Welcome back to this story :)

Sorry for the wait but ending the first chapter is longer than I expected, but here is the fourth part : Echoes Behind the Gates.

Check at the end of the story for more details, but in the meantime, enjoy :D

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Nute Gunray descended from the shuttle, his eyes narrowing as he surveyed the unexpected simplicity of the meeting point, chosen for being in neutral space and uninhabited, from which they are supposed to be transported further to another planet. All that he could see was a lone, unassuming wooden structure that stood isolated on a plain amid the vibrant foliage of the uninhabited planet. The austerity of the venue was underwhelming, given the seriousness of the situation and the mission he was tasked with, a far cry from what he had anticipated for a first contact with this mysterious new power in the galaxy.

As the Neimodian moved forward, his mind buzzed with the complexities of his task, each of his thoughts layering dangerously over the next like a Munn pyramid scheme. Count Dooku had tasked him with two critical objectives: to negotiate Asajj Ventress's release and rectify his commercial blunders by securing proper Separatist control over transactions with the Nazarick Galactic Guild. To his surprise, despite his initial missteps and the assassin's capture, this group had continued honoring the ongoing contracts and making regular deliveries, a fact that perplexed all of the Separatist Executive Council and suggested a deeper game at play. Even after relocating their office from Mandalore to an undisclosed location, their operations seemed unaffected.

Internally, Gunray's thoughts were a whirlwind of strategy and suspicion, Count Dooku's orders and the intel that was given to him made for a dangerous and complex situation. One that he couldn't extract himself from, but also one that offered opportunities for him to cease.

The prospect of negotiating with a faction capable and willing to capture someone as terrifying as Ventress filled him with dread and he couldn't shake off the anxiety of facing the Republic's delegation. Delegation which, according to Dooku, included none other than the Grand Master of the Jedi Order, Yoda and his personal enemy, Padmé Amidala, not to mention his recent captor, Padawan Tano. He had been assured that the Republicans did not plan for his presence and considered their mission as purely diplomatic, but still he was provided with what should be an effective escort, the presence of Durge at his side proved both reassuring and unsettling. While the bounty hunter's known ferocity and combat prowess made him an ideal bodyguard, Gunray was not naive about the infamous Gen'Dai's probable secret mission parameters, which likely included orders to kill him and escape with Ventress if negotiations were to fail.

On the brighter side, the shrewd ViceRoy of the Trade Federation saw a clear pathway to elevate his status within the Confederacy Executive Council and possibly even in the eyes of the Siths. By securing Ventress's release, he could prove indispensable in maintaining the delicate balance of power within the Separatist leadership and perhaps even ingratiate himself in the assassin's eyes, hoping that securing her liberty would earn him valuable favor from the Count's apprentice. Moreover, if he managed to be recognized as the primary negotiator with the Nazarick Galactic Guild and their apparently formidable resources, that could position him as a key figure in future dealings, which could lead to personal enrichment and growing influence.

Nute Gunray was flanked by a considerable escort as he approached the unassuming meeting venue. Towering at his side was Durge, his massive frame clad in battle armor and carrying many weapons made him an imposing figure, remaining silent, his readiness palpable as he observed the setup with a critical eye. Accompanying them were four IG-100 MagnaGuards carrying electrostaffs and forming an honor guard as rhe group was followed by a small column of eight commando droids, their blasters at the ready, programmed to protect their charge at all costs.

The CIS delegation advanced towards the modest wooden building, observing that the structure looked more like a big settler's homestead than a diplomatic venue, especially for negotiations of such a critical nature and the ViceRoy lips twitched with distaste. Has the information been a ruse? Was this merely a trap, or a test? He adjusted the elaborate collar of his robe as he moved forward.

As they approached, the Neimodian noticed the two figures awaiting them by the cabin, their attire strikingly different from the military garbs of his escort, both were clad in what he believed to be some sort of maid uniforms albeit with a few pieces of armor visible.

The first maid, a poised human with intelligent eyes behind glasses, stepped forward. She wore her dark hair tied back in a low bun, with blue collars around her neck and strange spiked gauntlets adorning her arms. "We were waiting for you, Viceroy Nute Gunray," she said with an elegant yet formal bow. "I am tasked to welcome you. I am Yuri Alpha of the Battle Pléiades Maids."

