[Galaxy Of Fear] - 04(6)
“That’s my sister, Tash,” Zak said.
“And I am DV-9, the caretaker for these young humans,” said Deevee, inserting himself into the conversation. His program bristled at the intrusion of a stranger.
“I thought he was another reflection until he grabbed me,” Zak explained.
Tash nodded. “This place is pretty confusing. I was just around the corner when you yelled, but it took me all this time to find the path.”
“Yeah, it’s prime here,” Zak said. “No wonder Hologram Fun World is so popular.”
Lando’s ears perked up. “You really like it here?” Zak laughed. “We’ve only just arrived, but so far, so good.”
“Listen,” Lando said, “I’m a businessman. I’m looking for, well, investments, and I’m considering buying part ownership in Fun World. But before I do, I want to get the opinions of some Fun World visitors-especially kids your age.”
“And?” Deevee asked. His analytical computer brain told him this was leading somewhere.
Lando turned his charm on Deevee. “And I was hoping Zak and Tash would let me tour the park with them. That way I can get an honest feel for their reactions. Which parts of the Fun World are actually fun, and which ones aren’t. Things like that.”
“I’m afraid I can’t allow that,” Deevee replied. “I have been charged with the care of these humans, and my master would not appreciate their taking up with a complete stranger.”
Lando spread his hands out innocently and smiled again. “You do me an injustice. I haven’t been doubted like this since the Battle of Tanaab.”
“You were at the Battle of Tanaab?” Zak asked. He had a passion for starships, and loved to read about famous starship battles.
Lando shrugged with an air of false humility. “I played a small part in that skirmish.”
“I hear those Norulackian pirates were using supercharged Incom BG2300 engines,” Zak said. “Were they really as fast as-“
“Excuse me,” Deevee interrupted. “But as I said, I am responsible for these children, and I am programmed to be wary of strangers.”
Lando frowned. “I see. Well, if you change your mind, I’ll be in the park for a few days. I’m staying at a visitor’s lodge called the Gravity Well. It’s near the center of Fun World.”
Lando flashed a dashing smile and turned away. “Deevee, that was rude,” Tash scolded.
Deevee stiffened. “Tash, after the number of unsettling events that have befallen us recently, I suggest we remain cautious of strangers.”
“Actually,” Zak said thoughtfully, “seeing Fun World with Lando might not be such a bad idea. If Uncle Hoole’s worried that someone might be looking for two humans and a droid, then maybe they’re not looking for three humans and a droid. Seeing the park with Lando might throw anyone trying to track us down off the trail.”
Deevee considered. “I’m not sure I agree, Zak. Still, your logic is sound-“
“Great!” Zak said without letting the droid finish. “Hey, Lando!” he called, chasing after the dashing entrepreneur.
Zak, Tash, and Deevee caught up with their new companion, who led them through a dizzying maze of rides, attractions, and crowds until they reached the visitor’s lodge called the Gravity Well. Groups of tourists poured in and out of its doors, and the four newcomers easily blended in with the mob.
“What’s that?” Zak asked, pointing to a large structure across the courtyard from the Gravity Well. The building’s durasteel walls were so well-polished that they acted like mirrors, reflecting the amazing sights and activities of the park.
“That’s the administration building,” Lando replied. “I have some meetings there with the park owner tomorrow.”
The Twi’lek clerk at the check-in counter knew Calrissian by name, and the attendant droid fawned over Lando as it showed them to their rooms.
Since it was getting late in the day, Deevee suggested that they get some rest before heading into Fun World tomorrow. Tash immediately settled herself in to read a datadisk on her datapad. Zak, however, was restless. An entire holographic galaxy lay just outside his room, but he could not get to it until morning. After several hours of watching boring holoprograms, he wandered into the hallway, down to Lando’s room, and buzzed for entry.
“Come!” said a smooth voice, and the automatic door slid open.
Zak saw Lando sitting at a table across from three people. He recognized the Twi’lek from the reception desk, who sat next to a very large humanoid. If he was human, he was the ugliest human Zak had ever seen. Part of his face was hidden by a ragged scarf. Beside him sat a two-mouthed Ithorian, also known as a Hammerhead.