Camp Solaris, 45 minutes to midnight.

It was dark, it was cold, and Sharp had a mind to simply collapse as soon as he got to his bunk. Having traveled for hours on end ever since the ship arrived, he was exhausted. So were his fellow soldiers, many were of course excited to have finally arrived at their camp, some simply wanted to get some rest.

Camp Solaris was one of many outposts set up to patrol and watch this province. It was the home of 200 soldiers, plus officers and other personnel. That might not seem like much, but there were around five outposts spread out, which meant all in all 1000 ponies would be watching the province.

It wouldn't be enough to make a major difference, that was the general feeling in the company, a few patrols here and there would hardly do much to hinder any rebel activity, but then again they were only a small piece in a much larger puzzle. They were here to do a job, give a sense of security to the locals, give support, and stop any rebel activity they might come across.

In theory that sounded simple enough, but in actual practice it would mean they would be walking targets out there, the rebels had become known for not shying away from taking shots at Equestrian soldiers. In fact, it had only been a few days ago a few ponies had been killed by a mine. The news had been shocking, and the whole ship had seemed to be mourning.

Right now though the mood was good, the garrison stationed here happily talked to the newly arrived company. Sharp's company was meant to replace the one already here for some months, so the current company could be given some light duties and relax for a bit before returning to replace them again.

There would be a few weeks of introduction, then Sharp's company would have fully replaced them. Many officers stayed here, so it wasn't like they would be totally lost. A brown earth pony stallion walked around, he was the platoon leader by the looks of it, greeting them one by one.

"Welcome, hey. Nice of you to join us, had a nice trip?"

He was open and nice enough, but still held that air of authority. Whenever some pony had a question he would gladly tell them what he could, making sure they understood perfectly what they would be facing out there. He wasn't the only one, the soldiers from the company they would be replacing also shared their experiences, giving them all a good picture of what they could expect.

"We fired 400 shells yesterday," the platoon leader, Solar Armor, said.

Pin looked shocked. "400?"

Solar Armor shrugged. "We were being hit by enemy mortar fire, so we replied with 260 mm, 120 mm and 105 mm shells." He laughed a little as some of the ponies around found it a little funny. "Then we called in an airstrike, so it wasn't a boring day."

"What's it like out there?"

The platoon leader took a moment to think. "The rebels are a bit more aggressive than what I had expected, they are about 800 meters from Solaris and are fully alert and aware of us. So you will probably get some experience with them relatively quickly."

"Good to hear there's something to work with." Zandre put in, which made Solar Armor nod.

"I promise you that you won't be bored out here."

After the introductions and small talk they were all sent to their barracks. Their punks were already laid out, but before they could lay down and get some sleep they all had to unpack all their equipment. Despite this being a boring and tiresome task, none of them complained. They unpacked their stuff, cleaned what they needed and of course checked and cleaned their rifles. Not that they had been used, but they hadn't been cleaned since they left Equestria.

"I'm so fucking tired." Clover mumbled, putting boots in the wooden locker. Looking over at Pin he smirked. "Is that cheese?"

"Yeah, and you can't have any. It's my dinner."

"It's your dinner?" Clover snorted in disbelief, sitting down on Pin's bed beside him. "We already got dinner, so that is a snack at most, share."

"No, go away Clover, it's mine." Pin smirked and nudged his friends. He looked up from his rifle and over at Sharp. "Sharp, you've been quiet, how are you feeling?"

Sharp shrugged as he placed his helmet on top of his wooden locker. "I'm alright I guess, it's just, after all of this training, all the time we spend waiting on the ship, I thought I would be more prepared for the task ahead."

"We all feel that way," Zandre cut in. "We can train for years and still feel nervous, and we haven't even been out on patrol yet."

Silver Star laid down on his bunk, levitating a book he had brought from home. "It's a scary thought." They all turned to him. "To think that just 800 meters away, the enemy could be watching our every move."

They all became silent for a moment, but they knew he was right. They were watching the province, so of course somepony would be watching them. For all they knew they could come under fire the next day, one of them could step on a mine or be hit by a bullet. There was only so much you could do to prepare for that, the rest was simple luck.

They all went to bed after some more chatting, all thinking they would fall asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillow. For Sharp however, his thoughts kept him awake for some time. It was like everything leading up to this point ran through his head, his family, his friends and everything he had endured so far. How many would be standing when their time was over? He could only hope and prey they would all get to go home together.

It took time, but eventually they all fell asleep.

