Hello there, fellow equines!
It's Emma here, a sturdy grey mare with a flowing white mane and tail, writing from my humble stable in Hayfield, a small village nestled near the rugged Scottish Highlands.
The air is crisp, a hint of winter already nipping at our hooves. But we've still got a good while before the snow settles. My sturdy, sure-footed brothers and sisters are still busy, pulling ploughs through the fields and hauling carts loaded with harvest goods to market. I've just finished my morning stretch and am settling in for a little relaxation before the day's work begins.
You see, dear reader, it's the year 1156, and life for a working horse is far from glamorous, but undeniably important. We are the backbone of the community, our strong legs and loyal hearts essential to our human companions.
And you know what? Despite the hard work, I wouldn't trade this life for anything! We live close to the earth, our coats brushed by the wind and our muzzles finding sweet grass in fields of emerald green. There is something uniquely powerful and liberating about being a horse, a creature of strength and beauty, woven into the tapestry of history.
Today, I want to take you on a little journey, to share some of the things I've learned about our world in the year 1156.
A World in Motion
Just like any year, 1156 is a whirlwind of activity for our equine kind. In distant lands, kings and emperors are mounted upon sleek war steeds, their riders clad in shining armour. These magnificent creatures are a sight to behold, their coats shimmering in the sun, their eyes burning with determination. They are a vital part of the growing power of armies, galloping through fields, striking fear into the hearts of enemies.
But back here in Scotland, the life of a horse is rather different. We are less about glory and war, and more about the quiet humdrum of keeping life running. From the bustling port cities to the secluded villages, we are there, tireless and ever-present, ensuring that the wheels of progress keep turning.
This year has seen some particularly important changes, a flurry of activity and a glimpse into the future.
The Rise of the War Horse
The rumour mill has been abuzz with whispers of battles and bloodshed. News travels slow, but from our riders, we hear about the rise of a new breed of warrior, trained for swiftness and ferocity on the battlefield. These magnificent steeds are trained with a specific focus on speed, agility and stamina.
Some believe these horses are the future of warfare. As I hear them talk, I see a flicker of awe in their eyes, and a tinge of anxiety for those who fear such power. It makes me think… what will our world be like when this new breed of war horse is everywhere? Will the way of our gentle plough horses be forgotten?
A Call to Arms:
While we draught horses stay grounded in our essential role, even we have heard the call to arms. A great battle, a clash of swords, is brewing to the south. We hear about a King Henry II in England who is facing the growing power of a Welsh uprising. Their army, known for their quick movement and ferocious fighting, threatens England’s security. It's quite the scary business, though thankfully far enough away from my Hayfield home.
Despite this, a number of horses from Scotland have been called upon for duty in the King’s army. They will be there, in the thick of the fighting, their courage and strength tested. They may not be the sleek, nimble steeds favoured for war, but the heavy charge of a draught horse, its hooves striking with thunder, can turn the tide of battle in an instant.
Building for the Future:
Our lives are inextricably linked to those of our human companions, and so it goes without saying that we feel the excitement of the new buildings they create. In this year, we hear stories of grand new churches and stone castles being erected in various corners of the world. These majestic structures rise tall and proud, symbols of strength and power.
While our lives are humble, our strength plays an essential role in constructing such impressive monuments. We pull stones, haul timber, and move earth, building for generations to come.
A Touch of Progress:
There are rumours swirling about improvements to our harnessing and saddles. Though not a grand leap, there's talk of more flexible leather straps, new styles of buckles for ease of removal. It's a bit of a change from the old ways, though honestly, most of the old ways work just fine.
There are always those in this world that love to find new ways to improve and progress. The humans who take the time to learn from their horses, observe our strength and beauty and translate that into something new and more practical. It is progress. It is evolution. It is a natural part of this grand adventure of life we call horsehood.
Our Peaceful Lives Continue:
Here in Hayfield, the earth holds us tight, the simple routines of work and rest define our days. We don't fight wars or build castles, but we play an equally important role. Our strength, our loyalty, and our patient nature bind us to the humans who share our lives. We work side by side, drawing sustenance from the fields, and bringing forth the fruits of their labours.
And at the end of the day, with the stars as our guide and the moon as our witness, we rest, and dream.
So here's to you, my fellow equines! May you always know the gentle caress of a kind hand, the thrill of the wind in your mane, and the strength that resides in your hooves. Until next time, keep your heads high, and your spirits strong. Farewell!
