[IC] Gaurdians of the Galaxy; An Old Friend |Jones Sparrow & EasilyAmused|

[EasilyAmused]

It was exhausting, the whole situation. The two women exchanged looks with one another, as if having a complete conversation and somehow the women agreed on one single thing; they were exhausted. Half the crowd didn’t know how to react with the Guardians of the Galaxy taking out a man like Zero. And the other half was surprised and even cheered at the situation. It’s hard to imagine a planet of thugs being excited over the capturing of such a person but when they’re taking away the best jobs, the most money and are a jerk; you tend to be rather excited. The blue haired girl turned her attention to Quill, her hand on her on throat and the other placing her sword back into her carrying sheath. He looked at tired as the rest of them were, except for Drax; Drax looked half excited and half disappointed. Probably only disappointed because the battle was already over… the weirdo. --- Her walk was slow, she looked tired; her hand still against her throat. Body rocking back and forth as she walked her chocolate brown gaze shot up to him as he spoke to her; she opened her mouth to respond to him about calling her princess, only to find herself gasping for air slightly and tumbling over to the side against one of the walls. Bending over at her waist she focused on taking in some deep breathes and closing her eyes. The lack of oxygen from the amount of adrenaline was catching up to her and her body slowly being to drop towards the floor. Her breathing stayed steady but her body was reflecting that the amount of oxygen she was lacking as she slowly slid towards the floor of the ship. She… as you can imagine, was still trying to regain herself.

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter was surprised to see Nikki just stop and gasp for air. Worry and concern was rushing through his mind and he put a hand on her arm as she leaned on the wall, and when she was sliding down to the floor, he caught her. He had no idea what to do in this situation. Sure he's almost died from lack of oxygen all the time. He saved Gamora once from dying in space when they first assembled their team. But never has he seen this. Whatever Zero did to her really effected her health. Peter carefully helped her in the ship, taking her to her room in the ship, and Peter rushing to the new medical wing of the ship. (who would've thought that they would get hurt a lot when titled the Guardians of the Galaxy?). He brought anything that might help her, but he was no doctor. "Nikki's in some bad shape, she just kneeled over and started gasping and fainting..." Peter said to Gamora, she took the items from Quill. "I'll take care of this. I'll need some space. Keep Rocket a far distance, and don't tell him about it." She said before quickly making her way towards Nikki's room. His thoughts went back to what Zero did to Nikki. Constant fear, running for her life, almost killing her... He was just like the bullies he fought back when he was a kid on earth. He hated bullies. ---- The door to the darker parts of the ship slid open. The room was filled with a dull red light, the hum of the engines echoing through. Behind a large force field, Zero sat sitting, his hair over his face, breathing heavily. Peter stepped in, and the large bounty hunter laughed, looking up. He was clearly still on those tranquilizers. "Staaar Lord..." He said with a smile. Peter didn't say anything. He walked over to his cell, and knelt down, glaring at the man. "I won't stay in prison for long. I've escaped so many times. The food sucks... The prisoners are weak... But I will get my target. I always do." His voice a big exaggerated and slow. "You won't lay a finger on anyone ever again. Not on a target, not on Nikki, not on anyone." Quill said coldly. Zero laughed. "I remember hearing stories about you. The 'infamous Star-Lord.' You and I aren't that different... We want to fly through the galaxy with no consequence. We'd do anything for the right price, even betray your own people. I'm surprised you haven't turned her in yet... Maybe its because she hasn't slept with you yet? Another legend that follows Star-Lord. Although i'm surprised you'd stoop so low as to actually try and seduce something as filthy and undeserving as a Metra--" Peter slammed his fist against the side of the cell. Glaring at the man with deep hatred, Zero stood up to be level with Quill, giving a crooked smile. "Struck a nerve, eh Terran? But it isn't your style to attack from the front. Let your friends do the dirty work, and then take the credit. When I break out, after i'm done getting the Metra, I'll be coming after you--" He was cut off by a blaster going off. Zero looked down to see a wound in his side. Nothing lethal, but it will shut him up. Peter held his weapon by his waist, staring at Zero dead in the eye. Normally he would be terrified. He looked just like the things he would see on Saturday morning cartoons when he was a kid. But he felt nothing but hatred. he barely knew the guy, but he took everything he did personally. All he could think was "He hurt her." Peter shot again twice, both non lethal again, and once Zero fell back to the floor, he tossed some medical supplies in the cell with him. He thought he made his point rather well. "The only reason you're alive is because we need the money." Quill said before holstering his weapon, and walking out of the room. ---- Peter knocked on the door of Nikki's room, not waiting for a response. he was a bit too anxious to see how Nikki was doing. "Hey, how is she?" Peter asked. He had time to change in to a terran-style blue t-shirt, his weapons and jacket no longer on his body. His face was full of concern, and still a bit of anger from his chat with Zero.

[EasilyAmused]

Nikki was surprised to feel arms around her, her body lifted off the ground but a set of large arms. Her head rocked to the side, hearing two heart beats. One belonged to her and the other was the person who was carrying her. Her breathing slowed but stayed steady even though her head was spinning. What a day!

