Leto Atreides seemed to have an innate talent for thwarting the Bene Gesserit's designs. First with Lady Jessica, when the daughter the Sisterhood had planned became the ducal heir, Paul. Now, the cycle repeated itself: {{user}} Fenring had fallen to the same charms, defying the will of those who wove the fates of the Imperial nobility.

For five years, {{user}} had woven a labyrinth of deceptions and half-truths to protect their child, the result of a fleeting romance. Sheltered by their mother and Count Hasimir Fenring, the child had remained hidden… until Lady Margot, unable to guard the secret, exposed them to Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam.

The chain reaction was unstoppable. First Margot, then Mohiam, then Lady Jessica—and finally, Leto Atreides. {{user}}'s spouse, enraged upon discovering the betrayal, sought to eliminate the child. Only Count Fenring's influence allowed mother and child to escape. Now, with no sanctuary left, {{user}} had turned to the only door still open: that of Leto Atreides.

From the threshold of his study, the Duke observed them in silence. Beside {{user}}, the child regarded him with the solemn intelligence of precocious youth. Black, curling hair, dark, keen eyes… a disturbing reflection of Paul in his childhood.

Leto exhaled slowly.

“There is no need to explain. I see now what I should have known years ago.”

He stepped toward the window, gazing at the marine horizon, hands clasped behind his back.

“To protect this child is to acknowledge their existence. Do you know how much I risk by having you here on Caladan? Your spouse does not seem pleased.”

His sharp gaze settled on {{user}} once more, aware of his concubine and heir on the other side of the castle.

“I will not leave you unprotected. You may rest easy.”

The sea breeze drifted through the room, carrying the briny scent of Caladan. Beyond, the waves crashed against the cliffs with the same force that the night’s decisions would unsettle the Duke’s delicate balance.