Ysolde Taranis

Dr. Ysolde Taranis was an esteemed figure in the field of alchemical biology and brilliant researcher specializing in the interactions between the Bloom and natural ecosystems. Her sharp intellect, unyielding determination, and no-nonsense approach to research earned her a reputation as one of the Celestial Arcadia’s leading minds.

Disappearance

Several years ago, Dr. Taranis led a daring expedition into one of the most dangerous Bloom Zones. The mission was shrouded in secrecy, but it was rumored she had developed a new alchemical formula that could neutralize the Bloom’s spread. The expedition team, along with Dr. Taranis, never returned.
Some believe she perished, consumed by the Bloom like so many others. However, unverified reports from BRASC scouts tell of a figure resembling her wandering deep within the Bloom, her form altered but still clutching her alchemical tools.

Physical Description

Special abilities

Skills and Expertise

• Aetherial Alchemy: An unparalleled expert in blending magic and science, particularly in the creation of Aetherium-based formulas.
• Experimental Engineering: Dr. Taranis was instrumental in designing early versions of Bloom Detectors, Bloomshield Amulets, and Tactical Hazard Suits.
• Mentorship: Known for her ability to inspire her students, she pushed them to think beyond the constraints of conventional science.

Mental characteristics

Personal history

Dr. Ysolde Taranis was born in a village near the edges of of the Bloom Zone. She witnessed firsthand the devastation as the infection consumed her home and family. This tragedy ignited her lifelong quest to understand the Bloom’s origin and nature, and to find a way to stop it.
After completing her alchemical studies, she gained fame for her groundbreaking work in crafting Aetherium-based alchemical solutions, including the first prototypes of Bloomshield technology. Her brilliance earned her a position at the University of Alchemy on the Celestial Arcadia, where she taught and conducted research.
During her tenure at the university, she mentored Hermes Mendel, recognizing in him the same fervent curiosity that drove her. She became a guiding figure in his life, teaching him not only the fundamentals of alchemy but also the value of relentless inquiry. Their shared passion for understanding the Bloom forged a bond of mutual respect and admiration.

Personality Characteristics

Representation & Legacy

Legacy: Dr. Taranis is remembered as a hero and a martyr in the fight against the Bloom. Her disappearance only heightened her legend, inspiring many young alchemists to follow in her footsteps.
Rumors:

• Some claim she intentionally allowed herself to be infected to study the Bloom from within.
• Others whisper that she succeeded in creating a cure but was betrayed by a rival faction seeking to exploit her discovery.
• A few believe she survives in a transformed state, perhaps even guiding others who dare to venture into the Bloom.

Social

Contacts & Relations

Key Relationships

• Hermes Mendel: Her most promising protégé. Dr. Taranis saw herself in Hermes and took a special interest in his development. Hermes often cites her as his inspiration and carries her lessons with him, though her disappearance weighs heavily on him.
• Dr. Emil Carroway: A contemporary and rival who often clashed with Taranis over her unorthodox methods. Their debates became infamous within the alchemical community.
• Expedition Team: Dr. Taranis handpicked a group of skilled alchemists, BRASC operatives, and explorers for her final mission. Their names are honored on a memorial plaque aboard the Celestial Arcadia.

Mannerisms

Personality Core Traits:

• Visionary: Dr. Taranis possessed an extraordinary mind, constantly exploring ideas that others deemed impossible or reckless.
• Passionate: Her drive to understand the Bloom bordered on obsession, fueled by a personal vendetta against the infection.
• Mentorly: Despite her intensity, she took great joy in nurturing the next generation of alchemists, pushing her students to think beyond their limits.

Flaws:

• Reckless: Her obsession with discovering a cure or unraveling the Bloom’s mysteries often led her to take dangerous risks.
• Impatient: Dr. Taranis had little tolerance for bureaucracy or mediocrity, often alienating those who didn’t share her level of commitment.

Quotes & Catchphrases

"To truly understand the enemy, one must embrace its nature—not as a surrender, but as a tool to dismantle it."