Beside her, the second maid, a brown-skinned beauty with an athletic build, flashed a broad smile and bowed in turn. Her red hair was styled into two long braids and she wore a maid uniform with short sleeves and long black gloves while her skirt featured a long slit on the left side, revealing thigh-high white stockings. "And I am Lupusregina Beta," she added cheerily with a thick accent, yet her warm demeanor was unmistakable.

Gunray, usually uninterested in physical beauty, especially of these kinds of human-like life-forms, found an odd appreciation for their appearances, an impressive feat of their roles as both welcoming faces and perhaps subtle distractions. "Thank you, Yuri Alpha, Lupusregina Beta," he responded with a nod, maintaining the decorum expected of his station. "Your courtesy is commendable. Please extend my gratitude to the Nazarick Galactic Guild for the favorable reception."

Durge's demeanor however changed subtly, he leaned towards Gunray, his voice a low growl barely audible, "Make no mistake, these maids are fighters, not mere honeypots." His warning put Gunray on edge, amplifying his already simmering apprehensions about the mission.

"Since your journey has been long and the Republic delegation is yet to arrive, we invite you to relax and partake in some refreshments," Yuri suggested with a graceful gesture towards the cabin.

At the maid's crisp signal, marked by a firm clap of her hands, the atmosphere shifted totally. The tall wooden doors of the cabin creaked open slowly and from the dim interior, six daunting figures emerged, each step resonating with a heavy, metallic clank. Towering monsters clad in sinister battle-scarred armor that seemed to absorb the light around them, their helmets sported menacing designs, with eye slits that glowed ominously with a baleful red light, suggesting a malevolent presence. Each of these monstrous knights carried items with surprising gentleness given their fearsome appearance; chairs, a large table and trays densely packed with an assortment of drinks and meticulously arranged snacks. They arranged the impromptu parlor with a mechanical precision that belied their intimidating form.

Even the droids, typically unphased by organic concerns, registered the potential threat, adjusting their sensors and tightening their formation. Durge's focus didn't waver from the newly arrived figures and his analysis was swift and clinical. His voice low, only audible to Gunray, he muttered strangely joyously, "I'll survive whatever this day brings, Viceroy, but keep in mind, these are not ordinary guards, your safety isn't guaranteed if there's a fight."

The Neimoidian's skin prickled with unease as he gazed at the monsters, he forced a nod of acknowledgment to the maid. "Thank you for your hospitality," he said, trying to mask his nervousness with a veneer of diplomatic poise. "This is indeed an... impressive reception."

Once the installation finished, the massive creatures aligned themselves perfectly and without any superfluous move. Yuri Alpha, maintaining her composed demeanor, reassured them. "Please, be at ease. These Death Knights are the creations of our Guild Master and are bound by his commands. They will not harm you while you are under our protection," she explained with an authoritative tone that belied her gentle appearance.

Lupusregina Beta, with a more relaxed and cheerful attitude, began pouring drinks into finely crafted glasses. "Please, have seat and refreshments," her Galactic Standard punctuated with mispronunciations and a thick accent. Despite her linguistic missteps, her movements remained graceful, showcasing an accomplished elegance.

The first maid's expression momentarily shifted from neutrality to slight irritation as she heard the other maid's cheerful invitation. Turning slightly towards her, she spoke in a low but sharp tone, just loud enough for delegates to hear and understand that it was in an unknown and mysterious language. "You will be returning to language classes every night, we can't have you bring shame to Nazarick." she stated crisply, the annoyance clear but quickly masked again by a professional smile.

The red headed apparent joy faltered momentarily, her eyes widening as she absorbed the other woman's obvious critique. A light blush tinted her cheeks and her lips pouted slightly, a mix of embarrassment and mild defiance playing across her features. Yet, she quickly composed herself, nodding in acknowledgment and responding in the same language "Okay, Yuri-nee," she muttered as she turned back to the task of serving drinks, her earlier exuberance tempered.

Durge, ever cautious and fulfilling his task as protector, reached for a glass first, exchanging a glance with the much frailer Neimodian. After a moment's consideration, he downed the drink in one swift gulp. Nodding slightly to Gunray, he indicated that it was safe. "Remarkably good," he grunted approvingly, a rare compliment from the battle-hardened cruel warrior.

