Hello, my dearest Equiworld readers! Emma here, a young grey draught mare from the quaint little village of Hayfield near Aberdeen. The heather is blooming beautifully right now, painting the hillsides purple and lilac. I just love this time of year!
Today, I want to tell you all about my life here in 0410 AD. It might seem like a long time ago, and for some of you, it is! But life goes on, and horses like myself are busy working and playing, just like any horse today.
Our world in 0410 is bustling with activity. The Romans have left Britannia – that’s what they call this land now – but that doesn’t mean things have slowed down. We are still needed, working hard alongside humans on farms and for transportation.
A Day in My Life
Every morning, I wake up to the cheerful crow of the rooster and the gentle breeze rustling the heather. I stretch out my long legs and groom my coat, fluffing out my beautiful white mane and tail. After a hearty breakfast of oats and hay, it's time to start my day's work.
My main task is pulling the plough across the fields. It's not always easy, especially when the soil is wet and heavy. But I enjoy the rhythm of the work, the feeling of the earth against my hooves, and the satisfying sound of the metal cleaving through the soil. It's a tough job, but we horses are strong and reliable, and we play a vital role in helping our human friends provide food for themselves and others.
A few days a week, my owner, Farmer Angus, takes me to town. It's a brisk walk from Hayfield to Aberdeen, but a lovely journey nonetheless. There is always something exciting to see and smell in town, from bustling market stalls laden with fresh produce to the blacksmith's forge, its warm scent of iron clinging to the air. I love the thrill of pulling heavy carts of goods and carrying bundles of wool on my back. It’s a long, hot, and arduous job, but rewarding all the same.
Life on the Road
One of my most favourite things to do is to watch the passing horsemen on the Roman Roads. There are always people travelling between towns and settlements, whether for trade or military purposes. Some horses are noble chargers, strong and well-muscled, with fine-spun saddles and ornate bridles. Others are shaggy workhorses like myself, hauling goods on sturdy carts and pack animals, transporting produce to be traded and supplies for families to use. It's a world of adventure!
The Year of the Roman Withdrawal
In 0410, the Romans decided to pull out of Britannia. It was a momentous event. The soldiers who had been stationed in this land for so many centuries packed up their belongings and left. They even removed their troops from their main stronghold in Britain called "Hadrian's Wall".
For many horses, like myself, it might sound like bad news – what happens when the strongest army leaves? What if others take advantage of this vulnerability? But we remain unperturbed. Life goes on! Farmer Angus said the Roman withdrawal is just the beginning of something new. Our world might seem a little less structured for a while, but it also gives us new opportunities. With the Roman influence gone, local communities are now stronger, more unified, and self-reliant. They will be looking to horses even more to support these growing, bustling communities.
An Important Discovery
Now, you may be wondering why the Roman troops left Britannia, my readers. Historians are still working that out – that’s what history is all about, right?! – But there’s much chatter and speculation that a tribe of fierce barbarians called "Saxons" landed in the north of our lands this very year. I have even heard whispers that they are sailing the seas, claiming more and more lands, forcing Britons into new territories, further inland.
The Saxons were fierce warriors who knew how to fight on horseback and were skilled with swords and axes. There were worries in Aberdeen. People were building stronger fortifications in the face of such invasions and making sure their villages are defended. We horses were, of course, very important in such defence, whether helping carry troops, supplies, or working as chargers on the front lines. We horses are used to all kinds of conflict, you see, especially after the long battles with the Romans for control of Britannia. We learn to live side-by-side with humans, their lives so entwined with ours, even in these dangerous and challenging times.
A Life Filled With Love and Hope
But let's not dwell on all the turmoil, my readers! Life is still full of love and hope, even with all the uncertainty in our world. I am happy in my role, and it is full of promise for the future. My hooves are always eager to tread new ground, my spirit always soaring to greater heights!
And when I’m not working, I like to explore the rolling hills and play with my friends. It is a joy to gallop with the wind in my mane, my legs stretching long as I take in the breathtaking beauty of my home. We also like to race with the other horses and ponies on the open moor, laughing as we chase the clouds and watch the birds fly above.
Our life might seem simple, dear readers, but I wouldn't have it any other way. The warmth of the sun on my coat, the coolness of the stream as I drink deeply, and the feeling of friendship and companionship... these are the joys that fill my heart and make my world complete.
Until next time, I wish you all safe journeys and the joy of a life well-lived!
With much love,
Emma
#Remember, if you love horses, their history, and this time in history – tell your friends! Leave a comment below – what are you working on with horses?
(Do let me know if you need me to continue writing this blog series. Happy to write another post with Emma!)
