Observations into ponies: By Midnight Starfallby Midnight StarfallChaptersIntroductionChapter 1: PegasiChapter 2: Earth PoniesChapter 3: UnicornsChapter 4: Military serviceChapter 5: Pony-sh racesIntroductionAuthor's Note I would like to say that this *is* my first story...so, I'm not saying be gentle...I'm just saying be constructive, only way I'll improve and god knows I need to improve. Introduction Any good writing deserves an introduction, even one that's meant to be educational...or informative, anyway, here goes. I am Midnight Starfall, unicorn, magical student and I guess that's it, hoping for a more extensive list of titles were you? Well, I guess "writer" can be added onto that, though it's more personal hobby. I'm writing this in the hopes to educate others about the various species of pony that live in our world, most of whom happen to be our neighbours...that and it's a good way to pass the time. I figure a good way to start would be some introduction to our great nation, Equestria...or a more personal introduction. Again, I am Midnight Starfall, I lived in Manehatten for some years before moving to Ponyville in order to continue my magical studies, before then I lived back in the older Earth pony lands, a small fact about Earth ponies, they are the race to have seen the most expansion of any so far discovered. One would think the title would belong to the Pegasus, their wings would give them a surefire advantage, but no, Earth ponies held sizeable territory before the three races merged at The First Hearthswarming, enough about them though, we're getting off track. I was born to a family of Earth ponies, my father a Unicorn, left early in my life, so I grew up in a family of Earth ponies, in a nation of Earth ponies...as an only child, yeah...you can see my problem. Give them credit though, my mother helped me get into the right schools to practise magic...though can probably already imagine the problems with that. Unicorns were quite the minority...therefore magic schools didn't have the funding they needed, not like in Equestria proper, this led to my slight resentment for the education system...and a cutie mark that I still haven't figured out...two falling stars, most agree it has something to do with magic, certainly hasn't helped though, learning magic even now is tough, though I've been told I have a natural affinity for it...funny world eh? Back to recent history, after a while of jobs that were more suited to Earth Ponies than Unicorns I decided it was time for change, so I jumped ship (almost literally) and headed off to Equestria's mainland, eventually settling in Manehatten...but as stated earlier that didn't last. I managed to get a stable job writing, but the monotony eventually got to me, to the point that my friends started noticing. Them being the helpful bunch they are, suggested I move get a change of scenery, pretty much all of them said to go to this nice quiet village near to Canterlot...a place called Ponyville. But oh, was it anything but quiet. Within a week of me moving there a thousand year banished dark force of evil returned and threatened the world with eternal night. Yes the day was saved...but it was bloody bad timing. Well...there, here's hoping with that you know me a little, that or you might get to know me as time goes on, I will be using memory recollection spells to add to certain sections, to help with accuracy and such, know that that's over with, lets get onto the rest shall we? Chapter 1: PegasiPegasi: The winged ponies...possibly the most different of the three base species. You're probably wondering why I'm starting with these instead of...say...Unicorns, which I have first hoof knowledge of, or Earth Ponies, which I literally grew up with. Well, to answer your question 1. I like a challenge sometimes 2. I don't know. Now, Pegasi are unique in two obvious ways, one being their famous wings, that allow them to sour high above the cloud barrier, above all of our heads...a feat that everypony dreams of doing, even the most skilled of Unicorns can't match the flight of the Pegasus. Some simply use their flight as a way to travel without getting hooves dirty, others enjoy pushing their limits, stunt flyers...one example being The Wonderbolts, world famous for being the best flyers in all of Equestria, though there is one who, according to Ponyville, is even faster... "Where is she?" I grumbled to myself, I'd searched town twice over today and my legs were starting to ache, you'd think the town weather manager would be easier to find, I was about to call it a day and head home when I heard a distant bang, looking around for the source I was relieved to find a streak of rainbow across the sky...and not another town threatening disaster. Hoping the streak would come closer to the ground I headed where I thought it might land in as fast a gallop as my hooves would take me. "Okay this must be where she came..." I grumbled again, my hope replaced with frustration, I was on the edge of Sweet Apple Acres, there the rainbow streak should've touched down...but there was no signs a Pegasus had even been there, not a single feather "Why hello there...can ah help you?" the voice came from out of nowhere, taking me off guard...and the accent was very...not Ponyville...turning to find the source I found an orange mare leaning up against the fence of the orchard, her orchard probably, a stetson hat planted firmly on top of her blonde haired head "I uh...well...maybe? You haven't seen a Pegasus around here have you?" I asked as calmly as I could "Ah can't say ah have...why?" she asked, tilting her head at me, her eyes analysing me carefully "I just want to ask her some questions...I'm doing a thing...a book on Pegasi..." I use my magic to open my saddlebag and pull the unfinished book out a little, before sliding it back in "Oh ah see...and ah know who you're lookin for...you'll probably find her nappin in the south orchard" she said, rolling her eyes and standing up tall...and she was pretty tall for a mare...I'd have to note that down later. "Oh um...thanks, oh I never got your name" I call after her "It's Applejack...and if memory serves I didn't get your name either" Applejack teased "Midnight Starfall, I'm kinda new around here so uh...yeah" "You want me to show you where to go don't you?" "It'd help" After following Applejack's directions...and her short tour of the farm, I eventually found myself in the south orchard, like the rest it was a mass of trees, all carefully planted in rows and columns...knowing that this is all harvested by just the two ponies left me almost in awe, I knew Earth ponies were tenacious, but this was a whole new level. Still...admiring Earth Pony workloads was impressive, it didn't help me find who I was looking for "Hello?" I called out, confident that The Apples wouldn't come calling "Anyone out here?" I called again, looking around for a hint of anything...it didn't help that each tree looked exactly the same...searching through each one would be futile, but I wasn't one to give up easy "Hello? I need to ask you some questions!" I yelled out at the top of my lungs, hoping for a response, when all I got was silence I slumped down to my haunches and sighed "Goddammit...why can't research be easy?" It was then that I heard a bang, one like before...but this time about ten metres away: and the rainbow streak blasted past me, throwing me onto my back and leaving me in a daze, I still noticed the sound of hovering wings just behind me...or above me...it was hard to tell. "Aww yeah...and that's why I'm the best flyer in Equestria" I looked up to see the cyan Pegasus alight on the ground to strike a pose, before she looked down at me, little concern in her eyes "Hey...are you alright buddy?" she asked, an eyebrow raised "I...I...um...yeah...I'm alright" I said, climbing to my feet, then steadying myself, it seemed getting blasted back makes one quite dizzy "I'm fine...don't worry, I uh...I've been looking for you" I say, still having trouble standing straight "Looking...for me?" she asks in confusion "I...oh right, I'm writing a book you see..." I open my bag and pull out the book, again sliding it back in "Oh, so you're an egghead" She chuckles "I...I'm not an egghead...I just do research" I retort "You're just like Twilight...well...you don't seem as bad, she doesn't really go out to do her searching" "Research" I correct her "Yeah, whatever, anyway, what do you wanna know?" She asks flying up and plucking a piece of off a cloud, before bringing it back down to the ground and preparing it like one would prepare a pillow, once satisfied she landed on it and took her time getting a comfortable position "Comfy?" I sigh with a raised eyebrow "Hey don't judge me, I always like getting comfy before ponies ask me things" "Okay then, I guess it'd be proper to introduce ourselves, I'm Midnight Starfall" I started, putting on as calm a tone as I could muster "Now you're sounding like Rarity" she snickered "Rainbow Dash...I'm surprised you didn't already know" Rainbow said, adjusting her sitting position a little "I'm pretty new here...so I guess I'm still getting to know everypony, now...tell me everything that you know about Pegasi For the sake of being informative, I'll summarise my little interview, mainly because Rainbow Dash wasn't the most helpful of subjects, while I did learn a great deal, it was broken up by her being...interesting. She did tell me a great deal about the Pegasus's second most obvious asset, their ability to manipulate the weather. Pegasi can interact with clouds just like anypony can interact with anything...to other ponies clouds might as well not exist, but to the Pegasus they are as solid as a comfy bed...it's no wonder why you rarely see them sleeping on the ground. Though