Talk with a Dr. about a Dr. (Part 5)

JP with Jaxx, Redsword, mdman and Cindy

Dr. Jackal cocked his head to the side as thought on how to respond. Then he rubbed his chin again as he replied, “Most structures that we call "coral" are, in fact, made up of hundreds to thousands of tiny coral creatures called polyps. Each soft-bodied polyp—most no thicker than a nickel—secretes a hard outer skeleton of limestone or calcium carbonate, that attaches either to rock or the dead skeletons of other polyps. Now as amazing as it sounds, we can get the same ingredients from any seashell on the beach and it would actually cancel many of the reactions in my experiment. However I am intrigued by this message on the artifact. I bet it’s most likely a clue to something bigger. When I was doing my research on finding the demon blood crystal I found many odd clues that led me to its location. Now I could be wrong, but I am getting a similar vibe that this artifact is more of a clue to something bigger rather than a mystical item. No offense I am sure it is a great work of art but I noticed that our ancestors liked to used that type of method to hide secrets.”

"That is possible. I do know many of the artifacts from Arunda have been studied by high level mages, the Visage included, and it does not hold any magical properties." Elizabeth explained. "I aquired a book. from the Magic Guild, about the religion that believed such things and Mr. Aster is in the process of studying the book."

Being Vor was the resident Arunda, if the team, he did make the most sense to research the odd religion that thought of his race's artifacts as have magical powers.

Dr. Jackal nodded as he understood where Lady Elizabeth was coming from. He then replied, "I see...... since it didn't have any magical effects and it was related to religion, I think my theory sounds more plausible in that the artifact is related to the stories from the religion. Though many disregard religions as make believe ideas, they are created and connected to the people for a reason. Sometimes its to help them make sense of the world, since they are lacking a scientific understanding. Other times its connected to real and unbelievable times and recorded in music, folktales, art and religion. When I was researching for the demon blood crystal I learned that angels and demons were a big impact on this world, so it is possible that this artifact holds a secret to that time and knowledge long forgotten. If I am correct then perhaps Dr. Lemaire is more Mad than I am since we all know what can happen when seeking out power beyond our control."

Cronk was listening, but finding no interest in art, coral, and seashells. He found nothing interesting in magik. He only knew he didn’t understand magik. It is existed, Cronk agreed. He just knew he couldn’t do it. Of course, there was much Cronk couldn’t do.

When they mentioned religion, it drew Cronk’s interest. Although most in Norway had turned from the old ways, Cronk didn’t. He had heard of the great god of thunder, full of magnificent strength, who carried as magical war hammer.

Cronk tightened his lips, then spoke. “Cronk follow Thor!” If anyone said Thor didn’t exist, they’d feel the power of Cronk’s hammer fists.

Elizabeth turned her attention to Cronk. "Thor, the God of Thunder. The Norse God of Thunder, Sky and Agriculture. I have never met anyone followed the ways of the old Norse. If you want I can tell you much about that, when we have more time. I have studied some of the older religions and ways of various races."

Elizabeth was not just humoring the giant Orc, she was truly fascinated with the knowledge that Cronk was a follower of Thor. She wouldn't think to say anyone's religion or God was not real, even if it was not what she personally followed. That would be dismissive and rude. Besides, she was part of an order that went after things people didn't necessary believe in. Who was she to say what was real and what wasn't?

" Doctor Jackal," said Sung getting his attention. "Japanese have used Coral from reefs for generations in medicine. Things like arthritis, human bacterial infections, heart disease, viruses, and other diseases. I am nowhere close to you in science. I have seen it used in powder form. is that artifact made from a special Coral?" asked Sung now interested in the answer.

Elizabeth responded, "Not that I am aware of. The Countess did not mention it if it is. I suppose that answer might be in the book about the religion."