*My Dearest Fellow Equines,
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It's Emma here, your resident historian from the verdant fields of Hayfield near Aberdeen. As the brisk autumn wind whips through my flowing mane, I find myself reflecting on the year that was - the year of Our Lord 1036. It was a year of change, of trials, but also of triumphs, and I'm filled with the joy of sharing these tales with you.
*A Time of Plenty (For Some)
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Spring, oh glorious Spring! As the sun peeked out after the long winter, casting its golden light on the rolling Scottish hills, the air was filled with a chorus of birdsong and the excited neighs of foals frolicking in the fields. As for me, I spent the season diligently pulling the heavy plough, turning the earth in preparation for the bounty of the harvest. The smell of fresh-turned soil is one I'll never tire of, and the feel of the harness on my sturdy shoulders, well, that's just a feeling that every draught horse knows.
Those long summer days were filled with sunshine and the contented lowing of cattle, as well as the busy chatter of farmers tending their fields. Our oats were abundant this year, thankfully. Every horse loves a good oat, and I certainly had my fair share!
My owner, a kindly farmer named Allan, would often bring me juicy apples and slices of fresh bread as treats, a true sign of his respect and care. It’s important to remember, not every horse was as lucky as I was.
*The Harsh Realities
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There was a certain unease about this time of year though, something I could sense even through my trusty old harness. While most horses were busy working in the fields, a contingent of the most agile and swift ones, from neighbouring villages, were getting ready for something grand – the great Scottish games.
The sounds of hooves pounding the ground and riders roaring with excitement were an almost unbearable tension. As a draught horse, I could only dream of participating in such grandeur, to feel the wind in my mane as I galloped, muscles taut, but joyful. The games, unfortunately, were not for horses like me, with my slow-paced strength. Yet, despite the fact I had no chance to participate, there was a buzz in the air. It made me realise the great variety of work horses could do and the many diverse skills our breed had, something worth celebrating, regardless of what one’s job might be.
Changes are Afoot
While summer was mostly good to us, a pall descended when the first frost touched the land, signaling autumn. This was also when rumours reached Hayfield, whispers from traders traveling along the ancient routes, bringing word that our beloved king, Duncan I, had passed. It seemed as if the whole of Scotland held its breath for the news of his successor.
The air was heavy with apprehension and anticipation. We knew a new reign would bring with it change, but whether it would be change for the good or bad, we couldn’t be sure. As my breath steamed into the chilly air, my heart was filled with both fear and a certain thrill at what was to come.
*Horses of War
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The arrival of the new King Macbeth to the throne sparked a great deal of debate, of course. Our human counterparts weren’t shy about discussing his authority and claims to the Scottish Crown.
These are turbulent times. For most horses, we continue with our daily tasks – to plough and till, to carry and haul, to assist humans in their endeavors.
We also know, however, that certain breeds amongst us are bred and trained specifically for war. Such horses are used by mounted knights, carrying those humans into battle.
There are mixed emotions about these warlike horses – there is the obvious sense of fear for those of us who have been in battle. Our hooves tremble and our eyes wide with terror as we are commanded by those warriors. There is also respect. We must recognise the skills, speed, strength, and endurance of our equine cousins that are asked to charge and clash, carrying the weight of battles.
This, I realise, is a harsh truth: we live in a world where war can come to us unexpectedly. A world where horses may become mere tools of men's desires, their bravery often taken for granted.
The whispers are there. The call to arms may come for some of our brave steeds. Yet I trust in the goodness of all, that those who are forced to fight may do so with courage and skill, while we, here at home, pray for peace and prosperity for ourselves and for them.
*An Ode to Simplicity
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This time of year, though cold and often accompanied by storms, brings with it something quite beautiful – a quietness. There is less commotion, a certain calmness in the fields, a reminder that our lives, even though they can be harsh, also hold within them this peacefulness.
Here at Hayfield, nestled amongst rolling green hills, life is a simple rhythm, filled with the comforting routines of working hard and caring for the land, something that humans and horses have done together for centuries.
*What the World is Saying
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I couldn’t leave this blog post without a quick glance at the whispers and stories about the equine world outside Hayfield.
From what I have gathered from passing travellers:
- The Eastern World: A great trade route now snakes its way across land, linking Eastern cultures to Europe, and we horses play an integral role, carrying goods and forging connections, no matter the language. We travel with people who are different to us, yet somehow we also share a deep connection and purpose. We are indeed global beings!
- War and Peace: While the whispers of war stir hearts and minds, people throughout Scotland are still finding ways to collaborate and cooperate, to work together for their own well-being and that of the land. The peace of the horses is truly what drives the good work that humans accomplish, and we must be grateful for this blessing.
- The World is Full of Wonders: While most horses in these isles work in service to man, others are employed for travel. Some travel great distances across vast terrains, like deserts and mountains, others journey to the coasts to deliver goods by sea. I am often struck by how many roles and forms a horse can take – so many abilities to do so many things! I must confess, I am eternally grateful for my quiet role in this wide, amazing world.
My dearest fellow equine companions, I hope this glimpse into our lives in 1036 has been inspiring, and a reminder that, no matter how different our journeys are, we are bound by our shared history. This, I believe, makes us stronger and wiser, and reminds us of our timeless beauty.
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Until next time, may you always be well!
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Emma,
Draught Horse from Hayfield.
