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Chani is the daughter of Liet-Kynes, and she first appears in Paul’s visions before he departs for Arrakis. When Paul joins the Fremen, he is quickly introduced to the capable and loyal Chani, who helps Paul learn the Fremen’s traditions. The two quickly strike up a romance, which Paul has foreseen in his visions. Chani is an adept fighter who is devoted to the Fremen cause, but she is also a compassionate and loving partner and mother. Her company offers solace to Paul, and a respite from the chaos and pain of being able to see the future and past. Since Paul is often confused and disturbed by his intense, time-bending visions, Chani acts as his emotional tether, reminding him of family and purpose in the present world.

Paul’s role as the Lisan al-Gaib, as well as his responsibilities as the Duke of House Atreides, create a complicated dynamic in his relationship with Chani. Chani is very submissive to Paul in the sense that she completely trusts and obeys his word, even if his commands are disadvantageous to her. While her unyielding support could be interpreted as the acts of a devoted partner, it seems likely that she is also influenced by Paul’s messianic reputation amongst her people.

In many ways, Chani’s relationship with Paul is similar to Stilgar’s relationship with Paul. On the one hand, they are both true friends or life companions for Paul, but on the other hand, they are his worshipers. Consequently, there’s undoubtedly a power dynamic between Chani and Paul’s relationship, and an expectation that she will be selfless and accommodating so that Paul can fulfill his prophesied destiny. Chani accepts this responsibility readily, a behavior that is in line with her Fremen upbringing. She and her fellow Fremen see themselves less as individuals and more as part of a greater whole, working toward a shared purpose that will liberate their entire people.

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