The Origin

Draw or write about how your Faian's affinity originated.

While it is possible for a Faian to be born with an activated affinity, it is extremely rare. Most Faians must use an Affinity Totem, momentarily amplifying the connection to a certain affinity to make the path clear to the user. However, these Totems are also rare. If you used an Affinity Totem, how did you come upon it? Was it inherited? Traded for at the marketplace? Perhaps... stolen? Or are you one of the lucky few to be born with magic?

Gwynne
I've read of several Mage families, where children are always born with an activated Affinity. It must be quite a burden, to be destined for greatness at such a young age...

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

First Summoning

Draw or write about your Faian attempting to summon their Lesser Affinity Spirit for the first time.

Every student enters the Academy with an activated affinity, but many have never seen their Lesser Affinity Spirit. In the quiet corners of the Academy Courtyard, students attempt to manifest their ghost-like companions for the first time. It takes considerable effort, but it’s important to start bonding early!

Fern
There! I think I saw a wisp of tail! They’re just as curious about you as you are about them, I think.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

HIS101: Wither and The Dawn of Light

Draw or write about your Faian studying Faian history or depicting a historical event involving the first Lightkeepers.

Before casting a single spell, every student must understand why their light matters. This course covers all that we currently know of the Ruptour War and how the first Lightkeepers began the process of revitalizing Faia. To pass, students must illustrate a key moment from history or write a thesis on the importance of light.

Ezra
The first Lumendra Lightkeepers were so brave, facing the vast darkness with tiny lanterns.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

MAG105: Introduction to Runes

Draw or write about your Faian practicing writing runes.

Runes serve as anchors of magic, carved in an ancient language that even the greatest Mages don’t fully understand. Rank I students spend hours in the Libris Lumyera memorizing the precise shapes and strokes of these symbols. A single mistake, and your rune turns into something completely different! How are you handling the tedious nature of runic script?

Zaelaria
Ho ho! I remember my first rune... it accidentally turned my lunch into a bouquet of Miracle Ambrosias.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

PHY121: Channeling and Endurance

Draw or write about your Faian practicing their magical endurance or dealing with the physical fatigue of overexertion.

Magic is a physical strain. This class focuses on Channeling Drills, where students practice drawing energy from their deity’s power pool through their bodies without triggering overexertion. Students must have enough stamina to hold a simple light spell for as long as possible until their personal light begins to dim.

Alastor
That trembling in your paws is normal. But you must learn to fight it.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

Weekend in Lysborough

Draw or write about your Faian spending their weekend off-campus in the nearby village of Lysborough.

To prevent burnout, students are encouraged to visit the nearby village of Lysborough on weekends. There, they can see how magic is used in the real world, because Lysborough is full of it! Streetlamps are enchanted to shimmer in prismatic colors, Alchemists sell tonics in the market, and entertainers casually disappear in puffs of periwinkle smoke. Many students also use this time to buy decorative items for their future staves, or simply to relax.

Zaelaria
Lysborough is looking lovely this morning. I’m about to go visit the tea merchant, you're welcome to tag along!

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

The Snapdrake Harvest

Draw or write about your Faian harvesting magical plants in the Snapdrake’s Garden.

Only Rank IV students can enter the Snapdrake’s Garden alone, but Rank II students are often brought in under supervision to harvest ingredients for upcoming Alchemy lessons. The garden is full of magically potent plants from all around the Realm… can you identify what you need?

Ozias
See how the sap has that slight golden shimmer? That’s exactly what we need for this potion.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

HIS205: Totems and Power

Draw or write about your Faian studying the mechanics of how their power is borrowed from the deities.

This advanced history course dives into the nature of the Deities and how they store their power in pockets of Void, also known as Power Pools. Students study the mechanics of Affinity Totems and why the “path” to a deity is permanent. The class is heavy and philosophical, even touching on the soul-recycling system of the afterlife.

Alastor
It’s strange, knowing our power is only loaned. Makes you wonder what the deities are getting out of the bargain, doesn’t it?

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

MAG210: Somatic Rhythms

Draw or write about your Faian practicing the somatic components of a spell.

Complex magic requires a combination of thinking and movement. In this course, students learn the somatic components of magic, using gestures and body postures to mold their intent. Many students pair their practice with music, finding it easier to remember the movements by treating the spell like a dance.

Ozias
I’ll be honest, I’m glad we stick to stirring and pouring in my lab. I always felt like a bit of a fool waving my arms around in this class.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

MAG212: The Art of Illusions

Draw or write about your Faian practicing a harmless illusion on a friend or around the Academy.

Although Illusion is considered to be a Lesser Art, this class is extremely popular simply because it's fun. Students learn how to manipulate perception to create harmless whimsical effects, from making the Dining Hall loaves taste like squash to making a classmate’s tail appear to produce bubbles. The goal is to master Intent through humor, ensuring the illusion is convincing enough to fool a peer but light enough to not cause overexertion.

Fern
Oh, look at those little bubbles! It’s so wonderful to see magic used to make the Realm a bit more whimsical.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

Mage's Staff

Draw or write about your Faian crafting, receiving, or personalizing their Mage’s Staff.

Whether crafted by the student, a loved one, or found as a legacy, the Mage’s Staff is a conduit that will stay with its wielder forever. Students spend weeks selecting the right wood, stones, and carving names of loved ones into the grip to make it a true extension of themselves. What sets your staff apart from others?

