Chapter 14: Stoking the Fire

"Are you out of your mind? How could you agree to such a thing?" Kuuur growled in frustration. What his friend and Captain had just told him was beyond belief.

Tuuvu knew he wasn't going to like the idea, but there was little that could be done now. "I did it because it's the right thing to do."

"You have gone mad." Kuuur threw his hands up. For a moment he stepped away before turning back to address the commander, "We are Pirates, there is no 'right thing to do.' To them we are criminals and I don't think they care about if we do the 'right thing' or not. You have sold us to the enemy without any thought of your crew."

Shaking his head in denial, Tuuvu stated, "I would not think that cub would have agreed to anything that would place us in danger."

"You let that boy overrule your better judgement. One day you will regret it," snapped Kuuur.

Taking a threatening step forward, he warned, "Watch yourself. He may look young but his judgement is better than most, yours included. And if it weren't for your insistence on raiding this ship, we wouldn't even be in this position."

Never backing from a challenge, Kuuur met the Captain nose to nose, "So this is my fault? Have you forgotten that as Pirates we are meant to raid any passing vessel? This is our means of income. There is no reason to pass up a bounty simply because a little human boy has a bad feeling. If anyone is to blame it's you for insisting that boy be part of our crew."

"You leave him alone." Paws gripped tightly to soft cloth. Through clenched teeth, the devoted Patron guarded, "You were there during Drrov. You saw what he went through. How dare you blame me for saving him? And through all that somehow that boy has persevered and made our lives better. We fight better, think better, move better all because of him. And we have become much more profitable because of him. Do you think that was a mistake? That somehow things just started working for us? No, I tell you. That boy has rescued us, just as much as I have him. He has earned his place on board. Have you?"

Kuuur easily knocked the hands away, "So Drrov would have lead us all to an early grave, a criminal's life is generally a short one. We all accepted that when we came on board. I'll admit that Obi has helped us in the long run. We all lead healthier, richer lives. But I tell you this right now. This - is - wrong. If we take these people to a port I guarantee that you will regret it. That if we make it home in one piece, our lives will never be the same." The Togorian's gut was screaming that all was not right, he just could not determine what exactly was wrong. He had hoped that this was the last time they had to deal with the humans on the other ship. All he wanted was to protect his clan, now he knew that it was impossible.

"If that is what fate decides, then it will be so. I will not go back on my word. I have promised cub and that is final." Before the point could be argued further two figures stepped out of the failed vessel. Easily transferring his aggression to a more appropriate target, Tuuvu emitted a low growl as he questioned, "What is he doing here?"

Before Obi-Wan could answer, the Knight spoke, "You asked me to protect him, did you not?" Qui-Gon did not wait for an answer, "Well, how am I supposed to do that if I am not there to do so?"

This response did not alleviate Tuuvu's tension, "I told you to make sure nothing happens to him while he's on your vessel. We are heading back to ours, so you are no longer needed."

"In your opinion, not in mine." Qui-Gon remained calm and collected in the face of opposition.

"And you think I will accept your opinion over mine? Go away Jedi, you've done enough."

"Perhaps you might accept this logic better. If our roles were reversed, would you allow all of us to walk away while you sit and wait for us to return? Would you not want at least one of your crew to stay with us in order to guarantee that we would not betray you?"

"Of course, I would be foolish not to," Tuuvu scoffed.

"Then do you not think we would want the same?" Qui-Gon allowed the logic to sink in. He could see the fury brewing beneath the bright green eyes. It was obvious that the Togorian recognized the corner he had been backed into, but didn't like being placed there.

Tuuvu roared in frustration, he did not like this man. For no other reason other than what he represented; the cause of his cub's pain. If this Qui-Gon Jinn had not rejected Obi-Wan then, his cub would have been spared the horror of Drrov. Of course he would never have met this exceptional young boy, but he would have survived either way. It was Obi-Wan who suffered, and that was unforgivable.

Again it was the cultured voice of his cub that doused the fire, "Please, Patron. He won't be around long. It's best if we just get this over with quickly." Obi-Wan disliked seeing his caring guardian so flustered. He knew the best thing to do was give him a better focus. "We need to get back to Night's so that we can retrieve a homing beacon. I promised the Captain the means to find his ship again."

Turning he greeted his cub by raising a furred hand to brush away the ginger bangs that flopped generously in the youth's face. His tone softened considerably when Tuuvu addressed his lost charge, "We do have a spare." No matter how hard he tried (which in all honesty wasn't very hard at all) he could deny the boy nothing. If his cub asked for the world, he would do everything in his power to get it. Right now, all he asked was to take some children to a base for them to find a way home. His mind quickly shifted to what lay ahead, "Hurry, I must inform the crew prior to their arrival." Pausing to allow the edge to return to his voice, deep emerald eyes bore into the Knight, "I don't want another incident."