this also means that Pegasi and by extension Cloudsdale (Which is also conveniently nearby to Ponyville) are responsible for controlling the weather, for supplying rain and snow...something vital to a healthy ecosystem and a prosperous Pony nation. Rainbow Dash also told me a great deal about the Wonderbolts...in between those facts she told me about how Pegasi bones are far lighter, some even hollow when compared to other ponies...she also let slip that Pegasi wings also represent their mood, what they're feeling...and it also doesn't take an expert to see that they use their wings to emphasise certain words when they speak...though I feel like a detailed analysis into Pegasi wings would need it's own set of research and papers...I'm also sure such a paper exists already... There were many things she didn't say however, whenever I brought up Pegasi mating rituals and breeding patterns she dodged the topic quite aggressively, here's hoping it's not a dodgy topic among ALL Pegasi and it's just her being shy, only time will tell, naturally. I made my way down the dirt path, this was taking me some way out of Ponyville and further towards The Everfree Forest, close enough that I was feeling fairly uncomfortable...though according to Twilight another Pegasus that I should talk to lives down here, here's hoping she's not pulling my leg. I let out a sigh of relief when I finally see the cottage "Finally" I say to myself, adjusting my saddlebag I continue onward, the dirt path now slowly becoming more worn, but a lot of the tracks didn't seem like hooves "Odd, well I guess this is near the forest, wildlife doesn't care what it walks on" I carry on over the carefully made bridge and up to the oak door, I take a deep breath then I knock three times, no answer...she isn't out is she? I knock three more times "Hello? Anyone in?" Why would she be out? 60% of these ponies lives is doing nothing...oh the joys of living in a rural area "Come on...answer the door" I say under my breath, before going to knock again. Before my hoof met the door though I hear the sound of unlocking, then the door creaked open slightly, a nervous looking set of eyes looking at me from the gap "I uh...hey I'm here to...I'm writing this paper you see..." This was more than awkward "I...I see..." said a voice so quiet that I could barely hear it "I...I'd like to ask you a couple of questions...I can come back another time if you're busy..." I say, turning a little to walk away "No no, it's fine..." said the voice in a hasty tone as the door opened up slowly, revealing a yellow Pegasus on the other side, trying to hide behind her hair. Strange to see a Pegasus out here "I'm Midnight Starfall...what's your name?" Nice, try to break the ice "I'm Fluttershy" she said, it was a little easier to hear her without a door in the way "P, please...come in" Fluttershy said, walking inside "Don't worry about the door" she said over her shoulder as I followed her in. The first thing I noticed about her house was the smell...Twilight had said she liked animals...but...she seemed to actively care for them within her home, a simple scent blocking spell solved that problem however "So, Fluttershy...looks like you enjoy caring for animals" I say, looking around the cottage, there were many hidey-holes for critters, mouse holes, bird houses...it was a wonder how she kept the place clean "Well I...I do what I can to take care of them...I mean, nopony else does...most of them are just treated like pests and don't get the care they need" Starts Fluttershy, a slight glimmer coming to her eyes as she speaks "Don't you think it's a little odd for a Pegasus to be so involved with animals though?" I ask "Well...sometimes, but I feel so at home with them, don't you think if you feel at home doing something, then it's what you should be doing?" She asks, ushering me to a comfy looking chair "You make a very good point" I say as I sit myself down "Either way it does seem odd you're the only one doing this...don't you get help?" I raise an eyebrow as she heads into the kitchen "Well, not from Ponies no, they seem pretty preoccupied with their day-to-day lives to care about all the wild animals...but I get plenty of help from the other critters...tea?" Fluttershy certainly seems to warm up when discussing her animals, a note for later "I'd love a cup...so...you live alone out here?" I lean back into the chair...I'm pretty sure I'd be able to fall asleep in this thing "Again, no ponies, but I'm never really alone with all the animals with me, then there's Angel" that's when I noticed the white bunny giving me a death glare from the other side of the house "I...I see...anyway, I was hoping I could discuss Pegasi with you...about my paper" I say as she walks in, a tray with two tea cups and a tea pot on, carefully balanced on her back, with her wings supporting it "Oh, allow me" I took the tray and it's contents with my magic and alighted it on the table "Thank you" Fluttershy said before sitting down opposite to me "So um...what would you like to know?" Thankfully Fluttershy was a little more forthcoming with information, even though she told me a lot of what Rainbow Dash had already said, she went a bit more in depth with certain facts, unlike Rainbow Dash...also unlike Rainbow Dash she didn't dodge my questions about Pagasus mating...as much...I'm still mostly in the dark about that, but she did say something about the gifting of the Pegasus's primary feather, as a sort of token of their affection, primary feathers in all feathered flying creatures being the most important for flight...it's easy to see the symbolism there. As for the other parts, I'm not certain I want to pry...while it'd be interesting to know the more I ask the more I feel like a bit of a pervert, even though this is in the name of science and education...it doesn't help that I keep asking mares...well...it's not my fault that 90% of the population seems to be female. Chapter 2: Earth PoniesEarth Ponies: The ones that do the hard work What to say about these? Well assuming you've gotten this far you already know I grew up in a household of Earth Ponies, I'd wager that doesn't count as the full experience, much like eating pie every day for ten years doesn't make you a baker, but I think I know my fair share. Earth Ponies are tough, determined and pretty goddamned plucky, I'd be confident saying that I've never seen an Earth Pony give up on a task, even when overworked...though some say stubbornness isn't a commendable trait, Earth Ponies seem to get by just fine. A fact about Earth Ponies that tends to get overlooked is that they are the most well travelled of any Pony species, beating Pegasi by quite a margin, though a lot of the outlying territories have largely been ignored, especially with the majority of the population migrating to Equestria's mainland, I had the pleasure of living in the old Earth Pony kingdoms, y'know grey, rainy...the kind of place only an Earth Pony would be comfortable living. It's where Earth Ponies originated from...kinda...well, the ones that settled into Equestria, the ones present at The First Hearthswarming, only problem being is that Old Kingdom Earth Ponies (I need a shorter name for that) can be pretty harsh...as high and mighty as a Canterlot Unicorn at worst and as irritating as a Manehatten Pony at best. Anyway, enough about personal history and back to the matter at hoof, biologically Earth Ponies lack the advantages that both Unicorns and Pegasi possess, wings and magic are always a boon...but they make up for that with a abnormal strength and endurance. Many tend to say that this is due to "Earth Pony Magic" I disagree, I simply believe that evolution made up for their shortcomings with physical power, or something like that. Unlike in the last chapter I never got the opportunity to interview the Earth Pony members of the "Mane Six" as the locals call them, Applejack due to her not having the time to spare and Pinkie Pie because...well...even though this is in the name of science and education...I'm dead set on avoiding her, especially after our informal introduction to each other. Let me tell you, there's something wrong with that Pony... "Okay...Ponyville..." I say, looking down at my hastily drawn set of notes letting me know what trains to get on and such, my friend really needed to work on her hoofwriting, or at least get a Unicorn to scribe for her. I take the handle of my suitcase in my magic and make my way off of the train, thankful that it wasn't too crowded "Hmph, sleepy town, why would the station be too crowded?" I think out loud as I start heading down the path "They could've put the railway closer to the town at least...well...Star Glider keeps saying I need to get more exercise" I grumble as I finally reach the edge of town. It doesn't take long before I notice the sheer diversity of the townsfolk, Unicorns, Earth Ponies and Pegasi, all living side by side...a far cry from Manehatten, where everyone kept to themselves, it really seems like everypony knows everypony else here, I was knocked out of my internal monologue by a... "Are you new here?" Asked the very bouncy, very pink pony before me "Well I uh...yeah, I just got off the train, wh-" I started "Ohmygosh that's great, I love new ponies, ohmygosh you need a welcome party!" She said, quickly interrupting me and bouncing around me, it was very hard to keep track of her "I...thanks for the offer, but parties aren't really my thing" I said, hoping to be diplomatic "That's just because you've never tried a Pinkie Pie party" The Pink Pony proclaimed as confetti exploded up from behind her...wait...where did that even come from? "I'm sure it's quite alright...thank you" I desperately try walking away but as I turn she's in front of me...wait...how did