The Harem of Arrakis

Author's Note: With "Dune: Part Two" just around the corner, here's a more sensuous take that'll push your boundaries. I think it's true to the source material, but check the tags icon in the sidebar under "Story Info" if you're squeamish and don't mind spoiling some surprises.

This is a "Summer Lovin' Story Contest 2023" entrant, so please vote.

Chapter 1: Sands of Destiny

The sun cast a warm, golden hue across the sprawling gardens of House Atreides on the tranquil planet of Caladan. Tall cedars swayed gently in the summer breeze, and the scent of blooming flowers hung in the air. Three figures, two young women and a young man, stood overlooking the shimmering sea in the distance.

Amelia, with her fiery red hair cascading like flames down her back, leaned against the balustrade, her emerald eyes fixed on the horizon. Her posture exuded confidence and a touch of defiance. "Can you believe it, Paul? We're actually leaving this paradise for that desolate wasteland they call Arrakis."

Paul, the young man, his features a mix of ruggedness and vulnerability, nodded slowly. "I know, Amelia. It's difficult to imagine leaving all of this behind. This place is the only home I - or any of us - have known for twenty years."

Isabella, standing a step back from the railing, her dark hair falling like a curtain around her face, softly chimed in, "But Father believes in this endeavor. He says it's our destiny, our future."

Amelia shot a wry smile at her younger sister. "Destiny, huh? Well, if that's the case, then our destiny is to choke on sand and sweat under a scorching sun."

Paul chuckled, his eyes reflecting the sunlight. "Don't be so pessimistic, Amelia. There's more to Arrakis than just sand and sun. The spice - melange - it's said to be the most valuable substance in the universe."

Amelia turned to face Paul, her eyes narrowing playfully. "And what are you going to do with all that wealth, dear brother? Buy yourself a fancy desert palace? It'll still be sweltering hot and dusty!"

Paul grinned, his sandy blond hair ruffled by the breeze. "Maybe. And if I do, I promise I'll make sure our palace has plenty of shade, and the finest air filters money can buy!"

Isabella stepped closer to her siblings, her fingers toying with the edge of her skirt. "I've been reading up on Arrakis ever since Father revealed our impending move. It's a fascinating place, even aside from the spice. The sandworms and the other creatures that inhabit the desert are truly unique. The Fremen people have a rich culture and profound connection to the desert world. They've adapted to its challenges in ways beyond imagination.

Amelia quirked an eyebrow at Isabella. "Oh, so you're excited about this whole misadventure?"

Isabella's cheeks turned a faint shade of pink. "I'm... intrigued. Naturally, I'd prefer to remain here, but a new world also presents fresh opportunities. A chance to acquire new knowledge, to meet new friends. Who can predict what we'll discover?

Paul hugged Isabella's shoulder affectionately. "Isabella, I love your optimism. We can always count on you to find the opportunity in a difficult situation."

Amelia's gaze softened as she looked at her younger sister. "Just be careful, Isabella. It's a treacherous place, and we all know how easily you can stumble into trouble whenever a new subject captivates you. Paul and I smoothing things over with your university professors was one thing; if you happen to stumble into a sandworm's maw, you'll be on your own!"

Isabella giggled, her nervousness momentarily forgotten. "Rest assured, Amelia. I solemnly vow to steer clear of sandworms!"

As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the gardens, the three siblings stood in silence, absorbing the beauty of their home one last time. The sky was painted in hues of orange and purple, mirroring the emotions swirling within them.

Amelia's voice broke the silence. "At least we'll always have each other. That's what counts the most."

Paul and Isabella nodded in agreement, a sense of unity binding them together.

The first stars began to twinkle in the darkening sky, and the three siblings turned to leave the balcony. As they walked back through the gardens, their hopes and fears merged into a shared determination to face whatever challenges awaited them on Arrakis.

Chapter 2: Shadows of Departure

The sun rose over House Atreides, casting its warm embrace on the bustling courtyard. The transport ship, sleek and formidable, stood ready to carry its precious cargo across the vast expanse of space. Amelia, Isabella, and Paul stood together near the ramp, watching as their possessions were loaded onto the ship by diligent crew members.

