locate any unnatural sound. They should be coming up now, I knew that. They have followed the same plan for the past two hours and at this point I had little doubt that they would chance their patterns. Swinging my rifle to the right, I turned my attention to sound of rustling leaves I heard. Trying to locate what was there, I was able to see the silhouette of a bush a couple of yard in front of me. Not knowing what was behind it, I held back my fire, knowing that I could waste precious bullets shooting at something that could either be an enemy or just jungle wildlife. So I kept my rifle pointed at it, waiting and listening. There was silence once more and as I lay there in anticipation, I could feel my throat go dry and my body shiver. Then it came out, rushing from the bush I was pointing at and charging towards me. In the darkness, I was able to see its silhouette burst out towards me, coming at full force as its hooves thundered on the ground and moved towards my direction. It was going as fast as it could and could easily get to my position in the blink of an eye. But I didn’t blink and I didn’t allow it to get a step closer. Pressing my hoof on the trigger, I fired three shots at the body of the silhouette. The effects came immediately, as my target dropped and, with the momentum of its charge, skidded on the ground. Stopping just a yard from my position, I gave it a quick glance to see its dead body lay there. The zebra was young, probably a new recruit. Giving my fallen target a quick study, I noticed the blades gripped by its jaw and new that he was indeed a new recruit. It was part of their weird traditions, to go into your first battle with a blade and slay your enemy with it. It was a stupid and reckless concept, but then again the Zebra clans were always known for their hardheadedness when it came to their culture. Turning away from the dead Zebra and not allowing it take any more of my attention, I turned my rifle at the next sound I heard and waited. Behind another bush, I could hear the rustling of leaves and the sound of hooves and knew that something was behind there too. But whether it was wildlife of an enemy, I didn’t know. So just like before, I carefully waited till something came out of it. This time though what came out wasn’t a Zebra but a burst of bullets, which zipped and cracked nearby me. Reacting to this but a burst of my own, I allowed myself to get carried away and waste more bullets on one target that I should have. Managing to silence the enemy, but using more bullets than I wanted, I gave myself a curse before turning back to look for any approaching enemy. Frustrated at myself, but deciding that there was no time to complain about it now, I aimed my weapon once more and repeated the same procedure. It was when I was aiming at my seventh target when I noticed that I had ran out of ammo. Slamming on the trigger, but hearing nothing but an empty click, I knew that my time was up. Furiously slamming my rifle down, I let out a frustrated scream, knowing that my predicament went from bad to worst. As if to respond to my shout, loud bursts of gunfire echoed from afar, as the bullets began landing all over me. Knowing that there was no more point of exposing myself and being up here, I began crawling down to my small foxhole and took cover. There was no hope for me now. I was trapped here, pinned down by the enemy, and lost, unable to navigate away in this jungle. With no more ammunition and no way of finding my way back to camp, I knew that I was sure as dead. Sooner or later, the enemy would get close enough and one of those young recruits would stab me with their blades. Who would have thought that I’ll end up dying here? So far from home, here, deep in the jungle. I guess I had no say in ending up here, it’s not like it was my fault that I ended up getting pulled in by the draft. Just like thousands of ponies, I was called in to fight a war in a foreign land, in order to restore peace and harmony to its disorganized and war stricken population. ‘Survive thirteen months and you’ll be out. Don’t worry, the months will pass as if they were nothing.’ That’s what they said when I first arrived. Well, it’s just been my second month and new that the time was already up for me. Didn’t even last half my tour. I thought to myself ruefully. I knew I should have felt worst, more devastated, but I just couldn’t bring myself to feel more sorry for myself. The adrenaline was still in my body and the rush of excitement was lingering in my mind. Although I had a wife and two wonderful children to think of during these final moments, my mind just had trouble steering to them, especially knowing that there was still a battle to be fought. So despite such a devastatingly sad moment, I could not bring myself to feel such an emotion. There were still bullets flying over my head and I still had my bayonet with me. There was no time to feel to sad now, for there was still one more fight for me. Taking my