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[Lore] The Imperial Academy for Magical Study


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The Imperial Academy For Magical Study - A Gift for All

 

Nestled in the Inner Ward of Huangjing, The Long Guo Imperial Academy For Magical Study — or simply the Academy — is the cornerstone of Long Guo education. Founded long ago by Emperor Xiao Huo and Empress Xi Hua, the Academy originally served as a training grounds for the Imperial Watch to hone both their mind and their magical skills. Those stalwart few who sought to join the Watch would pass their evaluations and find themselves here in these hallowed halls to sharpen their mind, body, and magic.

 

For several decades, the Academy was open only to the Imperial Family and the Watch itself, outsiders were forbidden from entering and guards patrolled the perimeter. Things then began to change; when the demand for higher education reached a fever pitch, the reigning Emperor made the decision to open the doors to the magically gifted of Long Guo. For a time the Academy still served as the Imperial Watch’s training ground during the night, but eventually a separate facility was built elsewhere.

 

At first, the Academy was still as strict and difficult to enroll in as it had been for The Watch. Only the best and the brightest could even hope for a chance to grace the steps of the Academy. But as time went on and emperors came and went, the doors crept ever open. No longer was the Academy only for the rich and noble, or only for those with magic. Anyone, no matter race, nor creed, nor upbringing would be barred from the chance to become alumni. So long as they showed heart and determination, a desire to learn, and the passion that makes Long Guo a beautiful nation.

 

These days the Academy holds a much more peaceful atmosphere compared to the ominous and strict days it held as the Watch’s training grounds. The paved walks are alive and filled with students and teachers and sages making their way through the grounds, but so too are there your average citizens, listening in on the free lectures performed by the professors or partaking in the large number of books that reside in the Academy’s public library.

 

While not as difficult as it may have been, enrollment into the prestigious school is still far from a simple task. Depending on the course of study, hopefuls will find themselves faced with rigorous tests and exams to prove themselves worthy of the knowledge that can be found in this wondrous bastion of wisdom. The entry exams into the Academy are the hardest part, most students find. Once enrolled, the majority of professors and faculty are revealed to be a polite and easy to get along with bunch, rather than strict taskmasters one would expect from such a prestigious school.

 

Magical Studies may be the main focus of the Academy, which has trained some of the greatest magical minds that Long Guo has ever had, but magic alone is not the only line of study that an aspiring student can come to find. Since its doors opened to the public many years ago, numerous non-magical students and teachers have joined the ranks of the school, opening up the opportunity for studies in medicine, cultural studies, music, cooking, and so much more.

 

At first glance, the Imperial Academy seems to provide an education comparable to that provided by a master of the Harmonious Path. However, the Academy doesn’t see as strong of a need for intensive spiritual development, instead allowing and often encouraging their students to seek entertainment and relaxation in whatever ways they see fit. It’s the Academy’s belief that study alone makes for duller minds and that every brain needs time to unwind, be that through meditation, enjoying a play, or going on a shopping spree. Every student is unique, and every one finds peace their own way.

 

With so much to offer and a unique and hospitable atmosphere, it’s little wonder that the Imperial Academy is Long Guo’s most popular academic destination.

~Journey to the Dragon Kingdom

Ashley 'Ash' Ravencrest

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