The Winds of Tepr - MaitreyaGem

Genres: Yuri, Romance, Action, Historical

Chapter 1 Part 2

The first light of dawn paints the horizon in soft hues of pink and gold. While the steppes outside seem serene and still, inside Naci's yurt, the atmosphere is thick with tension and anticipation. She sits cross-legged on a plush rug, surrounded by a myriad of embroidered fabrics and ornaments. These embroideries are the testament of a bride's diligence and patience, a traditional gift to the groom's family.

Her fingers tremble as she picks up a particular piece she has worked on for days—a depiction of a wild horse galloping across the steppe, its mane flowing freely in the wind. The intention is there, but the execution is far from the meticulous work her peers manage. The stitches are uneven, and some parts of the fabric bear the telltale signs of having been torn and resewn multiple times.

Naci bites her lower lip, the weight of her inadequacy pressing heavily on her shoulders. She has been so preoccupied with her warrior training and the affairs of her tribe that she has neglected this essential part of her cultural identity.

Her mother, Gani, steps into the yurt, her gaze immediately falling on the messy array of embroideries. Her eyes narrow, and she lets out a deep sigh of disappointment. "Naci, why didn't you come to me earlier?" she chides, picking up a piece that depicts a skewed rendition of the Jabliu tribal emblem. "You know how important these offerings are to the Alinkar. They signify dedication, skill, and most importantly, respect."

Naci lowers her head, guilt gnawing at her insides. "I thought... I thought I can manage. Every time I tried, something else comes up. A hunting expedition, a tribal meeting, Liara's training. And before I knew it, time just ... slipped away."

Gani sits down next to her daughter, her expression softening a bit. "It's not just about the time, Naci. You always had a headstrong nature, thinking you can conquer any challenge on your own. But sometimes, asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It's wisdom."

Naci's voice is barely above a whisper, "I don't want anyone to know. I feel ashamed. Everyone always talks about my strengths, my courage, but in this ... in this, I feel like a failure."

Her mother places a gentle hand on her cheek, lifting her face to meet her gaze. "You are so much more than your abilities on a horse or with a needle. But you must also remember that in life, especially in a marriage, it's the little things, the nuances that matter. This wedding isn't just about you or your groom; it's about two tribes, two histories merging."

Naci takes a deep breath, absorbing her mother's words. "What do I do now? The Alinkar expect these offerings. And mine ... mine are just ... poor."

Gani smiles, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Well, luckily for you, you have a family that has got your back. We might not be able to redo all of these, but together, we can make a few pieces that will truly stand out."

Naci's eyes brighten, hope rekindling in her heart. "Thank you, Mother."

Time seems to fly as Naci and her mother immerse themselves in their task. Their hands move deftly, stitching and sewing, trying to craft the best possible embroideries for the impending ceremony. The tribe around them buzzes with activity, preparing for the journey and the important guests they are soon to receive. Just when they start to lose track of time, nature itself signals a significant turn of events.

The eagles' resonant cries pierce the stillness of the day, their calls reverberating across the vast expanse of the steppes. Outside, anticipatory murmurs ripple through the tribe members as they direct their gazes towards the horizon, where three riders on horseback approach with steadfast determination. Majestically perched on the right arm of each rider, the eagles display an impressive wingspan, casting elongated shadows upon the earth.

Legends of the Alinkar's unparalleled bond with their eagles have long been whispered amongst the tribes, but to witness them in such proximity is a sight of profound awe. The riders are clad in intricately embroidered garments that glisten in the sunlight, their patterns emblematic of the Alinkar tribe's esteemed legacy and formidable reputation. Their very presence emanates an aura of might and majesty, solidifying their stature as one of the most revered tribes in the region.

From the entrance of her yurt, Naci discreetly observes the distinguished trio. Her heart flutters with anticipation as she meticulously studies their visages, contemplating which of them might be her betrothed. The man on the left possesses a rugged allure, his deep-set eyes shadowed with stories and a prominent scar defining his jawline. The one on the right appears more youthful, perhaps on the cusp of his twenties, exuding an innocent charm.

However, it is the central figure that commands Naci's undivided attention. Towering and majestic, this rider radiates an undeniable authority and elegance. Her hair, an opulent flow of polished black strands intricately woven with braids embellished by minute silver bells, captures and refracts the sunlight in a celestial dance. Her discerning eyes, a profound shade of brown, survey their surroundings with unparalleled intensity. Her high cheekbones, accentuated by gracefully arched brows, and her defined jawline lend her visage an aristocratic beauty. Her sun-dappled skin, marked subtly with the vestiges of battles past, narrates tales of valiance and perseverance. She is garbed in sumptuous silks of deep purples and rich maroons, which contrast harmoniously with her rugged leather armor. Slender silver chains, which catch the sunlight with every nuanced movement, gracefully encircle her waist, while her robust leather boots disturb the dust beneath with every rhythmic hoofbeat. To Naci's astonishment, this formidable figure, the groom, is an impeccable woman, whose presence significantly eclipses the two men accompanying her.

From her elevated vantage point atop the hill, she surveys the encampment with eyes that exude confidence. Her eagle releases a second, poignant cry, seemingly in homage to the all-encompassing sun.

Author's note:

Hey there, I'm MaitreyaGem! Thank you for reading the first chapter of my story! Feel free to check out the rest on Scribblehub, and if you prefer modern settings, you can also read my other series, There are Two Gods in Heaven! I hope you enjoy this great magazine <3