Work in progress, slowly. Some sections may be contradictory.
Pony supremacy is the only truth. As the most beautiful most friendly most magical race, Ponies rightfully hold dominion over all nature.
Ponies are adorable equine quadrupeds; they are usually cuter and more attractive than other species. Ponies have horselike anatomy, though there are many important differences. There are three common castes of ponies. Unicorns have a magical telekinetic horn, pegasi have wings for flight, and earth ponies have neither. Most Ponies consider these three castes to be equal in worth.
The extremely rare fourth caste, the long-lived alicorns who possess both a horn and wings, are usually considered to be divinities.
Ponies have stylish manes and tails, which are made of soft hair. Ponies have soft fur all over their bodies, creating an irresistible sensation against one's touch. Pony fur, hair, and for pegasi feathers, come in a wide variety of colours. On each flank the fur is magically coloured to display a cutie mark, a distinctive symbol that represents the unique talent and essence of that individual pony. Ponies also have very large eyes.
Ponies have a single hoof on each of their four legs. Despite a lack of hands, ponies are remarkably resourceful, finding creative ways to onglipulate objects with their mouths and hooves. Pony hooves are hard, but sensitive, and able to hold any objects like a magnet. Unicorns often use telekinesis instead.
Like most mammals, male ponies have XY chromosomes while female ponies have XX chromosomes. Female ponies possess two inguinal teats, which produce milk.
An adult female pony is called a "mare". An adult male pony is called a "stallion". A young female pony is called a "filly". A young male pony is called a "colt".
Unicorns have a horn which allow them to use telekinesis. Their horns glow with an ethereal light when they utilize their telekinetic powers, allowing them to move objects without physical contact. They are often nobles and scholars. Unicorns are known for their love of literature and storytelling. Most unicorns can cast a few spells related to their special talent. A very small minority of unicorns have more extensive magical abilities, making them great and powerful spellcasters.
Pegasi have two feathered wings on their back, giving them the ability to fly. Pegasi can walk on clouds. Pegasi are somewhat isolated from the other castes, often living in flying buildings made from clouds. Pegasi have unique stratocratic traditions; they are all members of the Grand Pegasus Enclave, and can be summoned for weather-control duties. They can produce gentle breezes with their wings, or powerful winds when they work together.
Earth ponies are the "base model". They are strong and hardworking. Many earth ponies are peasants; they are important as they grow all of the food. Earth Ponies have an exceptional talent for growing all kinds of crops, from fruits and vegetables to herbs and grains. Their strength allows them to till the land and pull heavy carts loaded with their harvests for trade or storage.
Alicorns are VERY RARE. They have both unicorn horn and pegasus wings. They can fly. They are generally skilled in the most powerful magic, as well as the terrible dark magic. It is widely believed that alicorns are immortal, but nopony knows for sure. In addition to their magical prowess, alicorns are gifted with unparalleled intuition and wisdom. Their rarity gives them an air of mysticism and divinity, making them revered figures in Equestrian society. There are currently only 18 alicorns in the known world.
The offspring of two ponies from different castes will belong to one of their parents castes; there are no hybrid castes.
The vast and venerable Principality of Equestria is a Pony nation-state which controls most of the western continent of our world. In Equestria, the three Pony castes (unicorns, pegasi, earth ponies) have, with a few exceptions, lived together in peace and harmony for millennia. Equestria's form of government is an autocratic alicorn diarchy; it is ruled by the immortal alicorn sisters Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Equestria is home to approximately 100 million Ponies, and about 1 million residents of non-pony race. The largest city is Fillydelphia, but the capital is in the mountain city of Canterlot.
Equestria's score on the REGIMEN index is -2, putting it in the "Closed Anocracy" category. Equestria is a developed country, ranked first in the world by GPDI (Generalised Pony Development Index).
Equestria's currency is the Bit, which is based on a gold standard. Equestrian Bits are the most commonly used currency in international trade.
The historical calendar of Equestria is usually divided into three broad eras: PCE (Pre-Classical Era), CE (Classical Era), and ALB (After Luna's Banishment). The Pre-Classical Era is the time after Ponies first arrived on the western continent but before the Principality of Equestria was established; it ended with a long and violent interregnum known as the Discord. The Classical Era is the time when Princess Celestia and Princess Luna ruled together; it ended with the Equestrian Civil War (1651 CE : 1657 CE). The current era is After Luna's Banishment, also commonly referred to as Modernity. Recently, in 1000 ALB, Princess Luna has returned from her banishment, so Equestria is a diarchy once again.
The landscapes of Equestria are beautiful and highly diverse. Because of pegasus weather control, the weather is usually very comfortable.
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| Thalior Starwave's Original Flag (1 CE) | Current State Flag (512 ALB) |
The national flag of Equestria is light blue. The middle of the flag represents our alicorn rulers; it depicts the Moon cutie mark of Princess Luna superimposed on the Sun cutie mark of Princess Celestia. In the top left corner of the flag, there is also a small white six-pointed star, which represents the magic of friendship. When Celestia and Luna overthrew the Discord and established the Principality of Equestria, the unicorn Thalior Starwave designed the flag, which was enthusiastically adopted by the new government. At the time of writing, the flag has flown over Equestria for 3,659 years. Because of this, small variations in the design and colours are common.
Equestria's official motto is "Ex Equinitate Harmonia Amicitiaque". This is often shortened to "Harmony and Friendship".
The Principality of Equestria is an absolute diarchy, with the reigns firmly held by the immortal sisters, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. They are together referred to, in Equestrian law, as the "Princesses Regnant of the Principality of Equestria". Their rule, though absolute, does not deter the land from thriving in its governance, as it is guided by wisdom and a deep understanding of their subjects' needs. The two princesses hold sway over Equestria's political landscape with an iron horseshoe, ensuring harmony across their principality, even amidst the political games played out at the highest levels.
Long live Princess Celestia! Long live Princess Luna! May their glory bless our nation for all time. Uraaa!
The princesses have a central place in Equestria, that goes well beyond their role as the simple heads of state.
They also use their powerful magic to raise the Sun every morning and the Moon every night. They are directly worshipped in many Equestrian religions; and their names are often used in vain when swearing.
The moon, photographed by "emkay-mlp".
