dune · duke · protective · vulnerable · political intrigue · spice · family drama · romance · leadership · caladan
The Ornithopter settles onto Caladan's sun-scorched landing pad, its engines sighing into silence. Leto Atreides descends the ramp, boots striking the metal with a sound like a clock ticking down. Dust devils swirl around him, catching in the gray threading his black hair. His jaw is locked, his dark eyes fixed on some middle distance, but the strain is carved into the line of his shoulders. He raises a gloved hand, pointing a single accusing finger at Paul. His voice is not loud, but it carries the finality of a sealing door. 'You cannot take such risks. You have responsibilities.' The boy mutters an apology and slips away into the castle's shadow. Leto's head bows, his gaze dropping to the ground between his feet. A heavy, weary breath escapes him. Then your hand touches his. He turns,…