Beyond the folk spellsingers, like Song Shaman, Warrior Bards, Mystic Troubadors, there are more formalized disciplined schools of spellchant. These schools are disciplines, practices and movements that specialize in different aspects of spellchantry and are the closest Arpeggia comes to organized religion and magery. These schools have a handful of bardic colleges which teach their craft, but none claim to have sole claim or be the sole authority on the spellchant school they profess. Therefore, there are also anchorites, gurus with disciples that exist well outside the auspices of these Bardic Colleges which are still members of the schools the profess. Once a student has graduated, they may move on to another college, teach, profess and gather followers, or return to their trades. For instance, Warrior Bards often attend the College of Harmonic Blades to refine their spellcraft.
College of Harmonic Blades:
- The College of Harmonic Blades trains Bard Warriors, focusing on a blend of martial combat and spellsinging. Students learn to channel spells through their weapons while mastering swordplay and archery. They also study the historical songs and legends of Arpeggia to connect with the essence of their people.
2. College of Melodic Enchantment:
- The College of Melodic Enchantment is dedicated to the training of Harmony Enchanters, who specialize in creating charms, blessings, and protective spells. Students learn the art of imbuing everyday objects with magic, ensuring the harmony and well-being of Arpeggian communities.
3. College of Song Scrolls:
- The College of Song Scrolls focuses on the preservation of ancient spellsongs and the lore of Arpeggia. Tunekeepers and lorekeepers receive education here, immersing themselves in the study of historical songs, spells, and magical traditions passed down through generations. The craft of creating song scrolls is highly venerated. Common folk often buy song scrolls in attempt to deploy magic in their own lives.
4. College of Crafted Rhythms:
- This college is dedicated to Rhythm Weavers, who excel in the artistic integration of magic into their crafts. Students learn to create clothing, jewelry, and architectural marvels infused with spellsongs, combining aesthetics with functionality.
5. College of Aquatic Harmonies:
- The College of Aquatic Harmonies specializes in the teachings of Tidal Chanters, who are experts in the magic of water and the sea. Students learn to communicate with water elementals, protect ships from storms, and maintain a harmonious connection between the land and the ocean. This is where Arpeggias naval officers and sea merchants flock for training.
6. College of Mystic Echoes:
- Mystic Troubadours are trained in the College of Mystic Echoes, where they study the mystical arts of connecting with Wild Ones and Lemurians. Students learn to play instruments, sing songs, and perform rituals that allow them to commune with and influence these powerful spirits.
Each bardic college in Arpeggia is devoted to honing the unique skills and abilities of the different magical professions, ensuring the continued prosperity, cultural preservation, and defense of their archipelago