now empty rifle and clumsily fixing the bayonet on its muzzle, I held my weapon tightly and waited. They’ll be here soon and once they arrived I’ll be sure to give them a nice surprise. Soon enough the bullets stopped flying and the sound of hooves in the distance started echoing. This time, the noise they made seemed to be louder, as if they were moving quicker than before. Maybe they realized that I ran out of ammo and that there was no need to take cover anymore? The sound of hooves grew closer and closer and I gritted my teeth as I waited. I got to be ready, I got to make the first strike before they do. Suddenly I heard some rustling from behind me, as if somepony was making their way through the bushes that covered my small position. Immediately, I shifted myself around and pointed the tip of my bayonet towards its direction, ready to shove it forward the moment the Zebra popped itself out of there. Sweating both in fear and anticipation, I could feel the rifle become heavier in my hooves as I held it. Keep calm… I thought to myself. …this is just like bayonet training during basic. Just stick it right into the Zebra’s chest. Keeping my eyes trained at the rustling bush, I waited for the Zebra to emerge. But instead of seeing an angry Zebra ready to pounce on me, what came out was a large earth pony gently trot out, a wide smile plastered on his face. Dressed in the Equestrian Marine’s uniform and armed a rifle of his own, the earth pony looked down at me we cool eyes as he moved down into cover. “Whoa there, partner.” He said, in a calm controlled voice. “You might hurt somepony with that thing.” Surprised by this and not knowing how to react, I stayed wordless as I stared at him with confusion. Bringing the rifle down and staring at him, I began to wonder if I was imagining things. But after a few more seconds of staring, I knew that there really was another pony standing in front of me. Light yellow, red mane, and considerably larger than me, the earth pony smoothly made his way into the small piece of cover I had and laid there beside me. Then crawling forward and peering to where the enemy was advancing, he gave an impressed whistle as he shook his head. “Been looking for you all night, partner.” He told me. “Really hard to find your way around the jungle, you know?” “Yeah-“ I said, finally finding my voice and managing to speak to him. “-it’s a real pain.” I still felt a bit shocked by this earth pony’s arrival and was still wondering where he came from. Glancing at him once more, I tried to study him to see if I’ve seen him before. But searching my memory, I found no match. This pony definitely wasn’t from my platoon, so where was he from. “Hey…” I said to him awkwardly. “…are you part of a search party?” “Part of a search party?” He said, not looking away from his gaze towards the enemy. “Well, I am the search party, a search part looking for that lone marine fighting off these here Zebras. But aside from that, I’m all alone.” “Oh…” I remarked, feeling my spirits deflated. I was half hoping that he was a part of a bigger force that would help me get out of here. But from the looks of things, he’s just another lost marine separated from his unit. “So it’s just the two of us then?” “Pretty much.” He said calmly. “But I think we’re enough.” Turning around, I could see a smug look plastered on his face. “If one marine can do that much damage to them, let’s just see what two can do.” Picking up a couple of magazines from his pack, he tossed them off to me before picking up his own rifle. Grabbing the magazines and exchanging my empty one for one of it, I loaded my rifle and took a position opposite him to cover that side. “By the way, my name’s Night Light.” I told him in a somewhat hushed tone. Then, in a somewhat awkward voice, I asked: “What’s yours?” “Well, my platoon mates just call me Camouflage.” He replied. I found this quite an odd nickname for a pony like him. With his size and bright coat, he stuck out badly in the jungle. He was no camouflage to me and it made me wonder why they called him that. But I had no further time to contemplate about it, because right then the bullets started flying again.
Things aren't quite the way they seemWe made our escape the moment the sun rose. For the entirety of the night, Camouflage and I had been fending off every attack the Zebras threw at us. Battling them with our rifle fire and trying to conserve as much ammunition as we can, we gunned down any Zebra that got close and gave them a real tough time. At many points during the night I thought that we were goners and that the enemy would overrun us. But Camouflage somehow always managed to take out the enemy before they got too close and I was really glad to have him because of that. When he first arrived at my position, I was doubtful on whether he would prevent the invertible. Sure, he brought ammunition and an extra rifle to fire at the enemy, but I was sure that he was only delaying our faiths. But once