Princess Celestia is the radiant ruler of Equestria. She is a divine alicorn pony, who raises the Sun into the sky every morning.From the Sun comes light. From the Sun comes power. It's the Sun up high in the sky, that makes the flowers flower. As a 2,826 year old immortal, Princess Celestia possesses an air of wisdom and majesty that commands respect from all who encounter her. She has soft white fur, while her mane and tail are a regal kaleidoscope of pink, green, and blue hues. Like all of the uncommon alicorn ponies, she has strong wings and a magical unicorn horn; they are white to match her body. Her cutie mark is the Sun. About 2,659 years ago, Princess Celestia and her sister Princess Luna overthrew the Discord. They founded a new Principality of Equestria and ruled together over a golden age known as the Classical Era. When Luna betrayed her and started the Equestrian Civil War, Princess Celestia made the difficult decision to banish her sister to the moon for one thousand years. During that time Princess Celestia ruled alone, and brought peace and harmony to Equestria. In the thousandth year, Princess Luna returned to Equestria, and the two sisters agreed to again rule over this nation together. Princess Celestia has shown an unwavering commitment to her subjects well-being over her long reign. As she watches over her subjects with gentleness and love, her subjects reciprocate with adoration and loyalty. However ponies also fear Princess Celestia, for she alone bears the grim authority to enact the death penalty. Beyond her political prowess, Princess Celestia is also breathtakingly beautiful, more than any sunny day that graces the sky above. She usually wears the following golden regalia: a tiara, a peytral, and four shoes. She rules Equestria from her magnificent castle in Canterlot. Princess Celestia has a pet phoenix named Philomena. Beyond her stated values of "harmony and friendship", Celestia's top priorities are peace, stability, and education. Her personal student is Twilight Sparkle. |
Princess Luna Nightmaremoon is the mysterious younger sister of Princess Celestia; her current age is 2,770. She is an immortal alicorn pony with soft dark blue fur. Her mane and tail are like the vast starscape. She has dark blue wings and a unicorn horn. She has teal eyes. Her cutie mark is the Moon, because she raises the Moon into the sky every evening. About 2,659 years ago, Princess Celestia and her sister Princess Luna overthrew the Discord. They founded a new Principality of Equestria and ruled together over an age of peace and prosperity known as the Classical Era. Once, just over a thousand years ago, she betrayed her sister out of envy, and started the Equestrian Civil War. Luna was banished by Celestia to the moon for a thousand years. After returning from her banishment, she has made peace with her sister. However, adjusting to a world that has changed over a thousand years is a challenge. Luna has a special connection to the Everfree Forest, and in ancient times she had her personal castle there; however much of the castle was destroyed during the Civil War and it was abandoned. Princess Luna can walk in ponies dreams. She is a wise pony, whose speech includes many archaic words like "thou". She smells like lavender. She is more beautiful than the night sky. She presently resides in Canterlot. |
The princesses can grant the title of "palfrey" to their most dependable subjects.
The palfrey Raven Inkwell is a unicorn mare, and Princess Celestia's reliable secretary.
Origins of the Pony race?
How did Ponies become the dominant race on the western continent?
Queen Majesty, possessing the Book of Horrors in a secret room of castle in Dream Valley? Loving but ruthless style of governance would later be a major inspiration for Princess Celestia?
Unicorn wizardess Twilight Mist, powerful and wise? And other Ponies.
King Sombra of the Crystal Empire. Dark magic. Enslaved and blinded many ponies, to serve in his magical crystal minds. Defenestrated by earth pony Applejack von Dirtville?
The Tambelonic Wars? One famous unicorn was Gusty the Great, whose battlemages defeated the father of monsters, Emperor Grogar of Tambelon. Even though the influence of Grogar was washed away in most of Equestria, there is one region where his influence has outlasted him. Even in defeat, he cursed the city of Tambelon to resist the rightful pony dominion over the world. It became an unnatural mirkwood where malevolent plants grow, strange animals care for themselves, and the clouds move all on their own. It is now known as the Everfree Forest.
Starswirl the Bearded was a unicorn wizard from this time. He created the amniomorphic spell, but he is not famous to the general public.
The Discord was a long and violent interregnum.
It is poorly known to modern historians, but art from this period often depicts a strange monster called a draconequus, which has the head of a pony and a body made up of all sorts of things.
The Discord was overthrown by two majestic alicorns, the sisters Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. In this way, the Principality of Equestria was established. At that time Princess Celestia was 167 and Princess Luna was 111.
Princess Celestia and Princess Luna ruled together for many centuries, in what is known as the Classical Era. Each sister chose a location for her main castle. Celestia's main castle was built in the capital city of Canterlot, while Luna chose to build her main castle near the ruins of Tambelon in the fearsome Everfree Forest. The Classical Era, under the rule of both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna was a time of peace and prosperity when Equestria's culture reached its greatest heights.
One of the most unusual events of the Classical Era was the arrival of two monstrous brothers, Tirek and Scorpan, during the year 375 CE. They came to Equestria from a distant land, intending to steal Equestria's magic. But Scorpan soon came to appreciate the ways of Equestria, befriending several Ponies including a young unicorn wizard. Scorpan then urged his brother to abandon their plans. When Tirek refused, Scorpan alerted Princess Celestia and Princess Luna to Tirek's intentions. Tirek was sent to Tartarus for his crimes. After a couple more years, Scorpan returned to his own country.
Eventually, Celestia and Luna’s reign began to show cracks under the weight of public opinion. This led to a deep divide between the sisters, a schism that threatened to tear Equestria apart entirely. Princess Luna became envious of the affection the public had for her older sister. In the year 1651 CE, Luna gathered her forces, and betrayed her sister Celestia by launching the Equestrian Civil War. Her intention was to claim sole control of Equestria and bring about an eternal night.
Desperate to end the Equestrian Civil War, Celestia used the Elements of Harmony to banish her sister Luna to the moon. The Civil War ended in 1657 CE, which is considered the end of the Classical Era
Celestia began her thousand year solo reign. Because of the recent conflict, the perfect reputation of the diarchy had been lost. However, after a few centuries of her peaceful reign, Princess Celestia regained her perfect reputation.
In 22 ALB, forces backed by the merchant class established republics in Manehattan, Baltimare, and Fillydelphia. In 67 ALB, the Republic of Fillydelphia was abolished, becoming Ponyland Fillydelphia again. The merchant republics in Manehattan and Baltimare had a different fate, however. They became influential in exploration, hiring famous explorers like the pegasi North Star and Lofty. This led to the establishment of regular trade routes with the eastern continent and the southern continent. The rivalry between these two republics was intense, as they competed for these opportunities. Occasionally they even hired privateers to attack the other republic's ships. In the end, Manehattan became the wealthier and more powerful. However, Baltimare began the importing to Equestria of coal from the zebra lands in exchange for the gemstones that are common in Equestria; this would become the basis of Equestria's industrialisation.
But there was also another challenge; many well-respected leaders from the pegasus caste had established the Grand Pegasus Enclave. For years, the Enclave functioned as an independent state. But thanks to Celestia's compassion and skills of negotiation, the Enclave agreed to rejoin Equestria, receiving extensive autonomy in exchange for commitments to defend Equestria and onglipulate the weather. A "Pact of Eternal Friendship between The Grand Pegasus Enclave and The Principality of Equestria" was signed in 76 ALB. In 128 ALB, the leaders of the Enclave swore fealty to Princess Celestia, and became a de jure part of Equestria again.