When morning came it was just how it had always been, a corporal or sergeant walking in and demanding ponies get up. At this point their internal clocks had become so good they would just start to wake up right before the officer walked in. This was an important skill to learn, because it gave you a more pleasant awakening.

The day started with getting dressed, a hot shower and some breakfast. Since they had arrived late last night they were giving time to adjust. When ready, the commanding officer of the outpost showed them around, giving them a layout of the camp and explained how it worked and what they could expect.

Even though they were trained to know these things it never hurt getting an extra explanation. Sharp definitely felt better getting shown around, having a chance to talk to some of those who had stayed here for some time. When the official tour was over they all got a small break, getting some time to smoke and chat before they had to get ready and move out.

A group of veterans were talking to them, and suddenly one asked them. "Was it you guys who treated the wounded a month ago?"

A blonde maned stallion nodded. "Yeah, unfortunately it was me and my friend that found those boys that died. We were the first ones on scene, and it's just chaos. I move around trying to see if there were any mines around. Then when I get around the vehicle I hit one of those boys with the light from my torch right in the face. He was just staring out in the air, he was already dead of course." There was a creepy silence for a few seconds, then he went on. "I closed his eyes, covered his face. The last one, there wasn't much left of him. I walked around for six hours and collected body parts. Everything, an ear, a leg still in the boot, a heart that was just laying in the sand...It's hard to describe."

Another veteran decided to add something. "You're not monsters or cold because you are suddenly laughing about something idiotic. You need something normal when you're in that situation because it's just so fucked up and unreal."

Sharp felt like his fur was turning grey, or like he had to throw up. He had heard about it of course, but he had never imagined it to be so graphic. He could see some of the others in his group were thinking the same. Some might not want to admit it, some even managed to not look affected, but Sharp was sure everyone was just as nervous as him.

Patrol 1.

They were all gathered in a tent, it was large, and all who were going out on patrol were gathered here, plus a few officers who oversaw it all. It was Solar Armor who gave the briefing. Everyone was excited, though it was also scary. "Alright, since you left Equestria there has been nothing new in the rebels' goal. They are still aiming to destabilize the safety of the province in hopes of undermining our efforts."

He stepped aside, letting the officer in charge of contact with the locals step forward. "Right, the patrol of the day. When you get to some of the villages and you're in contact with the locals, I would advise that when you have eaten your rations and if you have something you don't like, or have not eaten, then share it with the local foals to create a more friendly image of us. Alright? Thank you."

Solar Armor stepped forward again. "Rules of engagement! Remember, self defense can also be before they have opened fire. If you can confirm weapons or you spot ponies moving into position. Any questions?" No one raised a hoof, Sharp got the feeling every pony just wanted to get out there and get a feel for the area. "Right, get out and get yourselves ready."

It didn't take long for them to do so, they stepped outside, put on their kit, their helmets, checked their weapons and ammo. Sharp could feel his heart beat a lot faster, he knew they were well trained, and they just needed to stick to that and work together.

Still, as he took a deep breath to calm himself he took a look around, there was silence, many seemed to be taking this moment to calm themselves and gather their thoughts. A glance towards Pin revealed he was unusually quiet, that unnerved him. Pin was usually the one jumping into dangerous situations, comforting Sharp and giving him the push he needed to move forward.

Maybe the reality of it had finally sunk in, maybe it was the knowledge that they were risking being shot, or the stories the veterans had told. Whatever it was it had left an impact on all of them. Trotting closer, Sharp placed a hoof on Pin's shoulder.

"You okay?"

Pin looked, then nodded. "I'm fine, just, nervous about the patrol."

"I know what you mean," Sharp confessed. "I'm nervous as well, but we’ll get through it, together."

Pin smirked. "Look at you, all confident and such. Maybe the time in the army has been good for you?"

Sharp felt his face heat up in embarrassment. Maybe the time in the army had done him some good, he had gotten more confident in the things he did, he was stronger than he was when he first arrived at basic training. So yes, he had changed, but he still looked forward to getting back home, continuing some of the books he left behind, if his father hadn't thrown them all out by now.

"Alright, line up and let's move out!"

Taking a deep breath, the two stallions exchanged glances and gave each other a supporting nod before they got into formation. They started to march out, following each other with some space between them so not to be taken by enemy fire in a group.

The trick was to make oneself as small a target as you could, hence why each time they had a stop they would get down on one knee. Before they would be on all fours, but now, now they were walking on their hind legs, holding their rifles in their hooves with the muzzle pointing down.

