Jakob ⇒ Genshin Impact Lore & Secrets Explained!

Jakob Ingold is a mysterious and pivotal non-playable character (NPC) in Genshin Impact, with a deep and intriguing backstory intertwined with the history of Fontaine. Born more than 500 years ago, Jakob’s journey from an orphaned child to a pioneering figure in scientific discovery and survival makes him a significant figure in Teyvat’s lore. His transformation, the choices he made alongside his companion Rene de Petrichor, and his ties to both the Narzissenkreuz Institute and the Narzissenkreuz Ordo, all contribute to his importance in the unfolding story of Fontaine and beyond. This comprehensive guide explores Jakob’s origins, the life-altering events that shaped him, and his crucial role in the game’s narrative.

Source : Ashikai

Who is Jakob Ingold?

Jakob Ingold, originally known as Jakob Baker, is a character shrouded in tragedy, resilience, and scientific curiosity. Born over 500 years ago in Fontaine, he witnessed the collapse of his family, the destruction of the Narzissenkreuz Institute, and the rise of the dangers facing Teyvat. His journey is one of survival, discovery, and transformation, culminating in his role as the co-founder of the Narzissenkreuz Ordo, an organization dedicated to understanding and possibly preventing future calamities.

Jakob’s Early Life – Childhood and Tragic Loss

Jakob was born as Jakob Baker in Fontaine, a region of advanced technological and scientific prowess. His father, Eduardo Baker, played a vital role in protecting the underground settlement of Fleuve Cendre from dangerous threats. However, Fontaine’s efforts to reclaim control of the area led to violent conflicts, resulting in Jakob and his father’s flight into the desert.

During this escape, Jakob was separated from his father, who is presumed to have perished. This loss marked the first major tragedy of Jakob’s life, leaving him an orphan alongside Rene de Petrichor, another boy who had lost his family in the same conflict. The two were sent to the Narzissenkreuz Institute, where they were given shelter and an opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Life at the Narzissenkreuz Institute

The Narzissenkreuz Institute became Jakob’s new home. There, he formed close friendships with Rene, Alain, and Mary-Ann. These children lived under the care of Lyris, the institute’s director, and Basil Elton, her deputy. However, tranquility was short-lived due to the emergence of Elynas, a massive and destructive creature that threatened Fontaine’s survival.

The battle against Elynas led to devastating consequences—the death of Lady Basil Elton and the total destruction of the Narzissenkreuz Institute. This catastrophe forced Jakob and Rene to seek refuge elsewhere, marking the beginning of their journey toward scientific discovery and survival.

The Journey to Sumeru – Seeking Knowledge

Following the institute’s destruction, Jakob and Rene were adopted by a researcher named Karl Ingold. Under Karl’s guidance, they embarked on a journey to Sumeru to study the ruins of Khaenri’ah in collaboration with the Nagadjuna Academy. This journey was pivotal for Jakob, as it introduced him to the mysteries of science and the Abyss.

During their research, Rene made startling discoveries regarding Jakob’s physiology. Their bodies exhibited similarities to the enigmatic Gaokerena, a giant lotus flower believed to have unique properties. However, Karl’s body did not share this trait, setting Jakob and Rene apart in ways that would later prove crucial to their survival.

Jakob’s Transformation – Becoming a Neohuman

Jakob’s journey through the harsh environments of Sumeru took a heavy toll on his health. As he began to weaken, Rene turned to extreme measures to save him. Using forbidden Abyss knowledge, Rene altered Jakob’s body, transforming him into a Neohuman—a being free from the need for food or water. This transformation granted Jakob extended life and resilience but was kept secret from Karl to prevent suspicion.

The implications of Jakob’s transformation were profound. Not only did he survive the conditions that had nearly killed him, but his new existence hinted at something far greater—an adaptability that could prove essential in the face of the looming catastrophe Rene had foreseen.

The ‘Formula of the World’ and Jakob’s Return to Fontaine

Rene’s research led to the discovery of the ‘Formula of the World,’ a prophecy detailing the eventual desolation of Teyvat. According to this prediction, water would eventually vanish, followed by a great deluge covering the world. Believing Jakob’s altered body could hold the key to survival, Rene and Jakob decided to return to Fontaine to investigate ways to counteract or withstand this cataclysm.

Upon their return, Jakob and Rene continued their research, with Jakob embracing his role as a guiding force in the effort to understand and manipulate their fate. Their work laid the foundations for the Narzissenkreuz Ordo, a secretive organization committed to unraveling the mysteries of the Abyss, pneuma, and ousia—elements crucial to the survival of Fontaine.

Jakob’s Legacy in Fontaine

Jakob’s involvement in the Narzissenkreuz Ordo cemented his place in Fontaine’s future. While little is known about his later years, his impact on the region’s scientific and mystical advancements cannot be overstated. His transformation into a Neohuman, his ties to the Abyss, and his unwavering pursuit of knowledge set the stage for crucial discoveries yet to be fully revealed in Genshin Impact.

How to Find References to Jakob in Genshin Impact

Exploring Fontaine’s Lore

Investigate books and documents in Fontaine that reference the Narzissenkreuz Ordo.
Look for NPC dialogues that mention the underground areas like Fleuve Cendre.
Pay attention to lore-focused world quests that hint at Jakob’s influence.