Doctrine of the Academy of Thorn'Adan

Article I: Establishment and Purpose

Section 1.1: Establishment

The Academy of Thorn'Adan, established on Jade 14, 1210, is a premier institution dedicated to advancing magical knowledge and practice. Our commitment to fostering the ethical use of magic and preparing students to address the challenges of the magical world is unwavering, ensuring that all our graduates uphold the highest standards of magical ethics.     Foundation
The Academy was founded following the success of the Arcane Summits, which highlighted the need for a formal institution to oversee new wizards' education and ethical training.
Location
The Academy, strategically situated on the Isle of Thorn'Adan, was chosen for its magical resonance and serene environment. The Isle, surrounded by Loch Ren, provides a secure and peaceful setting for magical studies, enhancing the learning experience and fostering a deeper connection with the magical world.
Initial Schools
The initial curriculum, with a strong focus on the foundational schools of Abjuration, Evocation, Necromancy, and Transmutation, was chosen for their fundamental importance to the practice of magic and their widespread applications in both practical and theoretical realms.
 

Section 1.2: Purpose

The purpose of the Academy is to provide comprehensive education in the magical arts, encompassing a wide range of disciplines. The Academy aims to:     Educational Excellence
Train wizards in core principles and ethical use of magic, ensuring a high standard of magical education.
Innovation
Foster innovation and Advancement in magical theory and practice, encouraging research and discovery.
Ethics
Promote the ethical use of magic, emphasizing responsibility and integrity in all magical practices.
Safety
Ensure the safety and well-being of students and faculty through rigorous safety protocols and ethical guidelines.
Community
Build a strong community of magical practitioners who collaborate and support each other in their pursuits.  

Article II: Curriculum and Faculty

Section 2.1: Foundational Schools

The initial curriculum, established on Jade 14, 1210, included the foundational schools of Abjuration, Evocation, Necromancy, and Transmutation. Each school is led by a Grandmaster who plays a pivotal role in curriculum development, teaching, and research, ensuring that each student receives personalized guidance and support.    

Abjuration:

Focuses on protective spells and defensive magic. Abjuration wizards are trained to create magical shields, wards, and barriers to protect themselves and others from harm.     Courses Offered
Basics of Protective Spells, Advanced Shielding Techniques, Warding and Binding, Counterspells.
Grandmaster
Oversees the development of abjuration spells and ensures students understand the principles of defensive magic.
 

Evocation:

It specializes in spells manipulating energy to produce powerful effects, such as fireballs and lightning bolts. Evocation wizards are known for their ability to unleash destructive forces.   Courses Offered
Fundamentals of Evocation, Elemental Manipulation, Offensive Spellcasting, Mastery of Destruction.
Grandmaster
Guides students in harnessing and controlling elemental forces, ensuring safe and effective spellcasting.
 

Necromancy:

Involves the study of life, death, and undeath. Necromancy wizards learn to manipulate the energies of life and death, often raising the dead or draining life force.   Courses Offered
Introduction to Necromancy, Principles of Undeath, Life Force Manipulation, Ethical Considerations in Necromancy.
Grandmaster
Focuses on the ethical use and control of necromantic powers, emphasizing the importance of responsibility.
 

Transmutation:

Concerned with changing the properties of matter and energy. Transmutation wizards can transform objects and creatures, alter physical properties, and manipulate alchemical processes.     Courses Offered
Basics of Transmutation, Advanced Alchemical Processes, Shapechanging and Polymorphing, Transmutational Theory.
Grandmaster
Ensures students master the art of transformation and understand the limits and possibilities of transmutation magic.
 

Section 2.2: Expansion and Amendments

The curriculum has been expanded through several amendments to include additional schools of magic:    

First Amendment (Jest 22, 1330): Inclusion of Illusion and Enchantment.

  Illusion
Teaches the art of creating false perceptions. Illusion wizards master the ability to create convincing illusions that can deceive the senses.
    Courses Offered
Fundamentals of Illusion, Advanced Illusion Techniques, Mental Manipulation, Visual and Auditory Deception.
Grandmaster
Guides students in creating realistic illusions and understanding the psychology behind sensory perception.
  Enchantment
Focuses on spells that influence the minds and emotions of others. Enchantment wizards can charm, compel, and manipulate thoughts.
    Courses Offered
Basics of Enchantment, Mind Control and Influence, Emotional Manipulation, Ethical Enchantment Practices.
Grandmaster
Ensures students use enchantment responsibly, emphasizing ethical considerations and the potential for misuse.
 