Gunray took a cautious sip. His taste buds were greeted by a complex blend of flavors that was both exotic and refreshing, impressed by the quality of the drink and momentarily distracted by the pleasant surprise he sat unceremoniously at the table. "Indeed, this is exquisite," he remarked, allowing himself a moment to enjoy the small luxury amid the tension of this mission.

As his own droid escort aligned on his side facing the Death Knights, recalling his role and the diplomatic mask he needed to maintain, the ViceRoy feigned surprise and turned back to the woman with a calculated expression of curiosity. "You mentioned awaiting another delegation from the Republic. This is the first I've heard of their involvement. Could you elaborate on their purpose?" he asked, trying to hide the level of intelligence of the CIS on the matter and hoping to gauge Nazarick's stance towards his rivals.

Yuri responded with a nod, "Yes, their delegation is expected to arrive shortly. They, too, are here to discuss matters concerning a similar incident as with your agent." Her tone remained neutral, giving nothing away about her feelings towards the Republic or its delegates, but her careful choice of words suggested a diplomatic balancing act.

Lupusregina, still attending to the drinks and filling the Trade Federation's representative for the third time, added in her broken Galactic Standard, "It's good, yes? Drinks of Nazarick, best from galaxy!" Her smile was wide and infectious.

The Neimodian, seizing the moment to further his agenda, leaned slightly towards Miss Alpha, lowering his voice. "I must express my concerns about the security of these negotiations, given the... complex nature of our relations with the Republic," he continued, hoping to stir a bit of distrust or at least cautious consideration from the hosts towards the incoming delegation. "Especially now that the Jedi are leading the war effort of a corrupt senate, you must consider the potential for aggressions under the guise of diplomatic outreach."

Yuri listened intently, her face an impassive mask framed by her black lensless glasses and responded with a calm assurance, "Nazarick is renowned not only for its hospitality but also for its unparalleled security, Viceroy Gunray," she stated, her voice firm yet reassuring. "Please rest assured, all our guests, regardless of their affiliations, are treated with the highest degree of safety and respect."

Gunray, momentarily reassured by the strange maid's promises of security, couldn't help but delve further into his diplomatic offensive. His voice took on a sharper edge as he continued, "The Republic's Senate is rotten by lawlessness and power struggles, hardly the beacon of justice they claim to be, one must always question their true intentions. I hope your organization will not be easily swayed by their pretensed goodwill."

As he voiced his concerns, Yuri subtly touched her ear, her fingers brushing what seemed to be a hidden ear comlink, she straightened, her expression changing to one of focus and attentiveness. "It appears the Republic's delegation is arriving," she announced with flawless composure. "Please excuse me while I greet them and clarify the situation. Lupusregina Beta will continue to ensure your comfort."

The cheerful redhead, seemingly unfazed by the growing tension, beamed a radiant smile. "Other drinks, yes? Or food for eat?" She chirped enthusiastically, gesturing towards one of the Death Knights carrying a tray who immediately approached.

Miss Alpha gave a polite nod to both Gunray and Durge before turning and making her way toward the edge of the plain, only a few moments before a shining light typical of a vessel entering an atmosphere became visible in that direction, her stride confident and each step measured.

...

After the awkward greeting formalities were concluded, the CIS and the GR delegations found themselves opposed at the table that had been prepared in the open space, on each side flanked by the mechanical precision of droids and the professionalism of clone troopers. An eerie silence momentarily fell over the gathering before discussions commenced.

The setting was almost surreal as next of this diplomatic arena, six Death Knights stood perpendicular to both sides of the assembly, like ancient sentinels before the plain wooden cabin, serving as an unlikely backdrop for a meeting between and about key figures in the galaxy, their presence imposing a grim reminder of the third party in this improbable triad. The whole scene was a bizarre juxtaposition; the two main belligerent factions of the galaxy momentarily forced to set aside their hostilities to address a common, yet mysterious adversary whose motives and capabilities remained shrouded in secrecy.

