Chapter 18

As evening approaches on Gammu, Lucilla watches Duncan’s self-directed combat practice and reflects on his rapid prana-bindu development, her looming Sexual Imprint orders, and her ambivalent attraction to Miles Teg. She resolves herself to the task while noting Duncan’s unpredictable agility and psychological independence.

When a figure resembling Teg appears from the Weapons Wing, Lucilla’s Bene Gesserit instincts register danger. She uses Voice to drop Duncan just as the impostor—an advanced Face Dancer—fires a lasgun. Duncan moves with shocking speed, evading the first bolt while Lucilla descends from the parapet to intervene.

Before the attacker can finish them, the real Teg shoots from behind, dismembering and killing the Face Dancer. Teg brings them inside, showing a slain perimeter guard used to fool the enemy’s memory-print. He explains that he and Patrin have been clearing the wing and had timed the courtyard risk, counting on Lucilla’s willingness to shield Duncan and on Duncan’s training.

Schwangyu barges in, furious and demanding control. Teg refuses, and moments later explosions confirm his expectations: attackers destroy Schwangyu’s quarters, and Teg’s forces annihilate the assault team as their no-ship emerges from foldspace. Teg openly links the strike to the Tleilaxu and needles Schwangyu about being targeted, revealing her complicity and keeping her off balance.

Once Schwangyu leaves to verify the damage, Teg orders immediate evacuation. With Patrin’s route prepared, Teg forces the pace, making clear he will compel Lucilla if necessary. Lucilla chooses to follow, realizing she has taken sides. As they descend toward the south pillbox, Duncan insists they need weapons and declares readiness to kill to ensure their escape.