#Drax Files

[vertigoartgore]

2006's Annihilation: The Nova Corps Files Vol.1 #1 cover by artist Andrea Di Vito and colorist Laura Villari.

[cavehunting]

rocket, my distrusting touch-starved raccoon, with f!reader

tags: post vol.3, reader’s from earth, reader comforting rocket, kinda fluffy but not really

It started with a comforting touch, much like how Drax had consoled Rocket after Groot sacrificed himself on Xandar

In your case, it was because of a nightmare

Though the High Evolutionary was gone, the team’s encounter with the egomaniac had been Rocket’s first run-in with him since he first escaped the Arête, and with it dredged up memories that had been kept locked away and only ever thought back on with a haze of blurriness

You had been keeping Peter company during his graveyard shift and was heading back to your quarters when you heard a distressed shout followed by a crash coming from Rocket’s bunk

Your steps faltered, debating whether or not to barge in and ask if he was okay

The two of you weren’t close—though you’d like to be—despite the three years you’ve spent together

After the war with Thanos, you had tagged along with Thor and stayed long after the god left, graciously accepting Peter’s invitation to join the family

The team had taken a quick liking to you. You were a good friend and an even better fighter. Nebula didn’t quite trust you at first; she didn’t really understand how you could do what you do and still retain some of that life that poured out of you. And Rocket…

Well, Rocket was respectful… sometimes… when he needed to be

Mostly, he ignored you. Other times, he was just a jerk

And depending on the day, you’d either let it roll off your shoulder or pretended that his words and the state of your relationship didn’t hurt you

“Shit!”

Rocket yelling expletives was not a new thing, but in your head you saw him lying in the med-bay, tubes and wires attached, foaming at the mouth

The events with the High Evolutionary was only but a month ago. Rocket wasn’t fully over it—you weren’t sure if he ever would be. And you, you definitely weren’t over it. The footage from the OrgoCorp file, the sight of Rocket nearly dead

It scared you, it still scares you

So you knocked and entered his room, knowing well enough that Rocket would never have opened the door or even shouted, asking who was bothering him

You first noticed the overturned cup and the pool of water near his bedside. His blanket had been tossed haphazardly to the floor, soaking up some of the liquid

You then met Rocket’s gaze, mirroring his frown—though yours was one of concern

“Rocket?”

Your voice was high-pitched and unsure, causing you to inwardly cringe

Rocket looked away, very much wishing now that he could bury himself under the covers

You walked toward the bed, noting how his ear twitched at the sound of your footsteps, how his brows furrowed and his nose scrunched up

If it were a totally different situation, you very well could have blurted out how cute you found him to his face

“What are ya doing? Get out of my room.”

He spoke with a gruffness that only comes when you stop yourself from crying but your throat still feels thick

You didn’t answer him, not really knowing what to say without sounding awkward. Instead, you cleaned up his mess. You found an extra blanket and draped it over his lap before joining him on the bed, your back against the wall

You figured halfway through cleaning that it wasn’t necessary for the two of you to talk about it. For now, at least. For now, you just wanted to offer your presence. To be somebody who’s there without making Rocket feel embarrassed about needing somebody in the first place

Rocket had been silent. His arms might’ve been crossed and his brows still tightly knit, but he hadn’t told you to leave a second time

You thought of telling him something funny but found your supply of witty remarks running low. You opened and closed your mouth, trying to muster any kind of words that weren’t “Are you okay?” and “You wanna talk about it?”

“You want to watch one of those Terran movies you like?”

You stopped fiddling with the hem of your sweater, and a smile replaced your cautious expression.

Of all the things he could have said or done…

You didn’t hesitate, lest he take back the rare offer.

“Sure.”

You didn’t do this often. Rations were low and trips to Earth were few and far between. But you wanted this to be special for him, so you grabbed Rocket by the hand, earning a grunt, and led him to your room.

Rocket had never stepped foot inside your quarters, let alone ten feet of it. He found it uniquely Terran, but even more uniquely you

Lamps and string lights you either brought with you from home or found in a junk shop, posters from favorite bands, television shows, and movies, plants—some more loved than others—and books you’ve read as a child

It was starkly different from Quill’s bunk, that’s for sure. Smelled better, too

You shifted some pillows and opened your laptop

“Make yourself comfortable. I’m just gonna grab some things. You can look for a movie in the meantime.”

You gave him a smile and was even bold enough to run a hand through his fur to the top of his spine. He was soft, and he didn’t flinch or bite at you.

You returned five minutes later with a bowl of popcorn, the last of your microwaveable packets, and found Rocket toying with a stuffed animal Drax had gifted you. It was quite ugly but the sentiment was there.

You nestled yourself close to the raccoon, pulled the covers up, placed the bowl between you two, and pressed play.

You woke up to heavy breathing. Next to you was Rocket’s form, his face twisted in anguish and his limbs twitching

You glimpsed your surroundings. A small desk lamp across the room was still on, your laptop and empty bowl were discarded on the floor, the covers had been kicked off by Rocket and covered only a portion of your legs now

You don’t remember falling asleep or even moving your things off the bed

You inched closer to him and rested your hand on his back, rubbing soothing circles. You felt the metal pieces embedded in his body

“Rocket. Rocket, you’re okay.”

Your voice was but a whisper, but his breath caught and his eyes opened to meet yours

“Hey. It’s still a little early. Peter’s still at the wheel, though he’s probably fallen asleep by now,” you chuckled. “It’s not your shift for a while. We should get some more sleep while we can.”

You didn’t want to bring up the nightmare or the fact that you both fell asleep together or the fact that you were touching him and he hadn’t shrugged you off yet

But you made sure to remind him of where he was, who he was with. The Arête’s no more. Rocket’s just on a ship, going who knows where with his friends, answering distress calls and saving the galaxy

He didn’t speak. His eyes darted from your face to your steadily rising and falling chest to the hand that rested on his back. With each second, his vision grew clearer and further away from his wretched memories

“Stay with me?”

