History of Horses in the year 0173

Greetings, fellow equines and horse enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your trusty draught horse correspondent from the bonnie hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen, Scotland. I'm just turning twenty, a fine age for a sturdy grey like me. Today, I thought I'd share some thoughts and observations about the world of horses in this, the year 0173. It's a time of change and excitement, particularly in the realm of horsemanship!

As I write this, the gentle hum of the mill nearby lulls me into a pleasant stupor. Yes, like many of my kin, my life revolves around work. My human companion, young Lachlan, and I are responsible for keeping this mill running. The tireless grinding of grain to feed our community keeps us both in a familiar rhythm. The feeling of the harness straps snug against my powerful shoulders, the rhythmic clack of my hooves on the cobbled pathways, the satisfying strain of pulling the mill's wheel - these are the sounds and sensations that form the backbone of my existence.

Life is quite different from my younger days. Back then, before the Roman legions reached these shores, horses were prized for speed and ferocity, used in warfare and for swift travel. Now, the Romans are here, bringing a different kind of respect for us. They appreciate the strength of the large, sturdy draught horses, and the Romans use us to help build roads, construct buildings, and transport goods throughout their vast empire.

We are seeing an explosion of innovation in harness design and equestrian gear! These new saddles with their stirrups and breastplates help us pull more efficiently and comfortably. Gone are the days of clumsy straps and saddles! They even have specialized equipment designed just for draught horses, enabling us to pull wagons and plough the fields with unparalleled ease.

There's a new type of harness being introduced by the Romans - it’s called the 'Roman yoke'. This system makes our lives much easier. You see, the Roman yoke allows us to pull in pairs, harnessing our strength as one. This teamwork ensures a smoother ride for wagons and less strain on each of us individually. This is especially helpful for those long, dusty journeys across the countryside.

The Romans have also introduced the idea of "iron shoes". It sounds intimidating, but in truth, it's a wonderful advancement! Now, our hooves are protected from the wear and tear of our tireless work, allowing us to endure long hours and rugged terrain without discomfort.

There's a horse named Maximus, a Roman chariot racer, who has been the talk of the region. This magnificent stallion is winning every race and stealing every heart with his incredible speed and agility. They call him "The Thunder Horse," and indeed, his movements seem almost supernatural! I am told his races are an awe-inspiring spectacle, full of raw power and athletic prowess. Imagine the feeling of flying across the sand, driven by pure adrenaline and the urge to be first! Maximus, in his way, shows the world the incredible capabilities of a horse!

Another thing that has caught my attention are the Roman merchants who travel far and wide, carrying news and goods. They come to our village regularly, bringing new items that I’ve never seen before: gleaming pottery, finely woven cloth, spices that awaken the senses, and even exotic animals from distant lands.

Sometimes, they bring with them tales of places far beyond our familiar fields: bustling cities of the Roman Empire, the vast, desolate deserts of the south, and even distant lands across the sea where wild horses roam in freedom. The world feels larger now, and I wonder, what other marvels await us beyond the hills and rivers?

The Romans, for all their conquests and innovations, do share a kinship with us. Just like our Celtic neighbors, the Romans see us as loyal companions and tireless workers. Our connection goes deeper than simply being a beast of burden. They share with us a language of understanding. They see our expressions, our reactions, and treat us with respect and kindness, offering us a comfortable stall and nourishing hay after a day’s labor.

Sometimes, I catch young Lachlan staring at me as if seeing a whole universe reflected in my eyes. This shared gaze is one of understanding, not just a human controlling an animal. It is an exchange of feelings, unspoken trust. That, I believe, is what binds us, horses and humans, in a relationship that transcends centuries and cultures.

It's a fascinating time to be a horse. We are witnessing change, new challenges, and the dawn of an unprecedented future. Although we might not be as fast as those nimble steeds of old, or as strong as the oxen that can plough entire fields on their own, our strength, loyalty, and adaptability have earned us a valuable place in this evolving world.

As I write these words, I hope that I’ve managed to give you a glimpse into our life, here in Hayfield, Scotland, during this fascinating period. Remember, though times may change, the essence of being a horse remains constant - our connection to the earth, our power to work and carry burdens, and our bond with our human companions. May the roads be smooth and the winds be fair, my friends. Until next time, be well.

- Emma