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

[EasilyAmused]

The young woman continued to stir the potatoes. She felt like she was back in the kitchen of her home on her own planet enjoying the use of the kitchen with the family staff and her mom. She flicked some blue hair behind her head and watched as the potatoes danced under the wooden spoon and she couldn’t help but smile. This was a wonderful feeling and she never imagined doing something like this again.

It didn’t take long for the boys to return to the kitchen/dining area. Rick had retreated into his dashing costume for help with healing and she gave him a smile. But her attention quickly turned to Quill who proceeded to take over the potatoes. His comment about making good hashbrowns made her beam. But she shook her head softly at him, “Quill please don’t call me that,” She said gently to him, “We’re friends, formalities aren’t needed unless you want me to start addressing you as Prince or Captain from now on.” Her small body began to sway with the music as it started to play.

Drax was an unexpected entrance to the dining room and his barking about the blade caused everyone to stir and Nikki swallowed a laugh. “It just appeared.” She said with a shrug as he picked up the blade. “It’s a gorgeous piece of work, I’m sure it’s taken many lives.” That was apparently a good enough explanation from Nikki as Drax glared her down and left.

“Do you dance Princess?” Rick said with a smile on his face as he watched her sway to the music.

“I’m far from skilled but to some degree I guess you could say I do.” Nikki responded lightly as her body moved to the music.

Seeing something he could enjoy and rub in Quill’s face, Rick approached her and offered her his hand. “May I have this dance?” A laugh left Nikki as she gave a shrug and placed her hand in his. For wearing the suit he was surprisingly light weight and they moved around the dining room with grace and ease. Nikki never took into account how close Rick was holding her or the twinkle in his eye when he would dip her to the beats of the song; she just found it enjoyable and laughed. Even when he pulled her up from the dip and left barely any room between their faces, all she could do was smile. Much less shy than when she had danced with Quill before; this dancing around the dining room was fun and together as a team making the hashbrowns! How exciting!

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter was far from impressed in Rick's dancing skills. It was obvious he didn't do it often, but of course, Nikki didn't realize it. Who would? He spent twenty some years dancing to these songs, and he thinks that he could just steal his thunder, AGAIN? Peter muttered things under his breath as he continued to make the breakfast. The rest of the ride to the council was obnoxious. Rick and Quill kept going back and forth with each other, trying to show off in one way or another, or screwing each other. What made it even worse was that Rocket kept getting in the way as well! He made gadgets that made Quill and Rick's pants stick to chairs so he could have a conversation with her, Peter has had a lot of explosions happen whenever he walked out of his room, making his face black with ash, and on occassion whenever Rick put on his suit, it had a weird glitch that always made him smack his butt and jump around.

But Peter was more than thankful that they got to the Council on Xandar for the meeting. He couldn't last another second in that ship with Rick! Everyone exited out, Rick back in his full attire as the Guardians of the Galaxy wore what they usually did. Nova Prime had a lot of salutes and things like that, while Peter and the gang got skeptical looks or "You guys rock!"

"Hey, Quill. What do you think Nova's policies on fireworks are? I got some homemade ones in the ship, and thought it'd be cool to shoot some off for this occassion, since you became a Prince and all." Rocket said casually. "what? No, that's stupid! No explosions!" He looked at Rocket. "No critically injuring someone" He looked at Drax. "And no insults." He looked at Gamora. "We're only here for a little bit, then we can go back to doing whatever we want without sergeant chrome dome over there..." Peter said, which made Rocket Snicker, Gamora glare, and Drax confused. "Are we referring to Nova Prime's helmet as a dome? It is not one, nor is it made of chrome."

"Its... an. Expression, buddy..." Peter said. He has tried many times to explain things to Drax, like metaphors and expressions, but it was a lost cause.

[EasilyAmused]

The boys’ treatments towards each other was rather interesting throughout the ride back to Xandar. Getting up from the table she’d hear that other people were going to get up but the only one who would end up following suite with her would be Rocket. Interesting… on occasion she’d try to talk to Rick only to have him rushing away from her spanking his butt and hopping down the hallway. Other times she’d go to ask Peter a question only to have him run past her down the hall without breathing a word. To say the least it was a weird experience but she was grateful to have Rocket and Gamora to talk to.

Arriving on Xandar, Nikki stayed in between the Nova Prime and the Guardians but walked by herself. Her head was held high and she seemed to present herself in a different fashion then she did on the ship. Standing upright and tall, she held herself with a pose and grace one rarely sees; even her movements became smoother and more graceful, like when she was fighting or using her levitation skills except she was doing it with such poise that it became apparent that she was raised this way.

The seven leaders of the High Council stood at the entrance to the massive building that housed all the regulations and meetings. The elder of the group stepped forward, “Nova Prime, well done.” All the Nova did was nod and step to the side so that Nikki was now visible to the elder. “Princess Nikki Ivy, an honor.” The man said with a bow before speaking, “I am…”

“Lord Advicus Erebus, yes I know. My father spoke of you many times upon his return to our home planet saying that you were quite good at finding the balance in all the debates that were held within the council.” She said in an almost instant interruption but in a nice and respectable tone.

“So my fame precedes me…” He said with a small chuckle pulling himself up from the bow with a nod. “Your father was a great man and your mother was quite a gem. It’s an honor to have you here.”

“As you may be able to guess, I wasn’t exactly intending on coming by my own accord. Did you have something you wish to discuss or shall I be on my way?” She asked with a head tilt watching him closely.

“It has been known that someone in the universe has put a bounty out for you. The safest place would be for you to be under our protection…” Nikki shifted slightly in her stance showing some disapproval of the statement but Advicus continued on without much acknowledgement to her actions. “In addition to that, your father’s seat needs to be filled by someone of stature as a measure of balance of the council. We wish to have you take his place.”

“This seems to be a conversation I’d rather have in a more private location for I have some objections to the arrangements presented. Can we venture inside?” She said with a gesture.

A nod left the elder as he turned his gaze to the Guardians, “Your service for the princess is no longer required; you may leave.”

“Actually;” She said with some form of authority to her voice. “Seeing as you say they were in my service. They deserve payment. On more than one occasion they have saved my life. Instead of me working off my debt you have summoned and escorted me here; therefor my debt shall be repaid by you.” Her finger pointing to Advicus as she walked passed him with a small wave of her hand. “I expect to hear all their requests for supplies, food, money and shelter are met by the time they wish to depart. If I’m as valuable as you seem to make me, their time is surely worth their work.” With that she entered inside the building, head held high and authority placed firm. She expected the guardians to be paid for their time and a small glance over her shoulder shot Quill a pleading face, ‘please stay’ was all it said in the brief moment before turning forward and walking inside the long hallway.

---------------------

The council elders set around a table, Nikki standing at the edge of it as they spoke. “Her demands are not unreasonable.” One said. “But at the same time she wouldn’t be protected.” Another stated. “If she comes back for meetings it’s as if she lived somewhere else as everyone else does.” A third responded. “But she can’t be protected if she’s gone away; the safest location is for her to be here.” A fourth spoke up.