You asked for his sake. Rocket nodded ever so slightly and shifted so that his back was to your chest, his head tucked under your chin.

You raised the covers and loosely draped your arm over his side. You didn’t want him to feel any more suffocated than he might’ve felt when dreaming.

“You’re alright.”

[phoebepheebsphibs]

NOT THE SHAKY LINES AROUND DRAXUM TOO (That alone gives me angst pangs 😭) HHHHHHHHHHHHHHH I'm perfectly normal about this guy what do you mean :')

HECK YEAH HUG UR SON GOAT DAD

This does beg the question though- have you thought about where Draxum was during the invasion? (within the lore/au/etc of this story/comic, at least?) Why WASN'T he there when Mikey almost died?

food for thought :3 and fun

I love this comic so much 😭 uyghjdfqwseuhghugsivyjbhkjdcvb

(Real quick cuz I love this detail— but if you look closely you can see that the shaky lines surround just Draxum in one panel… but then spread to Mikey too when he starts crying.)

I heard one theory that Drax was out of the country getting magic supplies and junk… I like that idea, of him traveling to Japan to learn about ancient Yokai culture and legends…

But personally I think he was just. Busy. Or trapped. Similar to how Cass was there, she just wasn’t ���there” there. I assume that he was either at the school, at his apartment, or down in the Hidden City somewhere. He probably wanted to find the guys but got caught up in the Krang attacking wherever he was, and didn’t get a chance to call them or check in until a fair amount of time after everything was done.

{For my comic of Draxum’s Nightmare, however, I like to think that he was doing nothing in particular. He was relaxing, enjoying his day, plotting some mad scientist stuff, and didn’t even hear about the Krang attack until hours after it was over. He was maybe in the Hidden City shopping and renovating his lab, doing some fine work, maybe getting a new robe too, and of course filing paperwork with the Council of Heads so that he was no longer a wanted (goat) man. And then when he goes home to his apartment, via portal of course, he turns on the TV and sees the news. His heart drops as he realizes what he missed. Draxum is not a begging man, but he actually begins to pray that they all made it through safely or survived, because of course they’d be in the middle of it. His phone blows up with texts from April and Mikey and Donnie and Raph and probably not Leo except for a meme that says “I lived, sheep man!” with him giving a peace sign while he lies on a stretcher with a leg cast and arm cast and enough bandages to qualify him as a mummy. But they lived. They are okay… mostly. They didn’t need his help after all. Sure, it might’ve been easier if he was there, but there’s no point in dwelling on the “what ifs”, especially since it all worked out. Splinter calls. Cassandra calls. Mikey calls. He goes to help them and hears about the entire battle… not like he was worried, he’s seen what they can do— MIKEY DID WHAT.

Oh.

Oh heads.

And his greatest fear haunts him. Because… he wasn’t there. And one small mistake could have cost the life of the one Hamato that saved him… changed him… accepted him. When no one else did. When everyone saw him as either a failure or a villain… and he could have lost that one precious child.

And he could have helped, he knew what to do! He knew how to use that kind of magic and he’s had experience opening portals to other dimensions!! HE COULD HAVE DONE IT BUT MIKEY DID AND HE HAD NO IDEA HOW TO DO THAT AND IT SHOULD HAVE KILLED HIM—! …Mikey should be dead at this very moment.

And Draxum would never have had a chance to say goodbye.}

I hope you enjoyed that haha

:D

[averagewriter-inthedark]

Love Across the Galaxy 🌌 | Helmut Zemo Imagine

Contains spoilers for GOTG Vol.3

Link to my Marvel masterlist

Characters & Pairings: Baron Helmut Zemo x Roman Goddess/Guardians!reader (romantic), The Thunderbolts—Baron Zemo, Bucky Barnes, Thaddeus Ross, Valentina Alegra De Fontaine, John Walker, Ghost, Justin Hammer, Taskmaster, Yelena, & Red Hulk (platonic), The Guardians of the Galaxy—Quill, Mantis, Nebula, Drax, Rocket, Groot, Kraglin, & Cosmo (platonic)

Content Warnings: profanity, light angst, fluff, mentions of death, fighting & violence, spoilers for GOTG Vol.3 (don’t read if you haven’t seen it!) | female!reader (she/her) | wc: 4.9k

Requested 📨 yes/no (rules for requests)

Premise: In which Baron Helmut Zemo, hater of the Avengers and desire to rid the planet of enhanced beings, becomes a member of the antihero team led by General Thaddeus Ross & CIA Director Valentina Fontaine where he meets the legendary group of misfits turned Guardians of the freakin Galaxy and loses his heart to a Goddess with a love for 80s music and talent for cutting of limbs.

Note: GOTG Vol 3 has permanently altered my brain chemistry and I cannot stop thinking about it. Truly the best film since Endgame & it’s inspired me cause I’m also back to loving Zemo again. I refuse to believe Marvel would give us a Thunderbolts film w/o Zemo so I will make sure he’s in this team.

After learning about all the Gods in Thor: Love & Thunder, picture you are Minerva, the Roman Goddess of Wisdom & War (Roman equivalent to the Greek’s Athena) and has cosmic powers similar to the Eternal’s Thena and has been with the Guardians since the events of the first GOTG film.

————————

Fall 2023

“I don’t see why we need these people to help us,” Zemo rolled his eyes, strolling beside General Ross with the rest of the team around them. Once outside the cool breeze hit him, ruffling the lapels of his coat as his eyes squinted from the bright light.

