Hello everybody and welcome back :D
This is the third part of the first chapter : The Dungeon Gospel.
I really enjoyed writing it, in my opinion it turned out pretty good and I do hope you will enjoy reading it :)
There will be more info at the end, but go ahead and dig in !
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The cold that seeped into Anakin Skywalker's bare skin jerked him from the depths of unconsciousness. A sharp headache pulsed through his skull, matching the rhythm of his confusion. As clarity crept in slowly, the raw chill of metal against his exposed back sent shivers coursing through him andanchored him to a harsh reality. For some reason, he was naked, his body held almost vertically in some device binding him. Barely able to move his head down, he could nonetheless see the straps strategically placed to prevent any movement, yet doing very little to preserve his modesty.
He concentrated to make sense of the low voices that penetrated the haze of his ache and pain. "...from Mandalore to Naos, that's almost half a galaxy apart. We could be anywhere by now." Obi-Wan's voice was steady, providing a comforting anchor in this surreal nightmare.
"And for some reason, our connection to the Force is dampened here. Wherever this place is must be very well hidden and protected." a woman answered in a snarky sussuring voice that took him a few moments to recognize.
The sound of Ventress's voice, added to the realization of his own vulnerability, flushed Anakin with embarrassment and a flicker of anger. Barely able to turn his head with effort, he catched a glimpse of Obi-Wan to his left and Asajj further, both similarly bound and naked, the straps leaving little to the imagination. But the sight of an adversary, a general of the CIS and a Sith, being part of such an humbling predicament instead of being the interrogator, only intensified the surrealness of the situation.
Anakin's voice cracked, his tone rough and laced with incredulity. "Ventress? What in the galaxy are you doing here?"
"Oh, your protégé has finally awoken to join us, Kenobi," Ventress said with a smirk, shifting slightly. Her gaze was mocking as she obviously enjoyed his discomfort. "Believe me, Skywalker, being stripped and displayed like a specimen is not my idea of a reunion either," the woman added, her tone haughty and tinged with sarcasm.
"Did anyone else wake up with a splitting headache?" Anakin asked, trying to divert his thoughts from his embarrassment and the unnerving proximity of Ventress. "I hardly remember anything besides being hit in the face."
"Yes, these children were very impressive, using the environment in such a way to capture us. I barely caught a glimpse of movement before an impossible strength struck us both down. I think the boy was the one that stunned me. The girl must have hit you harder," Obi-Wan answered.
"I've enjoyed this story. The great Skywalker finally found his better, a little girl beating him with a stick," taunted the pale assassin cackling.
"Really, could you possibly be any less helpful?" Anakin snapped, his frustration flaring as much from their awkward situation as from her barbs.
Asajj laughed coldly, the sound echoing slightly in the chilling confines of the chamber. "I'm crushed, Skywalker. Here I thought we were bonding over our shared misery. Would you prefer I lied and said it's a delight to see you?"
"We need to focus," tried to interrupt Kenobi, as his gaze shifted between his former apprentice and the Sith, imploring a truce, however temporary. "We were all defeated, captured and brought here without real understanding of by whom or why. This suggests something formidable, with considerable planning and resources, possibly by someone we never suspected or a power we've not yet encountered."
"Certainly one that doesn't want to be known," the Sith added, her tone less mocking and more contemplative.
Obi-Wan hummed thoughtfully. "Ventress, your own capture on Mandalore, by Sebas, wasn't it? An elderly businessman who managed to defeat you without any visible weapons; this organization, Nazarick, seems to be the official front for whoever we are facing, it's an important clue."
The other Jedi, still simmering with anger, couldn't help but sneer. "Sounds like you were outmatched by a senior citizen."
"Careful, Skywalker," the woman shot back sharply, her eyes narrowing. "He might look old, but that man is dangerous, I'm sure he could incapacitate any of us."
Before Anakin could retort, Obi-Wan intervened, his voice calm but firm. "From what you told, there is something crucial about our captors. Even if he was uncompromising, this Director appears to prefer subtlety, strategy and perhaps negotiation over the use of force. They've also gone to great lengths to hold us here, if they wanted us dead, they've had ample opportunity. It might be worth considering that they could be open to discussion."