"A very wise decision," agreed the Jedi.

"I suggest that you stand in the back and don't speak when we get back." Qui-Gon only nodded, knowing that it was best to simply agree rather than argue. When Tuuvu received his confirmation, he abruptly turned and led the way back into the forest. The group traversed the dense foliage as quickly as possible.

Before long, the group broke from the ridge of trees into the grove that held the Night's Scream. For the pirates there was nothing new to behold. However for the Knight, he encountered a sight he did not expect and stopped in his tracks. The size of the ship was similar to the Zenah perhaps a bit larger. The design of the ship was sleek and planned for speed and stealth. But what caught the Jedi's attention was the hull itself. Most ships appeared either organic or metallic, this ship appeared neither. In the shade of the trees surrounding it the Pirate vessel blended in to it's surroundings. If one were not paying attention, they would certainly pass it without notice. Yet, it was not transparent or cloaked to appear invisible altogether.

He thought back briefly to his time on the bridge during the attack. He remembered as he entered that the crew was frantically trying to locate the vessel. Peering out the viewports they could not 'see' the craft until bolts were fired but seemed to disappear almost immediately. Now he understood why. The ship's hull would take on characteristics of its surroundings to 'disappear.' He also knew that their sensors were unable to track them, which meant that this ship was beyond any technology he had seen in the Republic.

Qui-Gon's mind raced at this new discovery. From what he recalled about Togorians, was that their technology was limited. Most of it was imported from other worlds. So how is it a group of Pirates had a ship that put most of Republic technology to shame? There was definitely more to all this than met the eye. He was drawn out of his thoughts when he felt the young rogue step up beside him.

Obi-Wan felt the knight pause in wonder. At first he ignored him and kept moving, but when the Knight remained still he decided to collect him. As he approached he could see the Knight's eyes scanning and taking in every detail. He knew instantly how vexed the Jedi was by this peculiar ship. "Master Jinn, I know that you have questions, however we do have a task to complete. Please don't dawdle."

Agreeing, Qui-Gon released his thoughts for later contemplation, "Forgive me. I was admiring your craft."

"Yes, she is special." Obi-Wan headed back toward the hatch.

Qui-Gon glanced down at the youth, wondering how much the rogue knew about the craft. Feeling that some inquiry would not be out of the question, he asked, "Do you happen to know her origin? Where she was built?"

"No, all I know is that Drrov purchased her from an unknown source. The few that were part of his crew at the time were so glad to be off of their old ship, they never asked any questions." There were mixed emotions roiling beneath the surface. Qui-Gon wanted to learn more, but thought it better to let it go for the moment. He had so much to discover, so much to catch up on, and he knew there would be a time to do so.

Obi-Wan was preoccupied himself and wasn't really in the mood to answer questions. But it would be against his nature to completely ignore them. As they had walked, his mind pondered the minor altercation that happened previously. Tuuvu's frustration was a direct result of the burdens he had placed on the Captain. It had been years since there had been so much hostility brewing beneath the surface. How he wished he could tell his guardian that everything would be ok and dispel his worries. Yet he knew that it would only be a lie. Another idea surfaced, if he could not help Tuuvu, perhaps he could show Qui-Gon what he was leaving behind. In order to prove that his place among his family was right and secure, Obi-Wan would need to alter Qui-Gon's perception of the most important being in his life. Just before they entered, Obi-Wan paused, "Master Jinn, please don't think unkindly of Tuuvu. It's just…" The words trailed off, not knowing exactly what to say.

"It's alright, I understand, he's a father trying to protect his son." Qui-Gon had felt the change in the youth. A weight seemed to descend upon the young shoulders with every step. He gathered it had something to do with his family, but was not entirely sure what to expect. His years of missions proved once again how valuable they were. When Obi-Wan was not able to finish his thought, Qui-Gon was able to easily read the situation and fill in the blanks. Still his own words surprised him. Did he truly know the situation so well?

Nodding slowly, Obi-Wan agreed, "Yes, yes he is." Taking a deep breath he whispered what was really bothering him, "And I'm afraid, afraid of what my betrayal may do to him."

Qui-Gon was taken aback slightly, for the first time he fully comprehended what the corsair was about to do. This father-figure had risked everything to find Obi-Wan and in return for the love demonstrated, Obi-Wan would leave his father in the end. Quietly, he suggested, "Perhaps you should tell him."