she...? "Oh come on, you'll have a great time...and you'll get to know everypony, I'm Pinkie Pie, well...I guess you already know that, but hey I've said it now, what's your name?" She kept speaking in this high pitch, hyper fast tone...was she high on sugar or something? "I'm uh...Midnight Starfall?" Everything about this situation was growing more and more uncomfortable...was it how overbearing she was? Her blatant disregard for the laws of physics? Or the fact that nopony was paying this any mind...was it normal here? "Huh, that's a pretty good name, not the name I would've thought of, but pretty good...now anyway I need to start party preparations!" Pinkie yelled excitedly, grabbing me up in her arms before speeding off down the street at impossible speeds, leaving me once again alone in the town centre. "I...um...where...what...what...just...happened?" It takes me a minute to get my bearings before I look myself over, my ivory coat was ruffled, but otherwise fine...my dark blue mane was in one piece...so, no lasting damage, at least physically. "Don't mind her" A female voice said from nearby, turning to find the source I found a florist attending her stall, arranging a bouquet of roses, I make my way over. "You know what that's all about?" I ask, being sure to check over my shoulder every so often "It's just Pinkie Pie being Pinkie, she ambushes all the new arrivals, throws welcoming parties...and every other kind of party...she's a character" The mare explained as she sorted through her stock "I'll say...think she'll mind if I try getting out of it?" I whisper, unsure if the reality bending pony could hear "I'm sure she'll mind for all of 5 minutes, she's a hard one to put down that one...say, what's your name?" Asked the mare, who started working on another bouquet...again roses "Midnight Starfall...you?" "Roseluck...just asking if you ever need any flowers y'know? Mares gotta earn bits somehow" She said with a chuckle "I hear you...anyway, which way to the mayors office? I've got paperwork to turn in" I smile, tugging on my saddlepack for emphasis "Just down that way" Said Roseluck, pointing with a hoof "You have a good day now" "You too...and thanks for the insight" I said, before turning and following her directions In some small conclusion, Earth ponies are potentially the most varied group of Ponies I've ever come across...some are hard working farmhands...others are candy fuelled party animals...but they're all damned hardy. Chapter 3: UnicornsUnicorns: The magical ones...well...the even more magical ones... As a Unicorn I feel like I've the most experience with these ponies, I mean, it's only natural no? I know what it feels like to pick something up with my mind, or horn at the very least, I can teleport from room to room if I wished, make items appear out of thin air...but enough needless bragging. Unicorns have always been the most advanced races, this is in no small part due to their magic, this allows them to perform tasks with absurd precision...or lift objects that are too heavy even for Earth Ponies. Though, Unicorns vary in power, mostly due to their cutie marks...a Unicorn who's special talent is gardening may be adept at telekinesis...but wouldn't be as good at wards or matter manipulation, whereas a soldier would naturally be better at combat magic. Sometimes there are those that rise above all others. Starswirl The Bearded being one such Pony...back before Celestia was in power, he raised and lowered the Sun, with the help of several other Unicorns. It was also rumoured that he'd created spells that allowed him to travel in time, he is also responsible for bestowing Celestia with her Alicorn powers, to this date there are no other such spells, or even spell casters, to match his power and potential. Just like the rest of the Mane Six, it turns our there are two Unicorns as well...which seems conveniently well balanced if you ask me...my group of friends included two Earth Ponies and a Pegasus...and that was it, then again fate, destiny and these "Elements of Harmony" may have played a large part (Note: Read up on The Elements of Harmony) "Okay, it's been a couple of days since the whole Nightmare Moon fiasco..." I stand just outside Golden Oak library, I've been hesitant to enter due to recent goings on, but today seemed like a quiet day. I raise my hoof and knock on the door. No answer. "Okay I know for a fact she's in there" I say under my breath, craning my neck towards a window before I hear activity behind the door, I quickly recompose myself as the door opens revealing...nopony, I look around, then down to see a purple baby dragon wiping sleep from his eyes. "Uh, hey what is it?" He asks groggily, I assume he's just gotten up..but it's 11am...on a Wednesday "Hey, I'm hoping to speak with the librarian?" I ask, glancing around the inside of the tree house, books were stacked all over the place in unorganised piles. "Librarian? Oh, you mean Twilight?" He asks, perking up a little "I don't know, she's kinda busy at the moment" How busy can a librarian in a sleepy town be? "Busy? How busy?" The dragon sighs then massages his temples "She's reorganising the library...again" "Again? She does this often?" I ask, tilting my head in surprise. She makes herself busy...great... "This is the third time today" The dragon says plainly "Spike? Who is it?" a voice calls from inside "Some stallion, he says he wants to talk to you or something" he replies, turning to face the voice without a face "Well let him in then" She says, impatiently. The dragon...Spike stands aside and I head inside. I haven't been in here since before the Nightmare Moon incident, back then it was an unorganised mess, it was a public library without a librarian...but now the place was actually populated, well, it still seemed like a mess...at least right now. I carefully navigate my way through the mess of books and scrolls, trying to find the Pony that lives here "So...you like reorganising eh?" I ask, almost kicking myself for asking such a dumb question "Well I have to, if anything is out of place everything falls apart, it's better to start over" The origin of the voice was revealed as three stacks of books were lifted in a aura of violet magic, revealing a purple Unicorn sitting at a table "Please, sit" she said, beckoning to the chair opposite to her, but not taking her eyes off of her books. I take a seat and glance around a little "So...I take it you're Twilight?" I ask, trying to get comfortable "Yep, Twilight Sparkle...hmm..." Twilight said, a little absent-mindedly as she held two books in front of her, seeming to have some trouble sorting them. "I'm Midnight Starfall...do you need a hoof at all?" "No no...I'm fine, besides you don't know my system and...wait Midnight Starfall?" She asks, setting the books down for a moment, I quickly nod "I think I've got one or two of your books in here..." Twilight says, looking over at the shelves in thought "Oh? Have you read them or...?" I ask, sitting up a little, eager to hear what she thought "I'm content in saying I've read most of the books in here" She says with a smile...wait...most of them? She works fast "As for your books...I don't know, they've kinda dropped in quality over time..." "That's great I-wait...what do you mean?" I'm not exactly insulted...yet at least "I don't know...it's just something about them that doesn't really grab my interest y'know?" She explains, still probably in a more analytical mindset now that I think about it. "I guess that's fair enough, I mean I've been falling off with my magical studies as well..." I sigh and look down at the oak wood floor "Magical studies? You're a magic student too?" Twilight asks, perking up a little "Well...I'm not worthy enough for Celestia's school of magic...but...yeah I guess" I manage a smile at least. "I mean, I'm still working on my magic studies...as well as my Friendship studies...but I guess I can give you some pointers, if you'd like that is..." I can tell she's getting excited...I can also see her trying to hide her taking notes from the other side of the room. It turns out that Twilight is some kind of magical prodigy...I'm almost a little jealous at how fast she's able to perform new spells that she hasn't seen before, when I attempt new spells more often than not I end up having to bootleg my own way of doing it, otherwise I have trouble casting it. Still, every Unicorn performs magic in their own way I suppose. It'd just be nice if it was a little easier sometimes. A lot of Unicorns were learned types, ones who preferred acquiring knowledge or power, sometimes both...the aforementioned Starswirl was one of these, it turned out Twilight was to...but Unicorns are just as varied as the other two species, they tend to be quite varied in what they enjoy doing and what they do for work. Upon reviewing the recollection spell for the towns local clothes designer, Rarity, I was a little disturbed to see exactly how long we'd been talking. Four hours. And in all that time the only useful thing that happened was that she took a lot of uncomfortable measurements, all necessary she says if I ever want something nice to wear...I've always found it strange how a clothes store like that, that sells designer clothes, can stay in business in a small town like Ponyville...another bit of weirdness in this strange town I suppose... Chapter 4: Military serviceOriginally I'd have put this throughout the other chapters...but I'd prefer it wasn't relegated to mere footnotes...especially as some races just don't have any representation in the Equestrian military for whatever reason. Starting from the very beginning, originally Equestria was personally defended by the Princesses Celestia and Luna...both wielding the Elements of Harmony thus making them neigh invincible