Meenon bristled. "We do not believe in titles on Senali. Titles make divisions. We are all equal on Senali, unlike on your barbaric world."

Taroon's eyes glinted. "Unlike primitives, we value our bloodlines."

Qui-Gon inserted himself smoothly into the conversation before it could flare into open argument. "You say that Leed has disappeared. He left no word of where he was going?"

"No," Meenon said, turning his back to Taroon. "I do not know where he is."

Taroon put himself in front of Meenon again. "And you'll swear to this?" he demanded, eyes flashing.

Meenon gazed at Taroon. "I do not need to swear. I do not lie."

Qui-Gon spoke a beat more quickly than his usual reserve. Obi-Wan knew that he was trying to restrain Taroon without seeming to. "This is unfortunate."

Meenon shrugged. "He knew of your coming. I assume that is why he is in hiding. He does not want to return to Rutan."

"We are not here to force him," Qui-Gon said. "We only wish to talk to him."

"I assured him that if he met with you I would not allow him to be taken back to Rutan by force," Meenon said. "Apparently he has taken matters into his own hands despite my advice."

"We will search for him, with your permission," Qui-Gon said as Taroon fumed beside him. "Can we question the family who brought him up?"

"Here on Senali we live in clans," Meenon said. "I entrusted him to my sister's clan, the Banoosh-Walores. They live one kilometer to the west, on Clear Lake. You are welcome to question them."

Qui-Gon nodded. "We will be in touch."

"I wish you ease and serenity," Meenon said, bowing.

Obi-Wan could feel Taroon's anger as they walked out of the courtyard to exit Meenon's dwelling.