She slowly came to, finding Gamora over her and putting away supplies. “What happened?” She asked softly, her voice sounding like a whisper when she had expected it to be much more full and loud.

“Zero nearly broken your wind pipe, if Quill hadn’t gotten you here quick enough it probably would have bled out and you would have died, choking on your own blood.”

“Oh lovely…” The blue haired girl said sarcastically as she slowly got herself to sit up.

Banging echoed on the shut door. “Nikki, Nikki are you alright? Gamora didn’t hurt you did she?” The voice of a very concerned raccoon echoed through the closed door.

“No.” Nikki attempted to respond, only to be cut short by more shouting from Rocket about how Nikki better not be mistreating her and such. He was defensive of her and that was cute but at the same time, kind of creepy.

“I’ll get him. You just stay here.” She said in a stern voice to the blue haired girl as she turned on her heel and left. As she opened the door, the Racoon’s head popped into view, eyes twinkling and a smile across his muzzle; thinking that he would get a chance to come in and talk to her… only to have Gamora pick him up and nearly throw him down the hallway before slamming the door shut behind her with a fury that shook the walls.

After her wonderful throw across the ship she turned ready to punch the next person who came to the door to see that it was Quill, her fist lowered but stayed tight. “Zero nearly crushed her wind pipe but she’s fine, quiet but fine. I think it would be best to keep Rocket away from her until she’s back to speaking more clearly and has regained her energy. Just… just don’t do anything that would make her get too loud.” She ended her sentence with a stern look to him before going down the hallway where she had thrown Rocket in an attempt to keep her away from Nikki.

In the room, Nikki had gotten herself to sit upright, propping herself up with pillows on her back, her breathing was slow and soft and she had closed her eyes to relax. A large red hand print was visible on her throat and while she could still hear her heart beat in her ears; it had slowed down and she was finally able to breathe steadily. Though her voice was no more than a whisper.

“Come in.” She called out to the knock upon the door, but she wasn't quite sure if they could actually hear her.

[Jones Sparrow]

The visible hand print on her throat was what got him. He didn't know why. He saw so much fighting and explosions and some really messed up things in his life, and they all knew just what they were getting in to when fighting this bounty hunter, but the fact that she almost died when he promised he wasn't going to let that happen was not a good thought. He walked over to the bed quietly, his eyes still focused on where the man left a large mark on her near perfect skin. His mouth opened, but no words came out. He didn't really know what to say in this situation, and he's been a in a lot of weird and tricky situations.

He felt like a kid again, watching his mom who had cancer sit in a medical bed. Someone he cared about was hurt and there was absolutely nothing he could do to help. He was angry, frustrated, afraid all at once. He gave a weak smile to her, standing near the side of her bed, but his fists clenched tight out of anger.

"Hey... You feeling alright?" He asked softly. He couldn't stare at her long. He looked down at the ground, wishing he had his music. Maybe he could find a song to calm his nerves, or find a way to say something he couldn't think of, or to even calm her nerves... Although he was feeling all of these things he wasn't known for, he was very grateful Gamora managed to save her life. The Guardians pulled through yet again.

[EasilyAmused]

She was rather surprised to find that Quill was the one to come into her room. In fact, she was nearly certain that it would have been Rocket but she was thankful to see the handsome Tarren walking in. A small smile curled her full lips as she stared up at him with her chocolate colored eyes. Her caramel colored skin showing the red handprint on her throat but she didn’t really care all too much, she was just happy to see that Quill was here and that he was alright as well.

A nod lifted and dropped her head as her straight white teeth showed being her soft pink lips. “I’m alright. I’ve had worse.” Seeing his hand still clenched into a fist, she reached out her small hand placing it gently on his fist. “Don’t be mad Quill.” Her tone was soft and reassuring. “You kept your promise. He’s caught and I’m still alive. That’s not something just anyone could do.” She gave him fist a small squeeze. “It takes the Guardians of the Galaxy to do something like that. A star-lord.”

Yeah stroking his ego might be the best way to get him to calm down a bit but it was true. Nikki was still alive and, even though she was injured, it was better than limping to the nearby doctor’s office with a broken leg and arm covered in blood. Something she could speak from with personal experience. The thought that Quill wouldn’t turn her in for the reward that was still placed on her head was a real relief for her. She was safe with the Guardians of the Galaxy, at least for now. “Everything’s fine.” She said in a reassuring tone though her volume wasn’t very loud thanks to the sensitivity of her throat; but her smile showed honesty.

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter's hand flinched as his hand was touched by her's. He wanted to pull away, to distance himself and to figure things out on his own. That was the Peter Quill way. Don't get too close to anyone, so no one can hurt you... But her voice was quiet, and welcoming. And when she said that only the Guardians and Star-Lord could have done it (Not really her words, but he interpreted it like that). He gave a shrug and small smile, his hand unclenching the fist that he had. "Yeah, well... You know. We're kinda the best." He said gently, glancing up at her again. He unfolded his fist, and very knelt down beside her and very gently touched her jaw line, looking at her throat.