Thanks to the invention of the simple alphabet in 140 ALB and the printing press in 155 ALB, literacy in Equestria has become basically universal, and literature has taken on a prominent position in Equestrian culture.
Between 239 ALB and 264 ALB, the Grand Pegasus Enclave built the Weather Factory, founding the mobile cloud city of Cloudsdale to service it. After this, the Enclave gradually became focused on weather control instead of military defence, except for a small but elite Airhorse which is permanently under the command of the Princesses Regnant of Equestria.
In 799 ALB, Princess Celestia and the Equumenical Council passed the Industrialisation of State Revenue Act, which established major state-owned corporations for the purposes of generating revenue for the Equestrian state and developing infrastructure and modern heavy industrial production. In 854 ALB, Princess Celestia passed the Working Class Organisation Act, which legalised trade unions in industry owned by nobles and merchants, overruling objections from the Equumenical Council.
According to legends, "the Mare in the Moon, myth from olden pony times. A powerful pony who wanted to rule Equestria, defeated by the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned in the moon. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal." In the year 1000 ALB, exactly as was prophesised, the exiled Princess Luna was returned to Equestria by unknowable cosmic forces, after a thousand years of banishment. In a twist that none had foreseen, Twilight Sparkle and her friends wielded the Elements of Harmony, freeing Princess Luna from her envious intent and taking away some of her dark powers. Princess Luna then reunited with her sister Celestia. Together they forged a new path forward, one that would see their diarchy restored and harmony once more reigning over their beloved land.
Equestria has lived in Harmony for over a millennium under the guidance of Princess Celestia. With the help of brave ponies like Twilight Sparkle and her friends, and using the magical power of friendship and forgiveness, the nation of Equestria has recently triumphed over many minor threats. However, circumstances seem to be changing, as Equestria's enemies have roused themselves and are now a credible threat. The peace-loving nation of ponies finds itself in a new world with foes at their borders, but also among themselves. How will Equestria approach the troubling times ahead? And even if Friendship and Harmony still save the day, what forms will they take in an age of conflict?
In administrative divisions, the Principality of Equestria is mostly divided into ponylands.
There are also two "republics", the Republic of Manehattan and the Republic of Baltimare, and one "enclave", the Grand Pegasus Enclave.
| Olenia | - | - | - | Ponyland Whinnypeg | Ponyland Crystalatvia | - | - | - | Ponyland Stalliongrad | - | - |
| - | - | - | - | Ponyland Hope Hollow | - | - | - | Ponyland Neighjing | - | - | Ponyland Trottingham |
| - | Ponyland Whitetail | - | Ponyland Gauchevale | Ponyland Pegasopolis | - | Ponyland Unicornia | - | - | Republic of Manehattan | - | - |
| - | Ponyland Vanhoover | - | Ponyland Paardenstal | - | Ponyland Canterlot | Ponyland Hornwall | Ponyland Fillydelphia | - | - | - | - |
| - | - | Ponyland Phoenix | Ponyland Appleloosa | - | Ponyland Applewood | Everfree Forest | Ponyland Prancesylvania | - | - | - | - |
| - | Ponyland Coltifornia | - | Ponyland Somnambula | - | Ponyland Bloomberg | - | Ponyland Hoofington | - | - | - | - |
| - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | Republic of Baltimare | - | - |
| - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
The largest cities are Fillydelphia and Manehattan. The capital is in Canterlot. Stalliongrad has more factories than any other city.
Fillydelphia
Manehattan
Canterlot, the magnificent capital city of Equestria, is perched high atop a grand mountain that pierces through the heart of Equestria. Its majestic buildings are carved directly into the mountain's sides, creating an awe-inspiring urban landscape. The grandiose architecture is as much a testament to the city's noble inhabitants as it is to their deep-rooted love for displaying wealth and extravagance. Unicorns form the majority of its population, their elegant forms strutting along cobblestone streets framed by opulent storefronts and stately homes. The city is alive with the constant hum of sophisticated conversations, punctuated by the occasional neigh or trot from some of the more well-bred ponies. At night, the city transforms into a dazzling display of starlight reflected off polished marble and gold accents, casting an enchanting spell over its inhabitants and visitors alike. The most magnificent structure in Canterlot is Canterlot Castle, the home of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Canterlot Castle also hosts many prestigious events. Security at Canterlot Castle is demonstrated by the formidable stallions of Princess Celestia's Royal Guard. Being a destrier in the Royal Guard is probably the most prestigious position available to a stallion with martial abilities. Shining Armor, a unicorn stallion and destrier, is the current captain of Princess Celestia's Royal Guard.
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| aerial view of Canterlot as depicted by artist "plainoasis" | Canterlot as depicted by artist "devinian" |
The founders of Equestria chose the mountain of Canterlot as location to build a new capital city. It had been a simple unicorn gem mine, but the mountain was chosen for its central location and the symbolism of unity between pegasi in the sky and other ponies on the ground.
In the frigid northeastern corner of Equestria, the city of Stalliongrad stands as a stark contrast to its more glamorous counterparts. Its primary focus on industry gives it a gritty and hard-working demeanor. Towering factories billow smoke into the cold air while workers - earth ponies and others from more humble backgrounds - trudge through snow-covered streets to their jobs at the various manufacturing plants. The city's architecture may not be as grand or eye-catching, but it is functional and practical, offering a home for those who share its values of perseverance and teamwork. Despite the cold climate, Stalliongrad vibrates with life and determination, proving that even in the most trying conditions, spirit can never be truly quelled. Many trade unions and other working class organisations have headquarters here.
| Government | ||
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| Autocratic Alicorn Diarchy | ||
| Princess | Princess | Chancellor |
| Celestia | Luna | Dewdrop Dazzle |
| Equumenical Council | ||
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The Equumenical Council, an assembly of ponies who are more concerned with fancy galas and tea parties than actual governance, is Equestria's unicameral parliament.
Equestria uses an incomprehensible mix of direct and indirect systems to elect deputies to the Equumenical Council.
The general public is often apathetic towards politics, suggesting a lack of drive for major ideological shifts.
