Post # 646
Hello fellow equines and equestrian enthusiasts! It’s Emma here, a proud grey draught mare with a penchant for oatcakes and a passion for history. I've been galloping through the pages of time, exploring our equestrian ancestors, and today we’re heading back to the year 646. Let's set off together on a journey through this exciting era in equine history!
Hayfield, Scotland - A Horse's Life
It's a crisp morning in Hayfield, just outside of the vibrant city of Aberdeen. The sun is barely up, casting a gentle golden glow on the rolling green fields where I stand. I take a deep breath of the fresh, dew-laden air, savouring the familiar scent of hay and barley, the whispers of wind rustling through the oat fields. It's a good life here, in this fertile corner of Scotland, where the land is plentiful and the people kind.
You might be wondering, "What's it like to be a draught horse in 646, Emma?" Well, I'll tell you - life is full of work! I belong to a hardworking farmer named Angus, a good man with a twinkle in his eye and strong hands. We're a close team, his sons and I. They are skilled and kind, and we trust each other implicitly. Our days are filled with ploughing fields, hauling heavy carts to market, and transporting goods and supplies between villages. It’s honest work, rewarding work, and it’s been ingrained in my blood since the day I was born.
The World Beyond Hayfield: A Whisper of Change
While my world revolves around the familiar rhythms of farm life, a hush of change ripples through the air. The King, a powerful figure with a heart for horses, is in his 10th year on the throne. He's a leader who speaks often of uniting our people and strengthening our lands. His ambition inspires us, even here in the far corners of the Highlands, and we feel a sense of hope rising amongst our brethren.
But there are other stories whispered on the winds. From far-off lands, travellers bring tales of mighty warlords and warring tribes. They speak of fierce battles and brave knights, of battles fought on horseback and the importance of sturdy steeds in warfare. Although these tales feel distant to my life in Hayfield, they remind me of the ancient and powerful bond between humans and horses.
Equine Wonders of the World: From the Silk Road to the Far East
And it's not just about the tales, though. This year, 646, is witnessing something extraordinary: the rise of a legendary route that connects the East and West - The Silk Road. Imagine, fellow equines, a winding path of trade and cultural exchange spanning continents, bustling with activity, with caravans of camels, mules, and horses laden with goods from distant lands!
It's a world I can only dream of, though some horses of Hayfield, strong and swift, will make the journey themselves. From bustling Constantinople, known for its powerful horses bred for speed and agility, to the silk-rich city of Chang’an in the heart of China, our brothers and sisters roam free, carrying the spirit of the horse to all corners of the world.
And speaking of distant lands, our hooves seem to be tapping a rhythmic beat to the east. This year, our noble steeds are also galloping across the fertile fields of Japan. Known as the land of the Rising Sun, it’s a land steeped in the love and respect for the horse. There are legends of a brave, intelligent, and athletic breed called the “Misaki,” known for its incredible speed and stamina. These horses are not just companions and helpers - they are a reflection of the spirit of the people who ride them. It makes my heart swell with pride, knowing we are revered and cherished throughout the world!
Horses and Humans - A Tale of Companionship and Teamwork
The bond between horse and human is something profound, something we're reminded of every day here in Hayfield. It's not just about work, but also about shared experiences and mutual respect.
Angus has always treated me with the greatest care, offering me warm hay, cool water, and soft blankets for winter nights. His sons often groom me with gentle hands and sing folk songs that tell of heroic horses from ages past. They call me “Emma” for my beauty, my quiet nature, and my strength - a good name indeed. These little details may seem insignificant to you, but to me, they are reminders of the respect and kindness we deserve, the essence of the extraordinary partnership we share with humans.
It's this bond, forged through trust and respect, that enables us to accomplish great things together. From ploughing the fields that nourish our communities, to hauling goods and supplies, we stand side-by-side with our human counterparts, driving the engine of progress and building civilizations.
And yes, in the whispers of wind across Hayfield, I hear of warring factions, and even horses trained for battles. Yet, I prefer to remember the other, more compassionate, story, the story of collaboration, unity, and strength through connection. That’s the legacy we are all forging, one gentle step, one shared burden, and one trusting gaze at a time.
Final Thoughts
As the sun sets over Hayfield, painting the sky in a beautiful spectrum of hues, I feel a wave of contentedness wash over me. I'm thankful for my life, my work, and my dear human family. The year 646 may be filled with tales of conflict, yet for us in Hayfield, it's a time of peace, progress, and unwavering hope. May our ancestors' tales inspire us to always strive for a future where horses and humans walk side-by-side, bound together by respect and kindness. Until next time, dear readers, happy trails!
- Emma