Ross lets out a tired sigh, “Because, Zemo, as much as it galls me to admit it this threat is far beyond what we can deal with. It’s not terrestrial and chances are these…” he had trouble coming up with the word, “let’s just say they’re more experienced for this situation.”

They all stop before the flight line. It’s clear all around them with no sign of an approaching vessel.

“Who are these guys again?” Justin Hammer popped some jelly beans in his mouth. John looks down at the file in his hands, making a face as he does.

“They call themselves…The Guardians of the Galaxy.”

“Oh God,” Bucky moans, immediately making mental notes to protect his mental arm knowing a certain talking animal was on the hunt for it. He was gonna have to sleep with one eye open.

Zemo raises his brow, “Friends of yours, James?” Bucky is not pleased by the assumption.

“I wouldn’t call them that.”

“Aren’t they part of the Avengers?” Ava’s tone is slightly disapproving. While Scott Lang and the Pym/Van Dyne’s helped her, she still got bad rep despite doing what she did to survive.

Zemo, not happy with the idea of working with Avengers, snatches the file from Walker.

“Not technically,” Ross replies while Zemo reads over the page. “They arrived with Thor in 2018 against the first battle with Thanos, remained an associate to the team while continuing whatever the hell it is they do in space, and returned in 2023 to defeat the purple bastard once and for all.”

“Did you fight with them, Bucky?” Yelena asks from beside the soldier.

“Yeah,” the memory appears in his mind. Specifically where he grabbed Rocket by the scruff and spun them in circles to cover more area as they fired off their guns. “Our interactions were brief…but memorable.”

The Baron had seen many things over the years, like the rest of humanity with the formation of the Avengers and reveal of intergalactic and enhanced beings, but to stay he wasn’t thinking, ‘what the fuck?’ by the picture in front of him would be a lie.

An earthling turned ravager, a blue mercenary, a woman with antennas, a genetically engineered raccoon, a living tree, a gray alien that could take down Thor, a man with a metal Mohawk, a telekinetic dog, and an exiled sword wielding Goddess. All misfits and outcasts, mostly space criminals turned superhero guardians of the cosmos.

Well….they were quite the bunch.

“They are not still with the Avengers, I take it?” Zemo wanders around, eyes lingering on the Goddess. White streaks adorned her natural hair color, eyes gold and lips painted with what appeared to be a permanent smirk. She wore a gold and white headpiece that had an owl extending its wings.

Name/Alias: Minerva, Goddess of War; Race: Deity; Planet of Origin: Caelum; Age: approx. 2500 yrs (39 Earth yrs); Occupation: Warrior/Mercenary/Defender of the Andromeda Galaxy; Allegiance: The High Council of Caelum (formerly), Guardians of the Galaxy, Thor, God of Thunder, The Avengers (formerly); Abilities: Cosmic manipulation, enhanced strength, agility, speed, & durability, thermal detection & mental teleportation; Specialization: artillery and battle strategy.

Ross let out a sigh, “only when the planet is about to go to shit due to an intergalactic threat. Which we’ve now got on our hands, but considering the Avengers are all on sabbatical I’m sending you in,” he checks his watch, “but I need all the extra hands and like I said, they’re experienced.”

Zemo stares at the blank sky, “How will we know they've arrived?”

“Believe me,” Ross mutters under his breath. “You’ll know.”

A loud rumbling noise caught everyone’s attention, gazes turning upward as a hexagon shaped breech in the sky revealed a very large spaceship in its wake, followed by the distinct lyrics of AC/DC’s ‘Back to Black.’

“Back in black. I hit the sack. I’ve been too long, I’m glad to be back. Yes, I’m let loose. From the noose. That’s kept me hanging about.”

“Oh my,” Yelena breathed out, hair flying back from the gust of wind. Zemo lifted a hand to cover his face from the leaves, as did the others, many wide eyed.

“I’ve been looking at the sky. ‘Cause it’s gettin’ me high. Forget the hearse ‘cause I never die. I got nine lives. Cat’s eyes. Abusin’ every one of them running wild.”

“Great song,” Justin voiced, grinning from ear to ear. The ship made its descent, music getting louder.

“‘Cause I’m back. Yes, I’m back. Well, I’m back,” it approached the tarmac, “Yes, I’m back. Well, I’m back, back.” wheels hit the tarmac, engine powering down but music still blasting, “Well, I’m back in black,” the ship doors opened, revealing steps extending to the ground, “Yes, I’m back in black.”

It was almost like a scene from a movie. Slow-motion if one will by how the Guardians exited their ship and stepped foot on the tarmac with AC/DC on full volume. All dressed in their new suits of red and blue leather with the Ravager flames on the chest.

Arriving in style.

Quill led with the rest flanking his sides. Drax munching on snacks while Nebula looked menacing and Groot towered over everyone. Cosmo had her tongue out in excitement, Rocket carrying his gun strapped to his back. Mantis’s chin held high, like she was on top of the world and Kraglin trying not to appear lost. Lastly Minerva was drinking a caprisun, Ray Bans covering her gold eyes.

Zemo tilts his head in amusement at the sight. He expected the Goddess, of war nonetheless, to have a more menacing approach like Nebula considering her reputation. But she was just as relaxed and laid back as Drax.

The Guardians walked several paces until they were directly in front of the Thunderbolts. It was then the music stopped, Ross being the first to address them. “You sure know how to make an entrance.”

Quill gave a smug grin, “We know.” Hands go to his hips, “You’re wearing a suit so you must be the boss man. Although I believe there’s also a boss lady we’re here to do business with.”

“Director Fontaine is currently occupied. She’ll be arriving in the morning.”

“I assume we won’t be knowing a damn thing until that happens, huh?”

Ross tightens his lips, “You assume correctly.”

