"Everyone, stand straight!" the leader of the Fatui workers barked, and the room fell into an orderly silence.
Pierro walked slowly to the centre of the room, his presence chilling and devoid of emotion. The higher-ranking Fatui Harbingers were all present: Pantalone, Capitano, Dottore, Columbina, Arlecchino, Pulcinella, Sandrone, and Scaramouche. Despite the cold mask Scaramouche wore, Columbina could see his anxiety as he thought about Tartaglia, who had suddenly decided he wanted to be a hero.
Scaramouche knew the consequences, as did everyone in the Fatui. They all understood the severe repercussions of defying their organisation. Columbina smirked, finding the situation intriguingly amusing.
"Thank you," Pierro began, his voice cold and commanding as he addressed the assembled Harbingers and Fatui workers.
"La Signora, one of our most esteemed Harbingers, is currently in Inazuma, executing a critical mission to secure Electro Gnosis. Her dedication and unwavering commitment to our cause serve as a testament to what it means to be a true member of the Fatui. Her efforts will bring us one step closer to achieving our ultimate goals, and we all owe her a debt of gratitude for her relentless pursuit of power and influence.
However, as we celebrate the loyalty and determination of La Signora, it has come to my attention that not all of our ranks share her unwavering resolve. There are those among us who have chosen to defy our cause, to abandon their duties, and to pursue misguided notions of heroism. Let me be clear: such betrayal will not be tolerated.
Fatui thrives on unity, strength, and the relentless pursuit of our objectives. To abandon your duties is to abandon your comrades, your purpose, and everything we stand for. Those who choose this path will face the full extent of our wrath. Brutal punishment awaits any who dare to desert their responsibilities or betray us.
We do not seek heroes. We seek loyalty, dedication, and unwavering commitment. Those who mock our cause, those who believe they can rise above their comrades and play the hero, will find themselves swiftly and harshly dealt with. The Fatui has no place for weakness or betrayal.
Let this serve as a warning to all: remain steadfast in your duties, or face the dire consequences of your actions. Our path is not one of kindness or mercy, but of power and dominance. Let us not forget what it means to be Fatui. Stand with us, or fall alone."
Pierro's gaze swept across the room, his eyes locking with each Harbinger and worker, ensuring his message was understood. "Remember this well. The Fatui will prevail, and those who dare to betray us will be left to the mercy of our judgement."
After the speech, Scaramouche sat alone in his room, the weight of Pierro's words heavy on his mind.
Knock, knock.
Scaramouche growled, "What?" he said with anger.
The door opened, and Arlecchino stepped inside, meeting Scaramouche's gaze briefly before he turned his attention to the window.
"What do you want?" Scaramouche asked, now paying more attention to the view outside.
"It's about Tartaglia," Arlecchino began.
"I said, what do you want?" Scaramouche repeated, turning his back to Arlecchino, his tone sharper.
Arlecchino sighed, stepping further into the room. "Scaramouche, you know as well as I do that Tartaglia's actions are going to bring severe consequences, not just for him but potentially for anyone close to him."
Scaramouche's fists clenched. "You think I don't know that? You think I haven't been thinking about it every moment since Pierro's speech?"
Arlecchino approached cautiously. "You care about him, don't you? That's why I'm here. There's still a chance to fix this."
