Chapter 61 (I long for something that has always)

Vorian Atreides joins Willem and Orry on Shander’s well-kept sport-fishing boat, hoping to build family ties after Shander’s suspicious death. The brothers’ routines and memories underscore Vorian’s absence from their lives, while Vorian reflects on loss and his desire for a lasting sense of family.

Orry tests custom engine modifications and pushes the boat to high speed. The engines fail, forcing the trio to drift while Orry and Willem attempt repairs. Massive shapes surface nearby; Willem identifies a giant Alada sea snake.

Armed with rifles, Vorian and the brothers fire at the creature as it batters the hull. The stabilizers prevent capsizing, but the threat escalates. Orry has already alerted the Air Patrol, and incoming aircraft drop concussion charges, driving the serpent away.

The Air Patrol arranges a tow back to port, where Orry’s comrades tease him. On the dock, Orry’s fiancée arrives, displaying relief and affection. Orry introduces Tula Veil to Vorian; her beauty contrasts with a cold grip and intense gaze that fixates on Vorian, implying a deeper agenda.