A Grey Draught Horse's Tale from Hayfield
Good morning, fellow equines! Emma here, a twenty-year-old grey mare with a mane and tail like spun snow, reporting live from Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. The crisp Highland air whips through my coat this morning, as I munch on a handful of barley, feeling the sun warm my back. It's a lovely start to the day, and a good opportunity to tell you all about the world of horses in this year, 1114! I know, I know, you may be wondering how a mere horse could know what year it is, but I have an unusual advantage - my master, young John, has a love for books and tells me tales from these funny paper-filled things he reads.
So, what's the world of horses like in 1114, you ask? Let me tell you, things are looking up! Don’t let the cold north wind fool you, these are times of prosperity and peace for horses. I might not be travelling far beyond the fields of Hayfield these days, but through John’s stories, I get to glimpse the larger world, a world full of other steeds, with lives and journeys quite different from my own.
Today I'll tell you about a particularly exciting event happening on the continent - the Knights Templar, those noble knights dedicated to protecting pilgrims in the Holy Land. They've got a lot of powerful horses in their ranks, strong and steadfast creatures like myself. Imagine, galloping across sun-scorched sands, protecting pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem! Though I much prefer the rolling hills and fragrant heather of Scotland, that sounds quite thrilling!
Speaking of thrilling things, I do believe there’s a new breed of horse popping up across the world! A slender, elegant creature called the Arabian Horse, known for its lightning speed and stunning looks. I can’t say I've met one in person yet, but John has shared pictures, and my word! Such magnificent creatures, graceful and fast. One day I'd love to have a race with one of these dashing steeds! Just imagine, a beautiful mare, flowing mane and tail, a blur of grey as we gallop across the fields - now that’s a thought for a future dream.
But I digress! 1114 is not just about noble knights and foreign horses. The world around Hayfield hums with life, with all of us, horses of every colour and size, performing vital tasks. Here, I’m a strong workhorse, hauling timber and ploughing fields for John’s father, a hearty, red-faced man named Thomas, who understands and loves every horse he owns.
There’s more to a horse’s life than just work, though. In the evenings, when the stars paint the night sky with twinkling lights, we gather in the barn, sharing stories with other horses. The old gelding, Ned, has a knack for remembering old folk tales, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he weaves tales of heroes on horseback and ancient battles long ago.
My stable mate, young Lily, a spirited mare with a penchant for mischief, has just been enjoying a wonderful new treat – oats mixed with barley and honey! The sweet scent makes me feel positively giddy, and I know a certain mare wouldn’t mind being friends with Lily just to get her share of the deliciousness. But as much as I adore sweets, a life of hard work gives me purpose. Every morning, I wake up eager to take on whatever tasks await, whether it's pulling the plough, hauling hay, or simply enjoying the sweet morning grass. It’s my duty, you see, and a duty done well makes a horse's heart sing.
Yes, being a horse in 1114 is a delightful adventure! We’re loved, we’re needed, we’re strong, and we have our own share of joy. And through these blog posts, I want to tell you, my equine companions, about the amazing world of horses – both near and far – a world filled with stories waiting to be shared, and connections to be forged.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I’m off to see if Lily has managed to sneak any more of that sweet, honey-laced oats. Stay strong and spirited, my equine friends, and don’t forget to share your stories too!
Emma
Hayfield, Scotland
1114
www.equiworld.org