The ground was sand and dirt, only a few patches of green created a diverse picture. Small rivers moved along the landscape, giving life to what was near, but the farther you got from the rivers the more sand and dirt you were likely to see.

Their patrol took them along these rivers, then up behind some rocky hills and then towards some of the compounds and farms. Whenever they encountered a group of locals there was almost always a group of foals with them. They knew the drill, whenever they saw the soldiers they would run up and ask for stuff, some in the patrol handed out whatever they wanted to spare from their rations. Nuts, some bread, nothing much, but enough to keep the foals happy.

Others would point them away, taking a sterner approach as they wanted to keep the civilians at a distance. Sharp himself gave one kid a bag of nuts, but that was it. The hot sun was shining from a cloudless day, making the march twice as hard. They moved through a small field, one of the locals got angry and yelled at them, Sharp imagined he wasn't happy they marched through one of their fields, which was understandable enough.

They had a break, the interpreter talking to a local for some time, trying to gather information about the rebels. A veteran told Sharp and the others it was a losing battle, if they spoke to them the rebels would simply come by and kill them at night. That sent chills throughout Sharp, were the rebels really so cold to their fellow ponies?

The rest of the march was quiet, nothing from other patrols, no pony firing on them, it was just a long and exhausting march. Once back the mood was mixed, ponies laughed somewhat as they shared their experiences out on patrol. One showed his back, it was covered in mud as he had slipped near a small river. Another complained they didn't get into battle, but shrugged it off soon enough as that was just part of the experience as well.

When they had taken their heavy equipment off they all met in the same tent as before getting ready for their debriefing. Solar Armor stood once again before them all.

"Right, let's begin the debriefing. The patrol itself, how do you think that went?" He asked out in the open, waiting to see if any of them spoke up. When nopony did he decided to continue. "individual responsibility was pathetic, it stank. How many of you got down on one knee every time there was a short stop?" He waited again, this time a few ponies raised their hooves, but it was far from the number Solar Armor wanted to see. "Alright, so 8 out of 40. Can we just agree that you simply need to do better? You might as well get it into your thick skulls now, because suddenly you're out there and not getting down on the wrong moment and then suddenly: zikka." There was a silence as he made sure they understood how serious this was. "So get down on one knee... Right, anything else?"

The communication officer stepped forward. "Just wanted to let you all know what I got out of today's patrol, uhm, it wasn't much. You have to remember they are farmers and right now we are stomping down their crops, so all I could talk about today was their crops. Be a little more mindful next time."

With nothing more to say they all went back to get some food and to relax for a bit. Sharp on the other hoof would rather be alone for a while. He wasn't upset, he wasn't really sure what he felt other than he owed his sister a letter. She and their mom must have figured he was here by now and was probably worried for him.

If Sharp was being honest he was more worried about them. His family hated owing any pony anything, which meant for his little sister to ask him for money was no small thing. He didn't really wanna write, but he knew he had to. So finding a quiet spot he got pen and paper and started writing.

Dearest sister.

I arrived at camp Solaris yesterday evening, the trip across the sea was long and boring. Though I could not help but marvel at the ingenuity of the ship itself, not to mention the power it brings. It is a beast of iron and steam, carrying not only troops but massive 870 kg shells capable of firing them up to 27,600 meters.

My first days were spent doing drills, learning what to do in an emergency in case we were attacked. By whom I have no idea, it is not like we are at war with a seafaring nation. The rest of the time was just spent waiting around, walking on deck, playing cards or talking.

Now that I'm actually here I almost miss the ship and the cool air of the sea. Saddle Arabia is hot just like you would imagine, the terrain is dusty and dirty with very little water to feed what little green grows out here.

You know I don't want to worry you or mom, but I know you will worry even more if I don't tell you about it. I was out on my first patrol today, I got to see the area for the first time. I won't lie, we were in danger while we were out there. We were told that 10 rebels could easily start firing even if we are a group of 40 ponies.

It's a bit scary I admit, but I'm lucky to have my friends with me and I'm sure we will do just fine.

This is a short letter I know, but there is not much to tell yet. I'm still getting used to the life around here, but hopefully next time I write I have something more interesting to tell you.

Give mom a big hug from me, give dad my best. Money is included in the envelope.

Your Loving Brother.
Sharp Shooter.

Patrol 2.