Nikki shifted slightly where she stood. Her outfit had changed, their insistence on her being unarmed left her feeling a bit empty but she couldn’t deny the comfort of her clothing. The black floor length dress with the train fit her nicely and her blue hair was pulled up into a high pony tail with sparkles in it. Her foot tapped lightly against the floor, unhappy with the fact that she was being completely ignored instead of included in the conversation. The council itself was made up of nearly 300 different species of aliens and they all worked to keep peace within the galaxy. The elders were nominated by the council members and the head elder elected from the elders. Advicus sat at the head of the table, taking in the idea of everything that was being presented; his four purple fingers tapped together as he listened closely. He was a wise man, nearly 150 years old and had been the elder for 100 of them. He was known to be wise, kind, understanding and will to work with anyone to make something right. “Please understand everyone; our fear resides on the Princess’s safety. That needs to be our top priority.”

“I appreciate that Elder Advicus,” Nikki said quickly before placing her hands on the table, “but none of you gave two shits about my planet when we were attacked; we sent for help but you wanted to remain natural. You had four years to find me and I personally dropped people off here at Xandar and now you suddenly care. Why is my safety suddenly a priority?”

“I have no explanation about how any of that happened.” Advicus said with a sigh sitting back in his chair with sad eyes. “Had I been the one to get the request we would have come but somehow it got overlooked. That’s no excuse I know, all I can do now is apologize and over you this safe haven.”

“And if I refuse said ‘safe haven’?” She questioned standing back upright and crossing her tan arms under her chest.

“There’s not many ways around this Princess Nikki, please be aware that this is for the best and you really need to stay. You are safe here; no one can touch you and no one will get to you. Now… we have other matters to discuss. Those of importance in relation to your staying…” Oh, this did not sound good…

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter wasn't that impressed by seeing the high council, especially since he just dealt with a crazy king that was his father, and that these guys were pretty much the boss of Rick. If this guy was bad, he couldn't imagine how lame these guys were! The conversation started quickly when they saw Nikki, and it was as if the rest of the Guardians weren't even there! So Peter quietly crossed his arms, looking around the place, listening to the conversation that was going on. Their plan was to have Nikki on the high council. Peter didn't really like that idea, but he was almost certain that these guys couldn't care less about what he thought on the matter. He was also certain that they didn't even know that he was royalty himself.

When told that they could leave, and their services weren't required anymore, he was about to say something before Nikki started to talk. He was glad that her new title didn't go to her head, and although he wasn't expecting a reward, he was glad that they were getting whatever they wanted from this bargain. The council walked inside, leaving the Guardians with Nova Prime.

"Well, I gotta go in there too. Being the galaxy's police and all." Rick said. "Wait! What are they going to do to Nikki?" Quill asked, not really knowing if he had an answer. Rick hesitated for a second. "My guess? They are going to highly encourage Nikki to stay here. Her race is all gone, she's the last one left, and with all that's going on with Thanos and political disputes, we're going to need a spark of hope and courage to the people."

"So what? You're going to just force her to stay here?" Rocket asked bluntly. "Listen, vermin, there's more to it than that--"

"VERMIN?!"

"Uh oh." "Now you've done it." "Hold him back!"

Groot quickly picked Rocket up with ease as he tried to charge at Rick, which made him smirk. "its better than leaving her here with you guys. You all get offended easily, can't be trusted... your history explains it all."

"Did you forget who lead the defensive on Ronin, and kicked his ass?" Peter asked, stepping forward. He's had enough of him holding their past above their heads. "As I've said before, Quill, you were saving your necks more than our's. A lot of people died during the assault."

"Everyone would have been killed if we didn't stop him."

"Yeah, and right after the battle, you and your Ravager buddies went right back to rule breaking. People are still being destroyed by your group of friends, and you haven't done much to stop it."

"Alright, I'm sick and tired of you thinking that we are horrible people! Your just as shitty as us, if not worse!"

"Oh is that so?" "yeah, It seems like you want to fight me just as much as I want to fight you." "Well, bring it, Star-Lord!"

The two of them tackled each other, throwing jabs and punches, and hits.... and to be honest, it wasn't that cool looking. It was like two brothers trying to get each other to say "uncle" first. Gamora sighed. Groot looked interestingly at the scenario, Drax started to smile, and Rocket was still fired up from being called a vermin.

The fighting quickly stopped though when they heard an alarm go off in the distance, and Nova started to push Quill off him. "Get! Off!" Rick screamed, finally getting Peter to fly backwards a foot or two. "You give up?"

"What? No!" Rick said, standing up and looking up at the sky. "Word's got out that the last Metra in the galaxy is here, and they brought guns..."

[EasilyAmused]

“No.”, “Yes.”, “No.”, “Yes…” Nikki slammed a fist down on the table. “You have got to be kidding me. That’s your most ‘important manner?!”

“It is important Princess. It’s to keep you safe and secure.”, “No that is forcing me to stay here. I know the law I’m not foolish…” She turned to one of the head elders, a large short plump purple alien with pointed ears and squirrel cheeks. “No offense.” Her statement was quick and she ignored the disapproval from the alien before looking back at Advicus. “To do what you’re proposing is against my will and I shall not be a part of it.”

“If you know the law Princess then you know that…”, “Yes I know. But I also know it’s my choice.”, “You have less than a day to make that choice or the choice will be made for you.” Nikki opened her mouth to respond before Advicus continued, “I become your legal guardian after your parents died and no one else can represent your planet. This arrangement is in your best interest and in ours. I will, however, give you 12 hours to find someone else. After that you will agree to our arrangement and we will move onto more important things at hand.”

“More important things…” Nikki began to argue with Advicus before an alarm went off in the building. “What is that?” The council rose up slowly from their seats looking annoyed. “Excuse me why aren’t we worried about the sound?”

“People are about to throw a fuss about you being here. We are prepared for such a situation. Follow me.” Advicus gestured in an opposite direction the council was going. He and her walked down the hallway before getting to a balcony. Nikki stepped out behind him before raising her small caramel colored hand up to block the sun from her eyes as they adjusted to the sun. Her gaze moved to the ground to see the Guardians were still there and Nova Prime and taken off into the air. Before she could wave at them, Nova was level with the balcony. “Nova, please keep the party crashers at bay…”

“Attention high council.” A voice said as a few ships showed up, each with their own interesting design housing about five people in each of the three ships. “This is a warning. If you make the last Metra a member of the high council, you will regret it.” The voice was sinister but almost laughing at itself. “It’s not as wise of a decision as you’d think. And we’re going to demonstrate why.” The bottoms of the ship opened and people began to fall out and land upon the grounds of the streets. Blades and weapons drawn and heading towards the Guardians. “Even the Guardians don’t stand a chance.”

“Nova, change of plans; escort the princess to the safe house until further notice.”, “Yes sir…”, “Oh hell no, I’m not leaving them to get their asses kicked! That’s a lot of people!!” She said with a surprise before the Nova plucked her from the balcony and into his arms. “Rick let me go at once. I will fight with them, they don’t deserve this!”, “They’ll be fine.” He said in soft tone as he wrapped his arms around her and began to fly again, taking her away from the scene. Her hand was reached out back to them, indicating she didn’t want to go. If they were to be fighting because of her, she wanted to be there with them.

