Chapter 80 (For too long, the Imperium has been)

Arriving from Wallach IX, Mother Superior Valya Harkonnen reaches Salusa Secundus amid celebrations for Crown Prince Roderick’s sudden coronation after Salvador’s disappearance. With Sister Olivia and orthodox companions, Valya pushes through crowds and is escorted to a private box, noting tight security and the deliberate exclusion of Manford and Venport to avoid unrest.

Valya reconnects with Sister Ninke and confronts Dorotea’s followers, including Truthsayer Esther-Cano. She asserts her title as Mother Superior, recounting Raquella’s mandate for unity and Dorotea’s subsequent suicide. Supported by Olivia’s affirmation and Ninke’s concession, the orthodox Sisters reluctantly accept Valya’s leadership, ending the internal schism.

During the ceremony, a High Priest crowns Roderick as Emperor. Valya studies Roderick’s demeanor—dutiful rather than glory-seeking—and reflects on the Imperium’s instability: VenHold’s embargo and growing fleet, Butlerian fervor, Lampadas’s fall, and Anna Corrino’s disappearance.

At the reception line, Valya introduces herself to the new Emperor and informs him of Dorotea’s death, pledging multiple Truthsayers to aid his investigation into Salvador’s loss. Roderick, somber but receptive, signals he may require many Truthsayers as inquiries deepen.

Departing satisfied, Valya plans to place loyal Sisters with key Landsraad houses to shape policies while advancing House Harkonnen interests. She imagines securing positions for her family and even entertains the prospect of a future Harkonnen Emperor.