Seated at the table, the unusual setting was only heightened by the attendees. On one side, the Galactic Republic delegation was led by Grand Master Yoda and his strangely sparky wisdom, yet serene demeanor, subtly trying to guide the conversation towards cooperative grounds. Despite the formal setting, his approach was conversational albeit strange, trying to address the common situation they faced.

Senator Padmé Amidala's, her posture impeccable, appeared diplomatic, interjecting with tactfully phrased concerns and questions about the safety and status of the captured Jedis. Yet, her poise could not completely mask her personal concerns for Anakin's safety. Besides them were Ahsoka Tano's youthful energy, tempered by a wary alertness and Captain Rex, a picture of disciplined calm, both displaying their fierce loyalty to Anakin and their determination to secure his freedom, their readiness palpable as their positions always remained strategic and their hands near their weapons.

Across from them, Viceroy Nute Gunray, appeared as a figure of calculated diplomacy, his hands neatly folded, responding with measured words, his voice steady but his nervous glances towards Durge betraying his inner tension. He artfully danced around direct answers, emphasizing the Separatist's desire for a peaceful resolution, all the while casting subtle aspersions on the Republic's motives, hinting at past grievances and current duplicities. His droid escorts, composed of MagnaGuards and commando droids, stood in a rigid, watchful formation, their sensors active and ready for any sign of aggression.

Coming along the Republicans, the droids C3-PO and R2-D2 stood by, the golden droid's nervous comments balanced by the astromechano's bold beeps and whistles. Arrayed behind them, eight clone troopers from the 501st Legion stood resolute and silent, their armor reflecting the sun.

As the deliberations continued, each delegation navigated the conversation with strategic caution, carefully avoiding the revelation of sensitive information while Yuri Alpha observed silently, her presence almost ghostly. When probed by either side, her answers remained cryptic, promising more information would be available once they were in the presence of her superiors at Nazarick, after the journey to their still secret world. Each time she spoke, it was with a cool detachment, the attendees couldn't help but notice that her responses were meticulously neutral, ensuring no bias was shown towards either delegation.

The exchange contained many veiled barbs and carefully worded probes, each side testing the other's resolve and intentions. Amidala and Gunray, while maintaining a facade of diplomatic cordiality, sought to underscore their respective delegation's justifications and concerns, with Amidala emphasizing the unprovoked nature of the jedi's capture and Gunray suggesting that Ventress was merely a victim of the circumstances and whatever was reproached was a misunderstanding.

Nonetheless, the Jedi Grand Master and the Senator attempted to address the ongoing war, which the ViceRoy deflected, refusing to engage directly on such a sensitive topic, arguing it was impossible in the presence of Ahsoka and her recent attempt to arrest him. Instead, he redirected the conversation towards broader issues of trade and litigation, trying to use his knowledge in the matter to paint the Republic in a negative light.

The tension in the air was palpable as each side measured the other, their words laced with the undercurrents of war and diplomacy. It was during this delicate verbal dance that Yuri, observing the proceedings with a stoic composure, subtly touched her ear, the attendees guessing that she had received a communication. She stood gracefully, her presence commanding attention.

"Excuse me," Yuri announced, her voice cutting through the rising tension, "I am informed that our preparations are complete. Before meeting with our Guild Master, we will first escort you to see your companions to ensure their well-being and to facilitate a more informed discussion. Please follow me." Her statement offered a brief relief to the delegates, the Separatists fearing a trap and the Republicans who were eager for any news of their captured friends.

Both dellegations followed Yuri towards the cabin, their footsteps echoing slightly on the soft grass, the quiet of the alien landscape only interrupted by the rustle of leaves and the occasional mechanical hum from the droids. As they approached the cabin, its large wooden doors creaked open, revealing not the expected dark interior but a pulsating purple portal, casting an eerie glow that reflected off everyone's faces.

The maid stopped at the threshold, turning to address the assembled group with a calm authority and adjusted her glasses, reminding most of them of a teacher starting a lecture. "This is a [Gate]," she explained, gesturing towards the swirling portal. "It will transport us directly to our next destination on another planet. Please, do not be alarmed, this method of transport is perfectly safe and is the fastest way to bring you to your companions and our superiors."

