The Winds of Tepr

Chapter 21

The vast plains of Tepr echo with the roar of the coalition warriors, charging with a fierce determination. Haikam archers, stationed on the flanks, release volley after volley of arrows, their tips gleaming in the moonlight. The Nipih, on horseback, speed towards the Alinkar lines, lances at the ready, their horses' hooves pounding the ground, raising a cloud of dust. And from the rear, the Orogol warriors let out battle cries that send shivers down the spine of any who hear them.

But the Alinkar, disciplined and battle-hardened, aren't to be underestimated. They quickly form defensive formations, shields up, creating a seemingly impenetrable wall. Their spearmen stand ready, thrusting at any Nipih rider who gets too close, while their own archers target the Haikam.

The metallic clang of weapons clashing and the shouts of commanders guiding their troops form a cacophonous symphony of war. Through the rising dust, warriors from both sides dart in and out of combat, looking for openings or covering their comrades.

In a daring move, a cluster of Nipih riders breaks formation, speeding around the Alinkar flank. Their intention is clear: to hit them from the rear. But the Alinkar are quick to react. A contingent breaks off from the main formation, engaging the Nipih riders, their scimitars whirling in deadly arcs.

On another part of the battlefield, the Orogol find themselves at a standstill against the Alinkar's shield wall. Their heavy axes, while powerful, are having difficulty breaking through. Spotting this, a group of Haikam archers adjust their position, aiming their bows high. Their arrows, lit aflame, sail over the Alinkar's defenses, causing chaos and disarray as they land amidst the enemy ranks.

Seeing an opportunity, Pomogr signals a horn blower beside him. A deep, resonating note sounds, signaling the coalition forces to push forward in unison. Like a tide, they surge, the combined might of the Nipih cavalry, Orogol foot soldiers, and Haikam archers overwhelming the Alinkar defenses bit by bit.

Yet, amidst the chaos, the Alinkar show why they are a force to be reckoned with. A small cadre of elite warriors, forms a bulwark, holding back the Nipih riders with a combination of spear thrusts and coordinated shield movements. Their resilience buys time for the bulk of the Alinkar to regroup and fortify their position.

From the top of the hill, Naci watches the battlefield unfold, her gaze sharp, calculating. Konir, with his shamanistic senses, mutters incantations under his breath, seeking the favor of the spirits. Beside them, Temej grips Sartak firmly before launching him into the air.

Amidst the chaos, Akun, a formidable Alinkar warrior known for his tactical acumen, takes charge. Having saved the chieftain Urumol, he recognizes the direness of the situation. With the enemy's numbers and the element of surprise against them, the Alinkar face a steep challenge.

"We must retreat!" he shouts to his commanders over the cacophony of battle. "We need to rally at Kolopan! They are our allies and will provide the backup we need."

Relaying the orders, a horn is blown, signaling the Alinkar to start their strategic withdrawal. Slowly but surely, they begin to pull back, making their way towards the direction of Kolopan. However, they're not giving up without inflicting some damage. They lay traps and employ guerrilla tactics, ambushing coalition warriors in an attempt to slow their advance.

The Bepr forest looms on the horizon, its dense canopy casting long shadows over the retreating Alinkar warriors. Akun, with every muscle in his body tense, rides fiercely, ensuring Urumol is safely secure in front of him. The rhythmic pounding of hooves mingles with the heavy breaths of the warriors and the clinking of their armor.

As the Alinkar vanish into the treeline, Pomogr's voice roars over the battlefield. "Chase them! Let none escape!"

Naci's heart races. She knows the dangers of pursuing a retreating enemy into unknown territory. But without any way to communicate her warnings, her voice is lost in the chaos. She can only watch in anguish as the coalition forces, spurred on by their zeal, charge headlong after the Alinkar.