As the last crate was being secured, a familiar face approached the siblings. It was Alden, one of their family's most trusted retainers. He had been with them for years, a loyal presence in their lives.

Alden's weathered face held a mixture of pride and concern as he looked at the three siblings. "My young masters and mistress, I've seen many departures in my time, but this one holds a weight of its own. Remember, the most valuable asset you carry with you is not the spice or the riches - it's each other. Rely on your bond, for it will be your greatest strength."

Amelia nodded, her expression serious. "Thank you, Alden. We won't forget your words."

With a final nod of approval, Alden stepped back, allowing the siblings to ascend the ramp together. Inside the ship, the soft hum of mechanical systems filled the air as the Atreides siblings settled into their seats, opting for a corner chaise in the ship's observation lounge to watch the ascent with their own eyes.

As the ship's engines thrummed to life, the platform beneath them trembled gently. The ramp retracted, sealing them within the vessel. The moment had come - the moment that would propel them from the safety of Caladan into the mysteries of the cosmos. With a gradual increase in power, the transport ship lifted off the ground, defying gravity's hold.

Isabella's fingers tightened around the armrest, her breath catching as the planet's surface fell away. Sensing her sister's unease, Amelia leaned over and intertwined their fingers, a reassuring gesture. "I know that spaceflight makes you nervous, Bella - but we're here for you. And I grabbed a few of these in case you're feeling nauseous" she said, handing Isabella a motion sickness bag.

Isabella managed a nod and a bittersweet smile. "I know, Amelia - thank you. But leaving everything we know behind...it's hard. It's like watching a dream slip away."

Paul's embrace tightened around his sisters, offering wordless reassurance to them both. As the ship gained altitude, the vibrant greens of Caladan began to blur, giving way to the deep blue of the oceans and the patches of land. The sight of their homeworld shrinking in the distance brought a pang of mixed emotions.

Amelia leaned her forehead against the viewport, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "I'll miss the gardens, the ocean, the feeling of the wind in my hair."

Isabella turned away from the window, her eyes glistening. "And the libraries, the endless books, the quiet moments of discovery."

Paul's gaze shifted from one sibling to the other, trying to offer what comfort he had. "Just remember, we're not leaving those memories behind. We're taking them with us, shaping our future with the experiences we've gained. It will be hard, no doubts there. But it will also be a chance for us to grow, to discover and learn. And we all know how much you love to discover and learn, Isabella!"

His sister grinned, but he could see that it was a bit forced, tears welling at the corner of her eyes.

Isabella's eyes remained fixed on the window, her expression a mixture of wonder and melancholy. Caladan's blue and green hues slowly shrank, replaced by the vastness of space. She whispered almost to herself, "We're really leaving."

Paul reached over and placed a comforting hand on Amelia's shoulder. "We'll face whatever comes our way together. That's how we've always handled things."

Isabella's eyes filled with unshed tears as she looked between her siblings. "I don't mind going, not really, not as long as I have both of you, but I worry we won't all make it through. That we'll lose someone along the way."

Paul's grip tightened on Amelia's shoulder, and he shifted his hand to gently clasp Isabella's. "We won't lose anyone. We're a team, a family. We'll protect each other."

Amelia's gaze turned dark, looking out into the blackness of space. "I wish I had your confidence, Paul. I fear something terrible is lurking on Arrakis, some threat we can't see yet."

Paul, Amelia, and Isabella remained in the cozy nook of the observation lounge for hours, their eyes pondering the breathtaking view of the stars shimmering in the black void of space. They reclined on the large cushioned couch, nestled close together, seeking solace in each other's presence as they contemplated all they'd given up today.

Feeling the fatigue of their journey, the weight of their worries finally caught up to Amelia and Isabella. Their eyelids grew heavy, and their breathing slowed as sleep beckoned them. Paul noticed their weariness and shifted his position, wrapping his arms protectively around his sisters.

Amelia leaned into Paul's shoulder, finding comfort in the strength of his embrace. Her head rested against him, and a sense of serenity washed over her. The warmth of his presence eased her troubled thoughts, allowing her to finally let go and surrender to sleep's embrace.

On the other side, Isabella nestled against Paul's other shoulder, her body relaxed as she leaned into his touch. She found solace in the gentle rise and fall of his chest as they watched the stars together. Paul's steady heartbeat served as a lullaby, soothing her nerves and lulling her into a peaceful slumber.

