Chapter Three:
The Soldiers Want War:
Ake marched straight to the barracks, where the soldiers of Bakoto village were gathered. The total number of soldiers was five score and fifty, a precious commodity that the king was reluctant to risk. In addition to the soldiers, there was a smaller group of guards who served as security for the palace and were dispatched to various checkpoints throughout the village. This group numbered a score and ten, and the king was equally reluctant to put them in harm's way.
Ake stood before the soldiers, his eyes scanning their eager faces. "My fellow warriors," he began, "I know that many of you have been itching for battle. You have trained tirelessly, honing your skills and building your strength. And now, the time has finally come."
One of the soldiers, a burly man named Kato, stepped forward. "Chief Ake, we've been waiting for this moment for far too long. We're not just soldiers, we're the defenders of our village. And it's time we proved ourselves."
Ake nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I agree, Kato. And that's why I've come to inform you that we will be going to war against Sakoto village."
The soldiers erupted into cheers, their faces alight with excitement. Ake raised his hands, calling for silence.
"I know that many of you are eager for battle," he continued, "but I must remind you that this will not be an easy fight. Sakoto village is strong, and they will not go down without a fight. But I have faith in each and every one of you. I know that together, we can emerge victorious."
Ake's eyes locked onto two of the soldiers, Banke and Manke. "I've chosen you two to lead the charge against Sakoto village. You are our strongest warriors, and I have no doubt that you will make our village proud."
Banke and Manke nodded, their faces set with determination.
"We won't let you down, Chief Ake," Banke promised.
"We'll fight with every ounce of strength we have," Manke added.
Ake smiled, his eyes shining with pride. "I know you will, my friends. And I'll be right behind you, fighting alongside you every step of the way."
The soldiers cheered again, their spirits high. Ake raised his hands once more, calling for silence.
"Let us march into battle with courage and honor," he declared. "Let us show Sakoto village that we will no longer be bullied or oppressed. We are the warriors of Bakoto village, and we will fight for our freedom!"