Second Amendment (Rosalia 15, 1450): Inclusion of Conjuration.

  Conjuration
Involves summoning creatures, objects and teleportation. Conjuration wizards are skilled in bringing entities and items from other places or planes.
  Courses Offered
Introduction to Conjuration, Summoning Techniques, Dimensional Travel, Binding and Control.
Grandmaster
Oversees the safe and ethical practice of summoning and teleportation, ensuring students can manage the risks.
 

Third Amendment (Vulcan 10, 1575): Inclusion of Divination.

  Divination
Specializes in perceiving future events, uncovering hidden truths, and gaining insights. Divination wizards use various methods to foresee and interpret the future.
  Courses Offered
Basics of Divination, Scrying and Prophecy, Omens and Portents, Ethical Considerations in Divination.
Grandmaster
They focus on the responsible use of divination, ensuring students respect privacy and confidentiality.
 

Fourth Amendment (Topazally 28, 2524): Emergency Removal of Necromancy.

  Reason
Necromancy was removed from the curriculum due to unethical practices and significant threats posed by the misuse of necromantic magic.
Impact
All necromantic activities ceased, faculty were reassigned or removed based on their involvement in the necromancy program, and students transitioned to other disciplines under the guidance of the remaining faculty.
 

Fifth Amendment (Failed Ratification, 2528-2550): Attempted Inclusion of Ancestral Magic, Chronomancy, and Graviturgy.

  Ancestral Magic
Communing with and harnessing the power of ancestral spirits.   Proposed Courses
Ancestral Communication, Spirit Binding, Ancestral Knowledge, Ethical Use of Ancestral Powers.
  Chronomancy
Manipulating time.
  Proposed Courses
Basics of Time Manipulation, Temporal Anomalies, Time Travel, Ethical Considerations in Chronomancy.   Graviturgy
Controlling gravitational forces.
  Proposed Courses
Fundamentals of Graviturgy, Gravitational Manipulation, Weight and Mass Control, Safety Protocols in Graviturgy.
  Reason for Failure
Significant safety and ethical concerns, particularly regarding the potential misuse of ancestral powers, time manipulation, gravitational control, and reestablishing Necromancy, led to intense debate and the eventual closure of the Academy in 2550.
 

Sixth Amendment (Necromay 12, 2574): Comprehensive Inclusion of All Schools.

  Purpose
Reestablish the Academy with a comprehensive curriculum, including all recognized schools of magic.
Impact
Full inclusion of Abjuration, Conjuration, Divination, Enchantment, Evocation, Illusion, Necromancy, Transmutation, Ancestral, Chronomancy, and Graviturgy.
 

Seventh Amendment (Saintally 4, 2600): Inclusion of Aberrations & Eldritch Entities Research.

  Purpose
Introduce a dedicated research program for studying Aberrations and Eldritch Entities, exploring their connections to Psionic Powers.
Impact
Establish research facilities, develop safety and containment protocols, and develop ethical guidelines for research.
 

Section 2.3: Faculty Requirements

Each school of magic must be led by a Grandmaster. Grandmasters are responsible for:     Curriculum Development
Creating and updating the curriculum to ensure it remains current and comprehensive.
Teaching
Providing instruction and guidance to students, ensuring they understand both theoretical and practical aspects of their discipline.
Mentorship
Mentoring students and junior faculty, helping them develop their skills and advance in their studies and careers.
Research
Advancing research in their respective fields, contributing to the broader body of magical knowledge.
Ethical Oversight
Ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines and safety protocols, promoting responsible and ethical use of magic.
 