As Paul gazed upon his sleeping sisters, a rush of affection and admiration flooded his heart. Amelia and Isabella, both beautiful in their own unique ways, embodied the strength and resilience that ran deep within their bloodline. Their radiant presence illuminated his world, and he cherished their unwavering support.

Amelia, with her fiery red hair and determined eyes, possessed a fierce spirit that matched their father's. She carried herself with an air of confidence, a beacon of resilience in the face of adversity. Paul often found himself turning to her for guidance, her unwavering belief in him serving as a constant source of inspiration.

Isabella, with her quiet demeanor and gentle strength, held a grace that often went unnoticed. Her soothing presence provided a calming influence amidst the chaos of their lives. Paul admired her quick and cunning mind, always striving to protect and nurture their family. She was only eighteen, but pondered things with a wisdom several times that.

As Amelia stirred in her sleep, a sigh escaped her lips, and she instinctively turned toward Paul, seeking his presence even in the realm of dreams. Her movements were graceful, her body finding its way closer to his, as if drawn by an invisible force. The tenderness of the moment warmed Paul's heart, and a soft smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

Her warmth permeated the space between them, filling Paul's senses. He could feel the gentle rise and fall of her breath, a gentle rhythm that echoed his own. In that intimate closeness, he felt a profound sense of comfort, knowing that even in sleep, their connection remained unbreakable. Her embrace, even in slumber, was a reminder of the unyielding support she offered, a reminder that they were on this journey together.

As he watched Amelia, a flood of memories washed over him. He recalled the countless times she had been there for him, standing by his side through triumphs and trials alike. Her guidance and unwavering belief had propelled him forward, and he cherished the moments when their paths intertwined. The soft embrace of sleep beckoned, Paul found himself drifting into a realm of dreams, where desire and longing intertwined.

Hours later, Paul awoke to find himself instinctively nestling up against Isabella's back, his arm resting lightly across her. A jolt of awareness coursed through him, his heart pounding in his chest. Isabella unconsciously pressed her back against Paul's chest, and the gentle curve of her body nestled against his, seeking solace and security in his strong form. The rhythm of her breathing synchronized with his own, as if they were two halves of a whole, finding harmony in the midst of their dreams.

Paul couldn't deny the surge of mixed emotions that coursed through him at that moment. The warmth of Isabella's presence smoldered within him. His heart raced as he felt the contours of her body mold perfectly against his own. In the cocoon of their intertwined bodies, thoughts and desires swirled unbidden. Despite himself, he found his body responding to the intimate contact, and as soon as he realized what was happening, he attempted to withdraw discreetly, flee from the forbidden fruit before it could tempt him further.

But as he tried to pull away, a whimper escaped Isabella's lips, and her body instinctively clung to his, drawing him closer, her bottom pressing against him. In her slumber, she sought comfort, the safety of his presence providing solace in the subconscious realm. Paul froze, caught between his desire to respect the boundaries of propriety and avoid disturbing her.

Conflicting emotions surged within Paul, a mixture of guilt and confusion intertwining with the profound love he held for his sister. In that fleeting moment, Paul allowed himself to savor the tenderness of the moment, the undeniable allure of Isabella's proximity. He cherished her closeness, the way her body fit seamlessly against his own. He lay there for what seemed like hours, cherishing the forbidden solace of his sister's sleeping body until finally sleep claimed him again.

In the morning, Paul gradually stirred from his slumber, his senses reawakening to the reality of their journey. He blinked his eyes open, momentarily disoriented before memories of the previous night flooded back.

As Paul sat up, his gaze swept across the observation room, taking in the sight of his two sisters still nestled close to him. Isabella and Amelia, awakening from their own dreams, greeted him with warm smiles that reached their eyes, their expressions filled with a mix of playfulness and affection. It was as if the complexities of the night had dissipated with the morning light, replaced by the camaraderie and joy that defined their sibling bond.

Amelia, ever the vivacious one, stretched her arms overhead, causing the fabric of her sleep attire to lift and reveal a tantalizing glimpse of her smooth, sun-kissed midriff and a hint of her generous curves. She caught Paul's gaze lingering for a moment longer than necessary, and with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, winked at him playfully.

