Chapter 26

After Siaynoq, Leto confronts Duncan Idaho about his visit to the Citadel, his talk with Siona, and his request for Moneo. Duncan, disoriented by the rite and the Fish Speakers’ devotion, demands clarity. Leto reveals that both Siona and Duncan are being tested, and that Siaynoq binds the Fish Speakers to the Commander of the Guard.

Duncan rejects being used as a stud and challenges the nature of Leto’s rule. Leto counters that he relies on loyalty, not police power, and that corruption arises when authority hides behind the illusions of laws, prisons, and job protection. He defines primary sins as corrupting or being corrupted within his government—ultimately, failing to worship the God Leto.

When Duncan objects to religious tyranny, Leto grants that Duncan holds a special dispensation yet insists on the framework of sin over law. Leto reframes rebellion as a proving ground, noting that his most trusted administrators were once rebels and that Duncan himself helped the Atreides seize an empire. He demonstrates ancestral authority by speaking in Muad’Dib’s voice, hailing Duncan as his truest friend.

Leto explains his purpose: to preserve life while setting the stage for the next cycle, even when death serves life. He contrasts this with Ixian blindness to the value of death and warns of their concealing machines.

Turning to Hwi Noree, Duncan reports she claimed to serve the God Emperor. Leto affirms her choice and, using his rule that true creativity is open rather than concealed, says he trusts her. However, Leto forbids Duncan from approaching Hwi because he has special plans for her. He closes by affirming trust in Siona’s creativity as she faces her impending test.