The young knight frowned, pondering his friend's words. The idea of negotiating with their captors was distasteful. "So, what, we just talk?" he asked skeptically. "And say what? 'Thanks for not killing us; let's make a deal?'"
"It's not as simple as that, but yes, in essence," Obi-Wan replied, maintaining his composure. "Understanding their motivations could help us find a way out, or at least, give us leverage."
A shadow crossing her face, the Sith recalled a detail she shared, "The Nazarick Galactic Guild is the name. But I'm afraid that even if we could talk our way out with Sebas Tian, there seems to be a Guild Master calling the shots. And I didn't get the impression he was easy going."
"Still, that might be our key," Kenobi insisted. "If we can show them that cooperating with us is more beneficial than holding us captive, they might be inclined to negotiate."
"Since we are prisoners in a torture chamber, I'd say that's pretty optimistic, even for you, Kenobi." Ventress scoffed. "And since they went to such an extent to keep their existence a secret, they could very well have simply decided to keep us for entertainment. But suppose they are open to talking? What then? "
"Great, we're bargaining chips," Anakin muttered under his breath, not entirely convinced but seeing the logic in his former Master's approach. It could indeed give them an advantage. Testing the strength of his bindings again, he continued "And our captors ensured we wouldn't be able to escape."
"Yes. This place," the bald assassin added, her voice dropping to a more serious tone as she glanced around, "it's somehow designed to suppress the Force and I don't feel that it's on an individual scale. It's a thing to cut ourselves, but that's no minor feat to impose it on others, there are only so many ways to do so that I know of. We could be in some old Rakatan prison, or worse, it could be a Force ritual, but if this was the case we should be totally blocked from it."
Obi-Wan's expression grew thoughtful. "It has been thousands of years that the remnants of the Infinite Empire were studied and contained or destroyed whenever found. If this is Rakatan, then we are dealing with something dangerous. The Rakata were known for their cruel and merciless empire, powered by the Dark Side and technologies that enslaved many."
Anakin frowned, not fully grasping the references but understanding the severity from Obi-Wan's tone. "Why not just cut us off completely, is it the best they can do?"
Ventress, her mind racing with possibilities, added, "From what I know, complete suppression is possible with the ritual of Sever Force, the old light side technique that blocks a Force-sensitive's connection. But if this was the case, we'd all be feeling much different, unable to sense anything rather than just being weakened."
Skywalker's frustration showed as he processed this information. "Great, another crucial piece of Jedi knowledge that was never shared with me."
The former teacher, despite the tension, tried to provide some perspective. "You were already older than most new initiates when you joined the Order Anakin. We had to prioritize what you learned and your training, there was much to catch up and not everything could be covered. Besides, you always were more focused on your fighting skills than on other studies..." His voice trailed off, implicating that what he had wanted to learn had taken precedence over what he might have.
The Sith snickered, her tone mocking yet oddly reflective. "Lucky me, at least my master warned me about such possibilities. But it looks like the mighty Jedi Order isn't as forthcoming as they claim."
The young Jedi's scowl deepened, reflecting his disappointment. "Maybe if the council was more open, we'd know what to do."
Obi-Wan sighed in resignation. "Dwelling on past decisions won't help us now. We must focus on escaping this place using what we do know."
The Dathomirian rolled her eyes, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she replied, "After you, Master Jedi."
As the trio continued to debate their situation, they heard a sudden soft, wet sound of slithering across the floor. Startled by the noise in their Force-dampened environment, Anakin, Obi-Wan and Ventress turned their heads as best as they could toward the source of the noise.
What emerged from the shadows was so bizarre and grotesque that it momentarily took their breath away, a bloated figure, its grey pallid skin hanging loosely over folds of fat, shuffled towards them. The creature was dressed, or perhaps squeezed into, a black leather outfit that screamed dominatrix but that looked utterly ridiculous stretched so thin over its corpulent form. Its face was slathered in what looked like an attempt at makeup, applied perhaps centuries ago and never washed off. Long fingers tipped with inch-long nails painted in flashy colors clicked together and its tentacles writhed grotesquely in the dim light.