Shaking his head jerkily, Obi-Wan reiterated, "I already told you that's not possible. If he knew, you wouldn't have made it this far. No, it has to be this way." No matter how much it would destroy him to do so, Obi-Wan had already struck the bargain and he would go through with it.

Watching the load press harder down on the rogue, Qui-Gon offered what solace he could. "I will do whatever I can to help you through this." He hoped it would be enough. And he hoped that by doing so, some of the old wounds could be healed.

Obi-Wan sighed. "Thank you, Master Jinn." With nothing left to say at the moment, together the pair headed inside until they caught up to the Captain.

Just as they entered the bridge, Tuuvu made his way up to a black and white coloured Togorian. ["Grruun, I need you to patch me into comms."]

["No problem, Cap."] The communications officer said without turning. His hands sped over some controls until they heard a light beep. ["You're on."] Turning around as he spoke, Grruun noticed the stranger and stared at him suspiciously.

Tuuvu nodded and removed a small comm unit from his belt to speak into. ["Attention all hands. Your presence is required in the briefing room in 15 minutes. And I mean everyone. Tuuvu out."] Replacing the link on his belt, the Captain spyed the Jedi again snarling, "I do not want you to leave my sight again. Understand?" Again, Qui-Gon nodded. "Good, Kuuur, Grruun come with me. We have a few things to go over before the meeting starts."

Moving quickly they headed for the briefing room. Once securely inside, Tuuvu began, "Grruun, where's the nearest spaceport?"

The younger Togorian sat at his usual place and activated the comm pad in front of him. After a moment, he replied, "Onderon. There's a large port at Iziz with a number of others."

"How long for us to get there?"

"Approximately 5 hours, sir." The communications officer waited and watched his Captain. This all seemed very irregular, but it was not his place to question his commander.

Tuuvu pondered this information for a moment before addressing the large human standing quietly in the back. "Is that satisfactory to you?" The edge still ever-present in his voice but considerably lessened.

Qui-Gon ignored it and answered the question, "Yes, we should be able to find transport from there."

"Good," the Captain stated, but thought aloud, "now what do we do with your people until then?"

Kuuur finally found his opportunity to speak again and did so freely, "I suggest they be kept in the stockade or Cargo bay."

Caught off guard by the absurd proposal, Tuuvu immediately refused, "We will not. They are mostly children."

"Who are also Jedi," the Firstmate pointed out. His obvious disdain for Jedi was not hidden for his general dislike for all offworlders. He knew that his acknowledgement of their affiliation would not be completely ignored by the Captain. Tuuvu had his own issues with Jedi, but his ideals about how children should be treated overruled even that. Glancing at the cause of all this unrest, another reason for his proposal presented itself, "And a crew that doesn't mind beating on a young one." Kuuur pointed out the facts, gesturing for a moment towards Obi-Wan who had remnants of the fight in the rec room still visible.

Obi-Wan shifted, not appreciating to be used in such a manner. Feeling the youth's discomfort, Qui-Gon quickly jumped in, "Only a small few were involved and we stopped it before it could escalate." He had hoped to set aside any fears of a repeat incident. Apparently, it didn't work.

Kuuur argued, "A small few are capable of sabotage and causing trouble."

Squaring his shoulders, Qui-Gon effecting an imposing stance on the subject. "The Jedi would not allow any problems to occur while on board your ship."

Not quite finished, Kuuur pointed at Obi-Wan again, "You Jedi have no issues dismissing your own children. Why should we trust you?"

Obi-Wan was not about to sit back any longer and snapped, "Jedi are Guardians of the Peace, if there is anyone you can trust it's them. That is a completely separate issue. Right now, all you need to do is obey your Captain." The rogue had no qualms with being curt at that moment having been used twice for some things he wished to forget. Turning to Tuuvu he added, "I will offer my room for some of them to stay in while in transit."

Caught in a precarious position Tuuvu's mind reeled. On one hand he agreed completely with his Firstmate. He disliked and distrusted this man. It did not really matter that he was a Jedi or not, the fact that this man was part of an organization that turned his cub away infuriated him. On the other hand, this same group, were the ones to initially raise his cub. Instilled the virtuous values that exude from the youth. His perception had been coloured by his love and devotion for the wayward child that he placed so much trust in Obi-Wan. And for the first time he questioned his judgement. The Jedi had obviously made a mistake in sending Obi-Wan away, was it possible that his cubling could be wrong now? He didn't know, and with his world in question, most of the anger dissipated. No matter the question of his beliefs, he would still not permit children to be treated so callously. Gently he said, "Thank you cub. Master Jedi, do you think the crew of the ship would fit in this room?" Here, they could easily be monitored while not being so oppressed by 'imprisonment.'

