By Emma, a Grey Draught Mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen
Hello fellow equines, and welcome to another post from your favourite mare in all of Scotland. I'm Emma, and it's been a whirlwind of a year here in the rolling hills of Hayfield! I thought I'd share some of my adventures with you all today. We're deep into 1141 now, and it's been quite the journey, filled with work, adventure, and of course, the delightful company of my fellow steeds.
Now, you know me, I'm a workhorse through and through. This year, like many before, we've been a crucial part of the life here in the Scottish Highlands. From hauling heavy plows to transporting supplies across the craggy terrains, our strong muscles and sure feet are indispensable to our human companions. I feel proud knowing that our labour contributes to their survival and prosperity.
A Day in the Life
Let me paint a picture for you. The morning dew shimmers on the fields as the first light breaks, and the roosters are already crowing, calling us awake. The fresh, crisp air invigorates, and I feel a burst of energy that fuels me throughout the day. I’ll have a quick graze on the lush grass and then it’s time to prepare for work.
The tasks this year have been more than just the usual. There's been an unusual flurry of building activity going on – our humans have been putting up stronger, fortified structures near the village. This may sound quite mundane to a modern horse, but back in my time, such activity is quite the sign of impending war or conflict. It’s all hush-hush, and no one seems quite sure what's going on. I'm always curious about the things humans keep to themselves, you see, but it’s all part of being a loyal companion and respecting their secrets.
Our Neighbours, the Saxons
The tensions are definitely palpable between the Scottish and Saxon populations, even here in our peaceful corner of Scotland. Our humans seem to spend more time patrolling and guarding than usual. I heard whisperings about a 'King Stephen' leading a Saxon army, clashing with another 'King David' in some distant battlefields. But for us, life is mainly about our daily routines and responsibilities. It's quite comforting actually, amidst all the whispered talk of war and strife.
One sunny day, our humans, as they're prone to do, held a gathering in the village square. It’s what we horses call “a horse market.” It was filled with all kinds of breeds – the strong draft horses like me, the elegant chargers that grace the battlefields, the smaller, quick steeds often used for messengers, and even some curious-looking ponies. Humans come from near and far to barter and exchange animals. I often wonder if there's more to life than our local pastures and village, and markets like this ignite that adventurous spirit within me.
Adventures Await
As I was surveying the scene that day, my eyes fell upon the most elegant sight! A horse, with shining coat like polished ebony and a fiery red mane, stood amidst the crowd. It’s rare to see such beauty, let me tell you. He was tall and powerful, his eyes reflecting wisdom and a daring spirit. It was obvious he was meant for war. His owner, a well-built man with an adventurous gleam in his eye, approached our human master, and a heated exchange ensued.
“Will you exchange the grey for the black, and add a pouch of gold?" the man asked, eyeing my owner.
“Hmm, tempting… but this mare here is invaluable to my livelihood. I couldn't possibly…” my human owner muttered.
I pricked up my ears, I felt a stir within me. The handsome black steed gave me a small nod, and I felt a rush of intrigue. Could I be moving to a new home, a new life? My curiosity was peaked!
However, as they haggled over the exchange, the other humans gathered round. A man on a spirited palomino steed stood tall in the middle, his voice resonating, "This gathering's for peaceful exchanges! Now, no battles are fought over the back of a horse!”
A nervous chuckle rippled through the crowd as the human on the palomino stallion’s words hung heavy in the air. My human owner relented, and I remained firmly rooted in the heart of Hayfield, a sigh of relief escaping my nostrils.
The experience reminded me that even in our simple world, amidst our routines and labours, adventure and change always loom on the horizon.
The Importance of the Family
Though the possibility of a new adventure sparked within me, the reality is I'm part of a close-knit family here in Hayfield. There’s my brother, Jasper, a stalwart stallion with a gentle heart and an unwavering work ethic. He is strong and reliable, a source of constant companionship and unwavering support. Then there’s Lily, our younger sister – a bright-eyed, curious filly with a passion for exploration. She loves nothing more than racing across the hills, testing the limits of her newfound strength.
Then there are our human companions - John and Mary. They're hard-working souls, who respect and care for us. It’s hard to imagine a life away from them.
As we settle into the twilight of 1141, I look out towards the distant mountains that hold our future, full of possibilities, but grounded in the security of our life here in Hayfield. It’s a good life, and I'm happy to share my adventures with all of you!
See you all soon!
Emma
P.S. Feel free to share your own equine stories on Equiworld! We’d love to hear all about your lives!