---

The safe house was filled with the high council and the council members that were present in the building. They all seemed to gasp at the arrival of the Metra, the ones that were not members of the high council because they didn’t know she was even there and the high council members because of her reaction when she was sat down. “Take me back there! Right now!”

“I’ve been requested to keep you in safety here at the safe house until further notice.”

“Don’t pretend like regulations are at stack here, it’s those people’s lives. That’s a lot of people going after them! Let me help, take me back right now!!”, “I can’t do that princess, this is where you’ll be safe.”, “But they aren’t safe!”, “I’m sorry Princess but I have my orders to follow.” With that Nikki stormed inside the safe house and slammed the door shut behind her.

---

The next hour consisted of her forcing herself to talk to people. The aliens from all over were nice and welcoming, and as much as she didn’t want to admit it, she felt relaxed like no one was going to attack her. But that didn’t excuse the nagging feeling she had about the guardians. It took the hour before they were allowed to return to the building. Of course, most of everything was cleaned up and everyone was gone but that didn’t stop Nikki. “What happened? Where are the guardians? Are they okay?” Questions flew out of her a million miles an hour before she finally got any responses.

“They are alright,” One of the guards began to explain. “Beaten up but they are alright. No one’s badly injured but they’re at the hospital getting patched up.” Another guard chimed in, “You know, I didn’t expect them to fight as well as they do, it was rather impressive.” Rick made some noise behind her and she shot him a dirty look before looking back at the guards. “Well they’re pretty impressive and rather nice people when you get to know them. Now.” She reached forward, grabbing one of them by the collar of their shirt and yanked him towards her. “Tell me where the guardians are.” Her voice was so deep and threatening that the guard shook in his boots. “Okay okay I’ll tell you!!”

Nikki arrived as swiftly to the nearby hospital and nearly blew the doors open as she hurried inside. Arriving at the counter the women behind it scared at her in shock. Obviously they had heard of the last Metra being on the planet but they didn’t expect her to come running in dressed in a nice dress, heels and her hair up. Nor were they counting on her asking for the Guardians. She was pointed down a hallway and given a room number, in her hand was a crumpled up piece of paper and she was dripping with sweat like she was running from someone.

In her rush down the hall she saw into a few of the rooms. Drax was grinning away looking down at the scars covering his body, saying something about a ‘new battle’, Gamora was making faces as she was getting stitched up on her arm, aside from that she looked alright. And Groot and Rocket were sitting on one of the beds talking to a beautiful nurse who seemed to be giggling at the things that Rocket was saying while Groot swayed back and forth to the music. Reaching the door labeled Peter Quill, Nikki checked his chart, a few cuts and bruises but he was okay. Nikki knocked lightly on the door and heard something from inside. “Quill?” She questioned softly as she opened the door and stepped inside. A large sigh of relief left her as she finally saw him. “Oh thank god you’re okay!"

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter looked up at the ship coming in to orbit, and making its way towards the entrance of the large building, right where they were standing. The man's words pissed Quill off, and not to mention Nova left to fly up to what looked like Nikki up there. His attention soon turned back to the ship when it said that the Guardians were no match for it. That wasn't good. Rocket's weapon was already off his back, aiming up at the large ship. Drax had his knives drawn, Gamora had a pistol, and a dagger in her hand, and Groot was just frowning at the space craft. The doors opened, and well armored men and women started to jump out.

"These aren't military..." Gamora frowned.

"We're dealing with mercs?" Rocket asked, obviously surprised.

"Looks like it. Whoever hired them don't want to show their faces yet. What better way to officially start an unofficial civil war than to have mercs fight first?" Quill asked, pressing the button behind his ear, his helmet coming on.

"They aren't just any mercs." Rocket said, squinting to get a better look at them.

"The Talons." Drax confirmed. Quill looked confused. "Who?"

"They are the largest mercenary group besides the Ravagers. I'm not surprised you don't know about them. They work on the other side of the galaxy. They don't want to mess with Yondu." Gamora explained. Peter shrugged. "Well now he's got a pissed off group of fighters who is being led by a Ravager. Bring it on."

The mercs all wore a very dark purple armor. It was sleek, battle damaged, and all had tattoos on their cheek. Their weapons varied from swords, to guns, to whips, and daggers. Peter now had his elemental guns out, and the Guardians stood behind him, ready to fight.

It soon started. The first of them started to run towards them, Rocket climbed up on Groot and started firing. Drax ran forward, headbutting people in the gut and flipping them over, and in a fluid motion sliced up, making contact with another merc. Gamora jumped up, wrapping her legs around someone's neck as he spun and made them fall hard on the ground. Rolling to the side of a whip, she grabbed it, and yanked forward, kicking the person in the face.

Quill threw a device on the ground that made the mercs fall down for a second as if the floor suddenly turned to ice, and Quill started firing electrical charges. For now they were doing good!

That was until someone appeared in front of Quill, which made him jump in surprise, but he got punched in the face before he could do anything. Another merc appeared that had a large machine gun, and heavy set armor. As Peter got up, Rocket jumped on the face of the woman that appeared in front of Quill, and Groot walked towards the heavy set merc. "I! AM! GROOOOOOOOOOT!!!" He bellowed at the man, which made some of the mercs uncomfortable, but as soon as the machine gun started firing at Groot, they progressed.

The fight went downhill from there. Quill was being tag teamed by appearing and disappearing enemies. Peter didn't have enough time to get a gadget to get rid of their cloaking. Gamora was being held down by whips, Groot was backing back from the heavy machine gun fire, and Rocket was now forced to go old school and start scratching at mercs.

Peter fell to his knees after a blow to his back, looking at his team as they tried so hard to fight back... He felt like a kid again. he couldn't do anything. He was then hit upside the head by the butt of a gun, and went out cold.

----------

Peter woke up in a small hospital room. He looked around, and when he tried to get up, his body ached all over. He was sure that he had a lot of cuts and bruises all over his body, and a nice gash on his temple. He leaned back down, giving a giant sigh. The mighty Guardians of the Galaxy were taken down by a bunch of mercs... Oh, they were going to pay!

The door to his room opened, and in came Nikki in her official clothes. Her blue hair was up, her brown eyes full of concerned, her caramel body looking better than he could describe in that dress... "yeah, we're okay.. if you count being humiliated, getting our butts kicked and having several concussions as okay..." Peter said half jokingly, looking at her, then back away. He was a bit embarrassed.

[EasilyAmused]

It was a relief to see him alive, even if he was in a hospital bed. No one would tell her what happened or any information of the situation at hand. Maybe there was some rule about not stressing out the council members or some other bull that she was supposed to be led to believe. Of course, as someone who’s lived on their own for so long and had fought to keep herself alive for just as long, she knew better than to think everything would be alright and they just played tag together.

“Oh Quill…” She said, her voice filled with a bunch of sadness and concern as she walked over to his bedside and got down on her knees next to him so they were level together. It’s funny how they switched, she was the one in the hospital bed first and now it was his turn. “You know, this going back and forth of me being on a medical bed and now you, let’s not do this again.” She said softly with a hint of joking in her voice.