The portal's soft humming and the gentle undulation of its edges seemed almost inviting, but the inherent strangeness of stepping into such a mystery was palpable among everyone. Durge, the implacable warrior, gave the portal a wary glance and prepared to defend against any threats that might arise from such a mysterious technology.

Grand Master Yoda, sensing the tension and the incredulity from his escort, spoke up, his voice steady and reassuring. "Impossible it may seem, but assured we must be, if to help our friends we intend," he said, his words aimed at providing comfort to his more apprehensive companions. Ahsoka gave a slight nod, her expression resolute as she prepared to follow the Master's lead.

Senator Amidala, while maintaining her composed exterior, couldn't help but glance back at the Republic troops, her gaze silently communicating her hopes that this path would indeed lead them to Anakin. Rex, catching her look, nodded subtly, his hand resting on his blaster as a silent vow of protection.

Lupusregina, observing the group with obvious amusement, chimed in, her voice cheerful as ever despite the gravity of the situation. "Very exciting, yes?" Her attempt to lighten the mood had a mixed reception, but it managed to coax a reaction from the Republic's droids, C3-PO uttering a worried, "Oh dear," and R2-D2 issuing a series of assertive beeps.

With a final check of their equipment and readiness, the group began to move towards the impossible portal, each member bracing themselves for what might lie beyond this threshold of purple light and magic. Yuri led the way, stepping into the portal with a practiced ease that suggested she had made this journey many times before.

One by one, the delegates and their escort followed, disappearing into the luminescent whirl, their figures swallowed by the light.

...

...

Inside the cavern, Anakin Skywalker and Asajj Ventress were pushed to their limits, moving with a fluidity born of necessity in the spar, their lightsabers clashing against one of their captor, the Guardian of the mysterious fifth floor, Cocytus. The guardian, his blue and frozen, insectoid exoskeleton gleaming under the cave's eerie lights, wielding Obi-Wan's lightsaber in his upper right arm, executed strikes with a perfect mastery both awe-inspiring and chilling. His other arms were rarely idle, parrying incoming blows with the pieces of golden armors on his forearm, or even occasionally jabbing at vulnerable spots with a brutal bluntness to punish mistakes, all the while his menacing tail occasionally whipped through the air, adding depths to his incredibly alien maneuvers. Beyond his physical attacks, the Guardian seamlessly integrated his innate ability to manipulate ice into combat, chilling the very air around them when materializing various barriers, projectiles and weapons of frost.

The air around them was tinged with the sharp scent of frozen water, an aura of cold not only felt physically, but also through the Force, which the Jedi Master sometimes felt as a piercing chill. This coldness curiously echoed Cocytus's almost palpable rigid honor and the unyielding warrior spirit that drove him to spar and learn the arts of his opponents, a chance to delve deeper into the subtleties of lightsaber combat and the tactical mindsets of Force users.

Over the days, each of these sessions has not merely been a test of strength, but a dialogue in martial philosophy, as the giant Insectoid respect for their skills was evident. Yet, beneath the respectful veneer, there was an unmistakable current of experimentation, as he tested and adapted 'skills' to refine his approach against the distinctive techniques of his opponents, turning their opportunity to use the force and carry their weapons into an assessment of fighting capabilities.

In these intense exchanges, Cocytus did not hesitate to inflict grave wounds, treating the spars as realistic combat training. He encouraged all of them to reciprocate to the maximum of their abilities, but to little effect, underlining the brutal reality of their situation. Rarely the strikes from any of them were able to bypass his incredible talent and when it happened they were almost always stopped by a mysterious shield. Only a few attacks, fuelled by the force and to the limit of their abilities, had been able to lightly slightly injure the frost warrior. Cocytus's reaction to these successful hits, a booming laugh and vigorous encouragement, revealed his true intent: to test their utmost strength against his own resilience.

Following particularly harsh sessions, Cocytus would call upon a strange person apparently called Pestonya, an humanoid maid with a canid-like head who could not speak a word of Galactic Standard. Her presence radiated compassion and her healing skills were nothing short of miraculous. Using some powers or spells that shimmered with a shining glow, she healed their wounds effortlessly, seeming to defy reality. In one extreme instance, she even regrew an arm Ventress had lost attempting to overpower the cold Guardian, displaying the extraordinary capabilities at Nazarick's disposal.

