From the Hayfield Stables, near Aberdeen, Scotland
Hello fellow equestrians! Emma here, a grey draught mare with a white mane and tail, and your resident historian for EquiWorld. It's been a busy year in the world of horses, and as we move into the frosty Scottish winter, I thought it'd be the perfect time to reflect on the past twelve months, particularly what it's like to be a horse in 1240.
Now, you might think 1240 sounds a bit far off, but trust me, the horses back then had lives just as rich and full as we do now!
Life in the Hayfield Stables:
Here in Hayfield, things are as they always have been. We are, after all, a small village with little to separate our lives from the land around us. But we're not without our perks! For one, the humans here are kind, particularly Master Archibald, who knows the worth of a strong draught mare like myself. My days are usually spent helping with farm work – pulling the plough, hauling stones, and sometimes even taking the carts to market in the nearby town.
Yes, there are days I'm tired, with aches and pains in my old muscles. But I know I'm not working alone. There's Ben, a magnificent brown gelding with a calm temperament, perfect for carting the produce to market. And Fiona, the fiery chestnut filly, a real spirited little thing – though a bit clumsy when it comes to hauling. I'll admit, I often get to help train her! She’s a quick learner, despite her eagerness.
Then, there are the younger horses – Foal and Petal. We spend our afternoons grazing in the fields, while the humans tend to their duties. I try to teach Foal the ways of the world, how to avoid getting tangled in the barbed wire, or to mind the sharp thistles. He's a bit of a handful, but I've no doubt he'll become a fine, strong workhorse someday. Petal, however, is more reserved, with her soft brown eyes always filled with curiosity.
In the evenings, the stable is full of friendly neighs and the warm scent of hay, making the winter cold more bearable. There are stories of old, whispered in the night, tales of grand wars and mighty journeys by horses of yore. And these are the stories I love, because it reminds me: my life isn't simply about hauling stones and pulling carts. I am part of something bigger.
Horse Lore from Across the Land:
This year, news has traveled to our stables, not just through the usual market trips, but by the mouths of wandering knights, merchants, and monks.
And what news have they brought? It seems horses have always been central to life, no matter the distance.
In England, it appears the king is preparing for war. Many knights, with their horses adorned in beautiful armour, have ridden south, and a heavy scent of gunpowder has arrived with them. It's a dangerous time for those involved, but even in our quiet Scottish village, we can feel the rumblings of war.
Across the sea, in France, it is a similar story. There, they talk of horses trained for war, and their courage in facing the enemy. In fact, many a horse is a key part of the war effort, not only for transporting soldiers, but also for pulling supplies and sending messages. It makes one understand how vital a strong and trustworthy steed is for our humans.
Closer to home, we hear of King Alexander II, the current king of Scotland, whose bravery and chivalry are praised in many a tale. He, like many of his people, relies greatly on his loyal steeds, who serve him both in war and peace. His reign has brought relative stability and prosperity, with merchants and farmers thriving across the land. I do hope we shall remain peaceful for a while, even as tensions rise elsewhere.
But peacetime also means travel, trade, and celebration! There are stories of knights journeying far and wide on their noble horses, stories of merchants using sturdy, powerful breeds to carry their precious goods, and even tales of monks using gentle horses for their pilgrimages. The world is alive with activity, and at its heart is the magnificent horse.
Learning from the Past:
Even in the quiet of our stables, the stories reach us, shaping our understanding of what it means to be a horse. Each tale we hear, each experience shared, adds another layer to our understanding of the world around us.
Some stories remind us of the dangers horses face, the toll war takes on both animal and human alike. But even in those bleak moments, there is the reminder of the indomitable spirit of horses. The unwavering trust and devotion of horses like myself.
But not every story is bleak. There are tales of brave horses aiding travellers in distress, stories of kindness shown to a tired steed, and the tales of friendships forged between horse and human. These are the stories that remind us why we, as horses, are vital to this world.
My fellow equestrians, even though our lives may be seemingly simple here in the stables of Hayfield, we play a crucial part in this world, be it by assisting farmers, transporting merchants, or aiding those in need. Remember your worth, be kind, and always learn from the stories whispered through the ages.
Until next time, may your oats be plentiful and your days filled with sun and good company.