Article III: Student Conduct and Safety

Section 3.1: Code of Conduct

The Academy of Thorn'Adan students are held to the highest behavior and academic integrity standards. The code of conduct includes the following principles:     Academic Honesty
Students must demonstrate honesty in all academic endeavors. Plagiarism, cheating, and other forms of academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.
Respect
Students are expected to respect faculty, staff, peers, and the Academy. This includes adhering to rules, maintaining a respectful demeanor, and valuing diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
Responsibility
Students are responsible for their actions and their impact on the Academy community. This includes using magical abilities responsibly and ethically, following safety protocols, and participating actively in their education.
Integrity
Students must uphold integrity in all aspects of their lives at the Academy. This includes being truthful, fair, and consistent in their actions and decisions.
Community Engagement
Students are encouraged to contribute positively to the Academy community, participating in events, supporting peers, and engaging in collaborative learning and research.
 

Section 3.2: Safety Protocols

The safety of students and faculty is paramount at The Academy of Thorn'Adan. The following safety protocols are implemented to ensure a secure learning environment:   Magical Safety
Procedures for safely conducting magical experiments and practices, including guidelines for potentially dangerous spells and materials.
Emergency Response
Detailed emergency response measures for accidents or incidents involving magic. This includes evacuation plans, first aid protocols, and contact information for emergency personnel.
Containment Procedures
Protocols for the safe containment of magical entities, artifacts, and substances, including specialized containment units and procedures for handling hazardous materials.
Regular Inspections
Routine safety inspections of all facilities, equipment, and magical practices. These inspections ensure compliance with safety standards and identify potential risks.
Training
Regular safety training sessions for students and faculty. These sessions cover best practices for magical safety, emergency response procedures, and the use of safety equipment.
 

Section 3.3: Financial Policies

The Academy of Thorn'Adan has a unique financial policy designed to support students while also ensuring they are invested in their education:   Tuition and Fees
Students must pay for their education, including tuition, materials, and other fees associated with their studies.
Graduation Payout
Upon graduation, the Academy provides a 100% payout intended for constructing the student's own wizard tower. This payout significantly invests in the student's future as a practicing wizard.
Financial Aid
Students needing financial assistance can apply for aid, which covers tuition and other costs. Any financial aid received is deducted from the graduation payout.
Debt Management
It is rare, but not unheard of, for students to owe the Academy after graduation if their financial aid is within the graduation payout. The Academy works with these graduates to manage and repay their debt, ensuring financial challenges do not hinder their careers.
 

Article IV: Ethical Guidelines

Section 4.1: General Principles

The Academy of Thorn'Adan emphasizes the ethical use of magic across all disciplines. Adherence to these ethical guidelines is paramount to maintaining the integrity and reputation of the institution. The general principles include:     Honesty and Integrity
Wizards must practice honesty and integrity in all aspects of their magical studies and applications, including accurately representing their abilities and findings.
Respect for Rights
Respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals is essential. This includes privacy, consent, and the avoidance of harm.
Avoidance of Harm
Wizards must avoid causing harm through the misuse or negligent use of magic. This includes both physical and psychological injury to individuals and communities.
Responsibility
Wizards are responsible for the consequences of their magical actions. This includes taking appropriate measures to rectify any negative impacts.
Collaboration
Wizards are encouraged to collaborate ethically, sharing knowledge and resources in ways that respect intellectual property and contribute to the common good.
 