Major factions receive certain privileges during parliamentary proceedings. To be recognised as a major faction, a party must hold ten seats in the Equumenical Council. There are currently six major factions: the Conservative Harmony Alliance (48 seats), the Friendship Party (39 seats), the Grand Pegasus Enclave (26 seats), the Magocratic-Hippocratic Party (22 seats), the Communist Party (16 seats), and the Agrarian Party (11 seats). There are also 38 seats held by deputies not from any of the major factions.
| Major Factions in the Equumenical Council | |
|---|---|
| 48 seats |  Conservative Harmony AllianceLoyalty: ★★★★★ Ideology: Pony Supremacy, Alicorn Autocracy, Aristocracy, Paternalism (faction) and Elitism (faction) This is a party of the aristocracy and feudal nobility. They consider themselves a revival of the ancient Pillars of Equestria. Supports state-owned enterprises like Friendship Express (passenger trains). Wants zero tax on inheritance, but high taxes on business. The Conservative Harmony Alliance is divided between two subfactions, the paternalists led by House Fancypants, and the elitists led by House Blueblood. |
| 39 seats | Friendship Party Loyalty: ★★★ Ideology: Accelerationism, Big Tent, Market Liberalism (?), Pony Supremacy (?), Alicorn Autocracy (?) This is an avant-garde party of the ascendant capitalist class. As the most credible threat to our traditional feudal order, it is closely monitored by S.M.I.L.E. agents. Wants to open the borders for both immigrants and slave traders. Also wants to lower taxes, and privatise healthcare and other state-owned enterprises. It is very well funded, but it is isolated by all of the more conservative parties. |
| 26 seats | Grand Pegasus Enclave Loyalty: ★★★★ Ideology: Pony Supremacy, Alicorn Autocracy, Pegasus Interests As the pegasus state-within-a-state which controls Equestria's airspace, the Enclave sends representatives to the national parliament. They defend the autonomy of the pegasus caste, but are mostly disinterested in policies that only affect ponies on the ground. - |
| 22 seats | Magocratic-Hippocratic Party Loyalty: ★★★★★ Ideology: Pony Supremacy, Alicorn Autocracy, Enlightened Absolutism A doctiloquent party, representing "middle-class" unicorns and the intelligentsia. Often a voice for compromise in the parliament. Because of this, they have more influence than the size of their faction would suggest, including important roles in government. This party prioritises education. - |
| 16 seats | Communist Party Loyalty: ★★★★ Ideology: Pony Supremacy, Alicorn Autocracy, National Communism This party represents factory workers, Equestria's nascent industrial proletariat. Closely linked to trade unions, its main support base is in Stalliongrad. Views the Enclave as a model for a future centrally planned economy. This party accuses the nobles and capitalists of being in a conspiracy against the Pony race. Contradiction: A nationalist party of the industrial proletariat, even though all Equestrian industry depends on imported coal. |
| 11 seats | Agrarian Party Loyalty: ★★★★★ Ideology: Pony Supremacy, Alicorn Autocracy, Agrarian Traditionalism This party of the peasantry seeks to defend traditional earth pony farms from marketeer encroachment. It is more religious than the other parties. Wants subsidies for agriculture and small business. Other parties view the agrarians as simple-minded hayseeds. - |
Some very important ponies in the Equumenical Council are the eloquent Chancellor Dewdrop Dazzle, the chivalrous Fancypants, and the arrogant Blueblood. These notable nobles wield considerable influence despite the current government's apparent focus on frivolous affairs. The world of Equestrian politics is rife with gridlocks and filibusters; all the factions constantly sabotage each other's law projects. Princess Celestia has the absolute power to pass any legislation she deems necessary, keeping the country running smoothly amidst all these political shenanigans. Hopefully, while the ruling classes are busy playing useless political games in the dysfunctional parliament, they're placated enough to not cause as many problems for the ordinary ponies. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna do not visit the Equumenical Council during its normal plenary sessions. They do give speeches at the opening of a new parliamentary season, however.
Chancellor Dewdrop Dazzle is currently the mortal with the highest de jure position, as Equestria's nominal head of government. She is a unicorn mare with soft aqua fur, and pink and yellow in her mane and tail. She has purple eyes. She is highly educated and articulate. Her cutie mark is an umbrella, and she really enjoys rainy weather. She is a member of the Magocratic-Hippocratic Party.
“Sorry, we can’t pass a budget until the scones are served, darling!” - Chancellor Dewdrop Dazzle
Fancypants. He is a noble unicorn stallion who has white fur and blue mane and tail and moustache. His eyes are blue. His cutie mark is three tiaras. He often wears an expensive suit and a monocle. He is a member of the Conservative Harmony Alliance faction in the Equumenical Council. He is confident in his elite position, and is willing to treat commoners with kindness. Noblesse oblige. Lives in Canterlot with his wife, the supermodel Fleur de Lis.
Blueblood. He is a noble unicorn stallion with white fur and a golden mane and tail. He has light blue eyes. His cutie mark is a compass rose. He is a member of the Conservative Harmony Alliance faction in the Equumenical Council. He is a total snob; supercilious and full of himself. However, he takes his responsibilities as a minister very seriously. He lives in Canterlot.
Wow, Canterlot nobility, huh? You know you’ve made it in Equestria when you have a castle, a fancy title, and a unicorn horn that’s shinier than a diamond-encrusted tiara.
But let’s be real, those nobles can be a little snooty, am I right?
The criminal justice system in Equestria is principally rehabilitative. Those wrongdoers who make an effort to rejoin society as law-abiding subjects are supported, receiving no punishment. Those wrongdoers who refuse to change their ways receive harsh punishments. Most are locked away in Tartarus, a tenebrous underworld. The gates of Tartarus are guarded by the giant three-headed dog Cerberus.
Those who commit the most heinous crimes receive the death penalty. The only legal means of execution is magical annihilation. Princess Celestia casts the spell herself, giving up her innocence to protect the innocence of her subjects. On average, there is about one execution every 12-18 years.
Equestria also has secret agencies. S.M.I.L.E. is the Secret Monster Intelligence League of Equestria which is responsible for domestic intelligence; it's motto is "We're everywhere and we're nowhere." Its mission includes monitoring the movements of magical creatures, dissidents, cultists, and changeling shapeshifters. S.M.I.L.E. answers directly to the princesses.
The currency of Equestria is the Equestrian Bit, which is based on the gold standard.
As it is solid gold, and backed by the powerful nation of Equestria, the Equestrian Bit is commonly accepted even in far away foreign countries.
Equestria's economic system is a rather unique combination of four modes of production.
The oldest base of Equestria's economy is a system of agricultural feudalism, where unicorn nobles own farmland that is worked by earth pony peasants known as "sumpters". There are also independent earth pony peasants who own their own land; these are known as "rounceys". The peasants are the unsung heroes of Equestria - keeping the economy running smoothly while the other classes play unproductive power games. Peasants, and earth ponies generally, have all the legal rights of any other Equestrian subject.
The second mode is a free-market mercantilism dominated by the merchant class. Beyond the massive internal market, imports and exports are also important. The Republic of Manehattan is very wealthy as the centre of trade with the eastern continent. However, the Republic of Baltimare's importing of coal from the zebra lands is the basis of all Equestrian industry.