the bullets started firing and he started fighting, I quickly realized that he was the pony you would want on your side. Firing his weapon with skill and accuracy, it seemed to me that it only took him one shot to silence an enemy, even those hidden in cover. He must have a marksman badge somewhere, because only expert marines like that could probably pull off a one shot kill. He did most of the work that night and I felt that I was merely supporting him and taking out those he missed, which was rare since I think he got almost every single Zebra that attempted to attack us. Most of the time, all I did was watch, while giving careful nods after the excited calls he makes after every kill. Now, because of all his shots, most of the enemy fire was attracted to him. Seeing his muzzle flashes and zeroing in on his position, a majority of the enemy fire was aimed at him, as bullets landed all over Camouflage. But whether because the Zebras were bad shots or because he was blessed by Celestia herself, none of the bullets fired at him ever hit. It was surprising to see all the bullets lands around him and not find its target, but I was real glad that he ended up alright. This was a real marine here and not having him riddled in bullets was keeping me alive. Exchanging bullets with the enemy and wearing each other down, we stayed active all night long, occasionally slackening our fire, before suddenly going into an intense engagement. There was no sleep for the both of us, as we had to stay vigilant to make sure that the enemy didn’t get too close. Occasionally, I would find myself closing my eyes and dozing off from the exhaustion of it all, but Camouflage… He stayed up all night without flinching. As if he chugged down an entire bucket of coffee, he managed to stay awake with no problem, firing his rifle at new targets, before looking out to find another one. He was like a machine and I was not complaining. By the time morning came, there was little sign of the enemy. Aside from their lifeless bodies that littered the jungle floor around us, any Zebra who wanted to get us was gone. Taking this opportunity to make our break, we gave a quick study of the map I had and began plotting a route back to camp. Now with light giving good illumination, I was able to see the map properly and find where we were. Soon enough, we were making our way down a jungle trail, following it as it led us towards our destination. Leading the way was Camouflage, who kept a careful eye on what was ahead of us, while I followed and watched our rear. “You doing alright over there, partner?” Camouflage asked me during one point in our trek. Tired from the entire night spent fighting, I let of a small grunt before speaking in a weary voice: “Yup, doing good.” “Heh, sounds like you could be better.” He told me. “Yeah, I would prefer being back home than slugging through a jungle.” I said. “Oh, don’t we all.” He said, letting out an audible long sigh, one that held loneliness and longing. Giving him a curious look, I stared at him for a second or two, surprised by this reaction. Throughout the time I’ve been with him, he was nothing but positive. But hearing him sigh, sounding so deflated, that was new. “Got any family, Night Light? A mare waiting back home?” “Uh, yeah.” I said, a bit shocked at the sudden change of topic. “A beautiful wife and two children, one colt and one filly.” Turning towards me and smiling, Camouflage nodded his head. “Same here. Although I have another one coming in and would probably be born in the next couple of months.” “Oh, congratulations.” “Thanks.” He said with a chuckle. “But I don’t think the Missis can handle another one after that. The two we already have are quite a hoofful already and even with my ma helping her, its still a tough job taking care of them. Makes me guilty having to leave the two to take care of all the children without me there to help. Add that to all the farm work they have to do...it must be a real nightmare back there.” “It’s not your fault, the draft called us all whether we liked it or not. And don’t worry; I’m sure you’ll be able to make it up to them once you get back.” I said. “Cause I know that’s what I’m going to do once I step foot back home. I’m going to make up all the lost minutes I had with the family.” “Yeah…when I get back home.” He said, a sad smile on his face. For a moment, I wondered why it made him so sad, the thought of going home. If anything, I thought it would rejuvenate him, to give him more energy. Cause it sure encouraged me. Thinking of my family helped me in a lonesome time like this and brought me a sense of hope, knowing that once this was over I would get the reward of going back to them. So I wondered why he felt so sad when thinking about them. Maybe he missed them more than I thought. “Do you think they’ll remember me?” He suddenly asked. “Do you think they’ll think back and remember they’re old pap?” “Why, of course they will.” I reassured him. “How can children