Section 4.2: Discipline-Specific Guidelines

Each school of magic has specific ethical guidelines tailored to its practices. These guidelines ensure that the unique aspects and potential risks of each discipline are addressed responsibly:   Abjuration
Emphasizes the ethical use of protective spells and defensive magic. Abjurers must ensure their wards and barriers do not unjustly confine or harm others.
Guidelines
Use evocation magic primarily for defense and protection. Avoid collateral damage and ensure the safety of bystanders.   Evocation
Focuses on the responsible use of destructive spells. Evokers must ensure their powerful spells are used judiciously and do not cause unnecessary destruction.
Guidelines
Use evocation magic primarily for defense and protection. Avoid collateral damage and ensure the safety of bystanders.
  Necromancy
Involves the study of life, death, and undeath. Necromancers must practice with a deep respect for life and the natural order, avoiding the unethical manipulation of the dead.
Guidelines
Use Necromancy ethically, with respect for the deceased and the living. Avoid creating undead for malevolent purposes and ensure the affected parties consent to necromantic practices.
  Transmutation
Concerned with altering matter and energy. Transmuters must ensure their transformations do not violate the rights of others or disrupt the natural order.
Guidelines
Use transmutation to enhance and improve, not to deceive or harm. Ensure that all transformations are reversible and ethical.
  Illusion
Teaches the art of creating false perceptions. Illusionists must avoid using their skills to deceive, manipulate, or cause harm.
Guidelines
Use illusions to entertain, educate, or protect. Avoid using illusions for deceit, theft, or manipulation.
  Enchantment
Focuses on influencing minds and emotions. Enchanters must ensure their magic does not violate free will or manipulate others unethically.
Guidelines
Use enchantment to inspire and heal, not to coerce or control. Ensure all enchantments are used with consent and for the subject's benefit.
  Conjuration
Involves summoning creatures and objects. Conjurers must ensure that summoned entities are treated ethically and that summoning does not cause harm.
Guidelines
Use summoning spells responsibly, ensuring the safety and well-being of summoned entities. Avoid summoning beings for exploitation or harm.
  Divination
Diviners specialize in perceiving future events and hidden truths. They must respect privacy and confidentiality and avoid intrusive or unethical practices.
Guidelines
Use divination to guide and inform, not to spy or manipulate. Respect the privacy of others and avoid revealing sensitive information without consent.
  Ancestral Magic
Practitioners must communicate with and harness the power of ancestral spirits. They must also honor and respect the spirits they interact with.
Guidelines
Use Ancestral Magic to honor and learn from the past. Ensure all interactions with spirits are respectful and consensual.
  Chronomancy
Manipulating time. Chronomancers must use their abilities responsibly, avoiding disruptions to the natural flow of time.
Guidelines
Use time manipulation to heal and correct, not to alter history for personal gain. Ensure that all temporal changes are reversible and ethical.
  Graviturgy
Controlling gravitational forces. Practitioners must ensure that their manipulations do not cause harm or disruption.
Guidelines
Use gravitational manipulation to enhance safety and improve conditions. Avoid using graviturgy for destruction or harm.
  Aberrations & Eldritch Entities Research
This field focuses on studying and understanding aberrant and eldritch entities and their psionic powers. Researchers must adhere to strict safety and ethical standards to avoid unintended consequences.
Guidelines
Conduct research with caution, ensuring containment and ethical treatment of entities. Avoid experimenting beyond safe and moral boundaries.
 

Article V: Amendments and Review

Section 5.1: Amendment Process

Amendments to the Academy of Thorn'Adan's curriculum and bylaws are proposed and ratified through the Arcane Summit, held every 80 years. This structured process ensures that changes to the Academy's operations are thoroughly reviewed and thoughtfully implemented.   Proposal Submission
Faculty members, Grandmasters, or magical community stakeholders can submit amendment proposals. Each proposal must include a detailed rationale, potential impacts, and an implementation plan.
Committee Review
A specialized review committee evaluates each proposal for feasibility, ethical considerations, and alignment with the Academy's mission. The committee conducts risk assessments and solicits feedback from relevant experts.
Debate and Discussion
Proposals are presented at the Arcane Summit, where attendees debate and discuss them. This stage allows for comprehensively examining the proposal's merits and potential drawbacks.
Ratification
Proposals are ratified by a majority vote of the Summit attendees. Ratified proposals are then implemented according to the detailed plan in the submission.
 

Section 5.2: Periodic Review

All amendments and bylaws are subject to periodic review at the Arcane Summit, ensuring they remain relevant and practical. The review process includes:     Regular Assessments
Conducted every 80 years, these assessments evaluate the current curriculum, bylaws, and policies to determine their effectiveness and alignment with the Academy's goals.
Feedback Collection
Feedback is solicited from students, faculty, and the broader magical community. This feedback helps identify areas for improvement and innovation.
Adjustment and Refinement
Based on the assessments and feedback, adjustments and refinements are made to existing amendments and policies. This ensures continuous improvement and adaptation to new magical theory and practice developments.
 