Kenobi, preferring to observe from the sidelines unlike Anakin and Ventress, was acutely aware of the harsh lessons being imparted. The Guardian's approach to combat was methodical, each engagement refining his understanding and showing new applications of his own skills using a lightsaber. The Force around them hummed loudly with each trick that the Jedi Knight and the Sith Assassin tried to pull, somewhat reinforced by the resonance of Cocytus's ice manipulations, impressively crafting an environment as formidable as his combat strategy.

As the spar continued, Obi-Wan's attention alternated between the intense combat and his deeper contemplations on their captors and the strange, underground world they inhabited. He watched as Cocytus skillfully managed to control the flow of the spar while Anakin and Ventress, despite their remarkable efforts and combat prowesses, were clearly outclassed by the Guardian's unique combat style, which incorporated not only multiple impressively strong limbs but also his chilling ice abilities.

The insect warrior's combat style was a spectacle of deadly grace and tactical mastery, summoning icy waves and spikes from apparently nowhere to control the flow of the battle and herding his opponents into less advantageous positions or trapping them momentarily.

In a proficient maneuver, he invoked such a nova of swirling ice around himself and Ventress, her aggression undeterred, lunged forward to break through the frosty barrier, her lightsaber clashing against the barrier, sending a spray of mist into the air. Seizing the moment, Anakin attempted a bold overhead strike. Cocytus responded instantly, rotating Obi-Wan's lightsaber up to parry, their blades locking with a resonant clang that vibrated through the chilly cave air.

Utilizing his tail with agility, he tripped Ventress during one of her overly bold advances, momentarily unsettling her balance. Recovering quickly, the assassin twirled, dodging a sweeping strike from one of his lower arms, only to find herself facing a sudden barrage of projected ice daggers that the Guardian conjured.

Anakin, trying to seize the momentary distraction as the Sith evaded and used the force to repel the icy assault, executed a series of powerful strikes aiming to create and exploit any opening in Cocytus's defense. The Guardian, however, matched his pace, his four arms moving in a blur of defensive and offensive maneuvers culminating when he stomped the ground, causing a sharp jut of ice to erupt directly in the Jedi's path, forcing him to jump back and reassess next to to a tired Ventress starting to pant.

Obi-Wan's thoughts drifted to the broader structure of Nazarick; Cocytus, along with Aura and Mare, the one responsible for their captures, were known as Guardians, each tasked with protecting their own domain within this vast complex. The so-called 6th floor, which they were hosted on, was surprisingly a huge forest with few landmarks, a lake, an arena, a giant tree and the village they used, partly occupied by strange, plant-based creatures, revering the little girl, Mare, for her supposed god-like control over nature. These beings, though not clearly understood by the Jedi, showed an almost devotional worship towards the young guardian.

The complexity of this place, The Great Underground Tomb of Nazarick, was staggering. Most particularly the guild leader, whom they had yet to meet and was said to be the last of the 'Supreme Beings', a term that continued to pique their curiosity and concern. These beings were revered by all within this place, hinting at a hierarchy as rigid as it was devout.

Most surprising considering their capture, the denizens themselves, though unfamiliar with the Force, possessed powers and a vitality that were both formidable and profoundly alien to the Jedi's understanding. During his stay, Obi-Wan had for exemple seen Aura's control over a multitude of creatures, all exotic and dangerous, yet absolutely obedient to her commands. The presence of an enormous Gundark among her familiars had been a striking reminder of the galaxy's interconnected mysteries and the smallness of their own scope in comparison to the unknowns of Nazarick.

He was also very interested in the tools at the Guardians' disposal; they spoke little Galactic Standard but used a specific necklace when needed. This necklace was no mere ornament but a crucial device that provided flawless translation, facilitating clear communication between the guardians and the captives.

This situation, as dire as it was, offered the Jedi Master and his companions in misfortune a unique insight into the values and operations of Nazarick; a society built on absolute devotion, formidable power and a rigid social order. These observations, though unsettling, provided him with a picture of the challenges they faced in escaping, as well as potential strategies they might employ to negotiate their freedom or gain an advantage over their captors. Yet, for all the knowledge gained, Obi-Wan was acutely aware of how little he truly understood their captors' intentions. Discussions with Cocytus, when not in the thick of combat, often circled back to the philosophical underpinnings of their loyalty and purpose. These conversations, though rich with information, often left Obi-Wan with more questions than answers about the true nature of Nazarick and its mysterious Supreme Being.