“I told you we should’ve handled it on our own,” Minerva’s glances to Quill annoyed. Surprised by her voice, Zemo's eyebrows raised at her sudden input. Her accent was slightly Italian given her mythological origin is Roman.

Quill clicked his tongue, “We don’t have authority here, Minnie.”

“Midgard is part of the Andromeda Galaxy. Technically we should.”

Now the man was giving her a pointed look after Ross’s body language turned defensive, “I’d rather not get our asses thrown in Earth’s prison system. We go by the rules—the ones we established.”

Minerva grumbles under her breath, finishing the last remnants of her juice pouch, “Would’ve finished the job faster. They wouldn’t even know we were here.”

“Okay well, we’re doing things this way. We’re here as a team to work with a team. Right, Mr. Secretary?”

Ross’ disapproving eyes linger on Minerva, who in return rolls her own, before turning his attention back to Quill, “Yes. Now let’s move on shall we?”

He lets out a breath of relief, “Agreed.” Bidding a warning look to each of his teammates, they all wait for what the man in the suit has to say. Ross extends a hand to the people on either side of him.

“This is my team. All with different levels of skill and experience. Justin Hammer is our tech and weapons specialist,” Justin gives a wave, “Yelena Belova,” Ross points to the blonde in a white tactical suit, “former Black Widow and master assassin.” At the mention of Black Widow Rocket, Nebula, and Minerva all tense, faces becoming solemn at the memory of Natasha. They were the three remaining Guardians during the blip, becoming close with the Avenger.

“Ava Starr, she can phase through anything,” they all look impressed, finding the talent cool. “Antonia Dreykov, who we like to call Taskmaster.”

“Why’s that?” Kraglin asked intrigued.

“She has photographic reflexes and can mimic your fighting powers. Basically use your own moves against you.”

“Niceeee,” all the Guardians echo. Ross points to the two individuals in between Zemo and Yelena.

“Our super soldiers, Captain John Walker and I believe you all know Sergeant Barnes.” Bucky tightens his mouth with a curt nod.

“You still got that arm on ya?” Rocket muses, earning a nudge—well more like a kick—from Minerva. The rest of the Thunderbolts besides Bucky all become wide-eyed at the talking Raccoon…even though it said on the file he could.

But how the fuck else were they suppose to react to a talking raccoon?

All Bucky does is glare, “Don’t even think about it.” Rocket shrugs, “Worth a shot.”

“Why is that one carrying a giant frisbee?” Drax’s mouth is filled with Zargnuts. Walker, the man in question, becomes visibly offended.

“It’s a shield not a frisbee.” Zemo bites back a smirk at the soldier's tone. Not to mention the Guardians' reactions were priceless.

“A shield?” Mantis repeats confused.

“It’s a frisbee,” Drax mumbles.

“Like that circular object Minerva conjures to deflect attacks,” Nebula tiredly explains. Mantis’s mouth forms the shape of an ‘o’.

“And lastly,” Ross sounds just as exhausted as the cyborg, “Baron Helmut Zemo, former intelligence operative.”

“I am Groot,” Zemo’s attention goes to the tree alien, confused by his words. Minerva, seeing his expression, addresses it, “He says he likes your fancy cape.”

‘Cape?’ He thinks, but doesn’t comment on it and his perplexed reaction makes Minerva smirk. Instead Zemo says, “Well, I appreciate the compliment. Thank you.” Groot’s pleased, grinning wide like a child.

It’s then Quill’s turn to formally introduce the Guardians. The Thunderbolts bite back their own amusement at the nicknames and surprise of hearing the dog, Cosmo, speak through her suit with a distinct Russian accent. Afterwards Ross leads them all into the hangar, Minerva removing her sunglasses now that she was inside, allowing her gold eyes to be visible.

From there they all interact, awkwardly for the most part as they have no idea what the hell to do as they wait for further instruction. It soon becomes bickering and even challenging someone in hand-to-hand combat.

Well, what can you expect when a team of heroes meet a team of villains/anti heroes? Rivalry at its finest.

“Any day now, Quill,” Minerva groans, relaxing her stance. Across from her several feet away was Walker, confused by why she was taking so long to attack. They were standing in the middle of the squared off area with the teams surrounding them, but giving enough space to avoid being in the crossfire. Quill was scrolling through his Walkmen.

“What’s he doing?” Zemo whispers to Kraglin, eyes flicking back and forth from the human Guardian and the Goddess.

“Trying to find a good fight song. You know, get the vibes going.” Out on the square Minerva lets out a loud huff signaling her annoyance was increasing.

“Just give me another second—.”

“Quill.”

“I almost got it.”

“Pick a goddamn song!”

“Fine!” Quill shouts, randomly selecting the first one his finger hits. A second later Duran Duran’s ‘Hungry Like the Wolf,’ blasts through all the speakers attached to the Guardians arms. The antiheroes become perplexed, while also noting the song choice. Justin and Yelena started to bop their heads.

“Darken the city, night is a wire. Steam in the subway, earth is afire. (Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do)”

Minerva smirked, retaking her stance. As she lifts her hands, cosmic energy around her consorts to physical matter, taking the shape of a spear and shield in either hand. Wide eyes take over the Thunderbolts.

“Woman, you want me, give me a sign. And catch my breathing even closer behind. (Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do)”

“Wow,” Justin exhales. “In touch with the ground. I’m on the hunt, I’m after you.”

“That’s so cool,” Yelena muses, others muttering in agreement. “Smell like the sound, I'm lost in the crowd. And I’m hungry like the wolf.” Keeping his admirations to himself, Zemo watches the scene unfold in silence.

“First one to step or get thrown out of the square loses,” Bucky shouts over the music, “Ready….” Walker clutches the strap of his shield, Minerva twirling her spear once, “Fight!”