"Ah, I'm very sorry for the delay," she cooed in a thick accent, her voice chillingly cheerful as she made a grand entrance. "I had to ensure the previous occupants of this delightful room were properly attended to while I'm busy with new guests. But now," her eyes gleamed with unhinged glee as she looked them over, "I'm all yours."
She clapped her hands excitedly, the sound echoing weirdly in the chamber. "What do we have here?" Neuronist asked as she began to circle them, her gaze lingering on each prisoner. "But let me introduce myself properly, I am Neuronist Painkill, the Special Intelligence Collector and I bid you welcome in the Room of Truth. Meeting guests like yourselves is always such a pleasure."
Her movements were disturbingly spry as she began preparing a variety of sinister-looking instruments from a cart that she wheeled over next to her. Each tool was laid out with care, as if she were setting a table for a very primitive surgery, scalpels, pliers and devices with ominous spikes and hooks glistened under the dim lights.
"Let's enjoy ourselves, shall we?" Neuronist continued, "I'm rather eager to get started, especially before our dear Demiurge joins us. He wouldn't want to miss too much, though I'm sure he wouldn't blame me for beginning a little early."
Obi-Wan, seeing a potential opening, tried to reason with her. "Miss Painkill, while we respect your professionalism, might we not resolve this without resorting to these tools? We can be very cooperative."
"I don't really require cooperation, the goal is a chorus. Ah, how electrifying! It's Neuronist's gospel music dedicated to the Supreme Beings'' the monstrous figure replied whimsically, waving
Anakin recoiled slightly, revulsion evident on his face. "What... are you?" he asked, his voice a mix of horror and disgust.
As she approached, her tentacles writhed with anticipation. "You know, many call me a big sister, someone in whom they can confide" she chuckled, the sound echoing ominously around the room as she picked up a sharp, hook-like instrument and examined it fondly.
Ventress frowned, her tone icy while she tried again to wiggle her hands out of the binds "Keep your distance, monster."
Neuronist simply laughed, a sound that chilled their bones. "Oh, but I intend to get very close indeed," she said, her tone playful yet sinister. "It's by getting close that the true art of my craft becomes clear."
Obi-Wan, still thinking about the possibility to correct the situation through reason, attempted to engage her in conversation. "I'm afraid this is all a terrible misunderstanding. Surely there is a way to discuss this situation, we would greatly appreciate an opportunity to explain ourselves and if possible negotiate our liberation. I'm sure we could be of more use to you unharmed."
"We will chat, of course!" The torturer replied, pausing to select a particularly nasty pair of tongs. "I love a good conversation while I work."
Anakin, struggling against his bonds, growled, "What do you want from us?"
"Oh, many things," Neuronist mused, picking and examining a gruesome-looking manual drill before giving a few turns of the handle. "We are going to explore every fear and every hope in exquisite detail."
Ventress glared at the creature, her voice dripping with defiance, "Do your worst. You won't break me."
"How adorable!" Neuronist exclaimed, clearly delighted by the challenge. "I do love it when my guests are spirited. Makes our sessions so much more engaging."
She then paused, her gaze falling on a small, sinister-looking instrument at the bottom of the cart. She delicately picked up a metal stick with a small ball covered in spikes at the end and showed it joyously. "Ah, this one is special. My creator used to suffer from a little problem called 'kidney stones'. To pay my respects to that, we'll start with this." Neuronist's smile widened, her eyes alight with cruel anticipation.
Her smile widened as she prepared to begin her grim work, the spiked ball in her hand reflecting the dim light ominously. "Let's get acquainted, shall we?" she whispered menacingly, her voice full of a perverse glee as she stepped closer to Anakin who braced himself for what was about to come.
Just as the tension in the room reached its peak and Neuronist poised to commence her grim work, the clamor of measured, confident steps reverberated through the chamber. The prisoners turned their heads as much as their restraints would allow toward the sound. A figure emerged, sharply contrasting with the dungeon's grim aesthetics. A tall person with impeccably combed black hair, long pointy ears and dark skin, dressed in an elegant bright red suit completed with a tie, walked into the chamber. His confident appearance was marked by a meticulously controlled demeanor as behind his back, a silver tail adorned with metal plates and six long spikes swayed calmly with each step. His eyes, hidden behind round glasses, giving nothing away.