ever forget about their father?” “I don’t know…” He said, his voice trailing. “I just get this feeling that they’ll forget about mean. It’s been a long time since I’ve been with them and you know how short the memory the young ones can be. After all this months, will they still remember me?” “They’ll remember you.” I said firmly, hoping to keep his spirits up. “It may have been a long time but-“ The rest of my sentence was cut off when the distant pop of a rifle echoed in the air, as the crack of its bullet rung in my eras. Acting on instinct, we both took cover and dropped to the ground. Lying flat on the dirt path, we looked ahead of us and pointed our weapons towards the direction of the sound, as more pops and bursts of fire shouted out from the distance, as bullets began landing all over our position. Being in an open dirt trail wasn’t exactly the best position to be in a firefight and knowing this I began crawling towards a bush towards my right, hoping to seek refuge there and get better cover. But the enemy seemed to have a good sight of me as I went and moving on the ground only seemed to make me a target for them. Bullets came by and riddled the ground around me, with many of them getting closer and closer with every shot. I was afraid that I wouldn’t make it to cover and I felt my heart racing for me. But just as I was about to give up on crawling towards better cover, I noticed something odd. Turning my head and looking up, and started on with shock as I noticed Camouflage standing before me, grinning madly as he held up his hoof and looked down on something he held with it. Lowering his hoof and showing it to me, I saw a spent bullet resting on it. Giving him a confused glare, I told him to get down and take cover. But he just shook his head and continued to smile. “Oh don’t worry about. Worry about yourself.” He told me. “This bullet here was meant for you.” Staring at him as if he were a madpony, which at that point I was beginning to think he was, I continued to urge him to go down. But instead he ignored me once more and glanced towards the direction of the enemy. “I think there’s another bullet meant for you coming this way…right about…now!” With the speed and suddenness of lightning, he moved his hoof forward in a slapping motion, creating a loud cracking sound as he managed to hit something. Echoing in my ears and watching with shock, I looked on in disbelief, as I realized at what just happened. Did he…did he just swat away that bullet? Blinking my eyes and trying to find out if I just imagined what I saw, I was beginning to think that it didn’t really happen, when out of nowhere he did it again. Creating another cracking sound as he slapped another bullet away, he had delight and accomplishment plastered on his face as he continued to repeat this action over and over again. “Now, I know this is real entertaining and all, partner, but it’s quite tiring.” He sudden told me. “So how about you go take cover on that bush you were planning to hide in, while I protect you as you go. Okay?” “But…but…” I said, stammering in complete confusion. This was too unreal. This couldn’t be actually be happening. “Oh, don’t you worry about me, I’ll be fine. You on the other hoof won’t, if you continue to stay here in such an exposed area. So move.” Without awaiting a further word from this unbelievable pony, I began crawling towards the bush, as he continued to swat away those bullets that were supposed to be meant for me. It was quite a strange and impossible sight and I wondered if this was really happening. But I didn’t let my thoughts stall my from moving and soon enough I was safely behind the cover of the bush, digging in on a small depression behind it. “Now, stay there and wait awhile.” Camouflage said, as he stood before me as bullets zipped pass him. “I’ll take care of those Zebras over there and I’ll call you when everything is clear.” Looking at him with baffled eyes, I watched him trot away and disappear from my sight as the bush in front of me covered my line of sight. Staring off at sky and ignoring the bullets that were cracking nearby, I began to wonder on whom exactly did I ended up with. What I saw was definitely real and it was also impossible. How could one just swipe a bullet like that? One would need to have a beyond normal eye to be able to spot a bullet in the air, as well as a hoof made out of titanium to be able to swat it without getting seriously injured. Maybe my mind was just making this all up? Maybe it was just all my imagination. Because of the rush of the moment and the adrenaline in my blood, I might be seeing things differently to what they were. It might be possible that my panicked mind invented such feats and such an idea did make more sense. But no, I was sure at what I saw. I couldn’t possibly imagined such thing… Hearing an odd crunching sound, I was forced to go away from my internal debate and turn my head towards the direction of the sound. Strange… I thought. …it