Rashly led
seven legions
in search of
an elusive enemy
experience
endless days
of uncertainty
awaiting a battle
that never comes
inauspicious omens appear
of bolting horses and
stumbling leaders
as a doubtful and anguished
mood settles on
seven legions
under attack
an inhuman din
a deafening roar
of leather drums
covered with shaking bells
long haired warriors
innumerable
covered in Chinese iron
hurl themselves into battle
launching a shower of arrows
that never stops
hands nailed to shields
missiles like
flying scythes
aim at legs
horse and human alike
bring down
large numbers
then come long spears
through hard shields
taking two men
at a time
time lengthens
no relief
for thirsty soldiers
under a hot sun
stunned
blind
deafened
eventually
defeated.
– Marya Ophir
Wordplay from Silk Road: Monks, Warriors & Merchants
Also, see here for Battle of Carrhae.
Beautiful Marya… sad battle….