As the strange man's steps filled the dungeon, a malevolent presence became palpable even through their dampened connection to the Force. They each endured a burning aura that pressed upon their senses, an overpowering feeling of authority that flared like an inferno. Anakin's instinct was to confront the blaze, his spirit rebelling against the authoritarian fire that seemed to want to engulf his freedom. Obi-Wan, with his keen insight, discerned the embers of calculated intent behind the blaze, a strategic mind, consuming and manipulating the threads of fate with precision. Ventress, attuned to the nuances of darkness and temptations, felt a disturbing resonance with this entity's aura, a controlled menace and a calculated detachment that could dissect a soul with surgical precision.
The newcomer spoke in a calm, authoritative tone, addressing Neuronist in a language that none of the prisoners understood, his words flowing with an elegant, yet completely foreign rhythm. "Neuronist, I told you that I must confirm the identities of the prisoners before any procedures are conducted."
In the same language, Neuronist replied, her tone both irritated and full of deference. "But I've prepared everything, Demiurge-sama! Surely a little preliminary... inquiry can proceed? We have them restrained already... "
"No," the strange man interjected firmly, "I'm afraid that won't be possible, if they are who I suspect, they are not to be harmed."
The monstrous woman seemed to argue, "But they are already here and are waiting for me, it would be a waste not to..."
Trying to seize an opportunity, Obi-Wan attempted to interject. "Excuse me, could we perhaps…"
However before he could continue, this new face turned to him, glanced up sharply and said firmly in impeccable Galactic Standard, "Be silent."
Kenobi felt a strange compulsion to stop speaking, almost as if the words were forced back down his throat. He recognized this as a very similar feeling to Jedi Mind Tricks, a powerful tool used to influence and manipulate weak minds. Though strong-willed enough to resist it, the intent behind the command was clear and it persuaded him to remain quiet for the moment.
"I almost failed to realize it, but they may be essential for Ainz Sama's plans. He gave me so many clues, it's embarrassing that it took me so long to notice the opportunity." The elegant man resumed, turning back to Neuronist who still seemed eager to commence her torturous interrogation. With a resigned sigh, she nonetheless lowered her instrument, stepping away from the prisoners.
Turning back to the captives, he then produced a sleek datapad from his suit pocket and began scanning each prisoner methodically. As he approached each of them, the device beeped softly, confirming their identities while he read them outloud. "Anakin Skywalker, Jedi Knight and General in the GAR. Obi-Wan Kenobi, Jedi Master and High General in the GAR. Asajj Ventress, Commander in the Confederacy of Independent Systems Military. Your profiles are quite interesting indeed," he commented, barely looking up from the screen.
After completing the scans, this unknown man arranged his glasses up, his demeanor still composed as he addressed the trio, "It has been decided that you will be moved down to a more suitable location while we initiate contact with your respective governments. This facility," he gestured broadly at the dark, damp dungeon around them, "is no longer appropriate given your statuses. However, you will remain our prisoners until some, let's say legal issues, are dealt with."
Reacting to the announcement, Anakin, Obi-Wan and Ventress simultaneously started to argue for their release. "How can you hold us without charges? You have no right," Anakin protested, his voice firm. Obi-Wan's, more measured but no less insistent, added "We demand to be treated in accordance with galactic law. We are not criminals." Ventress, with her usual defiance, added, "And you'd better have a good reason for keeping us here other than just 'legal issues'."
The man's lips curled into a slight grin, revealing sharp, pointed teeth as he replied, "You are here in the Great Tomb of Nazarick and only authority granted by the Supreme Beings holds sway over what happens within these sacred walls. Additionally," His gaze methodically met the eyes of each captive in turn, "you two gentlemen are guilty of the destruction of a Shadow Demon and two Death Knights working security on Naos. As for you miss, you attacked a Nazarick operative who was fulfilling his duties in an official capacity. Such grave actions cannot merely be disregarded or excused."
"That's absurd!" Skywalker retorted, unable to contain his anger and pulling on his binds. "We were defending ourselves from some unnatural monsters, acting in self-defense isn't a crime where we come from!"
