A Twinkle of Hope

A Twinkle of Hope - Chapter 1

Marshal Powderkeg looked around the war room. Staff officers were frantically running about, deeply afraid of the Marshal's dissatisfaction. He was prone to explosive bouts of anger, which usually ended in a commission being revoked. The war was almost over, and the general didn't wish to keep the Premier waiting.

"Generals! Assemble! I promised the Senate I would have Equestria subdued by next week!" the Marshal bellowed. His voice was naturally loud, and was only filled with annoyance, much to the relief of everyone in the room. The Generals all took a seat at the large rectangular table in the center. "Good. Now General Chevauchee, this invasion was your task to plan. Let us hear it."The Marshal was a broad-chested giant of an Earth-Pony, whose voice simply commanded authority.

The unicorn immediately got up and cleared his throat: "Yes sir! The 5th Armored Division is ready now for deployment. The plan is to do a swift sweep of the desired region, eliminating all pockets of Rebel activity. The 46th Squadron is primed to provide air support. By this time next week, we shall have total victory." He quietly sat down, staring timidly at Powderkeg.

"Excellent! I give the orders: execute the invasion plans at once. Rally the troops!" The Marshal saluted with his right hoof.

All his officers rose and saluted likewise, saying in unison "Sir yes sir!" One pegasus general however approached Powderkeg and asked him where the invasion was going to be.

The Earth-pony gave a slight smile, looking down on his subordinate. With his booming voice he uttered: "Ponyville."