Once again Sharp found himself out in the hot sun. It was only his second patrol, but he had hoped he would have gotten used to the heat by now, that didn't seem to be the case however. As he was walking on his hind legs, rifle in his hooves, he felt the sweat running down his neck, along his spine and towards his flanks. The feeling was uncomfortable, but the veterans had told him he would get used to it.

Right in this moment Sharp was not sure he believed them, but for now he simply had to endure it like everyone else. The veterans had been helpful, they had given them all sorts of tips to make life out here easier. When they were rotated back to a city to do light duties it would be the perfect time to buy items that would make life in camp more comfortable.

Sunglasses was one item they recommended, an extra pouch to attach to their belts to carry something extra, like bullets, bandages, or even some extra water if one had the energy for it. Anything that would make life easier was a must buy, things like entertainment was second.

Not all soldiers agreed on that of course. Sharp and his friends knew all too well that a cold drink and the company of a mare could do wonders for you. Back home it was the NAAFI mares who stood behind the counter. They sold them chocolates, toothpaste, coffee, and always had an ear ready when they wanted to complain about the sergeant or when one missed home.

Sharp did miss home, his books, the calm life of Trottingham and the cute milk mare that came around each morning. What was her name? Milkyway, yeah that was it.

"They could easily place a mine around here." Someone said behind him as they stopped and knelt down. "That's a pretty creepy thought."

Clover scoffed. "Yeah, but there is just as big a possibility that we walk around it, it would be pretty stupid for them just to place them randomly."

The conversation made Sharp frown, for a moment, just a single moment he had been allowed to relax his mind. Only to then be brought back to the reality of the dust and the heat. They started to move again, crossing a dried out field towards a line of bushes and trees.

Suddenly shots rang out and ponies started to yell. "DOWN! DOWN! DOWN!"

Sharp felt all his senses being dialed up to ten, everything screamed at him to run or fight. Thankfully his training kicked in and by simple reflex he moved down onto the dusty ground. He could hear the bullets fly above him, some hitting the ground around him and his squad.

"Sharp! We're too exposed out here, get ready to draw back to the wall behind us!"

"Yes sir!" Sharp replied and looked to the others. "Ready to draw back to the wall behind us!"

"Move! Move! Move!"

It all seemed so unreal, even as he got up and started to run back. It was like time around him had slowed down, as if his mind tried to make sense of what was happening around him. Ponies were shooting at him, they intended to kill him. It was a fact he knew about even before he got to Saddle Arabia, but it was like it only just now hit him that he could get hit by a bullet at any time.

Sharp, along with other ponies, hid behind the dirt wall. Bullets flew above them hitting a few of the branches of the dry trees. Out of the corner of his eyes, Sharp could see others returning fire. Zandre and Clover were getting the machine gun in position, unleashing an unrelenting stream of bullets to suppress the rebels fire.

The sounds of the machine gun jolted Sharp back to present, forcing his mind to focus as his training kicked in. He moved the rifle over the wall and took aim. It was hard to describe one's special talent and how it manifested. At times it just seemed like any other ability, other times it was almost like a magic spell that made him extra aware of whatever he was aiming at.

Sharp had never actually fired upon a living creature before. It was what he was trained to do, to return fire with the intent to kill or disable the enemy. There wasn't any room for hesitation, but still his experience was far worse than what the others were experiencing.

To them they just had to fire in a direction, not feeling what he did. When Sharp took aim it was like his eyes focused on the target, the living creature itself, like he could see the pony right in front of him. Feel what he felt, his heart rate slowing down as he felt the slight vibrations of his target's heart. This was not to say it physically happened, but he knew he could feel it, it was like he entered almost a trance like state.

His target was afraid, his heart rate galloping while Sharp's calmed. In any other case he would have thought about that young stallion, how he was probably just as afraid as him. What events had let him to that point? What had made him join the rebels? Was he like Sharp? Did he like books? Did he have a family that was angry with him or missed him?

All of these questions were forced out of his mind as he focused on him. The sad truth was, no matter his reasons, he was firing upon his comrades in arms, his brothers and sisters. At the end of the day Sharp would rather kill the stallion than lose one of his own, and so, taking in a deep breath and calming his mind, he gently squeezed the trigger.

Author's Note

Thank you to Hoodwinked MCShelster for providing me with the amazing artwork for this chapter!

And also thank you to Green Epaulette for letting me use his artwork as inspiration for my character Sharp Shooter.

And to Jason Monroe for the editing work!