However, Obi-Wan's tone was contemplative, his gaze intent on the man that curiously made him think of an aggressive prosecutor. "It's the second time that you and Miss Neuronist mention these Supreme Beings with great reverence. Are they leaders or deities in your culture?"
Hearing this observation, Ventress's smirk was sharp as she interjected, "Sounds like a bunch of mystical tyrants."
Approaching rapidly the strapped Sith, Neuronist's tone was sharp and admonishing instead of the previous cheery one they heard before from her. "Careful, blasphemy, even in ignorance can have dire consequences here."
Adjusting his suit with a practiced motion, the metal plates catching the dim light as his tail swang behind him, the strange man confirmed with obvious reverence in his voice "To answer your question, they are both and more." With a subtle nod, he signaled to Neuronist to step back, which she did with a hint of reluctance. "Moreover," he continued smoothly, "your confrontations, regardless of intent, involved members of Nazarick, especially considering these undeads were directly created by our beloved Guild Master. The Shadow Demon and Death Knights you destroyed were under my command and serving as security personnel."
"Undead? You mean to say that those creatures are regular members of your...society?" Obi-Wan asked, his voice laced with curiosity.
His expression hardening, his declared captor responded sternly, "I advise that you focus on your situation." Still, he bowed elegantly and introduced himself, "I am Demiurge, one of the guardians of the Great Tomb of Nazarick. My role includes overseeing security and ensuring that all matters are handled according to the wishes of the Supreme Beings."
He paused to let his words sink in before continuing, "You will be relocated to a designated village on the sixth floor, this will serve as your temporary residence while we establish contact and your cases are evaluated."
Kenobi, trying to keep the conversation civil, attempted another approach, "Mr Demiurge, if I may, understanding more about Nazarick and its inhabitants could help us avoid further misunderstandings. Could you not enlighten us a bit more about your laws and customs?"
"While I understand your curiosity, I must stress that it does not serve your current predicament well. You will be provided with the information that we deem necessary, but I must caution you that undue interest can be perilous." Demiurge explained, adjusting his glasses with a precise motion. "I will shortly send someone to release you from your binds, provide you with suitable attire and escort you to your designated accommodations. The village prepared for outsiders, like yourselves, is equipped to meet your needs and ensure your safety as long as you abide by the rules that will be explained."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing, "Remember, compliance with Nazarick's regulations is paramount. Any deviation from the expected conduct is not advisable and will be addressed accordingly."
With that final warning, Demiurge turned and exited the chamber, followed by Neuronist sighing and looking sad. As the echoes of their footsteps off the stone walls faded, the oppressive silence of the chamber enveloped them once more.
Anakin glanced at the other prisoners, his expression full of both frustration and resolve. "This isn't just about escaping," he murmured, "there's something bigger at play here."
Ventress, leaning back against her restraints, allowed a thin smirk to trace her lips. Her eyes sparkled with a predatory gleam, recognizing the significance of the challenge. "Looks like we'll have to play nice with the monsters, at least for now," she mocked lightly.
Obi-Wan nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed, it seems clear that brute strength won't free us from these people." His eyes met those of his companions, a silent agreement passing between them. "We need to observe and learn. This place is dangerous and we must plan our next steps carefully."
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Thank you for reading :)
I'll start by reminding that there is a discord: FszvzGTgVu
On it you will find the chapters a few days in advance at the final stages of editing for a preview / beta-reading and the chronological order of episodes / chapters. Also, there will soon be a vote concerning the second chapter and there is a ko-fi for those that want to support the story. Special thanks to those who have been beta-readers, reviewers and supporters, it's a great help :)
I'll also add a few answers to reviews that are here :
Ranger2287 chapter 1 . Mar 14
I imagine most of the characters of Nazerick are like master level in strength. Itll be fun to see what sidious will try to do with them - I already have a couple of scenes for Sidious in head but that's for later :p For the power and level I try in this story to not take a too rigid stance on it, I think that the combo Force / technology is not to be underestimated, even for Nazarick. Unlike most crossovers, Star Wars can't simply be rolled on by a few hundreds Death Knights in days, for once Ainz's paranoia is relatively warranted ^^
Solidox chapter 2 . Mar 22
Interesting. Im not sure I read it right but did she hit Sebas with her lightsaber? Im curious about how that would work out since it isnt really enchanted. He probably would've blocked it like any other weapon. Since he's a dragonoid im not even sure heat would damage him. - Indeed you read it well, I wanted to show early in the story that Nazarick, including those that are level 100, are not invincible. Force-users particularly are not powerless. The heat is probably not a problem in itself but I think that the "enchantment" or "quantity of data" from Overlord's lore can be achieved by other means in this Star Wars.
