Chapter 15

In Keen, High Priest Hedley Tuek argues with the ambitious Stiros, who derides Sheeana’s education and Bene Gesserit influence. Tuek defends Sheeana’s questioning, invoking holy interpretations from Dar-es-Balat. Stiros’ bitterness and veiled challenges raise Tuek’s fears of factional danger within the priesthood.

Troubled, Tuek visits Sheeana on the roof garden, where Sheeana questions him about Fish Speakers and the Bene Gesserit. As Kipuna, suspected of Bene Gesserit ties, prepares to relay Sheeana’s request to meet Odrade, a seeker weapon towing shigawire appears over the parapet.

Kipuna hurls Sheeana into Tuek’s arms and charges the seeker, dying as it slices her and two guards. Tuek flees with Sheeana into the stair tower while uproar erupts above. Fearing a wider plot and abduction, Tuek chooses the stairs, only to encounter a wedge of black-robed Bene Gesserit led by Odrade.

Odrade’s team secures Sheeana, silences protests with Voice, and sweeps the corridors. After an explosion on the roof, Odrade declares the attack contained and brings Tuek to Sheeana’s quarters, where Stiros’ naked corpse lies with a broken neck. Odrade reveals Ixian involvement aided by Face Dancers and identifies Stiros as a conspirator.

Cania confirms Stiros’ death with grim satisfaction. Odrade orders the body removed, rebukes Cania for endangering Sheeana, and clears the room. Left alone with the child, Odrade declares the Bene Gesserit have waited for Sheeana and will not allow further bungling, signaling a decisive shift of Sheeana’s custody to the Sisterhood.