The Horrors Inflicted: What the Fatui Did to Collei
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The Fatui, a powerful organization from Snezhnaya within the world of Genshin Impact, are known for their clandestine operations and ruthless methods. One of their most egregious actions involves the inhumane treatment of Collei, a young girl from Sumeru. Collei’s life was irrevocably altered by the Fatui’s cruelty, leaving her with deep scars, both physical and emotional. The most damning answer to what the Fatui did to Collei is that they subjected her to torturous experiments that involved injecting her with “Archon Residue,” a dangerous substance with volatile properties. These experiments, overseen by the notorious Fatui Harbinger Il Dottore, were aimed at understanding and exploiting the power of the gods. Collei, along with other children, were treated as mere test subjects, enduring unimaginable pain and suffering, all in the name of the Fatui’s ambition.
The Capture and Experimentation
Collei’s ordeal began under false pretenses. Her parents, desperate for a cure for her sickly condition, brought her to Barnabas, a seer who they believed could help. Unbeknownst to them, Barnabas was a collaborator of the Fatui. He tricked Collei’s parents, claiming she was touched by a demon and needed to be taken away for her own safety. This betrayal led to Collei being handed over to the Fatui, where her true nightmare began.
Under the watchful and cruel eye of Dottore, Collei was subjected to a series of brutal experiments. These experiments involved the forceful injection of Archon Residue into her body. This residue, thought to be remnants of the power of Archons, is incredibly unstable and dangerous. The immediate effects of the injections were excruciating pain and the subsequent development of a unique dark flame. The Fatui’s intentions were to weaponize this power, effectively turning Collei into a living weapon for their sinister schemes. The experiments did not cease at physical manipulation, they also included psychological torment, leaving her in a constant state of fear and confusion. These experiences were a constant assault on her fragile state, causing immense psychological damage.
The Aftermath and Trauma
The experiments had profound and lasting effects on Collei. Beyond the dark flame ability, they left her with deep-seated trauma, panic attacks, and an extreme aversion to physical contact. Even casual touches can trigger severe fear and discomfort, a stark manifestation of her past abuses. This is seen when Paimon, trying to playfully interact with her, induces a panic reaction from Collei. Her mental state is fragile, filled with anxiety and the constant reminder of the horrors she endured.
Collei’s body also became a battleground. The archon residue not only granted her power, but also poisoned her mind, feeding on her negative emotions and fueling her desire for revenge. This dark influence nearly led her to kill Kaeya, a character from Mondstadt, illustrating how the Fatui’s actions had warped her. She is constantly fighting against the toxic influence of the residue, trying to maintain her own self-control.
The full details of her physical abuse have not been completely explored, but references in the manga and the game highlight the constant torture she endured and that it was significant. The Fatui cared little for her well-being, viewing her only as a means to an end. Collei’s time under their control was filled with pain, both physical and emotional, leaving lasting scars that greatly impact her life. It remains a mystery how Collei escaped the Fatui, but it is clear she escaped and fled to Mondstadt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Archon Residue?
Archon Residue is a substance believed to be left behind by Archons, the gods of Teyvat. It’s highly potent, dangerous, and unstable. The Fatui, particularly Dottore, are interested in using it for experimentation and weaponization.
2. Who is Dottore?
Il Dottore is a Fatui Harbinger and a notorious scientist known for his unethical experiments. He is directly responsible for the atrocities committed against Collei and the other children under his care.
3. How did Collei develop her dark flame ability?
Collei’s dark flame ability is a direct result of the Archon Residue injected into her by the Fatui. This residue reacted within her, giving her the power to create flames, which aren’t considered natural in Mondstadt.
4. What is the Black Fire Incident?
The Black Fire Incident refers to the destructive events in Mondstadt caused by Collei’s use of her dark flame. Fueled by resentment and the influence of the Archon Residue, she used her powers to create chaos to sneak into the city.
5. How did Amber save Collei from the Archon Residue?
Amber showed Collei acceptance and understanding, breaking through the negative influence of the Archon Residue. She recognized Collei’s true self and prevented her from killing Kaeya, helping her to start healing from her trauma.
6. Why is Collei afraid of being touched?
Collei’s fear of being touched is a direct consequence of the physical and emotional abuse she suffered during her time with the Fatui. She associates physical contact with pain and violation, leading to panic attacks.
7. What did Cyno do for Collei?
Cyno saved Collei from the detrimental effects of the Archon Residue and facilitated her move to Sumeru where he could monitor her condition. He also helped seal the residue within her to prevent her from being consumed by it again.
8. Was Collei born with a sickness?
Yes, Collei was born sickly, suffering from a condition called Eleazar. This ailment was what made her parents seek help from Barnabas, unknowingly leading her into the hands of the Fatui.
9. Is Barnabas part of the Fatui?
Yes, Barnabas is a collaborator of the Fatui. He lied to Collei’s parents and directly gave her to the organization for experimentation. He is considered a key part of her original trauma.
10. Is the Fatui considered an evil organization?
While the Fatui may have a facade of being friendly, they are widely considered an evil organization. Their actions, such as experimentation on children and their desire to control all nations, highlight their ruthless and dangerous nature.
11. Does Collei hate the Fatui?
Yes, Collei harbors intense hatred towards the Fatui, especially due to their experiments and the lasting trauma they inflicted upon her. This hatred is rooted in her personal suffering at their hands.
12. Did Collei stab Amber?
In a moment of weakness due to the influence of the Archon Residue, Collei attempted to stab Amber. However, the knife was a prop, not a real weapon, and she didn’t actually harm Amber.
13. What is Collei’s relationship with Tighnari?
Collei is a student of Tighnari, addressing him as “Master,” showing respect and gratitude. He provides her guidance and training in Sumeru.
14. What is Collei’s trauma from the Fatui’s abuse?
Collei’s trauma includes physical pain from the experiments, emotional abuse, and the psychological torment of being subjected to inhumane treatment. It results in PTSD, panic attacks, and an aversion to physical contact.
15. Is Collei underage?
While her exact age isn’t stated, based on her interactions with Amber who is also stated to be underage, Collei is younger than Amber, indicating that she is still a teenager.
In conclusion, the Fatui’s actions against Collei are a dark stain on their organization, showcasing the lengths they are willing to go for power. Collei’s journey is marked by pain and resilience, highlighting the enduring impact of abuse and the long path to healing.