Section 5.3: Emergency Amendments

In cases where immediate action is required, such as addressing significant ethical concerns or safety risks, emergency amendments can be proposed and ratified outside the regular Summit schedule.   Urgency Justification
Proposals for emergency amendments must include a detailed justification for their urgency, highlighting the potential delay risks.
Expedited Review
An expedited review process is conducted by a designated emergency committee, ensuring a thorough but swift evaluation.
Interim Measures
Interim measures may be implemented while the full review and ratification process is completed, ensuring immediate protection and response to critical issues.
 

Section 5.4: Historical Amendments

A record of all past amendments is maintained to provide context and continuity. Significant historical amendments include:    

1. First Amendment (Jest 22, 1330): Inclusion of Illusion and Enchantment.
2. Second Amendment (Rosalia 15, 1450): Inclusion of Conjuration.
3. Third Amendment (Vulcan 10, 1575): Inclusion of Divination.
4. Fourth Amendment (Topazally 28, 2524): Emergency Removal of Necromancy.
5. Fifth Amendment (Failed Ratification, 2528-2550): Attempted Inclusion of Ancestral Magic, Chronomancy, and Graviturgy.
6. Sixth Amendment (Necromay 12, 2574): Comprehensive Inclusion of All Schools.
7. Seventh Amendment (Saintally 4, 2600): Inclusion of Aberrations & Eldritch Entities Research.

 

Section 5.5: Legacy and Impact

Each amendment's legacy and impact are documented to understand their long-term effects on the Academy's evolution and reputation. This documentation includes successes, challenges, and areas for future improvement.    

Article VI: Research and Innovation

Section 6.1: Research Initiatives

The Academy of Thorn'Adan is committed to advancing magical knowledge and practice through robust research initiatives. These initiatives are designed to push the boundaries of magical theory, develop new spells, and explore innovative magic applications. The Academy supports individual and collaborative research projects, encouraging creativity and discovery.   Dedicated Research Programs
The Academy has established dedicated research programs for each school of magic. These programs focus on advancing the understanding and application of their respective disciplines through rigorous study and experimentation.
Collaborative Projects
Interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged to foster innovation and holistic understanding. Research projects often involve multiple schools of magic, drawing on diverse expertise and perspectives to achieve groundbreaking results.
Resource Allocation
The Academy provides extensive resources to support research, including state-of-the-art laboratories, access to rare magical materials, and funding for field studies and expeditions.
 

Section 6.2: Faculty and Student Collaboration

Each Grandmaster is required to mentor a group of students at various training levels. This mentorship structure ensures that students gain hands-on experience in research and innovation while also contributing to the Advancement of magical knowledge.   Grandmaster
Leads research initiatives and oversees the entire mentorship structure. Grandmasters guide their mentees and ensure the quality and ethical standards of all research activities.
Grand Wizard
Senior student involved in high-level research and development projects. They assist the Grandmaster in overseeing the mentorship program.
Elder Wizards (2)
Experienced students who take on significant research responsibilities and mentor younger students.
High Wizards (3)
Mid-level students who conduct independent research under the guidance of senior mentors.
Arch Wizards (4)
Advanced students involved in complex research projects and experimental studies.
Wizards (5)
The core group of students who conduct standard research tasks and support higher-level projects.
Senior Wizard Apprentices (6)
Junior researchers who assist with basic research activities and learn advanced techniques.
Junior Wizard Apprentices (7)
New researchers who assist senior students and begin their journey into research and innovation.
Wizard Scholars (8)
Academic-focused students who contribute to theoretical research and scholarly publications.
Wizard Initiates (9)
Entry-level students who assist with basic tasks and learn the fundamentals of research.
 

Section 6.3: Ethical Research Practices

The Academy emphasizes the importance of conducting research ethically and responsibly. All research initiatives must adhere to strict ethical guidelines and safety protocols.     Ethical Standards
Researchers must adhere to high ethical standards, ensuring their work benefits society and does not cause harm. This includes obtaining consent for any experiments involving sentient beings and respecting the rights and dignity of all participants.
Safety Protocols
Stringent safety protocols are in place to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of researchers and subjects. These protocols include regular safety training, use of protective equipment, and emergency response procedures.
Oversight and Accountability
The Grand Master Wizard Council oversees all research activities. This board reviews research proposals, monitors ongoing projects, and complies with ethical and safety standards.
 