sounds like a tree falling. Crawling gently forward and peering through the bush in front of me, I tried to look around and find the source of the strange sound. But as I gazed along the dirt path and located what I was looking for, I found something that brought more confusion to my earlier wondering. It was amazing, yet was I seeing true? From where I was, I could clearly see Camouflage lifting a tree off of the ground and swinging it off before tossing it towards the direction of the enemy fire. Flying far and landing just on target, the tree slammed onto the ground and most likely knocked out a couple of Zebras as it did, for the firing from that side began to lessen. Now, it was hard enough for a good unicorn to lift a tree out of its roots and toss it as far as that, but for an earth pony to be able to do that, impossible! Sure, he was bigger and looked stronger than averge earth pony, but even he could simply pull a tree like that with ease and toss it away as if it were nothing. Wide eyed and frozen, I watch him repeat this by picking up another tree and tossing it out again, doing the process over and over till the firing stopped completely. There must be something more to him that he wasn’t showing. I was beginning to doubt Camouflage’s identity and begin to wonder if he truly was an earth pony. Because from what I was seeing, he seemed more like an alicorn that just an ordinary earth pony. Things were definitely not what they seemed to be.
GoodbyeThere it was, my camp. Standing on the edge of the jungle and looking out at the distance, I could see the sandbag surround community of shelters. From where we were, I could see activity going all over the camp, as the ponies there went by with their everyday business. After spending an entire night fighting for my life and after navigating through the jungle all morning, I was very glad to see it. Moving through the jungle was quite a difficult feat and a dangerous one too, especially for just two ponies. But having Camouflage with me seemed to make the task easier than it was supposed to be, with the only hard part being the only the countless hours trotting through difficulty terrain. But despite having such a powerful pony accompanying me, one who can fight an entire company of the enemy without any difficulty, it still unnerved me a bit to be with him. Ever since the first strange encounter, when I saw him lifting trees as if they were nothing, we never again made an attempt in having a conversation. Although he was helping me, there was just something about him spooking me. So as much as possible I kept silent throughout our journey, only speaking when absolutely necessary. But now, back in the safe zone again and near the vicinity of my camp, I knew that I had to still thank him. He may be strange and out of the ordinary, but he still helped save my life. And I owed him that. Turning towards him and seeing the usual smile on his face, I gestured towards my camp and said: “Well, there’s my camp. I better head back there and report myself.” “Yup, you best do that.” He said, nodding knowingly. Nodding back, I glanced towards the camp before glancing back towards him. I knew that I could just end it here and head out to my camp, but I knew that I couldn’t just end it like that. That would be too rude and this pony, he deserved more. “Hey, uhhh…” I said, a bit unsure. “…thanks for all you help. If it wasn’t for you, I would probably still be stuck there, trapped in the middle of the jungle, or even worst, dead. You came just in the nick of time and saved me in more than one occasion throughout are trek and I may not know how you managed to do some of the things you did, well I’m just glad you can and you did.” Chuckling, he nodded his head. “Don’t sweat it; I’ll do anything to help a fellow marine. But now my job is done and I have to go.” “Oh, well…” I said awkwardly. “…how about you head to my camp first? I’m sure we can arrange some kind of transportation for you so that you can get to your camp quicker and safer.” “Nah, no need for that, I can handle myself..” He said. “Besides, I really need to go now, I can’t linger here any longer. Goodbye, Night Light, you take care of yourself.” “Goodbye to you too…” I called out, as I watched him turn around and head towards the jungle, soon disappearing from sight. “…Camouflage.” *** I trudged into camp, ragged, dirty, tired, and ready to collapse. Having eaten nothing but crackers since my patrol left camp, I was badly out of strength. Receiving stares from the ponies around me and having a blank expression on my face, I made my way towards the base headquarters, saving my last amount of strength to do the duty of reporting the loss of my platoon. Approaching the headquarters tent and attracting the attention of the staff personnel attending the headquarters, as stood up from behind his desk and met me as I entered. “Whoa there, marine, what happened to you?” He asked. “Ambush.” I told him, my voice showing my