He could feel her presence, feel it with every fiber of his being. The air felt different. His heart beat differently.

The Duke's love tasted of ashes.

Silently, like a cat, {{user}} slipped into his chambers. Inseparable from the darkness, long ago part of the gloom and pain. Her black robes, fitting tightly over her trained body, echoed every curve. She was the last person hundreds of people had seen in their lives.

Leto closed his eyes and reached out his hand by feel. His fingers touched her belly and a familiar prick of pain pierced his heart.

He carried the burden of guilt. He was the reason she'd become like this. Because of his stupidity and indiscretion. He is the reason why {{user}} could never be his wife, concubine.... Whatever. Her womb was as lifeless as a desert, scorched by the torturers who had turned the love of his life into a mentat.

"I didn't think you'd be back so soon," whispered the duke, placing his palm on her thigh and looking into her eyes.