Chapter 32

Duncan Idaho storms in to confront Leto II, showing the familiar "Since Syndrome"—suspicion born from being resurrected after centuries. Disoriented by the audience chamber and Leto’s presence, Duncan accuses Leto of committing a crime against the gholas by robbing them of the unique magic of their original lifetimes.

Probing Duncan’s motives, Leto confirms his betrothal to Hwi Noree. Duncan questions love, public perception, and trust. Leto asserts profound nonsexual reasons for the union and declares his trust in Duncan. Leto also reveals that Nayla is the same person Duncan knew as "Friend," prompting Duncan to reassess loyalties.

The conversation turns to control and aristocracy. Duncan claims Leto manipulates Moneo; Leto counters that Moneo is bound by duty and represents the past. They debate barriers to change, the lack of a true frontier, and the dangers of an aristocracy that represses novelty. Duncan insists a frontier must exist; Leto says it must be created and that humanity is dangerously glued together.

Pressed about the Face Dancers at the betrothal, Leto offers only that they performed and notes their colony-organism nature, letting Duncan draw conclusions. Duncan reaffirms his oath yet admits deep dislike of current events, seeking escape in the Citadel as the only available "frontier."

Leto orders Duncan to avoid Hwi, stating Hwi is not for him. He sets immediate movements: Hwi will go to the Citadel that night; Leto will follow the next day. Duncan departs stiffly, caught between youthful emotion and ancient experience.