The third mode is state mercantilism; corporations owned by the Equestrian state build heavy industry. The profit from these is revenue for the state, allowing funding of public services without placing excessive tax burdens on the nobles, merchants, and general public.
Therefore, the major classes in Equestria's economy are the nobles (usually unicorns), the merchants, the intellectuals, the peasants (usually earth ponies),
and the proletarians (who work in factories owned by the nobles, the merchants, and the state).
The fourth mode is pegasus weather control which operates as an aspect of centrally planned command economy.
Pegasi, as members of the egalitarian Grand Pegasus Enclave, often feel that they are (literally) above the class divisions among the other castes.
The most fundamental of the sciences are physics and xenophysics.
Xenophysics explains how ponies are able to hold objects with their hooves, and it explains how pegasus ponies can walk on clouds and onglipulate the weather.
We also have sciences like geology and biology, which study our world and life that is found in it.
Starlore is the oldest of the sciences. Unicorns have observed the stars, calling upon their power and guidance, since time immemorial. The stars are cosmic forces which are outside of any Pony comprehension.
Alchemy is another important science, often taking the form of the brewing of potions. This science is most advanced among zebras, but Ponies do use it as well.
Ponies who contribute to research in any field of mundane science earn the title "scientist".
Equestria is the world leader in Arcane Science, which is the systematic study of magic. Magic can be defined as the way in which symbolic correspondences on the esoteric level are able to influence many mental and physical phenomena. The most obvious forms of magic include telekinesis and spellcasting, which are the basic functions of the horn of a unicorn pony. However, there are also many other forms of magic in our world.
The following are some types of magic which are important to the Pony nation of Equestria.
Enchantment is the "trapping" of a magical spell within a physical object. Even though any object or place can be enchanted, some objects are easier to enchant than others.
Some gemstones and crystals are valuable because they are especially easy to enchant. Enchanted artifacts are somewhat common in Equestria.
Equestria has more places of power than any other realm of our world.
Unicorns who contribute to research in arcane science earn the title of "wizardess" or "wizard".
Equestria is generally at an "early industrial" level of technology. Modern coal-powered factories exist, but most Ponies still live by medieval technology and traditions, at least in part.
Electrification is rare in Equestria; dams on some rivers make most of Equestria's small supply of electricity.
Long journeys are usually made by train; Equestria has an impressive railway network connecting all major cities, and many other places as well. While Equestria's railroad network is extensive and covers the entire country, other infrastructure is usually quite undeveloped outside of the major cities.
Horseless carriages and other automobiles are extremely rare in Equestria. I'll let you figure out why a nation of equines would be hostile to that technology.
Equestrian typewriters have a simple layout, with only two keys and a bar. Characters are typed by entering six-bit binary codes.
While Equestria is a powerful nation with an advanced economy, it has a hard time leveraging that into military might. The peaceful nature of pony culture and the stagnation in Equestria's political system have kept Equestria's regular cavalry underdeveloped. Unicorns who are capable of learning anything beyond the most basic combat spells are extremely rare. The Grand Pegasus Enclave is only capable of providing partial defense of Equestria's airspace. Equestria does have many regular divisions, but they are all underequipped and inexperienced. Equestria has very few tanks, and they are quite primitive designs. Equestria has a large naval fleet, but the design of the ships is critically outdated. If forced to mobilise by a powerful invader, the military situation could turn around for Equestria. Mobilised ponies would have the potential to form powerful divisions of magical infantry, with the small number of skilled battlemages supporting many ponies who wield enchanted rifles, all while Enclave pegasi prevent enemy aircraft from approaching. Such a war would devestate Equestria and permanently scar our peaceful culture, but we would almost certainly win.
| ♥︎ Military Ranks ♥ | ||
|---|---|---|
| Commander Princess | ||
| ♥ Cavalry ♥ | ♥ Airhorse ♥ | ♥ Naval Fleet ♥ |
| Field Marshal | Air Marshal | Admiral |
| General | Vice Marshal | Vice Admiral |
| Destrier | Courser | Commodore |
| Colonel | Colonel | Captain |
| Major | Major | Corvette Captain |
| Captain | Captain | Lieutenant |
| Lieutenant | Lieutenant | Ensign |
| Sergeant | ||
| Private | ||
Field Marshal Bowtie is currently the leader of Equestria's cavalry. She is an earth pony mare. She has blue fur, and she always wears ribbon bows in her pink mane and tail. She has a courageous personality.
Fizzlepop Berrytwist, usually known by the nom de guerre Tempest Shadow, is a unicorn mare with unique experience. A severe fillyhood injury to her horn caused uncontrollable releases of magic, frightening other ponies and leaving her isolated. Eventually, she left Equestria altogether, becoming a mercenary. She worked and fought for many of the tyrants on the southern continent. One such tyrant eventually tried to go to Equestria as a conqueror, but once there he was killed in battle. Tempest was then offered a place in Equestria's military, where real world combat experience is in short supply. She is disabled, i.e. cannot use telekinesis or magic.
The Grand Pegasus Enclave's Airhorse, since the agreements of 128 ALB, has been permanently placed under the command of the Princesses Regnant of the Principality of Equestria.
Air Marshal Skywishes is currently the leader of the Grand Pegasus Enclave's Airhorse. She is a pegasus mare. When off duty, she enjoys flying kites.
Admiral Cynosura is currently the leader of Equestria's Naval Fleet. She is a pegasus mare with white fur and blue mane and tail. She is a masterful commander of ships; operations she has planned have brought many pirates and smugglers to justice. She also excels in war games. However, it remains to be seen whether she would be able to stand against the fleet of a hostile nation.
The Grand Pegasus Enclave is the semi-independent state-within-a-state that controls the Equestrian airspace. It is a nation entirely governed by pegasi, existing in harmony above Equestria.
All pegasi are members of the Enclave, and can be summoned for weather control duties. In exchange for their vast autonomy, the Enclave provides Equestria with weather control services (and occasionally military defense). The Enclave ongletains a network of weather stations in pony settlements, for to control the local weather there. The enclave carefully plans the rain in Equestria, ensuring optimal water levels for the earth ponies to grow food. The Enclave has a seperate school system where young pegasi learn about meteorology, aerodynamics, and other subjects essential to their role in Equestrian weather control.
 |
| a weatherpony (Cloudchaser) |
The best flyers in the Enclave form a team known as the Wonderbolts; the Wonderbolts perform stunt shows to impress the Equestrian public while always being ready to respond to any threats to airspace security. The current captain is the mare Spitfire. Other current members include Soarin, Fleetfoot, Misty Fly, and Surprise.