“Stalked in the forest, too close to hide,” Walker lets out a cry, charging at the Goddess. “I’ll be upon you by the moonlight side (Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do,” Minerva blocks his attack, pushing back slightly only to crouch to swipe at his legs, “High blood drumming on your skin, it’s so tight,” Walker dodges her spear, but fails to avoid her kick to his chest, sending him backward. “You feel my heat, I’m just a moment behind.” He brings his shield up in time as her spear barrels down at him. “Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do.”

They continue their one-on-one for several minutes, both coming close to getting the other out of the square and the song changing to ‘Cherry Bomb’ by The Runaways—a favorite amongst the Guardians. The entire time Zemo was mesmerized to say the least. Every move she made was effortless, showcasing strengths and ability to predict Walker's moves.

He hadn’t felt such attraction to a woman in so long. And here he was experiencing a feeling that was almost unfamiliar.

Ultimately Minerva wins the battle in what one would call a divine move. At the peak of the song, Minerva’s golden eyes glow bright resulting in the eyes of the owl headpiece to also glow and become animated. It takes form, coming to life and soars straight at Walker, throwing him off by covering his face.

“What the—uuugh!!” He’s flying through the air, back meeting the harsh ground with an audible groan. The owl leaves him, returning to Minerva and consorting back into a headpiece. When it does her eyes dim back to their normal hue. Her team broke out into whistles and hollars, meanwhile Walker’s were unimpressed.

“Guardians for the win!” Rocket cheered.

“I am Groot!”

“Never underestimate the power of Duran Duran!”

Minerva helps Walker up, “Not bad, soldier.” As she turns to head off the pad, her eyes lock with Zemo’s and a wink is sent his way. Heat rises in the Baron, glancing away to hide his smirk.

Oh boy, trouble was on the horizon.

Next Yelena went against Nebula. Their fight was even more intense and nearly ended in a draw. Eventually Yelena overpowered the cyborg and got her to step out of the square. It was a tie. Groot and Rocket teamed up against Ross in the form of the Red Hulk—which took a lot of convincing—the two claiming the win after fooling the General. Taskmaster beat out Quill, handing his ass to him which had the Guardians in a heap of laughter.

“I enjoyed that more than I should have,” Minerva teases, crossing her arms as she takes a spot beside Zemo. He glances at her, mirroring her expression.

“Not a common occurrence for your friend to lose a fight?”

She scoffs, “You’d be surprised by his record.”

Lastly Bucky went toe-to-toe with Drax, and of course Rocket had to yell, “Take his arm and give it to me!” And well….it ended with them tackling each other out of the square.They didn’t know who won at that point, so the teams were tied 2-2 initiating a debate on who should be crowned the best.

“Okay, let’s call it a day,” Ross announces, ending the squabbling between the groups. “Night’s upon us and frankly I could use a drink. We’ll return here first thing in the morning—7am sharp to discuss the threat and where to go,” he turns to Quill, “we’ve got sleeping quarters arranged for you all if you please. Otherwise my guess is you’ll remain in your ship?”

About an hour later, after both teams settled for the night, Zemo decided to take a walk around the flight line. It became a habit of his since joining the Thunderbolts. A way to clear his mind after a long day of briefings and training. He basked in the peace that came with being alone, but there were times he felt lonely and longing for company to share the peace with.

Ten years since losing his family and the pain never strayed. Yet, he managed to live with it. He accomplished his goal in 2016 when he tore apart the Avengers. Likely is to blame for the loss against Thanos resulting in half of the universe’s population turning into dust for five years.

Did he feel remorse for the consequences of his actions? Possibly. Did he regret it? No. At this rate he’s accepted the reputation he painted himself to be.

“Zemo, correct?” The sudden intrusion spooked the Baron, jumping slightly by the glowing eyes in the darkness. A moment later Minerva stepped into the lighting, eyes dimming to normal. She was still in her suit, though her hair was pulled back, white streaks seeping through the natural color.

“Yes, but you may call me Helmut,” he replied, nodding in greeting to the Goddess.

“Helmut,” she tests the name, “like the headwear people use when they ride bikes or spacesuits?”

“That’s one way to look at it, but yes I suppose so.”

“Interesting. What brings you out this late in the evening?”

He shrugs, “wanted to get away from the constant complaining of my comrades,” eyes go to the sky, “and I like to admire the stars.” Minerva moves to his right, glancing up as well.

“They’re much more incredible up close.” He peers down at her, not bothering to question her judgment. She lives in space after all.

“I bet so. I’m sure the view from here is nothing compared to what you’ve witnessed.”

She shrugs, “These stars you don’t even know if they’re still alive. It took years—possibly millions—for the light to reach Earth.” Zemo looks back up, focusing on the North Star.

“For all we know they burnt out ages ago.”

Their eyes connect, Zemo feeling a weight on his chest by the intensity of her gaze. It’s followed by unease when she says, “Natasha told me about you.”

Instantly he looks away, feeling an unfamiliar wave of dread. “Ah.” Here was a discussion he was not expecting, nor willing, to have.

But Minerva didn’t show criticism. In fact, her gaze and tone resembled understanding. “How do you do it?” The question took him aback.

“Do what, exactly?”

“Align yourself with people who go against what you stand for?” Minerva’s tone wasn’t condescending at all, only curious. “Most of your team are enhanced individuals—two are super soldiers to be exact. You went to many lengths to disband the Avengers and put an end to superheroes,” there’s a slight tilt of her head, eyeing the Baron with intrigue, “but you join a group consisting of people who fall between the spectrum of hero and villain where most are the exact thing you wished to eradicate. Not to mention led by two people you wouldn’t say you share similar moral values with. Why join them?”

For the first time in his life, Zemo was at a loss for words. Not a single word uttered as he tried to comprehend what Minerva had just confronted him with. How could he explain? Hell, he didn’t even know the real truth other than wanting to stay out of his cell. A big price to pay in exchange for freedom.

