[Unofficial Lore] Earth Pony Magic

[DerpRavener]

When looking at the three principle races of Equestria, one may be inclined to wonder what earth ponies bring to the table.  In the case of pegasi and unicorns their inherent abilities are blatantly obvious; the former are able to fly, walk on clouds, and manipulate the weather; the latter have telekinesis and the ability to cast spells with nothing but their own bodies; but what do earth ponies have?  They are often vaguely described as 'hardy' and 'in tune with nature', but what exactly is meant or implied by these statements is typically not entirely clear.  The truth, as is so often the case, is a little more complicated.

 

While unicorns' magic manifests almost exclusively externally, and pegasi manifestations split the difference between external and internal, earth pony magic is exclusively internally directed.  As such, it is not as easy to recognize.  There is little flashy about it, and it can be very difficult to separate earth pony magic from mere physical training, with enhancements to speed, strength or stamina being among the most common forms of earth pony magic.  This magic is typically more passive as well, either being in constant effect though more minor effect or occurring whenever it would be helpful, as opposed to the other two tribes who must perform spellcraft or specific physical actions to make use of their natural abilities.  Further and unlike the other tribes, the feats earth pony abilities are things ponies of other tribes could accomplish with enough training, although that training typically both comes easier and goes farther when done by an earth pony.

 

Athletics are not the only applications of earth pony magic.  Using their enhanced physical abilities they can achieve a degree of physical precision unmatched by typical members of the other tribes.  This is likely the source of their reputation as inventors, as well as their drive to overcome limitations.  They are both unable to fly or cast spells naturally, and in the best position to build devices which can overcome those difficulties.

 

They are also capable of a sort of hypersensitivity, and it is form this that they derive their renowned skill at raising plants.  While the claims that such abilities derive from earth ponies being 'more in tune with nature' are not entirely wrong, that in itself is a product of heightened awareness of the plants' states.  Note that these enhancements to awareness only extend to something's biological state, hence why earth ponies are typically no better than other races at assessing someone's mental state.  Still, this trait can be of big help in medical professions, alongside their capacity for plant husbandry.

 

- Excerpt from An Outsider's Guide to Equestria