2nd Hand Nightmare

My name is Cloud Dasher. I was given this book by my mother shortly after she learned about the Equestrian War. She came to me in tears and gave me this, because after she was told of the war, she was told of the draft. My 18th birthday was about two weeks ago, and just in time for the draft to find me. I am being drafted by the newly established "New Lunar Republic". As far as I can tell, the country was split in half evenly. About 50 miles from my rural house is the border. It is constantly guarded by soldiers on both sides. Although the countries are at war, there hasn't been any fighting yet. I think the princesses are waiting for the other to make the first move.

I have heard from a good friend on the other side of the border, and he says the new "Solar Empire" is drafting males like no tomorrow, but leaving the mothers, wives, and children. He recently got his draft notice too. I'm afraid that I will have to fight him. I really hope I don't, but for some reason I know I will. And one of us will probably die. We already discussed this and we already apologized to each other and agreed to do just as we are told. But we both hope the time will never come. Anyways, I have my notice sitting in front of me.

It is grey paper with a lot of small print writing that only tells me where I need to go and what's expected of me. In the bottom right corner there is a golden seal that has the imprint of "New Lunar Republic" in fancy lettering. And at the middle bottom there is a place for my signature and under it is the signature of the drafting agent. And in even smaller writing, (had to use a magnifying glass to see this) under the place for my signature is a tiny line. "Failure to comply will result in 10 years in a federal prison." So I kill ponies, or go to jail for ten years. This is a hard choice.... But I'm going to sign it and become property of the New Lunar Republic. Hold on for a second so I can put this in the mailbox.

Okay, back. I already feel as if my time is coming to an end. There was one war that I can think of that happened before. But that was over race... Nothing like this has ever happened before and nopony knows what to expect. Have to go now. Things have to be done on the farm. I expect the army to come and get me soon after the letter is delivered. By then i should be packed. I will need somepony to house-sit for me. I think I can get my parents or a relative to do it. But, for now, goodbye.

-Cloud Chaser. New soldier in the New Lunar Republic army.

I know it's short, but it gives me a chance to write during the week.