Gwynne
I’ve worked at the Academy for a while now, but I still get a little skip in my heart when I see a student earn their Staff.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

The Rite of the Reef

Draw or write about your Faian preparing their lantern or participating in the Rite of the Reef ceremony.

Every year during the Rite of the Reef, students from the Mage’s Academy are flown to Lylluna to participate in the lantern tradition and rank up. Rank III students often take this more seriously, as they are nearing the end of their journey. Many spend hours enchanting their lanterns to display their affinity’s colors or float higher than anyone else’s in the sky. How much effort are you putting into the tradition this year?

Zaelaria
Ready for the big trip? The view of those lanterns over the water… Well, you’ll never forget it!

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

ART301: Specialization Selection

Draw or write about your Faian training in their chosen specialized field.

Students must now choose a specialization under one of the five Masters: Healer, Combat, Enchantment, Alchemist, or Summoner. The Master of their chosen specialization gives them a trial to prove they have the focus and intent required for such unique work. This is a pivotal moment in every student’s career. Which will you choose?

Gwynne
It’s a big decision, but try not to overthink it. Just follow your heart!

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

ART307: Simple Enchantments

Draw or write about your Faian learning about Enchantment or trying to enchant an object.

In this introductory course, students learn the basics of Enchantment. Unlike a temporary rune, enchanting an object requires a Mage to channel their intent into an item, then define an activating agent (like a strike or a word), Many students practice on training swords or tools, attempting to imbue them with elemental heat or light. This class is often a favorite for those looking to work with the Iron Crucible guild later.

Alastor
Clear your head before you touch the stone, lest the magic goes awry.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

MAG312: Multi-Stream Intent

Draw or write about your Faian using their staff to hold or stabilize a complex spell.

Using their new staves, Students learn to stabilize and then cast complex spells. The staff acts as an anchor, allowing a Mage to hold one stream of intent while they build a second one, requiring intense mental multitasking and focus. This is the first step towards mastering the Greater Arts… are you up for the challenge?

Ezra
One paw holds the past while the other weaves the future.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

A Night to remember

Draw or write about your Faian enjoying or setting up the Ball.

To celebrate reaching the final Rank of the Mage’s Academy, Rank IV students often throw an unofficial Ball in the Commons Areas. The stone halls are transformed with floating candles and shimmering illusions, and every student puts on their finest silks and jewelry. Whether you are leading a dance in the center of the Commons, setting up the pastry stands, or chattering with your friends on the balcony, it is an unforgettable night and a time to honor how far you’ve come together.

Fern
The music is just lovely! You’ve all worked so hard, you deserve to enjoy every second!

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

Arena Trials

Draw or write about your Faian sparring or practicing combat magic in the Academy Arena.

Rank IV students finally gain access to the Academy Arena. There, they can practice high-stakes magical combat using enchanted practice weapons. Sparks fly, and screams (of fear!) sound. To excel in the Arena, students must learn to maintain focus and intent even under the pressure of a mock battle or a charging opponent. The Arena is not for everyone.

Ephime
You’ve got a real fire in your eyes today! That’s the passion I like to see.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

Secret Library

Draw or write about your Faian researching or studying in the Secret Library.

Only Rank IV students know the passcode to the hidden library in the Snapdrake’s Garden. It contains the most advanced runes and the oldest records preserved by the original four Archmages. Have you come to research the forbidden and forgotten arts, or do you simply wish to escape into the most silent atmosphere of the Academy?

Gwynne
Oh, you found the hidden entrance! It’s such a cozy spot for a bit of serious research. Just be careful with the older scrolls… they’re a bit fragile.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

The Archmage's Blessing

Draw or write about your Faian receiving a blessing from their Archmage.

Before graduation, each student’s staff must be blessed by the corresponding Archmage in the Lightkeeper’s Rotunda. This ritual finalizes the connection between the Mage, their staff, and their Deity. It is a very ceremonious moment, usually attended by the student’s family and friends from all across Faia.

Ezra
The Rotunda has seen many Mages, but every blessing feels like the very first light. You have my blessing.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

The Spirit's Transition

Draw or write about your Faian’s Lesser Affinity Spirit transitioning into its permanent Greater Affinity Spirit form.

The final step to becoming a Mage. The Lesser Affinity Spirit, having bonded with the student through years of training, finally takes on a permanent, solid form. The spirit will reveal its name to the Faian through a mental link, and remain by their side without the need for summoning. You are now, officially, a Mage.

Ephime
…It’s a bit overwhelming, isn’t it? To suddenly have a lifetime of work standing right there in front of you.

Submission Instructions

• Set the character to Focus Character.
• Add EXP x1 under the Character Rewards field (unless your character is above the prompt's Rank).

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  Mage update instructions

Congratulations! Now that you have completed this prompt, your Faian is ready to level up to the max level! Here are the last few steps required for your character to officially become a Mage in the ARPG.

1. Level your character and the Affinity stat up to level 5.
2. Design a unique Greater Affinity Spirit for your character. Design guidelines can be found in the Mage’s Academy Guide! Note that the design does not have to be made by you. 
3. On your character's profile, create a Design Update Requests.
4. In the comments field, put "Mage update," and add a link to the approved submission of this prompt.
5. Add the Greater Affinity Spirit's design onto the same image as the previous masterlist image. Upload this new reference with the Spirit design as the masterlist image. Do NOT make changes to the character's design; if you would like to redesign your character, please wait and make a separate design update request!
   
6. Submit your Design Update, and your character will soon be a Mage!