"Even Drenna doesn't know," Tinta said.

Qui-Gon cast his keen gaze on the young boy. "Is Drenna a special friend of Leed's, Tinta?"

"She is closest to him in age," Ganeed said, handing the baby to Mesan.

Obi-Wan shot a searching glance at Drenna for the first time. Her close-cropped hair almost matched the silvery cast to her dark-blue skin. She raised her silver eyes to the Jedi.

"You can see this place is confusing," she said, making a wry face. "Maybe Leed just wanted some peace and quiet to make up his mind. I think he will return soon."

"Drenna, help Wek set the table," Nin called. "Go sit down, boy, you are underfoot."

"Let's eat," Jaret said. "I'm hungry."

"Well, come to the table, then," Nin scolded. "I can't do everything for you."

Drenna sprang up and began to ladle the food into bowls.

"Yes, perhaps Leed will return soon," Qui-Gon said. "He will miss his clan. As you miss him."

Ganeed's eyes suddenly filled with tears. "As we do," she said softly.

A silence fell over the clan for the first time. Obi-Wan could read sorrow on each face. Leed was truly loved, he saw.

For a moment, all they heard were Bu's tiny hiccups as she nestled her downy head against her mother's shoulder.

"This is a waste of time," Taroon suddenly said. "They won't tell us anything."

"We should leave you to your midday meal," Qui-Gon said graciously, bowing to the clan.

"We wish you ease and serenity," Ganeed said, smiling through tear-filled eyes. "And if you find Leed, please protect him."

"We shall," Qui-Gon promised.

They retreated down the walkway that joined the structure to the main dock, then started back toward Meenon's dwelling.