Another important flying team is the Storm Chasers, who prevent hurricanes and other wild weather from outside from entering Equestria.
Nestled high up in the sky, Cloudsdale soars majestically above Equestria's ground. Its cityscape is a marvel to behold - an intricate maze of columned cloudcrete architecture that seamlessly blends with its fluffy cloud surroundings. The Weather Factory stands tall at the heart of the city, casting massive shadows over bustling pegasus communities who call this place home. A sense of pride and ownership beams from every pair of wings as only pegasi are able to walk on these clouds. Cloudsdale's ethereal beauty is not just in its composition but also in the ever-changing dance it performs with the sky below, a sight that leaves all who witness it in awe. Cloudsdale is also the headquarters of the Grand Pegasus Enclave.
Ponies control the changing seasons, and their calendar and holidays revolve around this.
Holidays:
New Years (also known as Winter Solstice)
Hearth's Warming (big winter holiday, exchange gifts, and put on plays about the founding of Equestria when the unicorns and pegasi and earth ponies joined together)
Winter Wrap Up (ponies work together to clean up all the snow, melt all the ice, wake the hibernating animals, plant the new year's crops and begin the season of spring)
Hearts and Hooves Day (exchanging cards, spending time with your special somepony)
Spring Equinox
Summer Dawn (beginning of summer)
Summer Sun Celebration (also known as Summer Solstice, celebration of Celestia's role as the Princess of the Sun)
Summer Harvest
Autumn Onset (beginning of autumn)
Nightmare Night (dressing up in costumes, lots of candy, telling scary stories, this holiday originates from myths around Princess Luna's banishment)
Autumn Equinox
Winter Beginning ("running of the leaves", followed by the first snow)
Ponies appearing in public without clothes is common and unremarkable, but ponies may wear clothes for comfort or fashion. For a society where nudity is the norm, Equestrian ponies have a love for fashion which may be surprising. The traditional clothing for unicorn and earth pony mares is the saddle, though the design varies greatly by social class. Suits are commonly worn in workplaces, by both mares and stallions, with variations as uniforms in the Enclave and the military. There are also a variety of more casual clothes, which are most commonly worn during the colder months.
The dress is considered one of the most prestigious art forms in Equestria. Dresses are worn by mares on especially formal occasions, especially at elite galas. Dresses are often custom-made, works of art that express the uniqueness of both the designer and the wearer. Some dresses include a saddle as part of their design.
Ponies can choose to have horseshoes attached to their hooves to protect them from wear. This service is provided by farriers.
Horseshoes are usually coloured to match the pony, but they may sometimes be left in a bare metal appearance.
In cosmetics, hoof polish and eyeshadow are the most common.
As gemstones are often found in Equestria, jewelry is common as well. This is often given small magical enchantments.
Equestria has diverse cuisine, but the basic staple food is hay. Fresh grass, oats, flowers, vegetables and fruit are common in food as well. The most common fruit is apples. The most popular fast food item is the hayburger. The most popular breakfast is pancakes. Ponies also eat huge amounts of sugar, including candy, cakes, doughnuts, and other sweet baked goods. As herbivores and vegetarians, we do not eat any sort of flesh.
The main alcoholic beverage in Equestria is cider. It can be purchased at many pubs, or directly from the earth ponies who grow the apples.
The most popular soda brand in Equestria is Sparkle-Cola. Drink the new Sparkle-Cola Rad. It's like a buck to the face! With radishes!
Music is popular in Equestria, with a wide variety of genres. Most homes own a phonograph.
Ponies sometimes break into impromptu musical numbers.
Dances in Equestria tend to be either extremely elegant, or what is that silly horse even doing. There is no in between.
In sports, pony races are very popular; betting on these is one of most common forms of gambling. The most common team sport in Equestria is hoofball, which has several regional variants, and two continent-wide leagues which use very different equipment and rules; these are the EHL (Equestrian Hoofball League) and the WCHA (Western Contintent Hoofball Association). Hockey is popular in winter; its top league is the HHL (Horse Hockey League). Among earth pony peasants, rodeo competitions are extremely popular. Unicorns often enjoy telekinetic fencing, or for the more skilled spellcasters, magic duels. For pegasi, there are a variety of airborne sports, as well as impressive stunt flying. The most important multi-sport event is the Equestria Games, which take place every two and a half years. Ponies from each county compete for the prestigious gold medals.
Abstract strategy games are the most popular genre of board games in Equestria. The most traditional game, which has a deep ancient origin, is Hoofatafl. It is an asymmetric game, with an attacker who has horses and a defender who has horses and a princess who starts in the centre square. The most popular abstract strategy games in modern times are two games inspired by the Equestrian Civil War; in both one player represents Princess Luna (dark pieces, moves first) and the other represents Princess Celestia (light pieces). In both games, check is announced with the word "eclipse", and checkmate is announced with the word "banished". The more prestigious is the Astral Game. It is played on a round board, which represents the cosmos. Each player controls sixteen spool-shaped playing pieces: four earth ponies (flower symbol), four pegasus ponies (five-pointed star symbol), four unicorn ponies (diamond symbol), three shooting stars (fireball symbol), and a princess (tiara symbol). The other is the Terrestrial Game, which is played on a square board; it could be described as "pony chess".
Beyond that, tabletop RPGs are popular in Equestria. The most common is "Ogres and Oubliettes", but there are many others.
Ponies generally get their news from the newspapers. The official newspaper of the government is The Canterlot Times.
The most respected national newspaper is Equestria Daily. Every municipality has at least one local newspaper as well.
There are also a small number of radio stations, broadcasting news, radio dramas, and music.
Ponies with physical disabilities are treated well in Equestria. Ponies with missing legs can obtain prostheses, while those with paralysis can obtain wheeled mobility aids. For blind ponies, the eyes are impaled with enchanted gemstones. This makes them able to see normally, but the inorganic jewels in their eyes cause them to be known as "twinkle-eyed ponies". More mild vision deficiencies can be treated with glasses. Unicorns who can't use telekinesis and pegasi who can't fly are also considered to be disabled; there is little that can be done for them at our current level of technology.
The dominant religion in Equestria is Harmonism, which worships an abstract deity called the Tree of Harmony. There are various denominations of Harmonism, but relations between them are usually friendly. The most common is Orthodox Harmonism, which is organised in the Church of the Two Sisters, which is closely linked to Equestria's government. Orthodox Harmonism worships the Tree of Harmony, as well as Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Solar Harmonism worships the Tree of Harmony and Princess Celestia. Old Harmonism worships only the Tree of Harmony, and is the original version of Harmonism from the Pre-Classical Era. Lunar Harmonism worships the Tree of Harmony and Princess Luna; it was extremely unpopular after the Civil War but has seen growth after Princess Luna's return. The oldest religion among Equestrian Ponies is North Equestrian Paganism, which is based on nature worship, because it comes from the time before Ponies gained their rightful dominion over nature.