Her hand reached down and gently took his within hers. Her heart was pounding with nervousness and worry as she brought his hand gently up to her face and placed a gentle kiss on his palm. “I’m glad you’re okay…” She spoke softly to him, a gentle smile curving her full lips into a tender smile. “I’m sorry you got drug into this… It’s all my fault and I wish I could make it up to you…” Her head dropped slightly looking down at the white linens of the bed. A small sigh left her as she looked back up at him, her brown eyes filled with sadness and sorrow about seeing him in so much pain because of her. “I’m so sorry…” She whispered to him.

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter wasn't expecting Nikki to grab his hand, and to kiss it. She was definitely getting to Quill. The way she talked, moved, cared for him... He didn't get this caught up on women like he did Lexi. She reminded him of Earth. He wouldn't admit it, but he missed it. He missed the music, he missed sneaking out late at night on his small farm house to go night fishing at the creek. He missed his mom, his grandpa, the normal food, the movies... It sounded weird, but it she reminded him of those things. The way she danced to the music unlike the other aliens in the galaxy. Her curiosity of being with other people and cultures. The way she seemed to calm him down... He gave a squeeze to her hand, doing his best to sit up without making sounds of pain. "I'm going to have to stop you right there, Princess." Quill said, looking at her with a small smile.

"We didn't assist you on this thinking this would be a piece of cake. We knew the risk, especially when we are known as the Guardians of the Galaxy. So I don't want to hear an apology, alright?" Peter asked, giving her hand another squeeze. "All I ask is that the high council keeps to their word about their reward... and back on earth, there was this tradition..." Peter began, giving a playful smile. "Back in the dark ages, whenever a heroic knight-- er, a warrior, saved the beautiful princess, he usually received... well, he got a kiss as a reward. But, you know.... Earth is very different from this part of the galaxy." Peter said, shaking his head.

[EasilyAmused]

Her chocolate gaze shot back up when he said he would have to stop her though, her blue eyebrow rose at his response of calling her Princess. For some reason, she didn’t like the idea of Quill calling her ‘Princess’ they had been through a lot together; before and after he became the leader of the Guardians, he shouldn’t be calling her princess. A small soft laugh left her when he said that all he asked was that the council would keep their word. “I’ll be sure of that Quill, don’t you worry there.”

When Quill began to talk about the tradition back on earth, both her blue eyebrows rose in surprise. His story made her giggle slightly. “Well, I’d say a warrior does fight valiantly and deserves a just reward. But I shall remind said warrior, that sometimes. Something could be called upon him that, while it random and outlandish and unexplained at first; it could be what the princess honestly needs. The question is, will the night follow through…” Her voice dragging out in a playful manner as she reached forward with her free hand, placing it gently upon his cheek then her body followed suite, her lips enveloping them with his; her mind was a buzz from the kiss, fire and flames burned through her and her temptation to lean more overtook her and she leaned harder into the kiss.

No Nikki, not now… She lectured herself as she slowly pulled back, her lips gently removing themselves from his, He’s injured and you probably shouldn’t do this at this moment.. “I’ll head back to the council and make sure you’re all stocked up on supplies and units have been placed into your amounts.” Getting up, she walked to the door and pulled it open before turning around. “By the way, I heard of another Earth tradition that tends to be upheld as well. Something called a ‘good bye kiss’. Not too sure what that is but, maybe you could educate me soon?” She said with a grin and a playful wink before walking out and gently shutting the door.

Nikki was overseeing the stuff being loaded into the Milano as the Guardians returned to ship. She had spent more time arguing with Advicus about his stipulation, and couldn’t get him to see her way. Shaking her head slightly it hung, her blue hair was down again and instead of being in the darker dress, she was in a white strapless floor length with white shoes. A necklace around her neck and a white flower around her right wrist, her body rocked back and forth on her high heeled in a worried action. The paper crumpled up in her hand as she watched the loaders place things in the Milano, she was shaking with nerves. Voices echoed and she turned to see the Guardians returning to the ship.

“Quill… Quill I need to talk to you, by ourselves.” The others gave them funny looks before disappearing on the ship. Her hesistancy was getting to her and she swallowed hard. “I… I don’t know who else to turn to…well I do, I could turn to Rick but I don’t want to, but if you say no I will. I…” Her nervousness was getting to her and her face turned red, her attention down to her feet before the door opened to the council’s building and Advicus came walking out, the movement was quick from the rest of the High Council and the bigger alien that she had apologized to was also dressed in white and looked like he was skipping with an unexplained glee… except Nikki knows exactly why he’s acting like that.

Her attention moved quickly to Quill, handing him the paper and a pen. “I’ll explain later and I promise I’ll fix everything, but I need you to sign this; sign this then kiss me like your life depended on it. Yours and… well mine too.” As the council began to get closer to the two she stared up at Quill with begging eyes. “I swear I’ll fix everything but please, please help me!”

[Jones Sparrow]

If you would have told Peter that one day he would have the best kiss in his entire life by this half human half extinct race woman, he wouldn't have believed you. But as soon as her lips touched his, he would have gladly trade in every single one of them for her lips. His hands reached up to gently put on her cheeks, and when she leaned in, so did he... Then she pulled back. Peter was in a daze, leaning back down and watching her leave until she turned around. His face lit up when she talked about a goodbye kiss. What kind of Terran would he be if he didn't follow that tradition?

His hospital treatment didn't take long. They injected a few things in them, and in no time his aches felt a bit better, but his cuts and bruises were still there. Gamora had it worse, and Groot really had no treatment for his wounds except time... That, and no one has seen his race before. The talk for revenge soon started though as they made their way back to the Milano. "As soon as we leave the orbit I will search to see where the merc ships went." Gamora said, glaring forward. "We'll need to prepare better. More guns, explosives, and I'll make sure we have a lot more gadgets." Rocket commented.

"Maybe I could get Yondu to help us out... You think he's still mad about the stone?" Quill asked. No one answered. The Milano was being packed as they walked towards it, Nova police everywhere thanks to the attack, and Nikki being out in the open. She was no longer in her previous dress, but in a white one. Every time he looked at Nikki, he constantly thought of an angel. He knew how his mom felt when talking about his father (except Nikki hasn't tried to kill him recently).

Peter furrowed his brows when she said they needed to talk in private, and then her words of a goodbye kiss came in to mind... He didn't think about the thought that they might have to part ways. Peter really didn't like that idea, especially when Nova Prime was here.

She talked fast, Peter tried to keep up, and look where she was looking, and he didn't know exactly what was going on, but she was begging for him to kiss her (Over Rick! Yes!), and that he had to sign a paper? He then thought back to her words yet again. I shall remind said warrior, that sometimes. Something could be called upon him that, while it random and outlandish and unexplained at first; it could be what the princess honestly needs. The question is, will the night follow through…

Well, now was more of a time to prove that and follow through, right? "I... alright..." Peter said, grabbing the paper, signing it a bit too quickly and excitedly, and then he stepped forward, putting a hand on her back and another behind her head and kissed her on her soft lips yet again, leaning on the Milano, and forgetting the thought that he possibly just did something he would regret sooner than later... But at this moment, he had only one person on his mind.