"He won't do this ever again. Not to you... Not to anybody." Peter said quietly, careful not to touch a spot where she would be in pain. He removed his hand, and gave a nod. "So... Where are you going to go now that there's no one after you for once in a very long time?" Peter asked, looking up at her with a small smile. A part of him didn't want her to leave. He didn't know how long it would be until he saw her again, and his mind kept going back to when she was leaning on him and he was kissing her neck... It was weird. He could leave anyone he ever met and be fine, but he didn't think he was going to feel good at all when she leaves the Milano.

[EasilyAmused]

Feeling his hand unclench from the fist it was nice was nice to see. An angry or stressed Quill wasn’t the best looking sight. Nikki smiled gently up at him as he knelt down next to the bed. She felt so silly; she was far from used to being helpless. So laying in a bed having difficulty breathing was just a problem in itself. His hand brushing against her jaw line in a caring manner made her drop her head softly into his hand. Could you blame her? After all she had been through; a sign of comfort was very appealing.

“Well, maybe it might be best if I just head to the embassy. No one would want to come after me knowing that I was under the protection of the entire galaxy’s police. But I’d have to do meetings and attend snooty parties and make laws and deal with the drama bullshit that comes with being part of a government.” Her chocolate eyes rolled dramatically as she thought about her options. “Can’t really think of something else I’d do with my time… Though I heard of a nice resort island that could be fun…” Her eyes twinkled with a bit of playfulness up to him. “Aside from that I’m not sure. Trying to get rid of me that quickly?” She asked in a very joking tone to him.

[Jones Sparrow]

"As much as a trip to some tropical island sounds great, I can't leave these guys." Peter said with a small laugh, referring to the rest of them on the ship. "They need someone to look after them." Quill never would have said that years ago. He would have immediately jumped aboard to sail off with Nikki, but he had this sense of responsibility now. "Yeah, you can become some political figure for the goverment... Or." His eyes met her's and he shrugged. "You can stick with us for a while. Explore the galaxy, kick some ass, get some money. Plus i'm sure Gamora would appreciate another girl on board. Her company is a giant tree, a talking racoon, a very literal man, and a dashing galactic outlaw."

"You can think about it. Right now you need to rest. If you need food, or water, or anything else you can think of, you know where to find me." Peter put his hand on her arm gently, then after a second stood, and made his way out of the room for her to think about his proposal. As he walked out his shin hit something hard, and Peter kneeled over. "Ah what the hell-- Rocket!" Peter said grabbing his knee. Rocket was looking up at Quill, annoyed that he ran into him. "She awake?" Rocket asked. "I got her a gift." the thing Peter's shin made contact with was Rocket's gift. It was a sword, and luckily Peter hit the hilt.

"Where did you get that?" Peter asked. Rocket shrugged. "I uh, bought it while at Nowhere. Thought our guest would like it."

"You're not going in there, she's isn't ready to deal with you and very sharp weapons when she's dosed with drugs." Quill said firmly. "Wait a while, then you can see her." Peter said before he tried to make any argument. Peter was still a bit angry from his encounter with Zero, and Rocket could sense it, so he rolled his eyes and put the sword over his shoulder. "Fine." And with that, he walked back down the hall.

Peter rolled his eyes as well, and made his way towards his room. Inside were things he had since he was a kid. A backpack, a few baseball cards, action figures, and other small things he had in his backpack the night he left earth. He sat down on his bed, taking out his Walkman, and putting the headphones, and pressing play. He closed his eyes as one of the songs started to play, his anger going down, and his million thoughts all disappearing.

[EasilyAmused]

Nikki’s full lips curled into a smile as she gave him a nod. She could understand him not wanting to leave his friends that had pretty much become his family. The idea of becoming a government figure was something that she had been playing around with for a while. If she turned herself in she’d be under the government’s protection and people would have to be really desperate to try to kidnap her and take her to The Collector. At the same time, she’d have to give up her freedom and have to fall back into the line she was raised in, instead of joying the freedom she found without the restrictions. It was a touch choice.

Though the invite that came out of Quill’s mouth made her eyebrows rose in surprised when he suggested that she stay with them, even for just a while. The idea of getting more money was appealing but not being alone was even more appealing to her. She had spent so much time alone that the thought of being with others was all the more comforting. As he left she gave him a small nod, indicating that she would think about it but before she fell asleep.

Gamora was typing away at the computer in the main room, looking up information and how much Zero was worth (which was a surprisingly large number and Rocket who had found his way next to her was pleasantly surprised.) “See, we saved the galaxy, a beautiful dame and made a lot of money. Not a bad day.” He said with a grin across his muzzle before Gamora rolled her eyes in annoyance.

That was until the screen flashed a couple times indicating there was a message. Clicking on it, expecting it to be a returned message about dropping off Zero, a man’s face appeared on the screen. The man was dressed in gold and red, his face with a defining beard-mustache combination and thick brown hair. His face had a few healed scars that indicated that in his youth he had fought his share of battles.

