The Narzissenkreuz Institute is one of the most enigmatic factions in Genshin Impact, deeply tied to the lore surrounding Fontaine. Initially established as an orphanage, the Institute quickly became a hub for scientific research, philosophy, and, eventually, extremist ideology. Its offshoot, the Narzissenkreuz Ordo, took a darker turn by attempting to merge all Fontainians into a singular collective consciousness to avert an ominous catastrophe. This article delves into the origins, key figures, groundbreaking discoveries, and ultimate downfall of the Narzissenkreuz Institute and Ordo, exploring the impact of their pursuits on Fontaine’s history and the game’s overarching narrative.
Narzissenkreuz Institute – Origins and Purpose
The Narzissenkreuz Institute began as a sanctuary for orphans, particularly those whose parents had been criminals or victims of unfortunate circumstances. Founded under the directive of the Hydro Archon Egeria, the institute was entrusted to an Oceanid named Lyris. This management was meant as a gesture of gratitude, demonstrating Egeria’s commitment to rehabilitating those without familial support.
While its outward purpose was to provide care and education, the Institute also became a center for intellectual exploration. Aspiring scholars, engineers, and researchers found a home here, fostering an environment that encouraged the pursuit of knowledge. Over time, these individuals embarked on groundbreaking discoveries, some of which had profound and controversial consequences.
Key Figures in the Narzissenkreuz Institute
Several prominent figures shaped the fate of the Institute, including Rene de Petrichor, Jakob Ingold, and Karl Ingold. These individuals, originally orphans themselves, survived a devastating siege before arriving at the facility. Here, they formed close bonds with others, such as Mary-Ann and Alain Guillotin.
Alain’s passion for mechanical engineering led Rene and Jakob to accompany him to the Institute of Natural Philosophy, an advanced research facility. There, they delved into complex theoretical and experimental studies, primarily focusing on the nature of Fontaine’s elemental peculiarities.
The Role of Lyris
As an Oceanid, Lyris possessed a deep connection to Fontaine’s Hydro energy. While she initially served as the Institute’s caretaker, she also became a subject of study for the members. Researchers at the facility sought to understand the full potential of Hydro-based consciousness, which would later pave the way for the Narzissenkreuz Ordo’s radical experiments.
Scientific Discoveries and the World Formula
Among the most significant discoveries of the Narzissenkreuz researchers was the ability to control annihilation reactions through the mixing of Pneuma and Ousia energies. This breakthrough had enormous implications, including the potential to harness Fontaine’s fundamental forces in new and unpredictable ways.
Further, Rene de Petrichor formulated what became known as the World Formula. Derived from his study of ancient Khaenri’ah ruins, this theory predicted an unavoidable catastrophe that would one day engulf the world. This revelation led to a seismic shift in the goals of the Institute’s leading members. Rather than focusing on traditional research, they sought radical solutions to ensure Fontaine’s survival.
Narzissenkreuz Ordo – Philosophy and Formation
Following Rene’s development of the World Formula and his dire predictions about the future, he and Jakob formed a secret society within the Institute: the Narzissenkreuz Ordo. Their primary objective was to prevent the foretold catastrophe by merging the consciousness of all Fontainians into a singular entity.
This ideology was primarily inspired by real-world Theosophy, a philosophy centered on reincarnation and continuous refinement through cycles of existence. The Ordo believed that by achieving an advanced form of collective consciousness—dubbed the Neohuman—Fontaine could transcend the limitations of individuality and avert doom.
The Book of Revealing and Recruitment Methods
To recruit members, the Ordo relied on the Book of Revealing, which showed apocalyptic visions to those who read it. These terrifying glimpses into the future were meant to convince others of the impending disaster and the necessity of radical action.
The organization also sought to further explore the potential of Hydro consciousness. Utilizing Lyris’s unique composition, they experimented with fusing individual identities into water-based forms, believing this to be the key to Fontaine’s salvation.
Operations and Headquarters of the Ordo
The Tower of Ipsissimus became the secret headquarters of the Narzissenkreuz Ordo. Taking inspiration from Remurian legends, the Tower’s upper chamber housed a Doomsday Clock. This clock symbolized the looming apocalypse that the Ordo was desperately trying to prevent.
Among their numerous experiments, the Ordo attempted to create a transmutation mechanism using Orthants, hoping to convert all of Fontaine into a singular Hydro-based existence. Additionally, they forged the Holy Blade of Narzissenkreuz, a blade designed to separate consciousness once the envisioned transformation was complete.
Catastrophic Consequences of the Ordo’s Experimentation
The Ordo’s extreme procedures ultimately ended in disaster. Rene attempted to discard his persona and be reborn through Hydro transformation, but the process failed, leaving him unconscious and potentially bodiless. Jakob, left in control, carried out further experiments, whose lasting impact remains a subject of Fontaine’s lore.
Meanwhile, Lyris, used as a tool for the Ordo’s Hydro experiments, was weakened considerably by their extractions. In the end, the Narzissenkreuz Ordo’s ambitions led only to ruin, with the truth of their final fate shrouded in Fontaine’s history.
How to Learn More About Narzissenkreuz Institute in Genshin Impact
- Explore Fontaine: Engage in quests related to the Narzissenkreuz Institute.
- Read in-game lore entries and books for additional background.
- Investigate ruins and abandoned structures with ties to the Ordo.
- Follow NPC dialogue that references the Institute’s history.
- Stay updated on Fontaine’s story developments as Genshin Impact expands.
Frequently Asked Questions – Narzissenkreuz Institute
What was the purpose of the Narzissenkreuz Institute?
Originally, it served as an orphanage for children of criminals and those in need. Over time, it evolved into a hub for research and philosophical study.
Who was Lyris in the Narzissenkreuz Institute?
Lyris was an Oceanid appointed as the Institute’s caretaker. She later became a key subject of experiments due to her Hydro-based nature.
What was the World Formula and why was it significant?
Developed by Rene de Petrichor, the World Formula predicted an inevitable global catastrophe. This discovery led to the formation of the Narzissenkreuz Ordo.
How did the Narzissenkreuz Ordo plan to prevent the apocalypse?
They sought to merge all Fontainians into a singular consciousness using Hydro transformations, believing it to be the only way to survive the coming disaster.
Where was the headquarters of the Narzissenkreuz Ordo?
The Ordo was based in the Tower of Ipsissimus, a location inspired by Remurian legends.
What was the Holy Blade of Narzissenkreuz?
A weapon forged to separate individual consciousnesses from the collective after the apocalypse had passed.
Why did Rene de Petrichor’s transformation fail?
His attempt to discard his persona through Hydro-based rebirth did not succeed, leaving him unconscious and possibly without a body.
What ultimately happened to Jakob Ingold?
After Rene’s failure, Jakob took control of the Ordo. His final fate remains a mystery in Fontaine’s history.
How does the Narzissenkreuz Institute connect to Fontaine’s story?
The Institute’s research and experiments provide crucial backstory to Fontaine’s elemental anomalies and philosophical struggles.
Is the Narzissenkreuz Institute still active in Genshin Impact?
In present-day Fontaine, the Institute no longer functions as it once did, but its lingering impact can still be felt throughout the nation.
Source: Ashikai
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