[EasilyAmused]

Nikki’s heart pounded against her chest so loudly she was sure he could hear it. Her hands were shaking as she awaited his answer. So many things relied on his answer, what would happened to her, her own freedom and all that stuff… but this wasn’t something that she could do only, she needed his help. She was, as you could imagine, rather surprised that he was excited about signing the paper. As soon as he completed, she took it from him and felt his arms wrapped her body and one on her head. With his lips pressed against hers, she leaned into the kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck and returning the kiss, tilting her head to one side she even went as far as to slide her tongue into his mouth. Yeah this was good, especially considering she wasn’t sure how this was all going to turn out in the end. Might as well make the most of it right.

Eyes closed and focused on the kiss at hand, she didn’t stop or pull back until there was an awkward cough in their direction. This broke Nikki’s enjoyment of the kiss and caused her to pull her tongue back and break the kiss, almost panting for breath before her gaze turned to Advicus. “So, this is awkward…”

“Yes, you interrupted a good kiss; I would call that awkward.” Nikki said as she slowly lowered her arms from Quill’s neck. “That’s not what I was…”, “I don’t care what you’re referring to.” She said shortly cutting him off, “Because I have a document right here that says I do not have to marry him.” She said pointing to the alien in white. “Again no offense but you’re not my type.” With that she looked back at Advicus and after lowering a single hand from Quill she extended out the paper to him. “Per the agreement though, I will have open contact and when there is a meeting I will return but, for now, per the laws; a wife is to stay with her husband.”

“Princess!” The Nova Prime flew over to the group, landing gracefully and dashing over. “I just heard, you could…” He stopped, seeing Quill’s arms around Nikki’s body and the paper now being read over by the head of the council. “But he’s…”

“He does qualify.” She said to Rick with a nod, “I’m aware you do as well but you would make me stay and being here is not where I want to be.”

“What do you mean he qualifies? Peter Quill is not royalty.” Advicus said in confusion but not presenting an argumentative tone or red faced like his alien friend in white was due to anger.

“Oh really?” Nikki said in a surprised tone, “You mean the Nova Prime hasn’t told you?” She said causing the council members attention to turn to him. Rick rocked in his suite before letting out a cough. “The princess is… correct… Peter Quill is… is… the son of J’Son, the emperor of the Spartoi Empire. Sworn enemies of the Metra and--- Prince and only heir to inherit the throne upon the Empire’s passing.” Rick spoke quickly and softly, obviously not wanting to give the information but was well aware he had to.

That was quite a surprise for everyone to hear. The man standing in a Ravager’s jacket, the leader of the Guardians of the Galaxy and a brave yet highly foolish individual was the Prince of one of the most well-known warrior races in the world, and now he was married to his mortal enemy’s only living representative and legal princess. Oh well this was shocking for the council. Advicus gently folded up the paperwork and placed it in his pocket. “I will see this gets documented in its proper place. Per the costumes of the planet, you are expected to be where your husband is. If we need to get a hold of you, we will reach out to the Milano.”

“Great, and if my husband allows me to have a spa day at some resort planet; he’ll be able to forward my calls. But per our agreement high councilor, I will join the council and return for the meetings. And with that, I bid you all fair well.” With that she slipped out of Peter’s arms and took his hand, guiding him into the ship and pushing the hatch closing button only to hear Rick throwing a fit about what just happened to the council members, the short plump alien also ranting and Advicus just shaking his head, knowing full well there was nothing he could do about it. Nikki, on the other hand, was already packed with her things on the ship; hoping and praying that she wouldn’t have to stow away on board and that Peter would just sign the paper.

As soon as the door shut she let Peter’s hand go and backed away quickly. “I am so sorry!” She said quickly, “I know you’re probably really mad and I promise I’ll fix everything but it was the only way I could get out of staying on that planet. Just drop me off somewhere nice and I’ll fill out the divorce papers and you can be on your way without me but I really couldn’t handle staying there and dealing with all that politics stuff. Their policies about marriage were really strict. At my age I should have already been married and if I couldn’t find someone of royalty to marry before the day was out, I would have to marry one of the council members and by their planets’ standards, if I marry there I have to be at the same planet with my husband unless I get the okay to be somewhere else. I’m sorry I didn’t know what else to do and I didn’t know who else to turn to---” She began to ramble, obviously she wasn’t happy that she couldn’t give him this information any sooner and she was feeling horrible about making him agree to something he had no idea what was going on, basically she tricked him into it, but hey; she got out of a bad situation and an amazing kiss out of it. She couldn’t complain too much but as she looked up at Quill with panic in her eyes, she obviously didn’t know how he was going to take it.

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter yet again was in a daze when Nikki pulled away, and looking over at the high council yet again. He gave a grin and nod to the people, but the short little one wasn't too happy to see Quill kissing Nikki. Go figure. But Peter was coming too, listening more to the conversation was going on. What were they talking about?

“Because I have a document right here that says I do not have to marry him.”

"Marriage?" Peter asked quietly, looking at everyone.

“Per the agreement though, I will have open contact and when there is a meeting I will return but, for now, per the laws; a wife is to stay with her husband.”

"Mettings? Wife? Husband...? Wait, Husband?"

The Nova came down to interrupt, and he seemed to know a lot more than Peter did, but that didn't stop him from holding Nikki just a bit closer, giving a smirk to him. It was as if he was protecting her from the guy.

“What do you mean he qualifies? Peter Quill is not royalty.”

"Uh oh." Peter said, the gears finally going in to place, and figuring out what was going on, but he was ignored. Rick went on to tell the council that Peter was in fact royalty, and "qualified" and heir to a throne that he had no intention of taking.

"Yeah, it was kind of a curve ball too the first time I heard it--" Peter began.

“I will see this gets documented in its proper place. Per the costumes of the planet, you are expected to be where your husband is. If we need to get a hold of you, we will reach out to the Milano.”

"Isn't there more to a marriage than signing papers? family permission? A ceremony... The groom having to know what's going on?" Peter called out.

He was soon being dragged in to the ship, the doors closing, and as soon as they did, Peter exploded. "You tricked me in to marrying you?!"

"Whoah! Quill just got married? What the hell?!"

"Congratulations, my friend!"

"don't congratulate him, you big oaf!" Gamora said to Drax. They obviously were listening to the whole thing.

Nikki began to ramble, and the more she talked, the calmer Quill got, but he was still a bit angry for this. "I would have pictured my marriage ceremony going a bit different there." Said Peter, looking at it. "You know, with suits and loved ones-- Okay, we don't have those. I guess it was an ideal marriage for someone like me." Peter admitted and shrugged, but then shook his head. "So... You chose me, the outlaw Ravager that is in the team of a dangerous group of people and a prince to a race that wouldn't hesitate to kill you, over Nova?" Peter asked her... He thought about it for a second, then smirked, and nodded. "the look on his face was priceless..." Peter muttered, then looked over at Nikki. "As much as the idea of having you of a wife is a really good thing, I don't think its our style right now, with being badass adventurers and all... How can you get us unhitched?"