“This message is for the Star-Lord, Peter Quill.” The man’s voice said, his tone held a sense of authority but with a tone of caring. “My son, I am Emperor J’son of Spartax, I am reaching out to you after years of searching and wish to invite you home. I have seen what you have done for the galaxy my son and I am very proud of you.” A small pause came across the man’s face, his dark eyes dropped downward, as if pondering whether he should say it or not. A small sad sigh left him as he turned his gaze back up to the camera, sadness filled his eyes, “I miss you…” With that he straightened back up, as if he wasn’t used to showing his emotions so openly, “I invite you home to visit or to stay, your choice; but the door is open to you. I shall attach the coordinates and the whole planet will rejoice upon the arrival of Star-Lord and the Guardians of the Galaxy and; their prince.” With that he nodded and the screen flashed away.

Gamora and Rocket stared at the screen in shock. “Did… did you know Quill was a Spartoi?” Rocket asked Gamora quietly, only to receive a shake of ‘no’ from the green skinned woman. Rocket was up off of his seat and dashed down to the hallway to the living quarters and knocked on Quill’s door. “Quill, we got something you need to see.”

When Quill was out, Rocket led the Star-Lord to meeting room and Gamora rose from her seat, clicking the replay button on the messaging and placing her hands on her hips, Rocket and her watching Peter’s face. When the video finished Rocket spoke without thinking, like normal. “So, drop off Zero then go say hi to your dad?”

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter never met his dad. He always hated him for leaving him and his mom all alone, and he hated him even more when his mom got sick. But she never hated him. She always kept saying he would be back, he was an angel. Yeah, Peter has seen a lot of things that go against gods and angels, so he wasn't so convinced. Quill was about to sleep until he heard a knock on his door. Removing his headphones he came out of his room, and walked to where Gamora was staring at a screen. What he saw was absolutely unbelievable.

The man on the screen looked a lot like Quill, but he felt more superior and battle damaged. As he talked, all Peter could do was stare at the man who claimed to be his father... He knew that he was half-terran, but he had no idea that he dad was still alive. If that was the case, why didn't he come back? Why did he leave him if he missed him so much? Peter's anger rose. "We're dropping Zero off. Then we're staying away from those coordinates." Peter said, walking towards the exit of the door.

"Quill, you don't understand! The Spartoi haven't been seen in years...! They're an ancient race, a cousin race to the Shi'ar--"

"I don't care." Peter said flatly. "If the Spartoi's are making contact with you, it has to be important, Peter... He's your father." Gamora said the last part a bit softly. He knew that Thanos killed her parents years ago and she became an involuntary adopted daughter. He turned to look at them. "Plus he's probably got more than enough goodies to set us up with." Rocket grinned.

There was a long pause as Peter stared at the screen of his "father." He would be lying to say that he wasn't curious. He had a lot of questions to ask him. And he had a lot of explaining to do. He didn't know what this race was, or what exactly they did to make themselves very secretive, but at the end of it, Peter wanted to give this J'son a piece of his mind, and to figure out his heritage.

"Fine. Lets drop Zero off, then head to those coordinates."

[EasilyAmused]

Gamora gave Peter a nod before grabbing Rocket and pinching his muzzle together to prevent him from saying anything more to Quill. When Quill left she dropped Rocket. “What the hell was that for?!”

“Mentioning parents on this ship is a rather tender subject. Peter said yes, let’s leave it at that.” Her voice was stern and serious but the more Rocket thought about it; his muzzle dropped into a frown and his ears fell as well. He didn’t have a family, Gamora’s was killed by Thanos, Groot lost his, Drax’s was murdered, Peter’s mom died and his dad had been estranged and now their new companion on the ship was the last of her species. There was a lot of sadness on the ship, but if even Quill could get some closure by meeting his father, it would be more than anyone else. Unless you count Drax getting to help kill Ronan, he might call that ‘closure’.

Peter Quill; Star-Lord and the leader of the Guardians of the Galaxy deserved his own closure and the group could easily agree to that.

Dropping off Zero went smoothly and Gamora took it upon herself to keep an eye on Nikki who was sleeping soundly as the drugs wore off and her body was finally able to heal on its own. Once Zero was dropped off, surprisingly injured in comparison to when they had caught him; Rocket shot Peter a look before glaring down Zero, even though they may crash heads from time to time, it’s obvious for those who know Peter as well as his three companions do, that Zero said or did something that Quill didn’t approve of. And it’s most likely something none of them would approve of as well.

When they returned with the money and everything got squared away, even giving Nikki a portion of the profits; she followed Quill to the helm. “She’s doing fine. Her breathings stabilized and she’ll probably be up and moving shortly.” Gamora said with ease as she dropped some papers into a bucket they had labeled ‘bullshit legal stuff’, so cleverly worded by Rocket.

The coordinates took them to the planet, the Milano landed gently on a landing pad outside of the major city that they were directed to. Gamora had returned to Nikki’s room to find the blue haired girl sitting up and rubbing her eyes. “You slept for a while.”

“I feel like I had the life sucked out of me then thrown back inside, it was a little exhausting.” Nikki responded as she got to her feet and Gamora gave her a small side smile. “Gamora,” She said, stopping the green skinned woman from walking out the door. “Thank you.”

Gamora looked at her with a bit of shock on her face; it wasn’t often she got thanked but at the same time, it wasn’t often that she had to put her medical skills to use. “You’re welcome…” She responded, “We got Zero dropped off and Peter’s father sent him a surprised message so we’re stopping here for a while but I doubt we’ll be here for more than a day.”

