The Doctor and the Monk

Jun 23rd, 2013 11:04 PM

Teo nods kindly to Redfill's remarks about how he conducts his faith. "Thank you sir." he knew the presence of faith, especially Christian or perceived Sanctified faith had a habit of causing mixed sentiments in the covenant.

As Redfill talks about the Protean hypothis, Teo is gratified the man agrees with the metaphysical theorum. When he goes into detail about cubic air and such, Teo nodds along politely has he struggles to untangle the science of it. "Hmm, I see. If ever I make an addem, I will include that." After carefully double checking he got the science right of course. "And you are quite right about discussion, reading does only get you so far. Having someone to point an alternative or flaw is just as important." Then a though occurred to Teo. "You said Doctor that you study history and changes that impact personality and skill development? Have you at all done work on pre and post World War 2 Japan? I began study of changes in their art however I was sidetrack by other work."

**Michael Redfill** · Jun 26th, 2013 01:05 PM

There is an obvious burst of excitement at the mention of Japan:

"Oh, it's a great topic for research: there are tons of academic papers written. And then there is fiction. Too bad that half of the materials have never been translated into English... But I digress. If you want to study the changes in Japanese art of that time, I suggest you start with political and economic life. After World War 2 Japan was badly beaten. The economy was in ruins and the military ceased to exist. Major reforms were needed, but Japan lacked the specialists required for these reforms. So we, the USA helped in our usual considerate manner: appointed a bunch of people, mostly from military background as advisors to help determine the future of the country", - he stops for a moment to formulate what he's going to say next:

"Big manufacturing conglomerates called zaibatsu were the biggest players. By taking and improving Western techniques they were able to transform central Japan from living hell with smog and terrible salaries into one of the most successful business areas in the world. But you cannot absorb just one thing, so the Japanese took a lot from Western culture too. Of course, they adapted it to their traditional art, language and way of thinking. The old-fashioned people of the time thought that the Japanese way of life was dead, but it later turned out that it never got destroyed. Enriched and changed, not broken. It is a fascinating period in history and a very good metaphor for the Ordo. Perhaps I can advise you on some literature later?"

Jul 1st, 2013 03:35 AM

Teo nodded as the Gangrel spoke. It was clear he was quite knowledgeable on the matter. It was of course colored from an American perspective but there was nothing necessarily wrong with that. He would have to pick the man's brain when he refocused on this graphic arts studies. "I would very much appreciate that Doctor. After following Grand Wyrm Villier's suggestion I should examine comics for occult themes I found the Japanese 'manga' books...interesting. The art styles seemed quite intriguing and their evolution is what grabbed my interest to study them."

**Michael Redfill** · Jul 1st, 2013 11:11 AM

Michael raises an eyebrow and a smiles at Teo's words. He simply keep his expression serious when imagining Martha reading shoujo manga.

"The problem with using popular culture as a source in such endeavors is knowing where to look. But I agree that it complements the more serious works nicely. If you ever get around to Japanese animation, maybe you should try Mushishi. It's a saga about a traveling shaman. In my opinion it portrays the Japanese view on spirits quite nicely."

There is a pause while Michael considers something before speaking up again:

"So, Brother Raluca, maybe we could share opinions on how faith can supplement academic knowledge to produce better results? It's a topic that I can rarely discuss with another Dragon. Except my Sire." - the smile doesn't disappear, signifying that it's a topic for a friendly conversation not the start of another crusade.

Jul 1st, 2013 02:41 PM

Teo made a mental note to look up the author that Redfill mentioned. He did not recall seeing that named attached to anything film head yet seen but he would look back over his notes.

"As you wish sir." Teo nods at Redfill's change of subject. It was one that he felt quite strongly about. "Often the pursuit of our studies forces one to make choices that risk degrading the soul and empower the Beast. Faith can fortify one's soul, giving appropriate resolve to one's hands do or stay one's hand if the price could be great. As Christian I hold certain beliefs, when I near crossing them in my studies I will feel guilt or apprension. I will pause for time and reflect and pray to God for guidence as to the root of those feelings and what action I should take. In this way I do not rush into actions in the thrill of discovery moment and later regret an action."

**Michael Redfill** · Jul 6th, 2013 02:17 PM

Michael listens carefully to the monk's explanation. There is a pause during which he seems lost in thought, before he replies:

"Yes, that is exactly the point. Religion provides the concept of consequence, which we all desperately need. My personal beliefs are more along the lines of reincarnation and karma and not sin, so it's a bit different for me. Religion isn't as much a thing that stops me from doing something I'll come to regret, but rather a constant question. What can this situation teach me? How can I use it to not only become stronger, but also better as a sentient being?"

"In my opinion, Dragons too often stray from the path of balance. The pursuit of knowledge demands that the voice of reason not be drawn out by the cries of the Beast, but that is often forgotten."

The Doctor smiles at his own words:

"But I'm starting to sound like a really bad preacher, I'm afraid."

Jul 8th, 2013 04:23 PM

The monk nods when Redfill mentions karma. It was a sound analogy, reincarnation he did not believe in though. But he was not above admitting the inclusion of the Kindred condition did open the relevance and possibility of it. Teo chuckles at the Gangrel's quip and was reminded the beat he had just taken from the man. He shifts stiffly and winces slight. "Case as true for kine as kindred. Have you read much of Chinese philosophy Supplicant? I think some of the morality neutral ethics would suit your reasoning."

**Michael Redfill** · Jul 16th, 2013 11:37 AM

Michael carefully looks at Teodor, clearly considering his words.

How does all this open-mindedness fit with the Christian faith? Still, Dillon manages it too... Do they simply ignore all the smiting and burning the Bible recommends?

There is a just barely visible shake of his head, before the Doctor replies:

"Yes, I find the works of eastern philosophers to be quote compatible with my worldview. I mostly focus my meditations around Taoism, Zen-Buddhism and military texts like Sun Tzu's "Art if War" or Miyamoto Musashi's "Book of Five Rings". Tell me, Brother, have you studied those particular texts?"

Sorry for the delay, Beej

Jul 16th, 2013 04:12 PM

The man's study of Taoism and Zen-Buddhism was pleasing to Teo. Although he notes perhaps given Redfill's preference for military text it was entirely possible Callum would provide a stronger discussion with him. "I have read portions of the Art of War, yes. It is quite the book." the monk nods. "I unfortunately have only heard of the Book of Rings in passing. My reading is primarly focused on Taoism and Neo-Taoism. Its ethical, cosmological and alchemical writings are of great interest to me. Mencius in particular, his ethics and alchemy are quite enlightening."

**Michael Redfill** · Jul 22nd, 2013 11:39 AM

Michael nods:

"Those military doctrines are certainly worth the time of a scholar. They are not large by any means, but they encompass the basic principles that, when trained to perfection, lead to inevitable victory."

The Taoism comment brings back memories about his studies right before the Embrace and soon after:

"What I find fascinating about the Eastern culture in general and philosophy in particular, is their ability to focus on something extremely simple and show how that can bring about enlightment. I'm not an expert on Taoism and haven't read anything on neo-Taoism, but Tao Te Ching is one of my favorite books on the subject of personal search. Be empty and live in the moment. And if you can fully adhere to this tenet, you are wise."

The doctor grins:

"Of course, reading piles of books is fulfilling by itself."

The Doctor and the Monk

Members who have read this thread : 0

Similar Threads

A Lawyer and a Monk

Haven A Shark and a Monk sit down...

Haven A Shark and a monk walk into a coffee bar...

Doctor Doctor

Is the Doctor In?