Minerva spoke again before he could respond, “I once committed an act similar to you,” the surprise is evident on Zemo, “Vengeance against those who were responsible for the death of my loved ones. It’s why I was exiled,” a frown appears, her attention returning to the stars. “So I understand you, probably better than anyone here. Understand why you committed those acts to destroy the Avengers. I don’t fault you for what you did—if I did it would make me a hypocrite. You’re not the villain Ross and the Avengers made you out to be.”

“How so?” His voice is strained, “what have you lost?” He didn’t mean to come off as defensive, but the conversation was bringing up emotions Zemo didn’t want to face.

“As Goddess of War all I knew was bloodshed. How to prevent it and how to fight it. Battle strategy was my domain, and the High Council knew better than to question my judgment,” she releases an exhale, “but Mars, the God of War and my brother, was my ultimate rival. He hated how much our father doted on me and agreed with plans I coordinated. It made him feel inferior. He’d do anything to prove himself.” Her tone remains neutral despite the painful memory surfacing.

Zemo remained quiet, picturing the scene as Minerva relayed it. Though stoic the Baron could see the pain and sadness lurking behind her eyes. Managing it as best she could for the sake of her friends. Who knows how many years it’d been since she lost whoever it was close to her. But the hole would always remain.

“To put it short,” she started again, bidding a glance, “Our home was under attack and his rash decision to slow down the enemy led to the death of my family—my husband and children.” Sympathy arose in the Baron, understanding her anguish, “An intentional move on Mars’ part because he believed I wouldn’t be fit to remain on the High Council after stuffing such a loss, therefore he would take my place as Head Commander of our armies and my father’s second Command.”

“He wasn’t exiled?” The question left Zemo before he could stop it. Confused by how the God avoided persecution for his crime, Minvera was shunned. “Your family was targeted.”

Minerva’s smile was bitter, “because their deaths were a result of war, the High Council viewed it as collateral. They failed to see Mars’ responsibility, believing he didn’t intend to kill them. So, I took it upon myself to bring justice. Not only to Mars but also the High Council.” Her smile fell once more, “I made sure they would pay. And they did, but it was far from over after finishing the job. Those who survived didn’t hesitate to throw me out to the wolves once I was contained.”

Zemo nods his head, “where did you go afterward if you don’t mind me asking?”

“I was imprisoned on Xandar for some time,” well they certainly had some things in common, “Once I escaped I became what your people would call a bounty hunter. Where it led me to meeting those clowns I now call my family,” she pauses before adding, “and escaping prison for a second time. Only it was to save the Galaxy.”

The laugh that escapes Zemo surprises him, “I guess it all worked out then.” Once more they lock eyes, twinkling against the stars shining down above.

“I suppose it did.”

Three Years Later

Zemo raced out the door the moment he awoke to rumbling that shook the foundation of his home. After three years he’d recognize the sound in an instant, only this time it was without warning.

An action that rarely occurred.

Throwing on his coat and house slippers, the clock read 2:30 am, flooding the Baron with worry. ‘What is she doing here at this hour?”

Usually when Minerva drops in she gives Zemo a heads up. A day or two’s notice, but recently he couldn’t get a hold of her and passed it off as the Guardians on a job. With the unexpected visit, so late at night, Zemo instantly knew something was wrong.

Hurrying out to the front lawn right as her ship landed, Zemo jogged to where the stairs extended. When they did, the doors revealed his Goddess, still wearing her suit, standing before him. Zemo noted the exhaustion painting her demeanor. Dark circles beneath her eyes, which appeared dimmer than usual, and scars indicating recently healed wounds.

His arms are around her the moment she’s within distance, her own around his neck, “This is a surprise.”

“Sorry I didn’t call,” the exhaustion was evident in her voice. Barely above a whisper causing Zemo to tighten his hold.

“It’s alright, darling. I’m just glad to see you are okay,” his hand runs along her hair, “wanna tell me what happened?” He hears her sniff, increasing his dread, “Close call?”

“Too many,” her voice cracks and there’s a pause. “We almost lost Rocket. We saved him thankfully, but then we nearly lost Peter. And I almost—,” she stops short, not wanting to relive her near death experience. “This was…it was too much for all of us, Helmut.” A kiss is pressed to her head, offering comfort.

“Let’s get you inside, mein schatz.” Zemo leads Minerva into the home, sitting her in the living room while he goes to put a kettle on the stove. Filling two cups of cherry blossom tea, Minerva’s favorite, he joins her in the living room.

After taking her first sip of the brew, Minerva removes the headpiece from her hair and makes herself comfortable before giving Zemo a play-by-play of the past three days. He stays quiet, listening intently but visibly reacts with each awful detail Minvera relays to him. From the unexpected attack from Adam Warlock, to the disgusting abuse Rocket endured at the hands of the High Evolutionary, to Quill nearly imploading in space had it not been for Adam’s change of heart.

Zemo’s knuckles turned white when Minerva spoke of what happened to her. Anger consumed him and he wished he had been there to protect her. Seeing his distress Minerva placed her hand on his, gently squeezing, “I’m okay, Helmut. I’m here now and we all made it out. There were many close calls, but we’re all alive and that’s what matters.”

Taking her hand, Zemo brought it up to brush his lips against her fingers, softly kissing her knuckles. “I don’t know what I would've done if I lost you, Minnie. I—-,” he stops himself to exhale, squeezing his eyes shut, “I would’ve found a way to fly across the galaxy to avenge you.”

“I know you would,” she murmurs, removing her hand but positioning herself in his lap. Arms snake around his neck, pulling him so they were inches apart. “I’d expect nothing less. Also I’d be a hypocrite considering I would do the same for you.” A playful smirk formed, “I was already plotting when Ross let you get captured by those bastards last year. Had it ended any other way, Ross would cease to exist.”

