Chapter 4: On The Feast of Stephen

[kateohara.livejournal.com]

Outside Excolo Abbey, Boxing Day morning: the Hunt gathers

Christmas Day yesterday was - pleasant, yes, but odd. I think the only part of it I really enjoyed was church, mostly because that was familiar. The rest of it felt strange. I've never been away from home at Christmas before. I hope Da was alright without me. (And oh, he'll be disappointed when I go back and tell him the engagement hasn't happened!)

I'm quite looking forward to the hunt today, though. I don't actually care much for hunting, but I like riding. Fresh air and exercise and seeing the countryside: what's not to enjoy? And it's a lovely bright day today, though cold. I sit on the horse I've been loaned, a nice grey mare called Lady, and accept a glass of wine from one of the footmen. I always find this part of the hunt a bit odd - mingling while on a horse is just strange! But it's usually friendly and lighthearted, without as much formality as a party, so I'm sure I'll enjoy it. And then we can get out into the crisp air and do some good riding.