The thought of having Nikki as a wife was a good one, but then again, they didn't even have a relationship before this except for one kiss, and a few little moments. Don't get him wrong, he wouldn't want anyone else to be tricked in to a marriage with, but they skipped a lot of steps in the "love" process.

[EasilyAmused]

Nikki was sure that they were going to all attack her when she realized that everyone had heard the conversation outside. Probably because they were waiting for Quill to get on board; but the calmest about the whole situation was Drax, which was the person she would have been most concerned about. Instead he was congratulating Quill with honesty and joy for him. But when Quill exploded, she flinched hard, her shoulders crunching up and her head curly into her arms, obviously she was expecting some form of backlash to all of this and she was prepared to take it.

But, to her surprise, he seemed to calm down a lot and she lowered her arms from her face staring up at him as he talked about the idea of how he would want his wedding ceremony to be. And when he began to describe himself and finding himself almost chuckling at the thought; sure they weren’t exactly the ideal match and they didn’t know much about each other. But she would rather be with him, for he has shown her a surprising amount of loyalty and caring compared to the Nova who would rather have her stay put in a house and live the normal life compared to being out and about or to quote Quill ‘being badass adventurers’. That life of adventure seemed a lot more appealing.

Her caramel colored arms slowly lowered to her sides when she realized no one was going to attack her and that Peter wasn’t going to throw her off the ship in a rage. “Look I know I’ve caused a lot of problems for everyone and I’m really really sorry…” Her voice was filled with sadness and regret; they were good people and had been through a lot because of her and now she was feeling horrible about it. “All of you, I’m so sorry. Especially you Quill.” Her chocolate gaze turned to him, “Between our past history and now our current, I’ve put you through quite a bit and I’m surprised you haven’t shot me out into space yet. I was at a point where I was desperate, my hands were tied and I didn’t know what else to do or who else to turn to. I’m so sorry I drug you into this but I’ll make it right I swear.”

She nodded softly and brushed off her white fitted strapless dress and sighed delicately. “Any nearby planet will have the divorce paperwork. A simple signature is all it needs. I’ll by a transmitter that you’ll have the number for, until they know we’re divorce they might call here to try to reach me; if you just forward them to that number and they’ll leave you alone. And I completely agree, it’s not our style… right now… so I’ll just, go to my room and… be there.” Her voice was soft, sad and with that she walked away.

“So Quill…” Rocket said as he watched the blue haired beauty in white walk away. “Does that mean she’s available now or… should I wait for the paper to be signed before I ask her out?”

In her room Nikki found herself curled up in a ball on the bed, her eyes filled with tears. She didn’t have a choice at this point. She had to do it and she felt horrible. The only problem is once the divorce papers were finalized and the council figured it out she’d be back in the same boat she was before. Returning to the open air of being a ‘badass adventurer’ would no longer be an option for her and her next option would be the Nova, if he’d take her. If she spun a story of how Peter did her wrong and blah blah blah, he might take her in just to spit Quill; but even then, she couldn’t make up lies about him, he didn’t deserve it… And who knows what her life would/could/should be like with the other man… and if no one would take her as a wife, the council would not take her seriously and her political powers would be useless; but they’d still make her stay anyway.

The last of her kind, hunted for money and no one wants her… talk about an ego destroyer.

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter felt bad about Nikki, which was a weird concept for him. He rarely didn't feel bad for anyone... But as he has constantly told himself, there was something about this girl that was so much different than the rest of them. He was getting tired of her saying sorry. He got that she did trick him, and she did just use him in a way... But in her defense, he probably would have done the exact same thing. He liked to think they were all better than they used to be... But they all had their huge flaws. Peter just gave a glare to Rocket, not knowing if he was joking or not. He needed to talk to her. If she did this only to get away from those snooty and political pricks, then he had no problem with being used. In fact, it was rather sly.

Peter made his way to her room, and the doors slid opened. The sight of her curled up on a bed in a dress was the exact opposite of what she looked like when they first met. "I've thought about it a few times... Shooting you out in space." Peter said, giving a small smile on his face. "You gotta stop apologizing with us, Nikki. Because we of all people know what its like to screw up. When we first met Drax almost cut Gamora's head off, Rocket tried to collect me for a bounty, and I tried to sell something that Thanos really wanted... Then there was the times Rocket almost blew up the Ravager ship, Drax almost killed Gamora and I again by calling Ronin to where we were... The list goes on and on." Peter sat down on the corner of her bed. "After everything we've been through, you just proved that you fit right in with us. Not that high council bullcrap..."

"We all have our backstories. And everything Rick said was pretty spot on. We're a bunch of misfits. Criminals. People that don't belong... Losers." He paused for a second. "I mean, people who have lost stuff... And you would fit right in. If it means that we have to be 'married' for you to stay, then I'll pop the champagne and start the honey moon." Quill said with a smile, putting a hand gently on her leg. He was joking, of course. As they've stated, being a married couple wasn't a good thing to be... But Peter really liked the kissing, and the way she danced, and her loyalty to the Guardians.

[EasilyAmused]

Nikki listened closely to him as he walked in, his comment about her being shot out into space made her giggle softly. Tear marks still darkened her face as she stared at the wall across from her. It was hard to believe it had come to this. Just seven years ago she lived on a happy planet with many people and a loving family. It was all taken away from her and she had been alone for so many years. Then one day, she ran into a Ravager and her world turned upside down and inside out. Not long after did they run into each other again and things went all sorts of crazy.

When he began to talk about their pasts, sharing inside stories that no one really knew about them; she found herself slowly rolling over to look up at him as he sat down on the corner of her bed. She stared up at him with her chocolate brown eyes and as he spoke more about her how she proved that she fit right in with them, she rose herself up onto her elbows staring at him in surprise with her big brown eyes.

“That would…” She said softly sitting upright and placing her hand gently on top of his with a grateful smile across her full lips. “That would mean so much to me. “She said with a nod, “But I want you to know… I don’t,” Her blue eyebrows pushed together in thought, trying to figure out how to word it properly. “Expect you to not live your life… romantically…” She shifted slightly in her seat, “It’s just on paper, that’s all. You can still live your life and I’ll still live mine. You’ll just have to drop me off, or I’ll get a pod ship that we can dock in the bay, and attend stupid meetings. And don’t worry, you don’t have to; your father declined joining so you’d have to offer your presence there, since my father agreed to be a part of it, it’s become mandatory for me. Hence all the strict rules and everything…” She shook her head slightly.

“But! Like I said,” Nikki responded softly, “I don’t expect you to not enjoy life because of a piece of paper. So pretend like it’s not even there and I’ll be able to hang out on the ship with you guys.” She held onto his hand with a grateful smile and a few grateful tears tumble down her cheeks. “Thank you so much Quill.”

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter was glad to see a smile on her face again. Even when she was crying she still looked beautiful. When she started to talk about their "marriage", all he did was give a nod and smile. He really didn't know what "living his life" was. Right now, it was doing a little good, a little bad, and a little both. A motto he liked to say ever since he joined the Guardians. He wasn't sure if it was obvious now, but he really seemed to be falling for Nikki. Hell, there could be the plan of tearing up that paper, and the going against the Council by running away, or fighting back at them. Using the outlaw way.