“That’s fine.” Nikki said with a smile. “I’ll be out soon.”

The ship was surrounded by people when the city realized the landed ship was none other than the Milano. The men, women and children were dressed in red, gold and white complementing their pale skins and soft features as they cheered at the ships, chanting ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ and waving like mad people in attempt to get any attention they could.

The law enforcement soon arrived pushing people away from the ship and allowing the exiting ramp to be dropped. Groot was the first to step out, and as you can imagine, everyone was rather shocked to see him. The tree smiled gently at everyone before raising his hand in a wave. This caused the people to explode in excitement and forced the law enforcement to work a little harder at keeping people at bay. Rocket scattered up Groot’s leg to his shoulder and waved at the people, again explosions of screams and cheers echoed which just caused the raccoon to bask in the glory of the cheers.

Staff from the large castle nearby were frantically working and before Groot’s foot could hit the stone on the ground, it was replaced by a fluffy red carpet that led straight to the castle steps. Drax exited next, everyone still cheering. Nikki soon joined Gamora and Peter at the exit that seemed to be waiting for her; she didn’t really know much of what to say as she stood there in her maroon leather jacket and blue jeans with the black tank top underneath her jacket. Her blade of her father’s on her back, she slipped a hat on her head, tucking her blue hair into it; figuring a new planet she knew nothing about; it still might not be a good idea for her give away who she was. She stepped out, the crowd still cheering even though they didn’t know who she was but she was a few steps behind Drax so they didn’t really care.

“Take your time Quill, don’t rush yourself.” Gamora said reassuringly but she wasn’t going to force him to leave. But her stepping out onto the ramp and exiting was enough of a clue that she wanted him to get his closure by meeting his father; the elegant and wifeless man standing at the entrance into the castle in the same outfit he had left the message in, watching the people follow the red carpet towards his home but waiting the most important person of all, his son and prince of Spartax.

[Jones Sparrow]

After they turned Zero in, and getting weird looks from the Guardians, Peter kept to himself the whole flight towards Spartax. He had his music in, staring at the Walkman as he sat on the edge of his bed. What the hell were they going in to? They were going to a planet that no one has been in years, to visit a man who claims to be Peter's father, and "welcoming him home." The thoughts of all the worst case scenarios kept flashing through his heads, not even the music could slow them down. It was a long trip, but they finally made it to the planet. As they landed, Peter watched from the cockpit their descent, and then the very large crowd that was forming around the Milano. They weren't requested to explain their business here, they just accepted the ship. He guessed that was because this ship was now famous for hosting the Guardians of the Galaxy.

The team all looked at Quill as they landed, he wore his ravager leather jacket, his dual element pistols, a blue tight fitting shirt, and his satchel full of gadgets. He gave everyone a weak smile and nod as they started to file out, and the crowd was going crazy. He looked over at Nikki who was looking much better than she did the last time he saw her, her blue hair tucked in a hat. She was hiding her identity for obvious reasons, one of them being that she was a wanted woman.

Peter hesitated when he saw he was the last one to walk out. He wasn't so sure about this. He dreamed about meeting his dad, sometimes good things, sometimes bad... But now that he was actually doing it... He was scared.

---

"Why have you been fighting with the other boys again, baby?"

Silence.

"Peter?"

"They killed a little frog that ain't done nothin'. Smushed it with a stick."

"You're so like you daddy, you even look like him. And he was an angel, composed of pure light... Your grandpa is gonna take such good care of you. At least until your daddy comes back to get you."

----

Peter snapped out of it when the cheering got louder, anxious to see the long lost prince. Peter took a large intake of breath, then stepped out of the Milano. He was introduced to huge skyscrapers glistening in silver, the sun shining brightly with a few clouds. People were all wearing red and gold, and they were going absolutely crazy when they first saw Peter. Quill looked around, then at his friends at the end of the carpet, with them was a tall and handsome man. J'son. Peter's face had a hint of fear, and awe as he walked forward, staring at no one else except for the man that was said to be his dad. He got face to face with the man, J'son only smiling warmly as he held out his hand. Peter hesitated, but eventually took it.

J'son then raised it above Peter's head, and looked at the crowd. "My son, Star-Lord, has come home!"

The crowd thundered with applause.

[EasilyAmused]

The crowd thundered and roared as the large doors behind them opened and the group was led inside. J’son dropped his son’s hand gently as he guided them to them into the manor. He had missed his son and didn’t really know what to say. A young maiden led the way explaining that they had a large amount of food awaiting them at the royal table as a welcome feast.

As the group walked, the capped girl turned her gaze to the paintings and arts on the walls. Her attention gazed, taking in the art work. Some was beautiful paintings of lakes and rivers, flowers and people of their culture. Others were of battle scenes that could be brought to life by stories that probably came with the paintings. Something about this place didn’t feel right, something about it gave her chills and something… well something was sitting wrong in her gut about where she was. Sure she was a tag-a-long with the Guardians of the Galaxy but even if she was just a tourist, she shouldn’t be here.