With a teasing grin, Amelia chuckled and said, "Enjoying the...sunrise, little brother?" Her words were lighthearted, and a hint of sisterly pride tinged her voice. "I'm going to shower. See if you can wake up Isabella."

Meanwhile, Isabella, still half-draped in sleep, stretched languidly, brushing against Paul's presence. She squinted against the morning light, then hid her face into the crook of his arm, seeking a few more moments of rest. "Too early," she murmured, protesting against the intrusion of the day.

Paul answered the curled form of his sister with a chuckle, "Well, good morning to you too, sleepyhead. Ready for another exhilarating day in the uncharted realms of space?"

Isabella emitted a half-hearted groan as she cozied up, her voice muffled by their proximity, "Thanks for being there last night, Paul. You seemed restless in the middle of the night, and I was worried you were going to slip away. I'm so glad you stayed." She leaned in, planting a tender kiss on his forehead before hesitating and adding, "Maybe we can snuggle again tonight? This ship feels vast, and space seems so lonely."

Chapter 3: New Traditions

That initial night spent cuddled together in the observation lounge created an unspoken pact between the siblings in the lonely void of space. As if by an unspoken agreement, every night that followed, they sought the refuge of one another's arms to sleep. It was as if they had found a secret haven where they could be themselves, without the weight of their responsibilities or lineage. The next night, and the ones that followed, saw them seek comfort in each other's beds, drawn together by an unspoken understanding. The deep space around them was vast, but in the tight embrace of one another they found refuge, a palace where they could laugh, share stories, and simply find solace in the company of family.

And so a few nights later, Amelia's footsteps echoed in the corridor as she paced, her mind a tempest of emotions. She stopped before Paul's cabin, a moment's hesitation before she rapped her knuckles against the door.

Paul's voice came from within, sleepy yet welcoming. "Come in."

The door slid open, revealing Paul, his hair tousled from sleep. She gave a wry grin, noticing that Isabella was already nestled in the blankets of the bunk, her eyes lidded from sleep. Their gazes met, and a silent understanding passed between them.

"Already here? Amelia asked with a faint grin, and Isabella just shrugged bashfully. "Mind if I join you both, too?"

Paul's lips broke into a gentle smile. "Of course not, you're always welcome" he said, holding the door open.

The bunk was narrow, but there was enough room for all three of them if they squeezed tight. Isabella scooted further in, making room for Paul and Amelia to join as well. The atmosphere was intimate, reminiscent of the nights when they were children seeking solace during a thunderstorm

Isabella shifted, making space for Amelia, her eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and sadness. "I'm glad you joined us, Amelia, I thought maybe you'd decided you didn't need us tonight."

Amelia reached out to tuck a strand of dark hair behind Isabella's ear. "I'll always need you. And this ship is too cold to sleep alone." she said

Paul's arm stretched across the space between them, drawing them closer. "Everyone keep their elbows to themselves tonight, though, ok?" Paul joked.

"I will as long as you don't steal the blankets" Bella said with a yawn.

In the hushed stillness of the cabin, their emotions swirled like constellations against the backdrop of the universe. The ship's gentle vibrations, the distant hum of its engines, all seemed to blend into a soothing melody.

As the siblings settled into their makeshift embrace, the closeness they shared was both a refuge from the vast emptiness of space and a reminder of the unbreakable bond that had sustained them through the years. A sense of peace washed over them, a reminder that they were not alone in their fears and loneliness.

Amelia leaned over, pressing a gentle kiss to Isabella's forehead. "Goodnight, Bella. Goodnight Paul"

Isabella's eyes fluttered closed, a small smile curving her lips. "Goodnight, Amelia and Paul"

Paul's gaze moved between his sisters on either side, his heart swelling with affection. "Goodnight, both of you" he said as he embraced his sisters tightly for a moment.

With a collective sigh, they settled further into the bunk, their bodies entwined, seeking comfort in the shared warmth of each others' presence. As they drifted into sleep, their dreams were filled with memories of home and the promise of new adventures to come. The stars outside continued their watch, a silent witness to the unwavering bond of the Atreides siblings in the midst of the vast expanse of the cosmos.