exhaustion. “I was in 3rd Platoon when we were hit by the enemy yesterday.” “Wait, you’re from 3rd Platoon?” He said, eyes wide. “Well, I better tell the Captain they you’re back. He’s been out in the jungle with 1st Platoon trying to find you guys. Say, tell me, how many of you came back?” “Just me.” I told him grimly. “Just you?” The shock in his voice was evident. Shaking his head and muttering something I couldn’t hear. Looking back at me with amazement, he studied me for a while before saying: “Well, you best get yourself some food and rest after that, you deserved it marine.” “Yeah, rest…” I said, feeling the weariness on me and wanting to lay back and relax my muscles. But before I moved away from the tent, I turned towards staff member that I was taking to and asked: “Hey, uh, can I ask you a favor first though?” “Sure, what do you need?” He asked. “Well, I had this marine help me get back here, said he was called Camouflage, and I was wondering if you can help me find him. I don’t know much about him, but that pony deserves a medal after all he’s done to help me.” Glaring at me with unblinking eyes, he gazed at me with a long stare, his face plastered with an expression of disbelief. Stuttering as he spoke, I returned his amazed stare with a confused one. “Did…did you say Camouflage?” “Yeah…” I said carefully as I nodded. “That’s what he said they call him. Would it be too hard to find him?” “Well…it wouldn’t be too hard to find him…” He said hesitantly. “…cause he’s…he’s here in this camp.” “What?” I said in shock, not really expecting to hear that as an answer. “He is? But he can’t. Well, he did say his camp was nearby, but he didn’t say that this was his camp.” “Wait, marine, slowdown. Are you seriously telling me that you talked to Camouflage just recently?” He said, his voice regaining composure as his face had a raise eyebrow on it. “Yes, that what I said.” I reminded him. “He’s the one who helped me get back here. If it wasn’t for him, I would have been dead by now.” Sighing, the pony in front of me shook his head, before looking at me with a deadpanned expression. “Marine, I don’t think you know how much confusion and worry you’re giving me right now.” “Confusion and worry?” I said, staring at him with an annoyed look. “I fail to understand why you’t confused and worried right now.” “It’s because-“ He began, before cutting himself off. “You know what, I think its best that I just show you instead. Here, follow me.” With that, he led the way out of the tent, as I followed him behind. Bringing me to another large tent, he opened the flap and urged me to go inside. Once in, I looked around to see rows and rows of cots, each one of them covered by a large blanket on top. But giving the cots a careful study, in began to notice hooves popping up on their ends, making me suddenly realize where I was. “Why did you bring me here?” I asked, as I watched the staff pony walk and stop in front of a particular cot. “Because of him.” He said, gesturing towards the cot. Confused, but following him internally, I stared at the cot he was pointed at, feeling unsure at what he was trying to achieve. “I still don’t understand.” I told him. Sighing, he moved forward and grabbed one end of the blanket and pulled it up. “This is Camouflage. He’s been at camp almost all week, stuck here because of malaria before he passed away yesterday.” He simply said, as he revealed a familiar looking bright yellow earth pony to me. Looking down at the body that lay on the clot, I felt my heart stop and my body freeze. Staring at him as he lay there, unmoving and still, I felt that I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. “But, but, this can’t be.” I stammered. “I was just with him, I saw him alive only minutes ago. He can’t be…be dead.” “I’m sorry, marine, but what’ you’re seeing here right now is true.” He said solemnly, before placing a hoof on my shoulder. “Now, I’m not saying what you said might not be true, but its just hard to believe.” I kept silent, not knowing what to say. I just stared down at him and glanced at the dogtag wrapped around his neck. Reading it, I saw the name Bright Macintosh inscribed on it. So… I thought to myself. …that’s what his real name was. “If it helps…” The staff pony suddenly said, as he spoke up. “…he did say something yesterday, just before he died.” Not knowing what to feel and curious at what he meant by that, I looked up at him. “And what’s that?” “He said: ‘There a lost marine out there, alone and needing some help. I’m going to find him and bring him home.’” Hearing this made me feel shattered, as I felt an unexplainable emotion build up within me. He was dead and yet he somehow saved me. I felt the fur behind my back stand up and the thought of a spirit helping me, yet I still was thankful that he did. If he didn’t, then I would have been nothing but a spirit too. So shaking my head and moving closer towards the lifeless body, I looked down and whispered: “Thank you, Camouflage.”