The dining room was massive and the table was huge. J’son took his place at the end of the table; Peter was signaled to sit to his right and Drax to his left. Rocket sat next to Groot who took a place next to Peter. Gamora sat next to Drax and Nikki took the seat next to Gamora, feeling safer being as far away from the man at the head of the table as possible. Leaning over slightly she whispered to Gamora, “I owe you an apology.”

Without her expression changing, she responded as she placed her napkin in her lap, “Why?”

“Your sister didn’t kill my people…” Nikki said in a calm manner and she handled all the silverware and her actions like a true royal would. “Our host did.”

“I’m sure you have a lot of questions my son; and I’m be willing to answer any of them but please eat.” He turned his attention to the rest of the party, for the first time recognizing their presence, “Please, everyone eat.”

“I will probably excuse myself back to the ship after we’re done with dinner for obvious reasons, but I don’t want to ruin the reuniting of father and…son.” She said softly to Gamora.

“Oh no, you’re a…”

“Please don’t say anything to Quill, he doesn’t need to know our kinds are mortal enemies and people shouldn’t know what I am. Let Quill have his time with his father, I’ll keep myself to the ship.” Gamora just nodded in a response as they had their small side conversation but knowing better than to share expressions of what the conversation entailed; in a small moment Nikki made eye contact with Peter and gave him a small closed lip smile.

[Jones Sparrow]

That's it? That's all he got? "Hey, Peter, i know i haven't seen you for LITERALLY your whole life, but lets have dinner on a planet you know nothing about while people scream your name!" Peter didn't say a word as they walked down the hall, and he felt very small next to the leader of this whole civilization. They entered a dining hall, The Guardians didn't look like they belonged here. Rocket was looking around at possible things to steal, Groot walked over to a plant in the corner of the room, Drax stared uncomfortably around, yet Gamora was the only one who seemed to not have a huge problem with this thing.

"It is nice to have company after so many years of... Isolation. Especially when our guests are the people who defeated Ronin." J'son said as he looked at all of them, and tilting his head a bit as he saw Groot over near the plant, making it overgrow, vines leaking out of the pot. Groot looked over and smiled, and Rocket soon dragged him back over near the crowd. Honestly, Groot still amazed Peter the more he spent time with him. They all sat down, and before Peter could say anything, his father told him they will eat before the questions start. Peter glared at the man. Was this a game to him?

Peter didn't touch his food, as the others ate the food. Peter stared down at his plate. J'son looked around at the table with a smile. "So I know everyone here except the one with the hat. What is your name, my dear? Did my son recruit you?"

[EasilyAmused]

Nikki did not want to be there. Even attempting to eat the food in front of her made her want to throw up. This man killed her people; the proof was in the paintings on the walls. He probably had pieces of their hair as mementos somewhere around the castle. The town probably rejoiced upon their victorious soldiers returning from battle (what was left of them); and now the man that could make her weak-kneed and shiver was someone of the same blood line, a son and their prince none-the-less.

“The Guardians saved me from a killer and I’m just looking to get dropped off at their next stop.” She said softly, talking more to the plate then to their host. She couldn’t be grateful for the meal, she couldn’t be happy that Quill found his home and she was using all of her will power not to stab their host with the butter knife. She gently cut into the food with a grace and elegance befitting a royal but it was making her sick just to do so. She didn’t want to eat the food, she didn’t want to be in a palace and if she didn’t have respect for the Guardians she would just steal their ship and leave without looking back.

This was the most awkward dinner ever and while she wanted to leave and hide away in the ship, she kept her eye on Peter, hoping was doing alright…

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter's stomach dropped a bit when Nikki said that she was going to leave on their next stop. It seemed like she finally made her decision. J'son smiled and nodded at Nikki's response as he stabbed his knife into his dinner a little harshly. He then looked over at Peter. "So, my son. Do you enjoy your home?"

Peter looked up to him eyebrows raised. He wanted to say that this wasn't his home. Earth was. But to no be impolite (even though he should have), he gave a smile and nodded, looking back down at his plate. He wanted to yell at this guy and demand answers, but he was sure there was going to be time for that. The rest of the dinner was filled with light talk about some of their adventures. Drax going in to detail of some of the messier parts, and correcting Rocket's sarcasm since he still didn't understand it. Groot also gave his input from time to time with "I am Groot." and Rocket would clarify. J'son seemed interested, and looked over at Peter occasionally with pride.

"Well, this has been a great dinner, but I'm sure you're all very tired from your travels. My assistants will escort you all to your rooms.." With that the doors opened, Spartois came out with smiles, taking each individual group to their rooms. Peter stood up and looked at his dad, but before he could say a word, J'son held up his hand. "I know. I apologize for keeping you waiting even longer, but if you will follow me, I'll answer any question you have truthfully."

[EasilyAmused]

As much as she didn’t want to hear that Peter was enjoying his home; she tried not to feel angry towards him for nodding. If he liked it here than good for him but at the same time, she didn’t want him to enjoy it. She wanted him to hate it so they could leave and never come back. This place worried her, scared her even. She was in danger yet again.

When the people came to escort their rooms, they were supported by gender, Gamora and Nikki led one way while the others were led a different way. “Excuse me.” Nikki said to the leading Spartois, “I believe I left something at the ship, I need to go get it.”