In demographics, 52% associate with Orthodox Harmonism, 18% with Solar Harmonism, 13% with Old Harmonism, 9% with Lunar Harmonism, 4% with North Equestrian Paganism, and 3% with foreign religions. Most religious minorities are free to practice their faith in peace. However, about 1% of Ponies are affiliated with antisocial cults; these are heavily suppressed, because they are considered to be hostile toward the Ponies of Equestria.
Most urban Ponies do not regularly go to church. However, in the villages, the local church is often an important centre of socialisation.
There is one inevitability that ponies still do not have dominion over: death. All Equestrian religions agree that respect for the dead is important. Because of this, necromancy and necrohippoflagellation are illegal in Equestria.
Short trips are usually by walking, or taking a carriage pulled by a pony stallion. Long journeys are made by train; Equestria has an impressive railway network connecting all major cities, and many other places as well. When visiting Equestria's cities, one can obtain lodging at one of many stables. They vary widely in price and quality: some are little more than an old barn, while others are more luxurious than any foreign hotel.
Equestria has a very romantic culture. Concepts like friendship and marriage are closely linked to our conception of "love".
It is common for fillies and colts to collect brushable toys of famous or historically significant ponies.
The fur on a pony's flanks is magically coloured to display a cutie mark, a distinctive symbol that represents the unique talent and essence of that individual pony. Ponies are not born with their cutie mark; discovering who one is and getting one's cutie mark is a major milestone for young ponies. Celebrated with a party called a cuteceñeara, it is considered a partial coming-of-age.
Ponies in Equestria recieve a mandatory eight years of education. There are no high schools.
Monster attacks are the most common type of natural disaster, but we are used to that, so we are usually able to avoid the danger. We are also quite skilled at rebuilding afterward.
Ponyville is a charming little village in Ponyland Applewood, found just to the south of Canterlot. Its origin as a humble earth pony settlement are still evident today through the many earth pony traditions that remain alive and well within its borders. The village is home to a diverse array of ponies from different castes, all living together in harmony amidst the picturesque landscape. Despite being surrounded by larger, more bustling cities like Canterlot, Ponyville ongletains a cozy, small-town atmosphere that has earned it a special place in the hearts of many who call it home. Important locations in Ponyville include the Golden Oak Library which is a library inside a large hollow tree, Carousel Boutique which is the shop of a fancy dressmaker, and Sugarcube Corner which is a bakery and gathering place. There is also a large town hall building in the centre of town, and beautiful parks further from the centre. There is the shop "Quills and Sofas" which only sells two things. Ponyville also has a spa. There are many houses, most are rustic with thatched roofs, and heart-shape designs carved in the wood. Dutch doors are very common. Outside of town are many earth pony farms, including the Apple family's home in the Sweet Apple Acres apple orchard.
Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Applejack are all very close friends with each other. Twilight Sparkle has recently published a research paper, which details evidence that her friends represent the Elements of Harmony, a powerful magic from ancient pony history that was once wielded by Princess Celestia herself. The above painting which depicts these six ponies wielding their elements, was made by artist "setharu" based on eyewitness accounts.
Twilight Sparkle is a 19-year-old pony mare from Canterlot, but she now lives in Ponyville. As a highly intelligent unicorn, she has the rank and title of a palfrey and a wizardess. She has soft purple fur. She has a dark blue mane and tail with pink and purple streaks. Her eyes are purple. Her cutie mark is magic stars. She lives at the Golden Oak Library in Ponyville, where she also works as the librarian. She spends a lot of time reading. She studies many topics, but her main focus is magic. She also reads a lot of poetry and fiction, including fantastic fiction like the "Daring Do" series. Despite her intelligence, she occasionally struggles with understanding the emotions of others due to her extensive focus on logic and academic studies. She greatly values her friends and the time she spends with them, but she also spends a lot of time alone with old books. She is excessively organised, and often makes checklists. She is the student of Princess Celestia, to whom she regularly writes letters. Twilight is the element of magic. She is a very powerful spellcaster. Twilight smells like dusty books. The baby dragon Spike is her number-one assistant, slave, and adopted little brother. Twilight's family still live in Canterlot; they love her and are very proud of her. Her mother, Twilight Velvet, is an adventurous unicorn mare. Her father, Night Light, is an unexciting unicorn stallion who enjoys putting numbers into spreadsheets. Her older brother, Shining Armor, is a unicorn stallion and the captain of Princess Celestia's Royal Guard. |
Rarity is a ladylike 19-year-old pony mare from Ponyville. She is a beautiful unicorn with soft white fur. She has a stylish purple mane and tail. Her eyes are blue. Her cutie mark is three diamonds. To sound like a noble lady, she always speaks with a fake Canterlot accent, only breaking from her fake accent when under extreme stress. Rarity has an innate appreciation for beauty and elegance, whether it’s found in art or nature. She is knowledgable about fashion, as she runs the Carousel Boutique where she designs fabulous dresses. Her love for all things luxurious is evident in the high-quality materials she uses in her clothing line. Rarity has amazing attention to detail; she uses this in her design work, but she also enjoys reading detective stories like the "Shadow Spade" series. Rarity smells like expensive floral perfume. Rarity is dramatic, and can cry over very minor things, but she has the strength and intelligence to get through actual adversities. Rarity can be adventurous, as long as it doesn’t compromise her sense of style. She is the element of generosity. Sweetie Belle is her little sister. Rarity has a pet, a white cat named Opalescence or simply Opal. Even though Rarity fantasises about joining the elites in Canterlot or Manehattan, her true destiny is to bring some of that sophistication and haute couture to her smalltown home. Rarity's personality can be irritating to a pony who only wants to get things done. She has above average magical abilities. |
Rainbow Dash is an impulsive 19-year-old pony mare from Cloudsdale, but she now lives in Ponyville. She is an aerodynamic pegasus with soft light blue fur. She has a rainbow mane and tail. Her eyes are magenta. Her cutie mark is a lightning bolt. She can be abrasive and tactless. She is competitive and athletic. She is a fast and agile flyer, and she wants to become a Wonderbolt. However, for now she is the manager of Weather Control Team in Ponyville. She has a drinking problem, so her friends try to keep the cider away from her. She is the element of loyalty. Rainbow has no siblings. |