god-like creatures with the power to level entire armies...or at least encase their foes in stone, this is all well and good until Luna became Nightmare Night and Celestia was forced to banish her to The Moon. For whatever reason Celestia deemed this the right time to start constructing an army to defend Equestria...the two most public branches being The Royal Guard, who are still in full service and The Wonderbolts, who while they are now more about stunt flying are technically still a military organisation...technically being used very broadly, of course. Going into a little more detail, The Royal Guard consists of both Unicorns and Pegasi, the latter making up the majority. Earth Ponies don't seem to have any real representation in The Royal Guard for reasons I cannot explain, their strength and stamina would surely be a valuable asset, but alas I do not recruit for them, nor am I in any position to push the idea. Going into more detail, The Pegasi of The Royal Guard generally handle air support, assaults and are usually the personal escorts of The Princess herself, as Unicorns cannot fly. Generally they're seen with longer bladed weapons, spears, pikes, that sort of thing, mainly because flying is hard enough without trying to use a more complex weapon, like a sword. As for The Unicorns they handle longer range fights with their magic, but they are good at telekinesis and suppression, perhaps the main reason they're kept close to the throne room as well as areas of interest, intruder? Just pick them up or pin them to the ground with magic. Another fancy thing they can do is manipulate weapons with their magic, like wielding swords (Yes, plural) another weapon Unicorns 'tend' to use are Enchanted Swords, they're very rare, but are more or less made for a unicorn and are imbued with various magical effects...as well as being plain larger than most swords around (I know The Captain of The Royal Guard has one, even though he doesn't openly display it...I'm sure of it) "Okay...okay...deep breaths..." I take a few deep breaths, feeling a little silly standing out in the middle of nowhere, with a spellbook, facing down a shoddily made bulls-eye. "Okay, remember what Twilight said, control, focus..." Twilight Sparkle had been giving me some lessons on the side whenever she wasn't saving Ponyville or driving herself insane...unfortunately I wasn't the best student and...not to disrespect her, she wasn't exactly an amazing teacher, her latest test was combat magic...a simple projectile spell, just like The Royal Guard uses. "Control...focus...hnfff..." I focus, aiming my horn towards the target as arcane energy sparks off wildly, before blasting off without warning, knocking me onto my haunches as I watch this out of control spell fizzle out and dissipate before it reaches the target. "Well...shit...okay, okay I followed the book to the letter..." I lift the spellbook to me, reading the same passage I've read over and over for what felt like the hundredth time, before rolling my eyes and slamming it shut "Fuck the book" I say confidently, getting back to my feet and setting the book down beside me "Lets try this..." I focus again, but this time not as intensely as the book instructed...and not drawing from the same place as before, I take a deep breath...and release. The spell doesn't fire at first, but when it does it jerks my head back, firing five arcane bolts up, before I think I failed they arc downwards, each one connecting with the bulls-eye, not with pinpoint accuracy, but enough to achieve devastating results. "Okay, I think I've figured that one out...lets move onto the next..." The only exception with The Royal Guard is the Night Watch, who were reestablished when Luna was reformed, these are exclusively Batponies who seem to operate in much the same way Pegasi do...my only observations are from a distance however as they're very secretive and usually short tempered, I only got thrown off of palace grounds three times, twice trying to ask questions and the third time I was sketching the battlements. On to Equestria's other "official" military organisation, The Wonderbolts. The modern Wonderbolts are stunt flyers, the most extreme stunts and manoeuvres, the fame, the fortune and everything between, but it wasn't always like this. The Wonderbolts have always been Equestria's best flyers, that has never changed, what has changed is the direction. They used to be a dedicated air force that were originally independent, dating back to the early years of Celestia and Luna's rule, they'd deal with the non-world ending issues before they became a real problem, ever vigilant, it wasn't until Celestia took a vested interest in building Equestria's military that The Wonderbolts were made official. Unfortunately the difference in result compared to The Royal Guard is staggering, The modern Wonderbolts are celebrities, not soldiers, they're dedicated sure, but many are brash, overconfident and more than a little narcissistic. You may be wondering why I haven't mentioned armies...prepped for invading or going on the offensive, that's because Equestria doesn't have them...we have forces for defence, for protecting our ponies, but not for offence, not for invasion and the like, that might be because there aren't really any hostile nations around us...that and us ponies don't tend to be the conquering type. Chapter 5: Pony-sh races"Observations into ponies" The running title, a pretty good one if I do say so myself but this chapter isn't exclusively about ponies, more about the other races we share our world and Equestria with, Griffons, Zebras and Dragons being very good examples. You might notice one thing, Griffons aren't ponies, I'm pretty sure they aren't even herbivores I mean what use would the talons and claws and sharp beaks be eh? Anyway, moving on. Griffons are a proud race who have a rich culture and history, as well as being fierce warriors...although their nation had come under hard times in recent years, it's still a nice place to visit though, wonderful holiday destination if you like the great outdoors and sand, plenty of high ground for fantastic views as well. Now less about the nation itself and more about the inhabitants, as said before they are a very proud race, though this can make them a little hard to communicate with, especially hard with diplomacy and Celestia has been trying for some time to no avail. I believe they simply prefer helping themselves and there's nothing wrong with that, it just doesn't mesh with the Equestrian ideal of helping those in need. Moving onto Zebras, they are a mysterious bunch...and I mean that. There are little to no texts on or from their kingdoms, if they even exist...and barely any accounts from actual Zebras. What we do have is speculation however. What we know is that they do speak in their own language (No known translation) and when they do speak in Equestrian common they seem to speak in rhyme...lets hope that isn't just for dramatic effect. They also seem to have their own version of Cutie marks, but they don't seem to be the same, more like markings applied to the body (Their meaning is unknown...expect to see that a lot in this paragraph) From the information available to us though it's clear despite how many physical similarities there are between Zebras and Ponies, Zebras don't have their own version of Pegasi, or Unicorns...if anything it seems like Ponies are the only race on the planet (So far) that have such distinct subspecies. Onto the Dragons...my my...the Dragons. These are pretty famous, everypony has heard of dragons, giant fire breathing reptiles, huge flying things with an appetite for destruction...that sort of thing, though that is a big misconception...except the part about being large reptiles, Dragons are easily the largest creatures around, but having met my fair share they only seem interested in gold or being awesome At least younger dragons do...there's a sort of shift in aspiration when they get to a certain age, can't quite tell when though, especially when dragons have such absurdly long lifespans... "And...how old was she when you hatched?" I ask, getting more comfortable on my pillow "Uh, she was a filly...it was some kinda test I think" Spike replied, I'd managed to catch him without anything to do, so I asked politely if I could interview him "Uh huh..." I quickly write down a few notes "...and Twilight is still what? 18? 20?" I ask, an eyebrow raised "I think so, that seems right I guess" He answers with a shrug "Okay...so why do you look so young then?" I furrow my brow, it didn't make much sense for him to be maturing this slowly...maybe it was due to his extended interaction with ponies? "Hey I'm not young! I'm just, a little short...uh, yeah!" Spike declares, standing up as tall as he can "Alright...calm down" I open my saddlepack and levitate over a few gemstones "If Twilight hears about this she'll kill me...or make me reorganise everything..." Another race I neglected making a dedicated chapter of are Crystal Ponies, they're almost identical to normal ponies in every way except that their coat is pure crystal...and they exclusively hail from The Crystal Empire...you'd recognise that if you were a history buff. A long time ago in The Frozen North there resided The Crystal Empire, it was an almost literal utopia, safe from the harsh winds. But as with all stories that start with happy, they end with sadness. A power hungry tyrant, a Unicorn called Sombra, proclaimed himself king and dominated the minds of his subjects with dark magic, those he didn't mind control he simply used as slaves, having them toil away under him...a senseless act of cruelty. It wasn't long before Celestia and Luna personally dealt with him...though in his defeat he took The Crystal Empire with him, leaving no trace of it's existence, not even hoofprints, if the stories are to be believed.