He kept her hand, rubbing her hand with his thumb gently, giving a "humble" shrug and smile back. "All in a day's work for a noble warrior, My Lady." Peter said with a an English accent (but he often forgets that there is no England in space...). "Oh, and Rocket might try and ask you out on a date later. He thinks he's a bit of a lady's man if you couldn't tell... We can get a restraining order for him or something if he becomes too creepy." Peter said half jokingly.

[EasilyAmused]

When it really came down to it, Nikki didn’t want to see anyone else. This was a bit of an… awkward way to get to know someone but she needed her freedom; which is ironic to find it in the confines of marriage. But hey, the world is a weird thing anyway. The outlaw Ravager prince of one of the most deadly people in the galaxy and the warrior princess of a lost race surrounded by misfits that only they could find comfort in; when it really comes down it. They were rather blessed to so awkwardly run into each other.

His strange accent got another smile from her and his comment about Rocket made her roll her eyes. “Single or married, the answer is still ‘no’ to that question. It’s just a little difficult to say no to something I’m supposed to idolize so much…” She gave a small shrug, lifting her caramel colored shoulders and letting them fall before looking back down at their hands together. She went from hating the man to legally married; but in their minds they weren’t ‘married’, they were just two people, two friends, helping one of them out by signing a piece of paper. There wasn’t much theatrics of a proposal and neither of them wearing a ring and now they were at the agreement that they could see whoever they wanted. Just two friends helping each other out, and one falling for the other…

“So… how do you want to approach this with the others?” She asked softly, “Rocket wants to date me, Gamora probably wants to shoot me out of the airlock, Groot wants to announce he is Groot and I think Drax might want to throw you a party.”

[Jones Sparrow]

Peter thought about their options. All of the Guardian's reactions would be either really good, or really bad. There really was no telling who would react when he told them that Nikki was now apart of the Guardians of the Galaxy. "Well, we'll throw Rocket in a cage if he gets any ideas, I think Gamora is warming on on you, Groot will most likely declare who he is, and we have a lot of work to do before we can celebrate our not-wedding." Peter said, wiping a tear from her cheek gently with his thumb, not really noticing he did it. He stood up, glancing over at her. "I'll let take it all in.. when you're ready, we're going to talk about how to get back at those mercs that beat us up."

---

"Alright, I have a plan."

"Yeah, I've heard that one before."

"Ignoring that rude comment, we don't stand a chance against these Talon guys. There's just too many of them. And since its our civil duty to take down any bad guys that appear in this galaxy that pose as a threat, we need to stand a chance."

"I'm assuming this is where you're plan comes in." Gamora said with a small smile. Out of everyone on this ship, she had always seen the potential in him, which was assuring when Rocket could be pretty brutal. Peter nodded. "We're going to need to get a hold of Yondu." That made the ship a bit quiet. "You mean the crazy space pirate that raised you, threatens to eat you constantly, and is probably mad to find out that you didn't give him the stone in the first place?"

"That's the one."

"That's risky, Quill. The Ravagers are--"

"The biggest merc group, according to you. So if we get Yondu to help us, say that they have been saying that they're the best, yadda yadda yadda, he'll help. He also has a soft spot for me." Quill added with a nod. "I know its not the best plan, but worst case scenario, I'll be the one that gets yelled and shot at... What, does anyone else have a better idea?" Peter demanded. Everyone shook their heads.

"I am Groot."

"That's a stupid idea! How are we going to get a gun that big?"

"I am Groot." Groot said defensively.

"If we agreed that we had that amount of money, just because you have a lot of money, doesn't mean there is a big enough gun!"

"Okay, okay! Any other ideas?" Peter yelled over them. No one spoke. "then its settled. Time to visit my good ole pal..."

And with that, Peter went to the cock pit to put in the coordinates, judging by this time of the year, they would probably be in the southern quadrant of the Var Nebula. Their favorite place to take a break and drink.

----

Since this ship was technically a Ravager ship, the Ravagers didn't even notice the much smaller ship going in to the docking bay of their very large battle cruiser. parts of it had worn red paint around the ship, the symbol of the Ravagers on the sides, and other battle scars from years of traveling the galaxy. "Are you sure we should do this?" Gamora asked, standing over Peter's shoulder. "Yeah, Yondu likes surprises. He'll love seeing me again!" But he wasn't so sure about that. The only reason Peter didn't notify them was because of the fact that they had Nikki on board now, a very wanted and rare race. If they did a background check on her before they got here, they probably would have been ambushed... That, and he wasn't sure if they would agree to meet them, or if they did, accept. Now that he had the element of surprise, he was likely this would end out nicely... hopefully...

[EasilyAmused]

Nikki took her time joining everyone outside of her room. She changed back into her normal clothes with a pair of blue jeans and a black tank top with her beloved maroon overcoat. Sliding her father’s blade onto her back, she couldn’t help but laugh to herself. She was married now, well not really married married but the paper said they were. “Mom and dad….” She said softly, “I know it’s not the best way to have your daughter married but, well you’d want me to live my life outside of politics. I can promise one thing…” A small smile moved across her full lips as she looked up at the ceiling of her room, “I know I’ll be happy.” Did she mean that she would be happy being free in the galaxy or did she mean she’d be happy with Quill… or both?

She expected there to be some attitude about the situation but what she didn’t expect was to find Gamora standing outside of her room. “Look I get why you did it…” She began pulling herself off of the wall and facing Nikki, “And while I won’t say that I’m happy about it, I will say that I’m impressed you thought of it.” She said with a nod. “Maybe Quill was right; you really are one of us.” There was a silent exchange of understanding between the two women before Gamora began to tell Nikki of Quill’s ridiculous plan….

“What was he thinking?!” Nikki said at first before crunching her eyebrows together in thought… “That’s brilliant.” She said quietly before looking up at Gamora. “No one in the galaxy are going to know the location of the Talon’s except the only people who would be able to stop them… aside from you guys.” Bringing her hand up to her chin she began to tap it with her pointer finger. “From what I hear, he’s not too happy with you guys. Not only is he made about the stone, but he also doesn’t feel like you guys are any good at your jobs…” Before Gamora could make some form of a comment, Nikki held up her hand. “Listen it’s a jealousy thing; anyone in the bounty hunter business likes to think that you guys can’t do your jobs so we feel better about ourselves.”

“But what if…”
“He thought you guys could do your job… not just do your job but do something no one else could do… he might take you seriously if you guys came in and said that the Talons were a threat to them. If they think their reputation is in trouble of being the baddest group out there…”Her gaze shifted back to Gamora before holding up her hand, “No offense,” After Gamora gave a shrug Nikki continued, “He’d be more inclined to help, especially if...”

“He thought his reputation is in danger.” Gamora said finishing her sentence. “But we would need something to show off to prove that we are good at our jobs, so if we were to show up saying the Talons would be causing problems; he’d take it seriously.” To that, all Nikki could do was smirk.