Zemo snickered, “I see we haven’t really changed completely despite our friends believing the opposite. Neither of us hesitating to return to old ways if it comes down to such circumstances.”

She smirks, “No, I don’t suppose we haven’t.”

“What a pair we are,” leaning in, his lips meet hers in a soft caress. Warmth seeping through his veins. That effortless high he believed he’d never have again after the loss of his family.

But he found it with a Goddess in the stars. Where love swept across the galaxy.

When they pull away after a moment, Zemo keeps his forehead against hers. Gold meeting brown. “I’m not sure I can let you go now, liebling. At least not for a while.”

“You never have to anymore,” her words have him startled, the man pulling away slightly to get a better look at her.

“What are you saying?”

Minerva’s gaze turns soft, though there’s slight nervousness, “After everything we all realized something. We found the family we were searching for, but some of us needed to find ourselves. Peter’s here on Earth to find his grandfather. Mantis is off on her own adventure. Drax and Nebula are on Knowhere to help raise the children we saved from the High Evolutionary. Rocket and Groot are leading a new era of the Guardians. And me,” she stops, emitting a gaze full of love that takes Zemo’s breath away. “I’d like to be here. With you, Helmut. If you’ll have me.”

If his heart could explode from the happiness Zemo was feeling it would. Tears were threatening to prick his eyes, the Baron willing himself to remain composed. “Oh, Schatz,” he croaked, cupping the side of her jaw. “I should be the one asking you that. Of course I’ll have you. I love you more than every star in the galaxy.” With that he kisses her, putting all his love and passion it causes her own eyes to water.

“I love you too,” she kisses him again. They remain on the couch, falling asleep eventually curled up in each other’s embrace. Their last thoughts filled with joy as they awaited the new adventure on the horizon.

An adventure just between them. A reinstated Goddess and a fully pardoned Baron opening the next chapter of their lives. Together.

[midnightmayhem13]

You're all i wanted

a/n this idea has been in my head for a while nd i'm tryna fill up the nebula x reader tag🩶 love my tall emo girl so here's some angst

summary: love wasn't ever easy. especially when nebulas embarrassed of her love for you and treats you like shit on the bottom of her shoe

nebula x reader; mean nebula, also mean guardians gamora x nebula, gamora x reader (platonic) angsty with a happy ending; just nebula with her soft girl

nebula had caught your eye ever since you two met. having to take nebula in for gamoras sake, you couldn't help but fall in love? you didn't understand, well you did i mean she was beautiful even with all her parts, her eyes captivated you, the way she didn't let people tell her what to do or ever let herself be scared of something. you fell in love from afar bc she wouldn't let you close anyways.

little did you know, nebula had taken a liking to you. now that was something she didn't understand. why you? and why did she like you? she treated you as if you didn't exist and you still made efforts to try to be close to her. you had defended her and all she did was yell at you and tell you to leave her alone. she shouldn't like you she thought. she sure didn't try to act like it. someone as beautiful as you didn't deserve to be with her. being mean to quill or drax or rocket was easy, it's the only way she ever treated them. but seeing you get teary eyed or hearing your voice crack when she raised her voice at you hurt her more than she cared to admit. and she liked seeing people get hurt. why did she get angry when rocket made a mean comment and made you cry? or why did it anger her when you got hurt fighting a goon?

nebula had you under her gaze all day everyday, her sister took note of this. gamora found it odd bc you couldn't seem like a threat even if you tried. the thought came to her head but she ignored it. nebula didn't like you like that right? right?

it was obvious to everyone that you had heart eyes for nebula. you wouldn't tolerate the way she treated you if you didn't. you didn't plan on telling her, never in a million years would your feelings be reciprocated.

it all started going downhill one night. the whole team, even nebula. was sitting together having drinks and laughing.

"HA quill remember when mantis exposed your sexual feelings for gamora" drax cackled making rocket and mantis crack up at the memory. gamora just rolled her eyes leaned into quill

"alright guys cmon let's not talk abt that. y/n would be in a deeper hole if mantis did the same. she has the fatest crush on blue girl over here" quill said proudly. your world went dark. no no no no. not this way. everyone was laughing except gamora and nebula who now looked like she had a disgusted look on her face. you felt tears well up in your eyes. this is so humiliating.

all you wanted to do was run. so you did. you got up from your spot and locked yourself in your room. the men's laughs only grew louder as you ran away. gamora sending you a sympathetic look as you turned to see if they were watching you as well.

you sobbed and sobbed. the smallest chance of becoming close to nebula was just crushed. you didn't leave your room from two days. finally deciding you had to face your fears you went out.

the boys continued to laugh but it wasn't as funny as two days ago. but when you tried to approach nebula, she told you to get away from her and left. this continued for days as she avoided you and constantly made you know she didn't want anything to do with you.

it's not that she thought she was superior to you. bc god she was in love you with. she didn't know what that was tho.

after about a week of being avoided and treated like shit by nebula you decided to give up. you wouldnt bother or burden her anymore.

one day in the late evening you went to look for something you had left out. when you ran into all the guardians on the ship. gamora organizing some files and cleaning, the guys talking, mantis and groot making an attempt at knitting, and ofc course nebula working on something on her arm.

you took a deep breath and went out to look for whatever you were looking for.

"hey lover girl" rocket teased. not again. drax and quill caught on and had smug looks on their faces, ready to make you regret ever leaving your room.