IntroductionAuthor's Note I would like to say that this *is* my first story...so, I'm not saying be gentle...I'm just saying be constructive, only way I'll improve and god knows I need to improve. Introduction Any good writing deserves an introduction, even one that's meant to be educational...or informative, anyway, here goes. I am Midnight Starfall, unicorn, magical student and I guess that's it, hoping for a more extensive list of titles were you? Well, I guess "writer" can be added onto that, though it's more personal hobby. I'm writing this in the hopes to educate others about the various species of pony that live in our world, most of whom happen to be our neighbours...that and it's a good way to pass the time. I figure a good way to start would be some introduction to our great nation, Equestria...or a more personal introduction. Again, I am Midnight Starfall, I lived in Manehatten for some years before moving to Ponyville in order to continue my magical studies, before then I lived back in the older Earth pony lands, a small fact about Earth ponies, they are the race to have seen the most expansion of any so far discovered. One would think the title would belong to the Pegasus, their wings would give them a surefire advantage, but no, Earth ponies held sizeable territory before the three races merged at The First Hearthswarming, enough about them though, we're getting off track. I was born to a family of Earth ponies, my father a Unicorn, left early in my life, so I grew up in a family of Earth ponies, in a nation of Earth ponies...as an only child, yeah...you can see my problem. Give them credit though, my mother helped me get into the right schools to practise magic...though can probably already imagine the problems with that. Unicorns were quite the minority...therefore magic schools didn't have the funding they needed, not like in Equestria proper, this led to my slight resentment for the education system...and a cutie mark that I still haven't figured out...two falling stars, most agree it has something to do with magic, certainly hasn't helped though, learning magic even now is tough, though I've been told I have a natural affinity for it...funny world eh? Back to recent history, after a while of jobs that were more suited to Earth Ponies than Unicorns I decided it was time for change, so I jumped ship (almost literally) and headed off to Equestria's mainland, eventually settling in Manehatten...but as stated earlier that didn't last. I managed to get a stable job writing, but the monotony eventually got to me, to the point that my friends started noticing. Them being the helpful bunch they are, suggested I move get a change of scenery, pretty much all of them said to go to this nice quiet village near to Canterlot...a place called Ponyville. But oh, was it anything but quiet. Within a week of me moving there a thousand year banished dark force of evil returned and threatened the world with eternal night. Yes the day was saved...but it was bloody bad timing. Well...there, here's hoping with that you know me a little, that or you might get to know me as time goes on, I will be using memory recollection spells to add to certain sections, to help with accuracy and such, know that that's over with, lets get onto the rest shall we?
Chapter 1: PegasiPegasi: The winged ponies...possibly the most different of the three base species. You're probably wondering why I'm starting with these instead of...say...Unicorns, which I have first hoof knowledge of, or Earth Ponies, which I literally grew up with. Well, to answer your question 1. I like a challenge sometimes 2. I don't know. Now, Pegasi are unique in two obvious ways, one being their famous wings, that allow them to sour high above the cloud barrier, above all of our heads...a feat that everypony dreams of doing, even the most skilled of Unicorns can't match the flight of the Pegasus. Some simply use their flight as a way to travel without getting hooves dirty, others enjoy pushing their limits, stunt flyers...one example being The Wonderbolts, world famous for being the best flyers in all of Equestria, though there is one who, according to Ponyville, is even faster... "Where is she?" I grumbled to myself, I'd searched town twice over today and my legs were starting to ache, you'd think the town weather manager would be easier to find, I was about to call it a day and head home when I heard a distant bang, looking around for the source I was relieved to find a streak of rainbow across the sky...and not another town threatening disaster. Hoping the streak would come closer to the ground I headed where I thought it might land in as fast a gallop as my hooves would take me. "Okay this must be where she came..." I grumbled again, my hope replaced with frustration, I was on the edge of Sweet Apple Acres, there the rainbow streak should've touched down...but there was no signs a Pegasus had even been there, not a single feather "Why hello there...can ah help you?" the voice came from out of nowhere, taking me off guard...and the accent was very...not Ponyville...turning to find the source I found an orange mare leaning up against the fence of the orchard, her orchard probably, a stetson hat planted firmly on top of her blonde haired head "I uh...well...maybe? You haven't seen a Pegasus around here have you?" I asked as calmly as I could "Ah can't say ah have...why?" she asked, tilting her head at me, her eyes analysing me carefully "I just want to ask her some questions...I'm doing a thing...a book on Pegasi..." I use my magic to open my saddlebag and pull the unfinished book out a little, before sliding it back in "Oh ah see...and ah know who you're lookin for...you'll probably find her nappin in the south orchard" she said, rolling her eyes and standing up tall...and she was pretty tall for a mare...I'd have to note that down later. "Oh um...thanks, oh I never got your name" I call after her "It's Applejack...and if memory serves I didn't get your name either" Applejack teased "Midnight Starfall, I'm kinda new around here so uh...yeah" "You want me to show you where to go don't you?" "It'd help" After following Applejack's directions...and her short tour of the farm, I eventually found myself in the south orchard, like the rest it was a mass of trees, all carefully planted in rows and columns...knowing that this is all harvested by just the two ponies left me almost in awe, I knew Earth ponies were tenacious, but this was a whole new level. Still...admiring Earth Pony workloads was impressive, it didn't help me find who I was looking for "Hello?" I called out, confident that The Apples wouldn't come calling "Anyone out here?" I called again, looking around for a hint of anything...it didn't help that each tree looked exactly the same...searching through each one would be futile, but I wasn't one to give up easy "Hello? I need to ask you some questions!" I yelled out at the top of my lungs, hoping for a response, when all I got was silence I slumped down to my haunches and sighed "Goddammit...why can't research be easy?" It was then that I heard a bang, one like before...but this time about ten metres away: and the rainbow streak blasted past me, throwing me onto my back and leaving me in a daze, I still noticed the sound of hovering wings just behind me...or above me...it was hard to tell. "Aww yeah...and that's why I'm the best flyer in Equestria" I looked up to see the cyan Pegasus alight on the ground to strike a pose, before she looked down at me, little concern in her eyes "Hey...are you alright buddy?" she asked, an eyebrow raised "I...I...um...yeah...I'm alright" I said, climbing to my feet, then steadying myself, it seemed getting blasted back makes one quite dizzy "I'm fine...don't worry, I uh...I've been looking for you" I say, still having trouble standing straight "Looking...for me?" she asks in confusion "I...oh right, I'm writing a book you see..." I open my bag and pull out the book, again sliding it back in "Oh, so you're an egghead" She chuckles "I...I'm not an egghead...I just do research" I retort "You're just like Twilight...well...you don't seem as bad, she doesn't really go out to do her searching" "Research" I correct her "Yeah, whatever, anyway, what do you wanna know?" She asks flying up and plucking a piece of off a cloud, before bringing it back down to the ground and preparing it like one would prepare a pillow, once satisfied she landed on it and took her time getting a comfortable position "Comfy?" I sigh with a raised eyebrow "Hey don't judge me, I always like getting comfy before ponies ask me things" "Okay then, I guess it'd be proper to introduce ourselves, I'm Midnight Starfall" I started, putting on as calm a tone as I could muster "Now you're sounding like Rarity" she snickered "Rainbow Dash...I'm surprised you didn't already know" Rainbow said, adjusting her sitting position a little "I'm pretty new here...so I guess I'm still getting to know everypony, now...tell me everything that you know about Pegasi For the sake of being informative, I'll summarise my little interview, mainly because Rainbow Dash wasn't the most helpful of subjects, while I did learn a great deal, it was broken up by her being...interesting. She did tell me a great deal about the Pegasus's second most obvious asset, their ability to manipulate the weather. Pegasi can interact with clouds just like anypony can interact with anything...to other ponies clouds might as well not exist, but to the Pegasus they are as solid as a comfy bed...it's no wonder why you rarely see them sleeping on the ground. Though this also means that Pegasi and by extension Cloudsdale (Which is also conveniently nearby to