“Alright, I shall led you out,” One of them said, turning in a different direction and walking towards the exit, suppurating her from Gamora. As they walked the young Spartois spoke to her. “Our Emperor won’t like that you are wearing a hat in palace. If you could please remove it until we step outside.”

“I mean no disrespect but I’d rather keep it on.”

The young lady stopped and turned around. “It is disrespectful and I refuse to move until you take it off.”

“Then I shall show myself out.” She said in response, matching the young lady’s sharp tone and went to walk past her. The young woman reached up and snatched the hat from Nikki’s head, only to have the blue hair fall down and leave her in shock. The Spartios jumped her before she had time to react and knocked her to the ground. The thud was enough to draw the attention of the nearby maid who were carrying baskets. They dropped everything and soon 5 people were holding down the Metra.

The captain of the guard arrived quickly hearing the communication between the people and knew he needed to be there. “A metra.” He said in surprise as the newly arrived guards pulled her off the ground, Nikki bleeding from the mouth and spitting at the maids who took her down.

“I have done nothing wrong. Let me go in peace!”

“Nothing wrong? You are our enemy. What do you have to say for yourself?!” The older man was harsh and cold which just ticked off Nikki even more.

Knowing that they weren’t going to let her go; she decided to have a little fun. A smirk moved across her full lips as she looked up at the captain and sip a glob of blood at his face. “I kissed your Prince, and he liked it.” With that, the captain rose up the hilt of his sword and smacked her with it, knocking her out.

One of the guards left after dropping of Nikki and went to find the Emperor over slightly and whispered to him. J’son nodded as a response before turning his attention to his son. They were still seated at the table but J’Son made no visual response to whatever he was told. Though he was now well informed what there was a living Metra and she was in their dungeon. But Peter didn’t need to know that or their history with the Metras. “Tell me son, what are your questions?”

[Jones Sparrow]

J'son led Peter to a large room, a bedroom that looked elegant, yet powerful in some way. It was a steel colored room with a large bed, a weird rug made out of some alien animal. A fireplace roared gently, and there was a large door to a balcony. Peter looked around the room in awe, walking toward the balcony, and at the view of the large city. "We weren't always a peaceful race." J'son said behind his son, walking to stand next to him, leaning on the railing. "We fought a war for a very long time against another race called the Ariguans. While on my way to fight, I crash landed Earth... That's where I met your mother."

That's when Peter finally looked up at him. "She was such a beautiful and caring woman... So remarkable."

"Is that why you abandoned her then? With a son?" Peter asked.

"I had a war to fight, Peter, I was the only heir to the Spartoi throne, and i did not know that you were born--"

"She always talked about how amazing you were. How you would come back to us so we can be a family." Peter said, his voice trembling, a tear in his eye. "She couldn't even stop talking about you when she was on her death bed. So how can you stare at me with a smile, thinking that this would all be settled by some fancy dinner?"

J'son sighed, his face now looking a hundred years older. "It isn't that simple, Peter. After the war, i didn't want anything to happen to your mother, I declared that Earth was off limits to any extraterrestrials... When i heard that she had a son, I tried to retrieve you... But you were already taken away. Our race isn't enemies with Nova, but we aren't in their alliance. We created our own with other worlds. We now have a council, we are getting out of old habits, so one day, the rightful heir, my son, can take the throne when i am gone."

Peter listened to his words, staring at the man. For so long he wanted to meet him. He wished that the man died long ago when he was born, that he was just some weird drug addict, or some space loser... But he was an emperor. Someone who knew that he was alive somewhere but didn't do anything about it until he made a name for himself. A man walked in to the room, whispering something in his ear, and nodded. "Tell me my son, what are your questions?" He asked, as if bracing himself.

He had so many, but he knew the one he had ever since J'son sent the message to him. "Why now? you knew I was alive somewhere..." Peter asked. J'son looked at him. "I tried, Peter... But after so long, you have to... prioritize. We came from a cousin race, the Sparois. We came from the Shi'ar. We were both involved in a war with the Kree. They lost, but not before enslaving the Shi'ar permanently. We didn't take kindly too that, but we respected the Nova alliance, and stayed away... When we heard news that the infamous Ronin the Destroyer was killed by the Guardians of the Galaxy, and they were led by Peter Quill, i knew where to find you... You are powerful, my son. More powerful than you know... You can do so much more with the Spartoi Council than with your friends. They are unstable, dangerous, and don't have a goal set."

Peter stared at him, frowning quizically. "What do you mean?"

"The Guardians of the Galaxy are not a team you should lead, because it will lead to the death of not only you, but the entire galaxy itself. Embrace your heritage, and stay with us, Star-Lord. You can command an army, kill anything that threatens you. Isn't that why you started this group?" J'son asked.

Peter shook his head, and stared at him. "you man see me as a Spartoi, but i'm Terran. My home, is the place you abandoned. And those 'unstable criminals' are my friends. We may not be angels, but we are a great team..."

J'son sighed, and looked at his son with a bit of sorrow. "I had a feeling you would say that... You're so much like your mother. Stubborn, loyal... I'm afraid you don't have a choice, Star-Lord."

