Life Crystals

These Crystals of Magic and Essence are truly remarkable. Who knew that among us are these beautiful gems have ugly consequences if mistreated.

— Professor Timbletok in the book, Stones of Magic

There is much to learn about Life Crystals, as they are a mystery to even the smartest of scholars. However, what would or has been learned about Life Crystals would be kept a secret. Even one of the leading scholars of Magic (aka, Mage), Professor Timbletok cannot share much as "such powerful knowledge could fall into the wrong hands".

Stones of Magic

Since the Decade of Darkness, Magic has been a growing phenomemon. There have been incidences where Magic has played a key component. For instance, the Disappearance of the Enchanter, Thran K'Shar.

Essence

Essence is the power of life, this is the belief of Taria's Order. Professor Timbletok of the College of Wonders also came to this conclusion. However, where they differ in opinion is the Order's view of Essence is also the energy of the Soul. Therefore Life Crystals are stones that store the souls of those who have passed away.
The mechanism of how this is achieved is yet to be discovered, but the Order believes these Stones collect the souls of those who were buried.

Only our Mother can fathom the ways of how these mystical gems are formed. Perhaps they're a gift from our Mother, or our gift to her?

— A Priest of Taria's Order

Societal Impact

Public Opinion

Since the Decade of Darkness, Magic has been a growing phenomenon. Many have grown to fear such mystical power. It is extremely uncommon for anyone to possess the ability to cast spells. However, there are some accounts of some being able to, especially in possession of a Life Crystal.

Life Crystals are illegal to possess unless you are certified with a Magic License.
If one is in possession of a Life Crystal, they are to give this to a Guardsman or a Sorcerer of the Arcane Order. The individual who concedes their Life Crystals will not sustain any penalties.
Concealing Life Crystals is punishable by 1GC fine per Crystal. If the individual cannot pay the fine, they are to be arrested and jailed for 1 month per Crystal. The individual still has their right of servitude to their judicial Lord/Lady.

— The law on Life Crystals

Law

Throughout Atharia possessing a Life Crystal is illegal. Crystals are conviscated by the Arcane Order and are sent to a secret and secure location. Some say this location is the College of Wonders, so they can study the crystals further.
Those who are caught with these magic stones are given a fine of 1GC per crystal. As the law states, "those who are found to be hiding or concealing the possession of Life Crystals are to be arrested and jailed."
This law is often disputed by many, as the punishment is considered harsh. Critics also claim that the law could be abused to create more Serfs for Lords/Ladies of the 6 realms. However, Lord Vonak Dragonmaul argues:

The controlled prohibition of Life Crystals are for your safety. These magical stones have a lot of power in them. Trust me. I know.

— Lord Vonak Dragonmaul

Magic License

A Magic License is required to handle Life Crystals, but even then they are heavily controlled. Those with a Magic License cannot only use Life Crystals, but they can also extract them from the ground in some mines. These mines are kept secret for security reasons.

Alternative Name(s)

Essence Stones, Magic Crystals, Magic Stones

Type

Stone