Daniel-palacio chapter 2 . Mar 23
Man, I was really excited reading the chapter. I'm looking forward to it, but the next one felt very short. It's great. I doubt that the lightsabers will tickle the members of the Nazaeik since it's not even enchanted nor does it have enough data to even hurt Sebas and it doesn't. I need your talk about the disparity at this level. I'm very excited to see when they realize that the Star Wars characters are messing with death itself hahaha XD Keep up the incredible work :) - Sorry if a chapter feels short, but we are still so far in some form of introduction in the first chapter, I have to establish some bases of knowledge and how the lore works together. There is indeed a huge disparity in strength, especially in this kind of 1v1, but like I said previously, I try to not judge Star Wars lore too harshly on enchantments and data. I'm not even sure where to start the measurements, comparing blasters and [Fireball] or the effects of a [Nuclear Blast] converted in energy and compared to the Death Star ? xD
Dremer1999 chapter 2 . Mar 23
Хороший бой. То что сила помогает визуализировать истинную сущность жителей Назарика интересна.
Как будет выглядеть Айнз? - I'm always a little anxious to write a fight, it never seems enough and easily slips in something boring or ridiculous, but so far in this crossover, with lightsabers, Yggdrasil skills, Force power and magic spells, I like it :) As for Ainz he will appear shortly, for the better and the worse xD
Turais chapter 2 . Mar 26
This could cliffhanger could be avoided but alas only 2 chapters... Thanks for the story - But I like cliffhangers :)
RANGER1863 chapter 3 . Apr 11
I loved the cap, it looked great on you, especially the way you represented the situation from the Jedi's point of view, I wonder what will happen now that they are trapped in the world item, how will the rest of the order react? Jedi before his disappearance? And what will it do to Nazarick to realize that they have begun to attract attention? - Those are very good questions that I'm asking myself, I try to use canon lore from both when I see an opportunity and expand from there ^^
Uwmu chapter 3 . Apr 11
Im not a huge fun of SW franchise and as a result, not particularly well read about lore and other stuff. Does term "necromancy" even exist in star wars ? - Well as others said Star Wars lore has more necromancy in it than in our reality, I'm sure there is at least a novel somewhere written a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away that mention it xD
Overfic23 chapter 3 . Apr 11
That's...bad. Of all the World Items, Depiction of Nature and Society is probably the easiest to trump with the Force. It's entirely possible the Jedi will just 'feel' the eddies of the path out and suddenly they've got a WI. The Bone Daddy would not be happy, and A lot of Jedi and people they care for would suffer. Let's hope the Force doesn't put a foot in its mouth and keeps those two in there for a stern talking to from the twins. - That's an interesting take on it ^^ Once again I try not to have much more details on lore elements than the original authors and I don't remember a scene where Ainz particularly warns Aura about using it. For all we know it's only possible to beat it for a good number of players knowing what they are doing :)
linkjames24 chapter 3 . Apr 12
I know they're strong but I call bullshit on them beating Death Knights unless there's some equivalent exchange going on in this crossover which powers up Anakin and Kenobi. - Death Knights are certainly powerful, very strong, fast and resilient, but these particular Jedis are destroying entire legions of droids in the clone wars, masses of infantry, tanks, artillery, fighters, cruisers and more ^^. Not only I don't think I should do perfect measurements, but I also don't think it would always be an absolute advantage for Nazarick to do so.
overlordwarhammer2019 chapter 1 . Apr 14
There is a lot here xD - Some of these questions are being discussed on some form or another on the discord ^^ I'll just say that I think you are very harsh comparing a millenia old force-user warrior monk order acting across an entire galaxy to the best warrior of a failed medieval state xD
That's it for today, see you soon :)
