Princess of Dune by Brian Herbert

Author:Brian Herbert [Herbert, Brian]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Tor Publishing Group

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THE IRATE EMPEROR remained under armed guard in his own apartments. His daily appointments were canceled and appropriate excuses given. Reverend Mother Mohiam agreed to send the flighty Chalice off to the Bene Gesserit school—quietly and under sedation so that she could maintain the appearance of calm dignity.

Irulan, though, insisted on accompanying her father to Arrakis.

The Princess Royal met Wensicia in one of Shaddam’s consulting rooms down the corridor from the staff office. She could tell that her sister had made up her mind not to leave Kaitain, and she had a stubborn streak as strong as their father’s. Instead, Wensicia presented another provocative idea.

“I’ll accept the wisdom of sending Father to Arrakis,” she said, “and I certainly agree with dispatching Chalice to the Mother School. Yes, for the sake of the Imperium, we must maintain appearances so that the Imperial Court continues as usual, not troubled by a minor disturbance of malcontents. But someone must remain here, as a proxy for our father. A Corrino on the Golden Lion Throne.” Irulan saw a glint of ambition in Wensicia’s lavender eyes as she said, “You are missing the obvious solution, dear sister.”

Irulan jerked her head back. “You?”

“I am perfectly trained in political matters as well as court functions,” Wensicia said. “You are the Princess Royal, but I am also the Emperor’s daughter, so I am a perfect figurehead. Everyone on Kaitain will see that all is well in the Imperium.”

Irulan considered the idea. “And what if Zenha’s task force moves against Kaitain? You would be in danger.”

Wensicia let out an icy chuckle. “Some rabble attacking the Imperial capital world? I think not! Even if Father takes most of his Sardaukar with him, we still have strong military defenses here.”

Irulan’s brows furrowed. “And taking interim charge of the palace would be an unparalleled opportunity for you.”

“Yes, it would, but it is for a much greater good than myself.” She lowered her voice. “Please support me in this.”

Irulan could see that Wensicia intended to put up a strong argument, if necessary, because she was already convinced.

“Very well,” Irulan said. “And as Princess Royal, I will stay at the Emperor’s side.”

As the sisters went their own ways in the palace, Irulan decided to begin a new journal, a chronicle of the rapidly unfolding events.

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