A Soldier's Meager Pay

Gather round and listen close; a story to be told;

of ages past when men were men, brave and bold.

Upon their steeds they rode to champion and rule;

with swords full drawn and blood to spill so cruel.

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Warrior’s cry would lead the charge into hell’s gate.

No matter what the cost; the war would not abate;

till the enemy lay defeated; left with mortal wounds.

Bodies littered on the ground; painting red the dunes.

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Shields glinted in the sun; mother’s sons were taken;

a glorious victory for the King; mercy been forsaken.

Land was won at great cost; by armies on both sides;

so was the conquer worth it all; only history decides.

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Brave men who served their rulers; died on that day;

what favor granted them; just a soldier’s meager pay.

The story ends like it began; rulers need new land;

never ending greed; leaves new blood in the sand.

~~~~~~~~~~

Centuries have passed and nothing has been learned;

the ruler’s want more wealth; with mercy not concerned.

Warrior’s glide instead of ride; rifles now in their hands;

win a battle not of their choice; to conquer foreign lands.

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Bold and brave they fight; shed their blood once more;

mother's weep at home; fearing knock upon the door.

Some young man or woman will lose their life this day;

what favor given them; just a soldier's meager pay.