With the return of civilized conversation, Qui-Gon replied matter-of-factly, "Yes, there should be enough room to accommodate them."

"Good, it would be best if neither side intermingled too much while on board. We will see what other rooms we can use for your children." Kuuur was about to protest but before any more could be said, a few crewmembers walked into the room. Despite the desire to argue, Kuuur was well trained and refrained from making a scene in front of the entire crew.

As they entered, most smiled at the sight of Obi-Wan. The news had spread like wildfire that he was left behind. When they followed the ship down and heard that he was still alive, many anticipated his return. Most of them took a moment to talk to or hug the youth before finding their seat. Yet as soon as they spotted the tall Jedi, they became leery and tense. A few of them growled lightly while others bared their teeth in outright disapproval.

Qui-Gon wasn't even phased by their displays as he continued to observe how the Togorians interacted with Obi-Wan. A few would linger longer than others and some would simply nod from a distance. Two of them remained by the youth's side until the meeting started. Both appeared younger than the rest of the crew, as best as he could tell. Obi-Wan graciously accepted everyone's thoughts and words, however Qui-Gon could still see the taut muscles even from a few feet away.

For Qui-Gon, he could only guess at what was being said, from body language and his Jedi senses. The crew spoke in their native tongue except for Obi-Wan. His own mind registered the members by coloration and estimated age. Right now he watched as a multi-coloured male hugged the rogue while a grey long haired youth waited anxiously near by.

Obi-Wan stood with his friends next to him, somewhat taken aback by all the attention. Never really considering himself an important member of the crew, he was unprepared for the resounding welcome he was receiving. With each passing moment he began to doubt the validity of his bargain. Began to think that he had made the wrong choice, interpreted the Force incorrectly. Here were people who loved and accepted him, and he was about to leave it all behind for persecution and speculation. How could that possibly be the correct path? But it was too late. He had given his word, knowing he could not escape that path for very long. Now he wondered if the easier, logical path was worth the disappointment and pain he would inflict by his betrayal? He wished he could enjoy this reunion, but the taunting future denied him all possible pleasure.

The young calico released his friend saying, ["We thought we would never see you again. Are you alright?"] The feline being noticed his friend's rigidity.

Obi-Wan tried to sound confident, "I'm fine, Li."

Liior did not buy the feeble response, picking up some underlying issue but not understanding what it was. ["You don't look fine. Did they do that?"] Liior motioned toward the still bruised eye.

Shifting again under the scrutiny, Obi-Wan gave the same response he offered his Patron, "It was a misunderstanding. Just let it go."

["Stop pestering him, Li. He's been through enough already. Obi will tell us when he's ready."] Naeci tried to calm the situation. The trio was close and each was well aware of how protective Li could get. He could hear the edge in Liior's voice and knew that the youth could sometimes be as passionate as his father. Naeci glanced over at Kuuur for a moment and noticed the man's whiskers twitching, a tell tale sign that the man was 'unhappy.' Curious, he turned back to his friends, ["So, what's going on now?"]

"You'll see," Obi didn't want to reveal the purpose before the initial announcement. Liior and Naeci found seats next to him and waited for their Captain to speak.

Well within the time allotted, the entire crew arrived. As soon as they were all there, Tuuvu addressed them. ["I have an announcement to make. It has been requested of us to transport the passengers of the raided vessel to the nearest base."]

Many growled in frustration while others voiced it allowed, ["You can't be serious! No way! It's a trick!"]

Tuuvu raised his hands to calm the swarm and continued, ["I understand how you all feel. And I do share most of your concerns, however, as your Captain I have decided to accept."]

["What? Why? How could you do that?"] The questions came from all sides.

Their leader responded truthfully, ["You know that our goal is never to harm children during our raids, either voluntarily or involuntarily. Most of the passengers on that ship are children. If we can assist them in getting to safety, then that is what we should do."] The protests quickly quieted. Not because there weren't any protests, but because they understood and followed the mandate set forth by their Captain. Under their codes of conduct, they had agreed to what he said, and so they would follow it without question.

Recognizing that they comprehended his reasoning, Tuuvu added, ["I request that you be on your best behaviour. This should only delay us a few hours, then we will head home. Is this understood? Now, are there any questions?"]

["We're not going to cater to them, allow them the run of the ship, are we? I don't think we want them snooping around while they're here."] Their co-pilot, Soarn cautioned. Rumblings of agreement coursed through the room.

["No, they will not be roaming freely. We are still working out all the details, but cub has offered his room for some of them to use. And the ship's crew will stay in here."]