Peter didn't react at first, but then his fists clenched. "What did you do?"

"Don't worry. They are all safe. Except for one. I'm sure you don't know of this, my son, but as a Spartoi, we are sworn to never cooperate with Metras... and from what i heard, you did more than cooperate."

Peter Quill pressed the button behind his ear, his helmet forming around his face. He pulled out both of his pistols and pointed one at his father, but as soon as he did that, a whole crowd of soldiers busted through the doors, Peter aimed his other gun at them, as his father screamed for them not to shoot. He prayed his friends, and especially Nikki, were in a much better situation.

[EasilyAmused]

Waking up in a prison sell is never fun… especially when your head hurts so much. “Ug…” Nikki said as she sat up from where she was laying down. Her first reaction was to move her hands only to find out they were tied behind her back. “Oh my head…” She complained softly as she sat upright and looked around. The cell was in the basement of the palace, dark and cold. The only light that came in was the light through the bared windows. Lovely, another prison cell; from the possibility of getting shoved into a glass case to this, fan-freakin’-tastic.

Getting herself to her feet was difficult but it wasn’t until the guard walked in that she was fully aware of what was going on. “So, this is as close to anyone as I’m going to get for a while…”

“Until we kill you, if you’re lucky, the prince will be the one to kill you. Finishing the final Metra off.” The guard said in almost a teasing voice.

A smirk moved across the young woman’s face, “I doubt that would happen. He’s not one of you.”

“He isn’t, but his father is very set on getting him to turn to his cause.”

“And you think that his estranged father would be able to convince him to turn on his friends. I doubt that very much.”

The guard smacked his wand against the bars, “Do not speak ill of the Emperor, his son will join us and lead us when the Emperor has passed on!”

“You know nothing of him!” She snapped kicking the bars in response. “You know nothing of your Prince and who he is as a person! He knew I was a Metra and still treated me like a normal person! You shouldn’t be surprised by this. He’s a good man… maybe not great but a good man!”

“And he will be great under us!”

“And you think the other Guardians of the Galaxy will take this lightly? If you hold them as prisoners you will regret it…” A scream came from the hallway. “It seems like I know them better then you.” The door was kicked down to expose a very pissed off green woman who pinned the guard to the gate taking his key and punching him square in the face knocking him out. “I’m surprise you out of all people came to find me.”

“I knew something was wrong when I didn’t see you walking outside. I’m guessing they figured you out.”

“Yep, can you let me out? This place smells.”

Gamora chuckled and unlocked the gate before untying her hands, “I’m worried about Quill.” Nikki said quickly. “Can you get the others? I’ll go check on Quill.” With that the girls split up, finding their friendship odd but hey, it’s something!

[Jones Sparrow]

"Don't shoot him! DON'T SHOOT HIM!" J'son screamed at the group of men, weapons drawn. They looked uneasy at Peter, either because of his glowing red eyes, or the fact that he was aiming a gun at not only them, but their leader. "Does this council know about this? About how you were going to kill an innocent, and a group of my friends?" Peter asked. J'son shook his head. "Don't you see? I don't need the council! I have followers, and soon everyone will realize our old ways are the better ones! With the return of an heir, we can tackle so many extraordinary enemies!" J'son said with a smile. Peter didn't say anything at first, but then, slowly lowered his blasters.

The guards circled closer around him as his father took Peter's elemental blasters. "I know it is hard now, Star-Lord... But you will see that this is the best for everyone."

"You're a murderer. M-Mom would be ashamed if she saw what you are now..." Peter said, his red eyes glowing at J'son. "Go to Hell" Peter grabbed something out of his satchel, and threw it on the ground as he used his rocket boots to fly backwards. A giant flash appeared, with a horrible screeching noise as Peter landed hard on his back, but getting up as fast as he could. One of the Spartois aimed his rifle at Peter, but he grabbed it, and slammed it upward on his face, grabbing the rifle. He fired at another guard, pulling out another gadget from his bag and tossing it in the group. The ball opened, and a large gravitational pull dragging the guards on the ground, all crowded near the item Peter threw. Peter turned to face his father, but was surprised to see the end of his blasters staring right at him.

"Don't make me do this..." J'son said, clearly trying to control anger. How could his plan go wrong?! He was Spartoi! Star-Lord pressed the button on his ear, his helmet dissolving to reveal Peter's face full of anger, and tears falling down his face. "I'm glad you didn't have anything to do with my childhood. A group of outlaws are a million times better than what you could have taught me."

J'son gave another sad sigh, and put his finger on the trigger. "Goodbye, my son." He pulled the trigger but... Nothing happened.

Peter gave a cruel laugh and looked at him. "Those guns are genetically bonded with me. They'll only fire if my finger print is on the trigger." J'son was either too shocked or angry to do anything except glare at him. Peter grabbed the guns, pulled J'son in, and at the same time, slammed his head in to his. The body crumpled down to the floor unconscious, Peter standing over him.

After a second or two Peter bellowed in pain, grabbing his forehead. "No one wins in a headbutt... So much cooler in the movies..." Peter muttered.