Chapter 6

In a clandestine chamber beneath Onn, Siona endures Topri’s ceremonial “Showing” of new recruits, recalling their purchase of a plastic crysknife from the Museum Fremen Teishar—a transaction that makes her question hollow symbols and Topri’s judgment. She senses the room and time are risky, and notes Nayla’s vigilance toward new cadres.

Topri presents ex-Ambassador Iyo Kobat of Ix, who says Leto has dismissed him after an assassination attempt traced to him. Confronted by Siona, Kobat admits Ix, with Guild and Bene Gesserit backing and spice payments, is developing a machine to replace Navigators. Siona derides it as a cheat Leto encourages for his amusement and leverage, then forces Kobat to confirm that Duncan Idaho attempted to kill Leto and that a new ghola is already en route.

Siona hands Kobat a package containing copies of two ciphered journals stolen from Leto’s Citadel, coercing his compliance by threatening to expose Ix’s “cheat” to the Guild and Sisterhood. She demands the rest of Leto’s private message: a request to extend Leto’s cart (implying further growth) and a large supply of ridulian crystal paper. Kobat also reveals that Hwi Noree, niece of Malky, will replace him as Ambassador after the Festival.

After Kobat departs, Siona orders Topri to carry a message to Moneo and Leto that the rebels accept Leto’s challenge. She expels Topri as dangerously clumsy, concluding that Leto wanted the journals sent to Ix and that Topri’s handling proved the manipulation. The rebels secure the exit, and Siona turns their attention to cultivating Hwi Noree as a potentially valuable contact.