Ponyville) are responsible for controlling the weather, for supplying rain and snow...something vital to a healthy ecosystem and a prosperous Pony nation. Rainbow Dash also told me a great deal about the Wonderbolts...in between those facts she told me about how Pegasi bones are far lighter, some even hollow when compared to other ponies...she also let slip that Pegasi wings also represent their mood, what they're feeling...and it also doesn't take an expert to see that they use their wings to emphasise certain words when they speak...though I feel like a detailed analysis into Pegasi wings would need it's own set of research and papers...I'm also sure such a paper exists already... There were many things she didn't say however, whenever I brought up Pegasi mating rituals and breeding patterns she dodged the topic quite aggressively, here's hoping it's not a dodgy topic among ALL Pegasi and it's just her being shy, only time will tell, naturally. I made my way down the dirt path, this was taking me some way out of Ponyville and further towards The Everfree Forest, close enough that I was feeling fairly uncomfortable...though according to Twilight another Pegasus that I should talk to lives down here, here's hoping she's not pulling my leg. I let out a sigh of relief when I finally see the cottage "Finally" I say to myself, adjusting my saddlebag I continue onward, the dirt path now slowly becoming more worn, but a lot of the tracks didn't seem like hooves "Odd, well I guess this is near the forest, wildlife doesn't care what it walks on" I carry on over the carefully made bridge and up to the oak door, I take a deep breath then I knock three times, no answer...she isn't out is she? I knock three more times "Hello? Anyone in?" Why would she be out? 60% of these ponies lives is doing nothing...oh the joys of living in a rural area "Come on...answer the door" I say under my breath, before going to knock again. Before my hoof met the door though I hear the sound of unlocking, then the door creaked open slightly, a nervous looking set of eyes looking at me from the gap "I uh...hey I'm here to...I'm writing this paper you see..." This was more than awkward "I...I see..." said a voice so quiet that I could barely hear it "I...I'd like to ask you a couple of questions...I can come back another time if you're busy..." I say, turning a little to walk away "No no, it's fine..." said the voice in a hasty tone as the door opened up slowly, revealing a yellow Pegasus on the other side, trying to hide behind her hair. Strange to see a Pegasus out here "I'm Midnight Starfall...what's your name?" Nice, try to break the ice "I'm Fluttershy" she said, it was a little easier to hear her without a door in the way "P, please...come in" Fluttershy said, walking inside "Don't worry about the door" she said over her shoulder as I followed her in. The first thing I noticed about her house was the smell...Twilight had said she liked animals...but...she seemed to actively care for them within her home, a simple scent blocking spell solved that problem however "So, Fluttershy...looks like you enjoy caring for animals" I say, looking around the cottage, there were many hidey-holes for critters, mouse holes, bird houses...it was a wonder how she kept the place clean "Well I...I do what I can to take care of them...I mean, nopony else does...most of them are just treated like pests and don't get the care they need" Starts Fluttershy, a slight glimmer coming to her eyes as she speaks "Don't you think it's a little odd for a Pegasus to be so involved with animals though?" I ask "Well...sometimes, but I feel so at home with them, don't you think if you feel at home doing something, then it's what you should be doing?" She asks, ushering me to a comfy looking chair "You make a very good point" I say as I sit myself down "Either way it does seem odd you're the only one doing this...don't you get help?" I raise an eyebrow as she heads into the kitchen "Well, not from Ponies no, they seem pretty preoccupied with their day-to-day lives to care about all the wild animals...but I get plenty of help from the other critters...tea?" Fluttershy certainly seems to warm up when discussing her animals, a note for later "I'd love a cup...so...you live alone out here?" I lean back into the chair...I'm pretty sure I'd be able to fall asleep in this thing "Again, no ponies, but I'm never really alone with all the animals with me, then there's Angel" that's when I noticed the white bunny giving me a death glare from the other side of the house "I...I see...anyway, I was hoping I could discuss Pegasi with you...about my paper" I say as she walks in, a tray with two tea cups and a tea pot on, carefully balanced on her back, with her wings supporting it "Oh, allow me" I took the tray and it's contents with my magic and alighted it on the table "Thank you" Fluttershy said before sitting down opposite to me "So um...what would you like to know?" Thankfully Fluttershy was a little more forthcoming with information, even though she told me a lot of what Rainbow Dash had already said, she went a bit more in depth with certain facts, unlike Rainbow Dash...also unlike Rainbow Dash she didn't dodge my questions about Pagasus mating...as much...I'm still mostly in the dark about that, but she did say something about the gifting of the Pegasus's primary feather, as a sort of token of their affection, primary feathers in all feathered flying creatures being the most important for flight...it's easy to see the symbolism there. As for the other parts, I'm not certain I want to pry...while it'd be interesting to know the more I ask the more I feel like a bit of a pervert, even though this is in the name of science and education...it doesn't help that I keep asking mares...well...it's not my fault that 90% of the population seems to be female.
Chapter 2: Earth PoniesEarth Ponies: The ones that do the hard work What to say about these? Well assuming you've gotten this far you already know I grew up in a household of Earth Ponies, I'd wager that doesn't count as the full experience, much like eating pie every day for ten years doesn't make you a baker, but I think I know my fair share. Earth Ponies are tough, determined and pretty goddamned plucky, I'd be confident saying that I've never seen an Earth Pony give up on a task, even when overworked...though some say stubbornness isn't a commendable trait, Earth Ponies seem to get by just fine. A fact about Earth Ponies that tends to get overlooked is that they are the most well travelled of any Pony species, beating Pegasi by quite a margin, though a lot of the outlying territories have largely been ignored, especially with the majority of the population migrating to Equestria's mainland, I had the pleasure of living in the old Earth Pony kingdoms, y'know grey, rainy...the kind of place only an Earth Pony would be comfortable living. It's where Earth Ponies originated from...kinda...well, the ones that settled into Equestria, the ones present at The First Hearthswarming, only problem being is that Old Kingdom Earth Ponies (I need a shorter name for that) can be pretty harsh...as high and mighty as a Canterlot Unicorn at worst and as irritating as a Manehatten Pony at best. Anyway, enough about personal history and back to the matter at hoof, biologically Earth Ponies lack the advantages that both Unicorns and Pegasi possess, wings and magic are always a boon...but they make up for that with a abnormal strength and endurance. Many tend to say that this is due to "Earth Pony Magic" I disagree, I simply believe that evolution made up for their shortcomings with physical power, or something like that. Unlike in the last chapter I never got the opportunity to interview the Earth Pony members of the "Mane Six" as the locals call them, Applejack due to her not having the time to spare and Pinkie Pie because...well...even though this is in the name of science and education...I'm dead set on avoiding her, especially after our informal introduction to each other. Let me tell you, there's something wrong with that Pony... "Okay...Ponyville..." I say, looking down at my hastily drawn set of notes letting me know what trains to get on and such, my friend really needed to work on her hoofwriting, or at least get a Unicorn to scribe for her. I take the handle of my suitcase in my magic and make my way off of the train, thankful that it wasn't too crowded "Hmph, sleepy town, why would the station be too crowded?" I think out loud as I start heading down the path "They could've put the railway closer to the town at least...well...Star Glider keeps saying I need to get more exercise" I grumble as I finally reach the edge of town. It doesn't take long before I notice the sheer diversity of the townsfolk, Unicorns, Earth Ponies and Pegasi, all living side by side...a far cry from Manehatten, where everyone kept to themselves, it really seems like everypony knows everypony else here, I was knocked out of my internal monologue by a... "Are you new here?" Asked the very bouncy, very pink pony before me "Well I uh...yeah, I just got off the train, wh-" I started "Ohmygosh that's great, I love new ponies, ohmygosh you need a welcome party!" She said, quickly interrupting me and bouncing around me, it was very hard to keep track of her "I...thanks for the offer, but parties aren't really my thing" I said, hoping to be diplomatic "That's just because you've never tried a Pinkie Pie party" The Pink Pony proclaimed as confetti exploded up from behind her...wait...where did that even come from? "I'm sure it's quite alright...thank you" I desperately try walking away but as I turn she's in front of me...wait...how did she...? "Oh come on, you'll have a great time...and you'll get to know everypony, I'm Pinkie Pie, well...I