Evershade University

Evershade University of the Arcane Arts is located in the heart of Tir’Galdur and has the reputation as the most exclusive and prestigious school of magic in the world… though whether or not it’s actually the best is a matter of opinion.

Evershade was founded in 1862 by four of Tir’Galdur’s most prominent magic-users: Gavrielle Emberthane (a Sorceress), Regulus Corvenne (a Wizard), Sylvaine Vaelora (a Glamour-weaver) and Hamish Larkfield (a Bard). Together, and helped by a number of other prominent Tir’Galdur citizens, they established the school with its four study branches: Sorcery, Wizardry, Glamour and Bardic Arts.

The official goal was to foster learning and progress… but in hindsight, most people agree that the unofficial goal probably was to unite Tir’Galdur’s magic-users and revolt against Westhaven, since Tir’Galdur was still part of the Westhaven Empire at the time. And since Sylvaine later led the revolt and became the first Queen of Tir’Galdur, we have to addmit that the tactiv paid off.

Today, Evershade has banned the teaching of Glamour, but the three other branches are still studied widely. Since Tir’Galdur is not only a kindgom but a magocracy, all Royals and Nobles of Tir’Galdur are required to attend the University and study one of the three branches of magic.

Commoners of Tir’Galdur are also welcome at the University, as long as they have magical talent and can pass the entrance exams… but anyone from outside Tir’Galdur is almost automatically dismissed. The only exception is extremely talented magic users from Paragon Bay, if they have a recommendation from the White Coven… largely because thee White Coven was once founded by a former Evershade student.

As such, the University is not only a place of learning, but a central pillar in a society where magic determines status, authority, and opportunity.

The Tree of Eternity

Evershade University is housed within the colossal Tree of Eternity, a massive, sentient tree believed to be the oldest living organism in the world. Its branches stretch high into the sky, and its roots burrow deep into the heart of Tir’Galdur. This ancient tree is the foundation of the University, with classrooms, halls, and dormitories crafted from the living wood, woven seamlessly into its structure. The University’s towers and walkways blend with nature, supported by glowing vines and bridges of enchanted light.

The tree exudes powerful magic, influencing the entire University. The environment shifts in subtle ways—rooms grow larger or smaller, hidden chambers appear and disappear, and the air is filled with the soft hum of arcane energy. The Tree of Eternity is not just a location; it’s a living, magical entity that interacts with the students and faculty..

The University’s sections are connected by ethereal bridges formed from light and vines. These bridges shift in subtle ways, creating a labyrinthine environment that seems to have a mind of its own.

Fae beasts and elemental spirits roam freely throughout the University. Students often form bonds with these creatures, many of whom act as familiars or companions. Enchanted owls, fae deer, and even small dragons are common sights around the grounds. Dryads live in the trees around the University and tend to the forests, and many a Bardic student has been part of a Dryad orgy.

The most sacred part of Evershade University is the Heart of the Tree, a hidden chamber deep within the tree itself. The heart is said to be the source of the tree’s ancient magic, and only the most skilled or chosen can access it.

The Diciplines

Students at Evershade specialize in one of three magical disciplines, though cross-study and collaboration aren’t uncommon. These fields reflect different ways of harnessing magical power.

Bardic Arts (Magic through Music and Art)
- Students in this field use music, storytelling, and visual arts as conduits for their magic. Their spells are woven into performances — songs that enchant, dances that control the elements, and paintings that alter reality. Bardic magic is emotional, flowing from creativity and expression.
- Classrooms: Set in naturally resonant spaces within the tree’s branches, these rooms seem to amplify sound, enhancing the magic of performance. Open-air platforms and natural amphitheaters allow students to practice their arts with the skies and stars as their audience.

Wizardry (Magic through Learning and Study)
- Wizards approach magic as a science, relying on intense study, ritual, and discipline. They learn from ancient tomes, develop complex spells, and study magical theory. Wizards focus on precision and mastery of the arcane laws that govern magic.
- Classrooms: Housed in the higher, secluded branches of the tree, these are quiet, scholarly spaces filled with books, scrolls, and alchemical tools. Wizardry students often spend long hours in study, perfecting their spells in peaceful isolation.

Sorcery (Magic through Innate Gifts)
- Sorcerers are born with natural magical abilities. Unlike the other disciplines, their magic is instinctual and wild, needing little formal study but requiring discipline to control. Sorcery students often have powers connected to specific elements or supernatural forces.
- Classrooms: Open, skyward platforms high in the branches allow sorcery students to train in natural elements, harnessing their raw power in open spaces. Storm clouds, gusts of wind, and flickers of flame often accompany their lessons as they learn to tame their innate abilities.

Glamour (Magic through desire)
- Glamour-weavers usually have Fae blood, and they combine aspects from the three other fields, but is especially useful for both revealing or concealing the truth. Glamour is all about desire and passion, and has been banned from the school… officially because it was dangerous and corrupting and too many Glamour students turned into evil megalonaniacs. The real reason is… a little more complicated.