The shuttle floated to the ground amidst sunny skies and the calm splash of the ocean. The Zoiji family stepped onto the landing pad to admire the view.
"Couldn't have picked a better time, I think. Oceanus III is beautiful this time of year," said Orono.
"You said it, Dad," Celgo remarked, walking with his wife into the distance.
"Indeed. This makes Dromund Kaas and Coruscant put together look like a cheap motel," Korgo said in his steely Imperial accent.
Moments later, they entered the hotel lobby. When the employees saw the Royal Family, they ushered them to the elevator with breakneck speed through the droves of vacationers and tourists. Once inside Ashara was the first to ask,
"So, Orono, where are we in this craziness? A room? A suite?"
A warm smile on his face, he said,
"Just wait. We're almost there."
With a light thud, the elevator doors slid open. Instead of the crowded single and double rooms they had seen earlier, the eight saw a voluminous underwater hotel with perfect views of the sea floor. After an awestruck silence, Celgo asked curiously,
"How the heck did you build this!? I mean, I was there when this place was being done, but this wasn't in any of the plans!"
A sly glint in his eye, his father answered,
"That's because I left it out. I figured you'd want privacy while you were on vacation."
The location in question was the Arcadia Zone. The room soon filled itself with the sound of fluttering wings and tiny feet. Within moments a platoon of droid butlers headed by a Jawa concierge in a tuxedo entered the room. In a jittery voice, he said,
"Ah, Mr. Orono. What bring you to Arcadia Zone?"
Kneeling at the Jawa Orono said,
"Hello, Jhin. It's been a long time. Everyone treating you well?"
"Oh, yes. No one mess with us. They fear you, great Throne Breaker."
Gesturing at Jhin, he said,
"Everyone, this is Jhin, of Clan Beshyr. I rescued him and his clan from White Maw pirates many years ago. He's been loyally working here ever since."
After talking with Jhin, the eight went to their private quarters. To the surprise of their wives everyone save Celgo meditated around holocrons. Voicing their disbelief, Vette said,
"Seriously? We're on vacation and this is what you want to do?"
"Oh not just this, Vette. There'll be time for more later. But don't let us hold you back. Please, enjoy yourselves. Celgo knows all the favorite haunts," Orono said reassuringly.
The four headed out, unaware that five Clawdite assassins were tailing them. Out of the five hundred and seventy-two attractions, they went to the New Moon Bar and Casino. Featuring an all-Zeltron staff, it was frequented by almost everyone. The main attraction was Jayne Nova, a singer that many a drunken patron pined over. While Jayne performed, Celgo looked around and said,
"What did I tell you? Isn't this place great?"
'Vibrant yes, but this place is soft. I need to fight," Akaavi said gruffly.
Don't worry, cyar'ika," (sweetheart) Celgo reassured. Pointing to the corner he said, "There's a fight pit over there."
A tipsy patron started towards the ring but Celgo grabbed him by the shoulder, warning,
"I wouldn't do that if I were you, pal. Not unless you got a death wish."
As he hobbled away Ashara asked,
"Is she really that tough?"
A knowing look on his face he said,
"Trust me. I'm immortal and I still don't want to get on her bad side."
And he was right. Within two hours fifteen men lay senseless and bruised on the floor. Suddenly Nadia who had been enjoying the crowd, perked up.
"Wait, I sense something."
"Assassins. I sense them too."
In a flash, five "patrons" drew blasters and vibroblades, attacking them. Lightsaber blades flashed as each was cut down. Finally the Zoijis could enjoy their vacation in peace...
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| Vette Zoiji |
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| Ashara Zoiji (nee Zavros) wife of Xhulon Zoiji |
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| The Diamond Shoals Resort |
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| Akaavi Zoiji (nee Spar) wife of Celgo Zoiji |
