Chapter 10

Nayla climbs the south tower’s stairs to Leto’s audience chamber, observed by an Ixian projector that relays her precise movements to Leto. He reflects on geography, memory, and Nayla’s passionate simplicity, recalling that he placed her among Siona’s rebels with secret orders to obey Siona in everything.

Leto remembers gifting Nayla a true crysknife in an Old Fremen ritual to bind her service, then confronts the religious cult around himself, denouncing it even as Nayla’s faith remains unshaken. He questions Nayla about Topri, and she confirms Topri’s clumsiness and exposure as a spy when Kobat spoke, reinforcing that Siona is perceptive.

Leto presses for Nayla’s assessment of Siona. Nayla warns that Siona is strong but ruled by hate. On stolen items, Nayla reports Siona believes Citadel charts will reveal a melange hoard and seeks Ixian tools to tunnel. Leto states Ix will not help and confirms the hoard’s existence.

Leto reveals the hoard’s defense: any theft attempt would destroy Arrakis and shatter the entire Empire—Guild, Sisterhood, Ix, Tleilaxu, and Fish Speakers included. Nayla vows to prevent Siona’s attempt, but Leto rebukes her, restating his command to obey Siona in all things and to guard Siona’s life with her own.

Nayla’s crisis resolves into renewed devotion as she accepts the command and departs. Leto concludes that Nayla’s instincts are sound and that Siona has reached the explosive moment he requires for her test, while his writings and the myth of his power continue to spread.