The Syreni or Mermaid was discovered in 1881 by Lockfield during his period studying the ancient myths and legends of the “Old Gods”. Bought to Lockfield by a Chinese Fisherman, the sea witch was a curious find. Humanoid in shape, but with a fish like tail emerging from it’s lower half, Lockfield initially believed it to be a side show gaf, but upon further inspection, Lockfield deduced it was in fact a mummified creature.
The details of this case were particularly fascinating to Lockfield, as throughout his studies in England, he had treated and chronicled a number of deformities which shared similarities to aquatic species. This in combination with ancient scrolls uncovered in the mountains of the Antarctic that spoke of extra dimensional beings living amongst the human race, created an intriguing, if not chilling dossier.
This item became a popular attraction, increasing the popularity of both Lockfield’s expeditions, as well as revenue to his personal collection that was an acting museum run by Annabelle. Continuing this success, Lockfield began accepting commissions to appear at numerous events and parties of the day, from personal gatherings at the home of wealthy aristocrats, to seminars at the Natural History Museum.
Though not all the press was positive. There were those who sought to spoil Lockfields scientific legitimacy. Among these were former mentor Dr. Roland O'Brien who wrote in London’s “Medicine and Science Monthly” that “ (Lockfield) is a nothing more than a common showman. His findings on which he claims to have rewritten evolutionary history, is nothing more than a mere confidence trick.”
Unfazed by these claims, Lockfield was still able to secure funding from museums and patrons alike in search of artifacts and remnants of a world long forgotten.