Equestrian Terra

## Introduction

Scientifically known as Equus Mana Gaia, Terra are the least likely to perform active forms of magic. In fact, it has never been heard of or recorded in any history. Their magic has been recorded as entirely passive, though that doesn't mean there's never been a Terra or two who just never got caught...

## Physical Attributes

On average, Terra are definitely the largest of the three races. Terra of all genders are usually quite broad and tall, though it isn't uncommon for Unicorns to be on par with them in terms of height. Behind their ears and above their hooves they have extra fur growth, and are generally the furrier of their counterparts, especially around the chest and joint areas. Even if a Terra is not broad or overly muscular, their innate Terra magic gives them a strength not seen in other species', similar to Pegasi's ability to cloud-walk. This isn't just seen in tree bucking (which still requires some training, as bucking a tree wrong can cause severe injury) but also in movements such as Pinkie Pie's bouncing and the speed and lengths Terra can leap and jump. Peculiarly, it isn't uncommon to see very short Terra, for example Pinkie Pie, despite coming from a family of tall ponies. There is no certain explanation for this, but a theory relates to the type of magic a Terra has; perhaps Pinkie's connection to an almost chaotic, non-Equestrian magic relates to her difference in height? However the lack of study in non-Equestrian magic depletes the accuracy of this hypothesis. Another hypothesis is that, due to Terra's innate connection to nature, this can cause a pony to be smaller if that is what is required for their natural talent. Again, there is no substantial proof for this.

## Magic

As mentioned before, Terra largely perform passive magic that is almost always active. This includes a connection to all aspects of nature but especially fauna and flora, which is why many of the most notable Terra families come from farming families; the Apple family, Cherry family, and Pear family being most well-known. This connection includes an almost innate understanding of crop growing, as well as just the mere presence of Terra increasing crop growth. This process increases if said Terra has a special connection to plant growing. In other families, such as the Pie and Quartz family, shows this nature connection in terms of geology. Rock-farming and gem-mining incorporate a Terra's ability to sense the different type of gems and minerals within an area, though this art is overshadowed by plant-growing.

There have also been records--dating back to Ancient Equestria and possibly further--about Terra's ability to heal others. It is believed to be due to the passive application of Terra magic, and is much less likely to cause Mana Radiation. However, in modern Equestria this has never been properly tested under Queen Celestia, Prince Blueblood, and various High Mage's orders. In some accounts it's written that there was a common trope between a large amount of Terra; an almost crystalline shine to their coat, a metallic mane and gems for hooves.

But that's preposterous, isn't it?

## Life & Culture

Terra were also often viewed as the most 'barbaric' of the three tribes prior to the formation of Equestrian. This is due to the 'wild' noises they would make, including whinnying, braying, snorts, essentially any sort of non-verbal cues. They were viewed as unintelligent and only good for crop-growing: though it wasn't uncommon for many a Unicorn to grow their own crop to avoid having to rely on such 'uncouth' food. Despite these thoughts, which have since been expelled from the general populace (though of course some higher-class families still uphold these ideas), Terra are unafraid to voice how they're feeling.

Terra are the most physically affectionate of the three races. Gentle headbutts are common amongst everypony close to a Terra, and playful roughhousing is a sign of closeness usually reserved to siblings or those on a similar power dynamic. This also includes simple actions, such as flank-bumps, quick nuzzles, and other such physical actions not usually found in other races. Cuddle piles are a common form of affection amongst young foals, between friend groups and family alike. This was also what made Pegasi and Terra relationships easier to begin in Ancient Equestria; Pegasi also had similar affection habits, with them having nests where cuddling happens.