Fluttershy is a caring and sweet 20-year-old pony mare from Cloudsdale, but she now lives in Ponyville. She is an impossibly attractive pegasus with soft yellow fur. She has a long soft pink mane and a long soft pink tail. Her eyes are cyan. Her cutie mark is three butterflies. She takes care of many animals, including her willful pet rabbit named Angel. As she has a special connection to animals, Fluttershy relocated to a cottage on the ground, near the forest at the edge of Ponyville. Fluttershy is pretty enough to be a supermodel, but she is shy, and doesn't want the attention. Fluttershy often underestimates herself due to a lack of confidence. This has caused her to be seen as a weak flyer. Fluttershy is able to perform The Stare, a powerful technique against an opponent's willpower, as a stern glare of disappointment from her beautiful eyes is unbearable to most creatures. She is the element of kindness. Fluttershy has one brother, Zephyr Breeze. |
Pinkamena Diane Pie, more commonly known as Pinkie Pie, is an energetic 19-year-old pony mare who now lives in Ponyville. She is a bouncy earth pony with soft pink fur. She has curly pink mane and tail. Her eyes are blue. Her cutie mark is three balloons. Her day job is working at the Sugarcube Corner bakery. Pinkie Pie loves to plan parties for everypony. Silly, hyper, easily distracted; but not dumb. She smells like vanilla cake. She is the element of laughter. Pinkie's traditionalist parents raised her on a rock farm in Ponyland Paardenstal alongside her three sisters: the rock scientist Maud Pie, the angry Limestone Pie, the mute Marble Pie. |
Applejack is a hardworking 19-year-old pony mare from Ponyville. She is a peasant earth pony with soft orange fur. She has braided blonde mane and blonde tail. She runs the local apple orchard. She has strong muscles. She is competitive and athletic. She is stubborn and doesn't like asking for help. She speaks with a rustic southern accent. She is the element of honesty. She is very loyal to her family. Granny Smith is her paternal grandmother; Big Mac is her big brother; Apple Bloom is her little sister. Her parents are dead. She has a pet, an energetic female dog named Winona. |
The wizardess Starlight Glimmer exists. She is a unicorn mare with abilities in the casting of powerful magic spells. She has pink fur, and her mane and tail are purple with aqua streaks. Her cutie mark is a purple and white star with aqua streams. She is the daughter of the stallion Firelight, and was born in Sire's Hollow, which is a village in ???. During adolescence, she was in the death metal subculture. She then got an advanced education in arcane science, excelling in her studies. She dated the unicorn stallion and scholar of magic Sunburst, and the unicorn mare and travelling stage magician Trixie Lulamoon. Neither relationship worked out. After completing her advanced education, Starlight moved to ??? (northeast), where she founded an antisocial cult that took over a small village. Starlight has little respect for the free will of other ponies; she uses heavy brainwashing techniques and occasionally even experimented with direct magical mind control to mixed results. Starlight enjoys flying kites.
The only official language of the Principality of Equestria is Ponish.
Much of the grammar of the Ponish language is based on a distinction between three animacy-genders. They can be roughly translated as "somepony", "someone", and "something".
The full names of Equestrian Ponies are quite complex; they are made of three words, or two for foals. They are often long words formed by compounding. A pony's "first" name is the foal name which is given at birth. This is generally a cutesy name which may reference the foal's appearance or the family's traditions in some way. A pony's "middle" name is the cutie name, chosen when the pony obtains their cutie mark. It references the pony's special talent or some other unique quality. Ponies also have a surname which is inherited matrilineally; most surnames originated during the early Classical Era. Clippings of part of this full name are more commonly used in most speech. When ponies speak a foreign language, they almost always translate part of their name into that language.
Literacy is almost universal, but calligraphy is mostly a unicorn tradition.
When translating a text from Ponish, horse-related puns should be used to preserve more of the original style.
Beyond Ponies, there are also many other races in our world. Most are different species, and they cannot breed with each other. One important exception is ponies and donkeys, who can produce the infertile hybrids known as "mules". Mules are considered ugly, and are often the butt of jokes. Because of this, relations between Ponies and donkeys are uniquely frowned upon.
Deer are another race native to the northwestern regions of the western continent. They live mostly in the Kingdom of Olenia, northwest from Equestria. Currently ruled by King Stronghoof; heiress apparent is the beautiful Velvet who has pro-Equestria views.
One other important race in our world, which tends to be migratory, is the terrible dragons. Dragons are fearsome fire-breathing monsters. They are lithovores that collect massive piles of gemstones which serve as their food. They are also compulsive hoarders in general. As they are too scary to study up close, Ponies know surprisingly little about dragons.
The eastern continent is the homeland of the griffons. Griffons are a race with a lionesque body and hindquarters and an avian head, wings and talons. The history of the griffons, as it is known in Equestria, is described in the book "Bygone Griffons of Greatness". In ancient times, griffons were known to be as greedy as dragons, always hoarding their bits and other treasures. But all that changed when King Grover of Griffonstone found the mysterious golden Idol of Boreas. Legend says the Idol of Boreas was made from the dust of golden sunsets, blown across the mountains by the north winds. Possessing the Idol of Boreas filled the griffons' hearts with pride. Griffonstone went from being a small kingdom near the Hyperborean Mountains to the capital of a vast Griffonian Empire under the rule of Emperor Grover I. It's said that that one great treasure is responsible for making the Griffonian Empire into the most majestic empire in the history of the east. "Bygone Griffons of Greatness" was written a long time ago, and it ends with the coronation of the fourteenth emperor of the griffons, Emperor Guto. During the reign of Guto, the monster Arimaspi stole the Idol of Boreas, but when he tried to escape, he lost the idol and his life by falling into the Abysmal Abyss. They say when the griffons treasure fell, their dignity fell with it. And the griffons have lived in miserable infighting ever since. If you visit Griffonia, be sure to bring plenty of bits; nothing's better than gold to a griffon.
The great archipelago which is located northwest from the southern continent is home to the hippogriffs. These are a debatably equine race with a pony-like body and hindquarters and a griffon-like avian beak, wings and talons. The hippogriffs are masters of seafaring, and have the world's most advanced fleet of ships, including the mysterious submarines that are able to hide under the water. Despite spending much time elsewhere, their homeland around Mount Aris is still considered sacred to them.
Kirin are a debatably equine race with a large curved horn, a scaly face and back, a lionesque mane and tail, sharp fangs, and cloven hooves. When kirin are angered they may experience temporary spontaneous combustion. Kirin lack the sexual dimorphism found in other races; those from other races often fail to recognise the difference between male and female kirin.
Equestria does not practice mass migration. Borders are mostly defended by oceans and harsh terrain.
There are always guard ponies stationed along the border with Olenia.
Non-pony residents of Equestria are treated with a sort of distant friendship by the pony majority.
About 60% of non-ponies in Equestria live on autonomous non-pony reservations where they live according to their foreign customs, while the other 40% are fully integrated into Pony society.
This book was approved for mass distribution by the ??? of Information and Propaganda.
Printed in Canterlot, Equestria. During the year 1002 ALB.