guess you already know that, but hey I've said it now, what's your name?" She kept speaking in this high pitch, hyper fast tone...was she high on sugar or something? "I'm uh...Midnight Starfall?" Everything about this situation was growing more and more uncomfortable...was it how overbearing she was? Her blatant disregard for the laws of physics? Or the fact that nopony was paying this any mind...was it normal here? "Huh, that's a pretty good name, not the name I would've thought of, but pretty good...now anyway I need to start party preparations!" Pinkie yelled excitedly, grabbing me up in her arms before speeding off down the street at impossible speeds, leaving me once again alone in the town centre. "I...um...where...what...what...just...happened?" It takes me a minute to get my bearings before I look myself over, my ivory coat was ruffled, but otherwise fine...my dark blue mane was in one piece...so, no lasting damage, at least physically. "Don't mind her" A female voice said from nearby, turning to find the source I found a florist attending her stall, arranging a bouquet of roses, I make my way over. "You know what that's all about?" I ask, being sure to check over my shoulder every so often "It's just Pinkie Pie being Pinkie, she ambushes all the new arrivals, throws welcoming parties...and every other kind of party...she's a character" The mare explained as she sorted through her stock "I'll say...think she'll mind if I try getting out of it?" I whisper, unsure if the reality bending pony could hear "I'm sure she'll mind for all of 5 minutes, she's a hard one to put down that one...say, what's your name?" Asked the mare, who started working on another bouquet...again roses "Midnight Starfall...you?" "Roseluck...just asking if you ever need any flowers y'know? Mares gotta earn bits somehow" She said with a chuckle "I hear you...anyway, which way to the mayors office? I've got paperwork to turn in" I smile, tugging on my saddlepack for emphasis "Just down that way" Said Roseluck, pointing with a hoof "You have a good day now" "You too...and thanks for the insight" I said, before turning and following her directions In some small conclusion, Earth ponies are potentially the most varied group of Ponies I've ever come across...some are hard working farmhands...others are candy fuelled party animals...but they're all damned hardy.
Chapter 3: UnicornsUnicorns: The magical ones...well...the even more magical ones... As a Unicorn I feel like I've the most experience with these ponies, I mean, it's only natural no? I know what it feels like to pick something up with my mind, or horn at the very least, I can teleport from room to room if I wished, make items appear out of thin air...but enough needless bragging. Unicorns have always been the most advanced races, this is in no small part due to their magic, this allows them to perform tasks with absurd precision...or lift objects that are too heavy even for Earth Ponies. Though, Unicorns vary in power, mostly due to their cutie marks...a Unicorn who's special talent is gardening may be adept at telekinesis...but wouldn't be as good at wards or matter manipulation, whereas a soldier would naturally be better at combat magic. Sometimes there are those that rise above all others. Starswirl The Bearded being one such Pony...back before Celestia was in power, he raised and lowered the Sun, with the help of several other Unicorns. It was also rumoured that he'd created spells that allowed him to travel in time, he is also responsible for bestowing Celestia with her Alicorn powers, to this date there are no other such spells, or even spell casters, to match his power and potential. Just like the rest of the Mane Six, it turns our there are two Unicorns as well...which seems conveniently well balanced if you ask me...my group of friends included two Earth Ponies and a Pegasus...and that was it, then again fate, destiny and these "Elements of Harmony" may have played a large part (Note: Read up on The Elements of Harmony) "Okay, it's been a couple of days since the whole Nightmare Moon fiasco..." I stand just outside Golden Oak library, I've been hesitant to enter due to recent goings on, but today seemed like a quiet day. I raise my hoof and knock on the door. No answer. "Okay I know for a fact she's in there" I say under my breath, craning my neck towards a window before I hear activity behind the door, I quickly recompose myself as the door opens revealing...nopony, I look around, then down to see a purple baby dragon wiping sleep from his eyes. "Uh, hey what is it?" He asks groggily, I assume he's just gotten up..but it's 11am...on a Wednesday "Hey, I'm hoping to speak with the librarian?" I ask, glancing around the inside of the tree house, books were stacked all over the place in unorganised piles. "Librarian? Oh, you mean Twilight?" He asks, perking up a little "I don't know, she's kinda busy at the moment" How busy can a librarian in a sleepy town be? "Busy? How busy?" The dragon sighs then massages his temples "She's reorganising the library...again" "Again? She does this often?" I ask, tilting my head in surprise. She makes herself busy...great... "This is the third time today" The dragon says plainly "Spike? Who is it?" a voice calls from inside "Some stallion, he says he wants to talk to you or something" he replies, turning to face the voice without a face "Well let him in then" She says, impatiently. The dragon...Spike stands aside and I head inside. I haven't been in here since before the Nightmare Moon incident, back then it was an unorganised mess, it was a public library without a librarian...but now the place was actually populated, well, it still seemed like a mess...at least right now. I carefully navigate my way through the mess of books and scrolls, trying to find the Pony that lives here "So...you like reorganising eh?" I ask, almost kicking myself for asking such a dumb question "Well I have to, if anything is out of place everything falls apart, it's better to start over" The origin of the voice was revealed as three stacks of books were lifted in a aura of violet magic, revealing a purple Unicorn sitting at a table "Please, sit" she said, beckoning to the chair opposite to her, but not taking her eyes off of her books. I take a seat and glance around a little "So...I take it you're Twilight?" I ask, trying to get comfortable "Yep, Twilight Sparkle...hmm..." Twilight said, a little absent-mindedly as she held two books in front of her, seeming to have some trouble sorting them. "I'm Midnight Starfall...do you need a hoof at all?" "No no...I'm fine, besides you don't know my system and...wait Midnight Starfall?" She asks, setting the books down for a moment, I quickly nod "I think I've got one or two of your books in here..." Twilight says, looking over at the shelves in thought "Oh? Have you read them or...?" I ask, sitting up a little, eager to hear what she thought "I'm content in saying I've read most of the books in here" She says with a smile...wait...most of them? She works fast "As for your books...I don't know, they've kinda dropped in quality over time..." "That's great I-wait...what do you mean?" I'm not exactly insulted...yet at least "I don't know...it's just something about them that doesn't really grab my interest y'know?" She explains, still probably in a more analytical mindset now that I think about it. "I guess that's fair enough, I mean I've been falling off with my magical studies as well..." I sigh and look down at the oak wood floor "Magical studies? You're a magic student too?" Twilight asks, perking up a little "Well...I'm not worthy enough for Celestia's school of magic...but...yeah I guess" I manage a smile at least. "I mean, I'm still working on my magic studies...as well as my Friendship studies...but I guess I can give you some pointers, if you'd like that is..." I can tell she's getting excited...I can also see her trying to hide her taking notes from the other side of the room. It turns out that Twilight is some kind of magical prodigy...I'm almost a little jealous at how fast she's able to perform new spells that she hasn't seen before, when I attempt new spells more often than not I end up having to bootleg my own way of doing it, otherwise I have trouble casting it. Still, every Unicorn performs magic in their own way I suppose. It'd just be nice if it was a little easier sometimes. A lot of Unicorns were learned types, ones who preferred acquiring knowledge or power, sometimes both...the aforementioned Starswirl was one of these, it turned out Twilight was to...but Unicorns are just as varied as the other two species, they tend to be quite varied in what they enjoy doing and what they do for work. Upon reviewing the recollection spell for the towns local clothes designer, Rarity, I was a little disturbed to see exactly how long we'd been talking. Four hours. And in all that time the only useful thing that happened was that she took a lot of uncomfortable measurements, all necessary she says if I ever want something nice to wear...I've always found it strange how a clothes store like that, that sells designer clothes, can stay in business in a small town like Ponyville...another bit of weirdness in this strange town I suppose...