Section 6.4: Innovation and Application

The Academy encourages the practical application of research findings to solve real-world problems and advance magical practice.   Spell Development
Researchers are encouraged to develop new spells and magical techniques. Successful innovations are integrated into the curriculum and shared with the wider magical community. Technological Integration
The Academy explores combining magic with technology to create innovative solutions and enhance magical capabilities.
Publications and Conferences
Researchers are expected to publish their findings in scholarly journals and present their work at conferences. This dissemination of knowledge promotes collaboration and drives further innovation.
 

Article VII: Legacy and Impact

Section 7.1: Historical Impact

The Academy of Thorn'Adan has a rich history of significant contributions to magical knowledge and practice. Its legacy is built on the achievements of its faculty and students and the groundbreaking research conducted within its walls.     Founding Achievements
Since its establishment on Jade 14, 1210, the Academy has been a beacon of magical excellence. The initial inclusion of foundational schools of magic set a high standard for magical education. It established the Academy's reputation as a leading institution.
Curriculum Expansions
Through various amendments, the Academy has continuously expanded its curriculum to include new schools of magic. Each amendment reflects the Academy's commitment to evolving and adapting to the needs of the magical community.
Research Contributions
The Academy has been at the forefront of magical research, contributing to significant advancements in magical theory and practice. Research initiatives have led to developing new spells, techniques, and applications that have benefited the broader magical world.
 

Section 7.2: Arcane Advancement Requirements

Arcane Advancement is integral to the Academy's legacy, reflecting its commitment to rigorous standards and the cultivation of exceptional wizards.     Mentorship and Guidance
To undergo an appropriate Arcane Advancement, a student must learn from or be guided by a wizard who is no longer an apprentice. This ensures that students receive high-quality mentorship and instruction from experienced practitioners.
Demonstrating Mastery
Students must demonstrate their arcane mastery to an Elder Wizard or greater to be considered for Advancement. This involves testing their abilities and proving their competence in their chosen field of magic.
Early Advancements
For example, a Wizard Initiate must successfully demonstrate their cantrip and spellcasting ability to advance to Wizard Scholar. Early stages of Advancement focus on fundamental skills and knowledge.
Advanced Advancements
As students progress through the three apprentice tiers (Junior Wizard Apprentice, Senior Wizard Apprentice, and Wizard), the requirements for Advancement become more challenging. These stages test the student's depth of knowledge, practical skills, and innovative capabilities.
 

Section 7.3: Rules of the Arcane Summits

The Arcane Summits play a crucial role in the governance and evolution of the Academy, ensuring that it remains at the cutting edge of magical education and research.   Summit Frequency
The Arcane Summit is held every 8 years, providing a structured opportunity to review and amend the Academy's curriculum, policies, and bylaws.
Amendment Process
Amendment proposals are submitted, reviewed, debated, and ratified at the Summit. This process ensures that the magical community thoroughly considers and supports changes.
Review and Oversight
The Summit also serves as a forum for assessing existing policies' effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement. This ongoing review ensures that the Academy remains responsive to new developments and challenges in the magical world.
 

Section 7.4: Public Reaction

The public reaction to the Academy's initiatives and amendments has been generally positive, reflecting the institution's reputation for excellence and innovation.   Support and Enthusiasm
The magical community has supported the Academy's efforts to expand its curriculum and advance magical knowledge. New amendments and research initiatives are often met with enthusiasm and anticipation.
Concerns and Debates
While most initiatives are well-received, some proposals have sparked debate and concern, particularly those involving powerful and potentially dangerous disciplines. The Academy addresses these concerns through rigorous ethical guidelines and safety protocols.
 

Section 7.5: Legacy of the Academy

The Academy's legacy is defined by its contributions to magical education, research, and ethical practice. Its impact is felt across the magical community and beyond.   Educational Excellence
The Academy is renowned for its comprehensive and rigorous educational programs, producing highly skilled and knowledgeable wizards.
Research and Innovation
The Academy's research initiatives have significantly advanced magical theory and practice, benefiting the broader magical community.
Ethical Standards
The Academy's commitment to ethical practice sets a high standard for the responsible use of magic, ensuring that its students and faculty contribute positively to society.