------

The Ravager ship was filled with a bunch of misfits men from all races of aliens around the galaxy under one roof with one ultimate goal; to make money. The ship was a buzz of booze and card games. Laughing, drinking and a bit of hitting one another echoed around the bay of the ship. The group talked about many things; money, women, drinks, money, gambling, women and more money. Hoots and howlers echoed along with groans of disappointment from the losers of the card games. That was until one of the doors slid open.

The groups’ attention turned up expecting to see the leader venture in but instead there was nothing for a moment… that was until a body slid in. The curvy body of a woman entered the party room. Cigars fell to the floor in surprise, drinks dripped out of opened mouths and card hands were forgotten the instant the shapely woman got inside. “Hello boys.” The blue haired woman said with a smile across her full lips. The rocking of her hips as she walked in caused heads to sway with the motion. Silence filled the room as the men stared at her, shocked of the woman’s presence, half lust filled and very few realizing exactly who she was.

One man finally got to his feet, the second in command to Yondu. His hands placed gently until his hips as he scanned her up and down. The smile across his face showed his highly un-kept teeth, “Well hello gorgeous.” He said with his smile pushing harder into a grin. “You’re quite a sight.”

“Thank you.” Nikki said in a causal tone as she stopped her walk and stood a good couple feet away from the large group of men.

“Both beauty and the dollar sign that hangs above your head; I’m half tempted to keep you for myself….” There were shouts of disagreement around the room of ‘no she’s mine’, and ‘yeah right, she belongs to me’. The ‘I saw her first game’ came into effect almost instantly until Nikki coughed lightly to get their attention. “So you know who I am?”

“Never caught your name beautiful…” The standing one said, “But I know what you are and exactly how much is offered for you.”

“Then you know that you can’t have me…” At that moment everyone was on their feet, as if accepting the challenge to see who could get her first. Guns began getting pulled out but the decision of who to aim it at became confusion. The rotation of having the guns aimed at her, then the guns aimed at each other.

“Boys boys boys…” She said getting all their attention, guns aimed at her. “You can’t have me… because I’m already taken.” With that and a wave of her hands she used her telekinesis to pull the guns from the guys’ hands and had them all facing the men. Loaded and locked the men who seemed rather surprised; holding up their hands at their own guns.

Another body slid inside the room. A green skinned woman slid up behind Nikki with a grace much like her friend’s. “Nikki, let them go…” She said softly to the blue haired girl who seemed to be smirking. Gamora reached her hand up and placed it gently unto Nikki’s. “Don’t… make me….” The woman said in a harsh manner which caused Nikki to flinch. The Metra threw the guns behind the two women completely out of their reach. Gamora took a hold of Nikki’s arm and twisted it behind her back. “Stay calm, we only let you out for a moment….”
Nikki shot Gamora an evil glare before looking back at the men. “Look how she treats me…” She said, pity to her voice, a pout on her face and the men seeming to fall for it. Gamora turned the blue haired girl around and placed a thin black wrist band on each of her wrists, “Damnit…” She muttered under her breath before Gamora let her go. Nikki attempted to pull off the bracelets but they wouldn’t budge while glaring at the green skinned woman.

“We’d like to speak to Yondu.” Gamora said looking over at Nikki before looking back at them, “Don’t worry she’s harmless.” Which was true, she was harmless. But the death glare from Nikki to Gamora would say otherwise for anyone who didn’t know Nikki as well as the group did. Nikki needed to seem dangerous, need to seem innocent and needed to seem caught. And the girls felt like they got that across pretty damn well. The details of their little plan wasn’t given out completely but they did inform the group that Nikki would act like she was being a hostage and transported to the Collector when they saw fit. And pointed out that ‘capturing’ one of the biggest prizes currently in the galaxy would show Yondu they really were good enough to hold the title of Guardians of the Galaxy but still be bounty hunters…

[Jones Sparrow]

Yondu was surprised by many things. One was that the Metra walked in with confidence, and no fear. Another one was the fact that the green skinned assassin walked in and put her in her place, but the most surprising part is what made Yondu only smirk. he didn't flinch once when she pointed the guns at her. All he had to do was whistle and she would have been taken care of... But those wrist bands and the bounty on her head made him change his mind. "I ain't the one to worry, Pretty Lady." Yondu said, and looking around. "And I also only make deals with the person in charge. Tell me, where is Quill?" His voice was a bit meniacle, and the Ravager boys all started muttering and laughing.

That's when Peter stepped in. "Right here, Yondu." He said, and he immediately got attacked. "Quill! You double crossing son of a snake!" Yondu exploded, giving a sharp whistle, and his golden arrow flying off his hip and going straight to Peter's heart. "I knew I should have let my boys eat you when we picked you up on Terra! you got some nerve coming in my terf, and showin' off your pretty prize." He looked over at her, then back at Quill. "What's stopping my from killing your team off and taking Miss Nikki over here?"

"Because if you kill us..." Peter began, and Gamora lifted up a gun to Nikki's head casually, the Ravagers now pointing guns at not only her, but Peter, screaming. They didn't want to lose this big of a bounty. Gamora was using one of Peter's elemental guns. Due to the genetic coding in its system, no matter how many times Gamora pulled the trigger, it wouldn't fire. It only would in Peter's hands... But the Ravagers didn't know that. "We'll take the bounty with us, AND You'll miss out on the biggest opportunity you guys have ever had."

Yondu stared at him, almost a glare, Peter trying to position himself away from the arrow that was touching his skin. "We've heard that one before, Boy. And now our biggest score is inside some snobby Nova Vault." The Ravagers all grunted in agreement. "We're going to take out the Talons." The murmuring soon stopped, and everyone stared at Peter. "The Talons? Why would we go after a merc group on the other side of the Galaxy?"

"Because if we take them out, you'll be known as the merc group that took out all of your competition. You'll be feared. Powerful. Idolized." Peter said with a smile, his words having that dramatic effect that Quill was good at. Yondu bit his lip, and then the arrow went back to his hip with another sharp whistle, and then giving Quill a giant hug. "I knew you wouldn't come here without a plan, Quill!" He said with laughter, looking at him with a grin. "But we ain't gonna do this for free, Boy... Even if it does make us the baddest merc group in town." He nodded his head over towards Nikki.

"We want her bounty."

"Not gonna happen. You know how long it took to track her down? She took out two of our members of the team. She made him press the gun up to his own head, and... well, I'm sure you can figure out what happened next." He gave a bit of a disgusted face towards Nikki before looking back at Yondu. "And those fancy wrist bands are made that if she gets too far away from us, well.. She doesn't get far." The Ravagers glanced around nervously. "So, if its okay with you, we're going to keep her. And if you refuse we won't hesitate to take her away, or blow her up. So what do you say, Yondu? Will you help us help you?"

Of course there was more to it than them gaining things for them. Once this merc group gets taken care of, the rogue party that tried to kill Nikki (and the Guardians) will have to use their own army if they even want to try to attack again, and although it will give the Ravagers more authority, they aren't much of a threat to anyone if you aren't a criminal... or rich. As he was talking, he only hoped that Nikki, and Gamora were playing along to what Quill was saying. The Ravagers weren't the brightest, but Yondu was actually exceptionally smart, and witty. Quill did learn after him, after all.