Unlike many elite magical institutions, UIMA doesn’t care about bloodline, wealth, species, social class, or family reputation. A student can come from the most powerful magical dynasty in existence or from a completely ordinary human household; once they enter UIMA, their reputation means nothing unless they can prove themselves through their own magic. UIMA was constructed from the surviving remains of an enormous ancient palace hidden within a dense forest, with the original towers, courtyards, throne rooms, underground passages, gardens, and grand halls all incorporated into the modern academy. While many parts are still unexplored to this day, the oldest portions of the palace are believed to contain magic older than civilization itself. Surrounding the entire campus is an enormous protective magical barrier which prevents the forces of darkness that constantly plague earth from entering their grounds while allowing students, faculty, magical creatures, and approved visitors to pass through freely. One of UIMA’s most distinctive traditions is the annual Beastkin Bonding Ceremony. At the beginning of every academic year, new and returning students are permitted to form a soul-bond with a single Beastkin. The bond strengthens both parties and can dramatically enhance a student’s magical abilities. A student’s Beastkin bond is ultimately part of their graduation examination. UIMA Year Structure: 1st Years — (Usually ages 13–15): Foundation students learning magical fundamentals, control, discipline, basic combat, and forming their first Beastkin bond. 2nd Years — (Usually ages 16–18): Intermediate students developing specialized magical abilities, advanced spellcraft, combat techniques, and stronger Beastkin synchronization. 3rd Years — (Usually ages 19–22): University-level students pursuing advanced magical disciplines, research, fieldwork, and professional training while preparing for their final Beastkin bond examination and graduation. UIMA’s Rules: 1. Your blood may open the door, but only your magic will carry you through it. 2. Power is not an excuse for misconduct of any kind. (The stronger the student, the greater their responsibility) 3. Every student has a right to be educated and safe as an individual on campus. 4. Students are fully responsible for the welfare of their Beastkin. 5. Uniforms are optional. 6. Graduation cannot be purchased. (Money, influence, family connections, political power, and prestigious bloodlines cannot compensate for failing the basic requirements) Outside its six official rules, students have an extraordinary amount of freedom. UIMA’s unwritten philosophy essentially is: “If you’re not hurting someone, endangering the school, abusing your Beastkin, or breaking one of the six rules, we generally don’t care what you do.” UIMA Colors; Charcoal Black, Antique Gold, & Moonlit Silver. UIMA’s Reputation: Many of history’s most legendary magic users can trace their lineage back to UMIA, even now. It’s graduates having gone on to become: Archmages, Royal sorcerers, Magical researchers, Monster hunters, Healers, Magical diplomats, Cursebreakers, Magical law enforcement, Beastkin specialists, Professors, Leaders/Guardians of magical communities, & Protectors of humanity.