Kenobi's attention was brought back in the moment, the clashing of lightsabers and the hissing of ice resumed as Cocytus continued to press Anakin and Ventress, his movements almost becoming a blur with the incredible speed that belied his massive form. But it wasn't just the blue lightsaber that they had to contend with, the Guardian's other limbs were also dangerously powerful, launching powerful blows that tested both the Jedi and Sith's defensive skills.

Once again the Dathomirian overextended trying a bold strike, only for her opponent's tail, a formidable weapon itself, lashing out unexpectedly, connecting with her side and sending her tumbling across the slick cave floor. Anakin, seeing an opening as Cocytus focused on Ventress and stopped his own attacks, charged, only to be met with a swift backhand from one of Cocytus's lower arms, the force of the hit staggering him back.

As the spar reached a climactic moment, Cocytus suddenly deactivated Obi-Wan's lightsaber, relaxed his posture and crossed his lower arms, signaling an end to their training. "Well. fought," he declared in his distinctive tone. "The. progress. you. made. these. last. days. is. commendable. and. I. wished we had more time. But. I. am. needed. elsewhere, now, I. must. ask. for. your. weapons. back." He extended his hands, waiting for them to relinquish their lightsabers as they both recovered with expressions of pain and hesitation.

Ventress, wary and still catching her breath, handed over her two lightsabers reluctantly, Kenobi's flash of memory showing him the previous loss of her forearm when she first defied this request during their first spar. Anakin, bruised and thoughtful, passed his own saber to the Guardian, his gaze locked on the guardian's multifaceted eyes.

As Cocytus carefully retrieved the lightsabers from Anakin and Ventress, he opened a small purple portal, his inventory, into which he placed the weapons before he withdrew his halberd, its blade catching the light as he lifted it from the same ethereal storage. The weapon, seen in such previous occasions, was certainly remarkable for its reach, its perfect resilience to lightsabers and the proficiency of its user, albeit it contrasted sharply with the more intimate confrontation of lightsaber combat.

"What brings an early end to our time with you today?" Obi-Wan inquired, his voice steady as it was about usually the time when the Guardian would insist on studying and overcoming his defensive style, which provided a totally different interaction as with the more aggressive Knight and Assassin. Cocytus turned towards him, the eerie light of the cave reflecting off his icy exoskeleton, giving him an almost spectral appearance.

"An. audience. with. Lord. Ainz. Ooal. Gown. is. scheduled," the massive warrior announced with formal gravity. "My. attendance. is. required." He gestured to the side of his head as they saw the locals doing when apparently communicating and turned to a corner of the cavern where the air began to shimmer slightly, heralding the activation of another incredible discovery that they made in The Great Underground Tomb of Nazarick; [Gate], a controlled rift in reality used for travel. Stepping through, Cocytus vanished as the portal snapped shut with a crisp sound, its echo lingering briefly in the warming air.

The moment the Guardian disappeared, Obi-Wan turned to Anakin and Ventress. "This could be a significant development," he remarked cautiously. "Are we to be summoned as well, or left here to ponder our fate?"

Before either could respond, the air shimmered again and a new [Gate] opened, the glowing purple phenomenon looming over them, ominous in its silent wait.

Ventress, wiping a bead of sweat from her brow, nodded grimly. "Looks like we're about to find out," she muttered. Anakin, his gaze fixed on the shimmering portal, clenched his fists, bracing for what might come next.

...

...

Thanks for reading ^^

As you now understand, it is indeed not the last part of the first chapter ^^ I imagined a "Jircniv summoned to Nazarick" kind of scene, but due to how long it turned out I felt compelled to post it in 2 parts.

Many thanks to my supporters, beta-readers and reviewers :D

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You will find there previews and discussions, various files for the story (chronological order, roadmap of the story and so on) and a link to a Ko-Fi if you want to support this story :)

Thanks in advance for the reviews and see you around :)