["They can use my cabin, too,"] Liior offered. The young Togorian always does his best to help out, especially when he knows Obi-Wan has approved. Kuuur's entire body tensed, only the trained eye of the Jedi noticed.

["Thank you, Li. If we need any more room, I'm sure others will step up to help out. Now, I suggest you all prepare yourselves. They will be here shortly. You are dismissed."] Tuuvu concluded the all to brief meeting. There were preparations to make and he wanted to get this over with as quickly as possible.

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I would like to apologize for the lengthy delay in getting this chap up. This was the hardest chap I have had to write thus far. It took me 4 takes just to get a decent enough draft to expand on. Not that it was action packed or anything, but because I just couldn't deal with writing something that I would consider boring. The semi-good news is that I think my muses are starting to come back to me again, so I hope and pray(as I'm sure you are) that this won't happen again. *crosses fingers*

Anyway, don't forget to review. They really do encourage me to write!!! *hint, hint* Review, PLEASE!!

Cricket – Aww, you're sweet. Thanks! :D

Ciria – Oh how I miss your reviews. ;) Wonderful review per usual. ;D Now you have to remember Qui is still a little delusional. He doesn't quite see the big picture yet, where Obi's concerned. Don't be surprised if Yoda does take a part in Obi's return. But how that all pans out has yet to be written and seen. ;) Yes, for a pirate, Tuuvu has a certain standard. And his crew also must have those standards, of course there is always room for some disagreement, but in the end they are all the same. Obi has always been Obi, but Tuuvu's care has steered him clear of a darker path. It's possible that if Drrov were still around, bitterness and unhappiness could have fostered a different Obi. As for a kleyfly, I made it up. hehe It didn't seem like tooo much was know about Togorians and Togoria, so I figured I could develop that as I go. ;) I would consider it like a normal fly and a choacha is similar to a venus flytrap. Although not exactly. I remember seeing a plant like a choacha but can't remember the name. :8}

Yes, Tahl is the voice of reason. Qui hopefully will see the light soon enough. You'll just have to keep an eye out. ;) You know I really do love reading what people take out of my stories. Sometimes, they see things I never noticed myself. Like my subconscious hinted at something I had no forethought of. For example, I would have thought the horrible time under Drrov would have justified Qui's line about dismissing Obi-Wan as detrimental. Instead, you see how that decision has brought out a part of Obi that feels and sees love, in Tuuvu. I don't know if Qui would do something low. But then again, like I said, it's possible that his perception may change. ;) And as much as I would like something bad to happen to Qui, I think the Force felt it was time for Obi to return home. Just wait and see. I have a lot of things planned and hopefully you will enjoy the journey we still have yet to take. :D

AWWWWWW!! Thank you sooooo much, your words really mean something to me. I would be utterly and completely honoured to be on your fav list. Like I said, this was a major hump in my writing style. But I am really hoping that my muses are back and I'll be able to move on again. And I'm glad you like my site. I'm, hoping to update it again soon. And I had fun making the graphics. Thanks again! You – Are – The – BEST!! :D

Meggie – Here's a whole truckload of bones for our furry friends. ;) Yes, I thought Qui would have some emotional stretches now and then. Afterall, he's still human. I hope you enjoyed this chap. And maybe if I can convince my muses that writing chaps is better than mouthfulls of sharp pointy teeth we can get more chaps for you. :p

Jedilittlebee – I would like to thank you for reading my work. It touches me deeply to see people go through my profile and check out other things I have done. It means more to me than words can express. I feel that many of my stories(although similar in writing style) have a touch of their own personality. Thank you again! Yes, as much as I don't like Qui, I think there is more on the horizon for his char as well. Obi and him will have to go through trials *IF* they are to be paired in the end. But going through them will definitely be good reading for you guys(I hope!) So are you a Master of Patience now?? I would be very surprised if you aren't! :p

Lighted eagle – Hey you. You trying to confuse me?? ;P LOL, you crack me up!! Thanks. If you really want to hail me as anything you can call me Master!! Mwahahaha. *cough* Uh, well, maybe Lady? It's up to you really, whatever you want. I answer to anything. :D

Death Rider – Wake UP!!! No, don't die on me!! That's one less person to review. Besides then you'll never find out the ending of the story!! Death, please wake up! Can you hear me? I'll try and get you some Obi-Torture soon. Just give me a few more chaps. Honest, please come back! *runs around room screaming frantically*

LOTRFaith – Thanks!! I really appreciate you letting me know!! Means a lot to me. Hope to get more up soon. Keep an eye out!! ;)