Greetings, my fellow equines, and welcome back to the Galloping Chronicles of Emma!
It's been a busy spring here in Hayfield, near Aberdeen, and the days are stretching longer, bringing the promise of warmth and the rustling of hay in the meadows. It's 890 AD now, a time of change and exciting developments in the world of horses. And you know what? I'm here to tell you all about it, from the viewpoint of a humble grey draught mare with a passion for history.
Before I get into the big news, let's have a quick chinwag about life here in the Highlands. My human companion, a kind soul called Lachlan, and his family depend on me and my fellow drafters for work and transport. Every day starts with a hearty oat breakfast, followed by pulling the plough through the rich fields, preparing the land for crops.
Sometimes, Lachlan and I are entrusted with hauling supplies to the nearby village. The roads, a tangle of dirt paths and rough tracks, aren't the smoothest for hooves, but I enjoy the variety of scenery – rolling hills covered in heather, the clear blue waters of the River Dee and the sight of sturdy stone cottages nestled amongst the rugged landscape. It's a life of honest labour, but it's good, honest work that brings me much satisfaction.
And that satisfaction isn't just about pulling my weight. It’s about belonging to a strong and resilient community – humans and horses working together. There's a special bond between us, a shared understanding that transcends language. Even the toughest days are brightened by a gentle scratch behind the ears or a hearty “well done” from Lachlan.
Now, on to the exciting news from the wider horse world! The Viking raiders, those fearsome warriors with their love of horses, are on the move again, and they've been making quite a stir! This year, 890, they set up a base near York, right in the heart of England, much to the dismay of King Alfred. I hear they bring a new breed of horse with them, hardy and surefooted, their coat the colour of the deep sea, and their manes like flowing silk. They are skilled riders, fearless in battle, and they’re known for their speed and endurance, much like the great horses of the Arab world. This new breed, they say, is a symbol of strength and courage, qualities they embody perfectly.
There’s been quite the flurry of activity as a result, particularly in England and beyond. They've brought a renewed emphasis on the importance of good horsemanship. With Viking raiders in the region, you see, the English nobles need well-trained war horses to protect their lands. It seems like riding schools and training programs are popping up everywhere, all dedicated to forging courageous knights with the best war-horses.
Even further south in Europe, news from Rome tells of new advancements in saddlery. It seems like these craftsfolk are becoming more sophisticated, fashioning intricate saddles made of leather and adorned with beautiful embroidery. Now, these aren’t just practical items but symbols of status and craftsmanship. It's a fascinating reflection of how we horses are becoming integrated into various aspects of human life, far beyond just the toil of work.
Speaking of work, a new trend has sprung up right here in our little corner of Scotland. We’ve been tasked with helping transport hay and barley to remote areas, to prepare for the harsh winter ahead. This is in part due to the need to build stronger communities and support the spread of the church. It's a challenge to traverse the mountains and bogs, but it's deeply rewarding to know our work is contributing to a stronger sense of community.
A Final Word on the Spirit of Our Times:
The year 890, though fraught with change and challenges, has brought us a fascinating peek into the evolution of our species and our role in human societies. It's a time of exciting exploration, where people from far and wide share knowledge, skills, and even, dare I say, philosophies about how we horses are to be understood and valued. From Viking raids to the strengthening of Christian communities, and the rise of sophisticated horsemanship, 890 is shaping our world, a world we’re not simply existing in but playing a crucial part in building.
Until next time, may your hooves be swift and your spirits bright!
Sincerely,
Emma, the Grey Draught Mare