Chapter 4: Military serviceOriginally I'd have put this throughout the other chapters...but I'd prefer it wasn't relegated to mere footnotes...especially as some races just don't have any representation in the Equestrian military for whatever reason. Starting from the very beginning, originally Equestria was personally defended by the Princesses Celestia and Luna...both wielding the Elements of Harmony thus making them neigh invincible god-like creatures with the power to level entire armies...or at least encase their foes in stone, this is all well and good until Luna became Nightmare Night and Celestia was forced to banish her to The Moon. For whatever reason Celestia deemed this the right time to start constructing an army to defend Equestria...the two most public branches being The Royal Guard, who are still in full service and The Wonderbolts, who while they are now more about stunt flying are technically still a military organisation...technically being used very broadly, of course. Going into a little more detail, The Royal Guard consists of both Unicorns and Pegasi, the latter making up the majority. Earth Ponies don't seem to have any real representation in The Royal Guard for reasons I cannot explain, their strength and stamina would surely be a valuable asset, but alas I do not recruit for them, nor am I in any position to push the idea. Going into more detail, The Pegasi of The Royal Guard generally handle air support, assaults and are usually the personal escorts of The Princess herself, as Unicorns cannot fly. Generally they're seen with longer bladed weapons, spears, pikes, that sort of thing, mainly because flying is hard enough without trying to use a more complex weapon, like a sword. As for The Unicorns they handle longer range fights with their magic, but they are good at telekinesis and suppression, perhaps the main reason they're kept close to the throne room as well as areas of interest, intruder? Just pick them up or pin them to the ground with magic. Another fancy thing they can do is manipulate weapons with their magic, like wielding swords (Yes, plural) another weapon Unicorns 'tend' to use are Enchanted Swords, they're very rare, but are more or less made for a unicorn and are imbued with various magical effects...as well as being plain larger than most swords around (I know The Captain of The Royal Guard has one, even though he doesn't openly display it...I'm sure of it) "Okay...okay...deep breaths..." I take a few deep breaths, feeling a little silly standing out in the middle of nowhere, with a spellbook, facing down a shoddily made bulls-eye. "Okay, remember what Twilight said, control, focus..." Twilight Sparkle had been giving me some lessons on the side whenever she wasn't saving Ponyville or driving herself insane...unfortunately I wasn't the best student and...not to disrespect her, she wasn't exactly an amazing teacher, her latest test was combat magic...a simple projectile spell, just like The Royal Guard uses. "Control...focus...hnfff..." I focus, aiming my horn towards the target as arcane energy sparks off wildly, before blasting off without warning, knocking me onto my haunches as I watch this out of control spell fizzle out and dissipate before it reaches the target. "Well...shit...okay, okay I followed the book to the letter..." I lift the spellbook to me, reading the same passage I've read over and over for what felt like the hundredth time, before rolling my eyes and slamming it shut "Fuck the book" I say confidently, getting back to my feet and setting the book down beside me "Lets try this..." I focus again, but this time not as intensely as the book instructed...and not drawing from the same place as before, I take a deep breath...and release. The spell doesn't fire at first, but when it does it jerks my head back, firing five arcane bolts up, before I think I failed they arc downwards, each one connecting with the bulls-eye, not with pinpoint accuracy, but enough to achieve devastating results. "Okay, I think I've figured that one out...lets move onto the next..." The only exception with The Royal Guard is the Night Watch, who were reestablished when Luna was reformed, these are exclusively Batponies who seem to operate in much the same way Pegasi do...my only observations are from a distance however as they're very secretive and usually short tempered, I only got thrown off of palace grounds three times, twice trying to ask questions and the third time I was sketching the battlements. On to Equestria's other "official" military organisation, The Wonderbolts. The modern Wonderbolts are stunt flyers, the most extreme stunts and manoeuvres, the fame, the fortune and everything between, but it wasn't always like this. The Wonderbolts have always been Equestria's best flyers, that has never changed, what has changed is the direction. They used to be a dedicated air force that were originally independent, dating back to the early years of Celestia and Luna's rule, they'd deal with the non-world ending issues before they became a real problem, ever vigilant, it wasn't until Celestia took a vested interest in building Equestria's military that The Wonderbolts were made official. Unfortunately the difference in result compared to The Royal Guard is staggering, The modern Wonderbolts are celebrities, not soldiers, they're dedicated sure, but many are brash, overconfident and more than a little narcissistic. You may be wondering why I haven't mentioned armies...prepped for invading or going on the offensive, that's because Equestria doesn't have them...we have forces for defence, for protecting our ponies, but not for offence, not for invasion and the like, that might be because there aren't really any hostile nations around us...that and us ponies don't tend to be the conquering type.
Chapter 5: Pony-sh races"Observations into ponies" The running title, a pretty good one if I do say so myself but this chapter isn't exclusively about ponies, more about the other races we share our world and Equestria with, Griffons, Zebras and Dragons being very good examples. You might notice one thing, Griffons aren't ponies, I'm pretty sure they aren't even herbivores I mean what use would the talons and claws and sharp beaks be eh? Anyway, moving on. Griffons are a proud race who have a rich culture and history, as well as being fierce warriors...although their nation had come under hard times in recent years, it's still a nice place to visit though, wonderful holiday destination if you like the great outdoors and sand, plenty of high ground for fantastic views as well. Now less about the nation itself and more about the inhabitants, as said before they are a very proud race, though this can make them a little hard to communicate with, especially hard with diplomacy and Celestia has been trying for some time to no avail. I believe they simply prefer helping themselves and there's nothing wrong with that, it just doesn't mesh with the Equestrian ideal of helping those in need. Moving onto Zebras, they are a mysterious bunch...and I mean that. There are little to no texts on or from their kingdoms, if they even exist...and barely any accounts from actual Zebras. What we do have is speculation however. What we know is that they do speak in their own language (No known translation) and when they do speak in Equestrian common they seem to speak in rhyme...lets hope that isn't just for dramatic effect. They also seem to have their own version of Cutie marks, but they don't seem to be the same, more like markings applied to the body (Their meaning is unknown...expect to see that a lot in this paragraph) From the information available to us though it's clear despite how many physical similarities there are between Zebras and Ponies, Zebras don't have their own version of Pegasi, or Unicorns...if anything it seems like Ponies are the only race on the planet (So far) that have such distinct subspecies. Onto the Dragons...my my...the Dragons. These are pretty famous, everypony has heard of dragons, giant fire breathing reptiles, huge flying things with an appetite for destruction...that sort of thing, though that is a big misconception...except the part about being large reptiles, Dragons are easily the largest creatures around, but having met my fair share they only seem interested in gold or being awesome At least younger dragons do...there's a sort of shift in aspiration when they get to a certain age, can't quite tell when though, especially when dragons have such absurdly long lifespans... "And...how old was she when you hatched?" I ask, getting more comfortable on my pillow "Uh, she was a filly...it was some kinda test I think" Spike replied, I'd managed to catch him without anything to do, so I asked politely if I could interview him "Uh huh..." I quickly write down a few notes "...and Twilight is still what? 18? 20?" I ask, an eyebrow raised "I think so, that seems right I guess" He answers with a shrug "Okay...so why do you look so young then?" I furrow my brow, it didn't make much sense for him to be maturing this slowly...maybe it was due to his extended interaction with ponies? "Hey I'm not young! I'm just, a little short...uh, yeah!" Spike declares, standing up as tall as he can "Alright...calm down" I open my saddlepack and levitate over a few gemstones "If Twilight hears about this she'll kill me...or make me reorganise everything..." Another race I neglected making a dedicated chapter of are Crystal Ponies, they're almost identical to normal ponies in every way except that their coat is pure crystal...and they exclusively hail from The Crystal Empire...you'd recognise that if you were a history buff. A long time ago in The Frozen North there resided The Crystal Empire, it was an almost literal utopia, safe from the harsh winds. But as with all stories that start with happy, they end with sadness. A power hungry tyrant, a Unicorn called Sombra, proclaimed himself king and dominated the minds of his subjects with dark magic, those he didn't mind control he simply used as slaves, having them toil away under him...a senseless act of cruelty. It wasn't long before Celestia and Luna personally dealt with him...though in his defeat he took The Crystal Empire with him, leaving no trace of it's existence, not even hoofprints, if the stories are to be believed.
