Welcome to my little corner of Equiworld, dear readers! Emma here, a sturdy grey draught mare with a flowing mane and tail the colour of freshly fallen snow. It's a crisp morning in Hayfield, near Aberdeen, and the heather is just starting to bloom. As the sun peeks over the horizon, I can already feel the day's tasks calling.
This blog is dedicated to celebrating the incredible bond between horses and humans. You might find me rambling on about everything from my favourite grazing spots to the latest advancements in chariot racing. And let me tell you, the year 296 AD has been one for the books, both on and off the track!
The Horse at the Centre of Our World
Life here in 296 AD is, of course, heavily centred around horses. They're the driving force of our economy, pulling plows for our farmers, transporting goods across the land, and even carrying us into battle. Every household has at least one, and in noble families, there are stables full of them! I am one of the lucky ones. We work hard, but we are well-fed and cared for, and we feel a sense of pride in serving our community.
An Imperial Parade, and the Call of the Road
Just last week, our Emperor Diocletian passed through Aberdeen on his grand tour of the Roman Empire. A sight it was, too! I remember watching with wonder from the window of my stable as his chariot, drawn by four magnificently bred horses, rolled down the cobblestone streets. The horses were shining, their coats like polished ebony, with plumes of feathers adorning their heads. You could tell these horses were not just beasts of burden but symbols of power and strength. I swear, they even seemed to hold their heads high in pride.
It was a sight that sent shivers down my spine and filled me with longing for adventure. I dreamed of traveling, seeing different parts of the world, and experiencing the thrill of a swift journey with the wind in my mane. This yearning for adventure has only intensified in recent years.
News from Rome and the Whispers of Chariot Racing
From what I've heard, the Emperor was headed to Rome for the prestigious Ludi Romani, or Roman Games, which include the incredible spectacle of chariot racing. My dear stable-mate, Skye, tells tales of watching these races at a younger age. They are so exciting, so exhilarating! Charioteers from across the Empire gather in Rome to showcase their skill and their magnificent steeds. These races, we're told, are quite different from our simpler horse races here in Aberdeen. Chariots with drivers weaving around each other, racing at speeds unimaginable.
There are legends whispered about the quadriga, where four horses pull the chariot at once, demanding exceptional synchronization and teamwork from both horses and their drivers. It's enough to make even a sturdy draught mare like myself yearn to experience it all! I imagine the roaring crowds, the pounding hooves, the sheer adrenaline. It's no wonder this tradition has endured for centuries!
Horses Beyond the Races: A Legacy of Companionship
But the world of horses isn't just about the races. They are a vital part of daily life, serving humanity in myriad ways. Imagine the farmers toiling under the hot sun, their horses faithfully turning the soil, preparing the land for crops. It's a sight that makes you appreciate the silent bond between man and beast. They are true partners in work, and this companionship is as much a part of our history as the grandeur of the races.
I often imagine the day, maybe it will be in 50 or 100 years, when women can take up the reins of chariots too. The idea thrills me - the idea of women taking charge on the track, proving their worth alongside their male counterparts.
A Brief Reflection on Our Past
I sometimes wonder what it was like before horses. My elders speak of a time when people walked long distances, carried goods on their backs, and struggled to make a living from the unforgiving land. They say that horses changed everything, that they were a gift from the gods, giving people freedom of movement and power to thrive. I cannot imagine life without them.
Horses are not just tools or commodities. They are companions, partners, and sometimes, even friends. Each one has a unique spirit, personality, and resilience.
And that, my friends, is why I write these Chronicles. I hope to share my life, my love for horses, and my perspectives on their impact on history, to preserve their story for generations to come.
Until next time, my friends. May your saddles be soft and your steeds strong!
Emma
Hayfield, Scotland
296 AD