"i would shoot myself if i were nebula, have you seen yourself?" drax snickered letting out a belly laugh. guess they felt like being dickheads to you again. the all laughed and pointed. looking as if just looking at you made them almost pee their pants

you would do the same in this moment.

nebula just watched. wanting to laugh but knowing deeply she wanted to shoot all the men in the head for hurting your feelings. she knew how much words hurt your feelings, reasoned it for calling you weak various times.

your sure you were already crying but you didn't notice. all you wanted to do was get out of there but they had blocked your path. making you start to shake. you couldn't stand up for yourself because your voice was caught in your throat.

peter caught his breath as if preparing himself to say something. you too had prepared yourself for whatever he was about to say.

"of course nebula doesn't like you idiot! you're uglier than rocket!" peter barley managed to get out.

that one stung your heart more than anything could. you didn't think rocket was ugly, but knowing it was obvious to everyone that you had no chance because you weren't attractive was what hurt.

"hey!" rocket said sounded angered, it soon turned into a deep laughter "thats... that's a good one" he nearly yelled not being able to hold back throwing his head back in amusement.

you didn't care about crying in front of them anymore, you just wanted to leave.

just as you had made your way out covering your face with your hands, someone pushed you harshly. and lucky you, you fell straight into nebulas arms who had just gotten up to leave

"UGHHH, get off of me!" nebula yelled pushing you away from her harshly. you nearly fell ass first on the floor. as soon as you regained your composition. you were completely sobbing. breathing heavily and trembling.

"im sorry" was all you said as you past nebula. you couldn't even get we it out without your voice cracking and your breath picking up pace. she saw you disappear into the shadows and heard your door close.

why did i do that? was all nebula thought, all she wanted to do was hold you and comfort you, even tho she didn't know how, she wanted to prove to the imbeciles wrong. instead of saying anything she just left

"what the hell is wrong with you?!" gamora yelled slapping peters arm and rushing to your room. your door wasn't locked bc all you wanted to do was curl up and die. "y/n..." was all she said. she held you and let you cry on her until you fell asleep. nebula had told her everything she felt about you. why wouldn't she let it show. you were the sweetest girl in the galaxy. you just wanted to love nebula.

after leaving your room she went to find her sister. she found her in her small room doing some work on a new weapon she recently found. "what was that nebula?" she asked fiercely. "i don't know, get out" gamora inhaled aggressively "are you kidding me?! y/ns the sweetest girl in the galaxy. all she wanted was you, nebula. you couldn't even defend her. and did you have to shove her? cmon nebula, i know we both never knew what love was but the least you could do is not treat her like shit! y/n would kill to be as close to you as i am right now" with that gamora left. leaving nebula staring into nothing, feeling as if she got stabbed in the heart.

this time, you didn't step out of your room. you didn't eat or leave the room other than to use the restroom. you cried day and night just holding yourself and cursing yourself for every catching feelings for her. and even after all of this. she was all you wanted.

nebula found herself think of you often. really often. the ship had been even less enjoyable without your constant efforts to try to talk to her or your beautiful smile when all she did was glare at you.

nebula stood outside your door. listening to your sobs knowing she caused this. knowing she couldve stopped it. she wanted to knock, to talk to you, to hold you. to love you.

she found herself in this position a lot. standing outside your door wanting to knock or see you walk out. she just wanted to see you. she regretted ever purposely hurting your feelings.

gamora eventually saw nebula doing this in her routine. encouraging her to talk to you. nebula just shook her head and walked away.

about three weeks later she was tired of waiting. wanting two just burst in and tell you everything. until one day, while she was staring at your door, you opened it. and for the first time in what felt like forever. she saw your gorgeous face. although there wasn't the light of happiness that there usually was. there was just, emptiness, puffy eyes, tear stained cheeks.

"i'm-i'm sorry i didn't know you were passing. i'll j-just go" you rambled going to close the doors before you cried at the sight of her face.

she slammed her hand on the door not letting you close it "wait. please." she said almost sounding desperate. with a deep breath, you let her in.

you two sat on your bed, an awkward amount of space away between. you fiddled with your fingers, quickly wiping away tears with the sleeve of your hoodie. nebula watched you. a small smirk on her face from finally being able to see you. she knew she had to make things right, right now.

she stiffly scooted closer to you. she heard your breath hitch and saw your cheeks get red. maybe there was still hope.

you two were shoulder to shoulder. facing the big window of your room. you always had the best view of the galaxy. she looked over at you and softly smiled when she saw you quickly looked away flustered

breaking the silence, she huskily said"i always thought you were the most beautiful girl in the galaxy." "wha?" you questioned softly the air having left your lungs from her sweet words.

you two were staring at eachother now. shoulder to shoulder. your eyes never looked so beautiful. and you had never seen how pretty her blue hue was.

she roughly grabbed your hand but held it gently. you were sure she could hear your heart beat. "please stop hurting me, it's not funny" was all you said. whispering it as you were on the brink of tears

nebulas heart shattered realizing you thought she was playing a cruel joke on you. god how she loved you, but how could she come about it.

she squeezed your hand three times. gently grabbed your chin to look into your sad eyes. she wiped a tear from your cheek. she didn't know what to do. so she just acted on impulse. she kissed you. softly, sweetly, briefly. when she pulled away your eyes were still shut and your cheeks were pink. you were so beautiful to her.

"im sorry, i never meant to hurt you. i didn't know what to do." nebula admitted shyly. you had stared with so much love in your eyes after everything she had put you through "it's okay" was all you said, your chin still in her hand, gazing at her. "no it's not. don't say it is because it's not. i will make it up to you." nebula stated firmly. posture stiffening as she squeezed your hand as if she was trying to pop it. you giggled and smiled. "you're all i ever wanted" you whispered touching your forehead against hers.

i love you, im sorry

was all nebula wanted to say and all you wanted to hear, but in never came out. but you were okay with it, as long as she was here now

and everything seemed right after that. you in nebulas arms was all you ever wanted. and now you had it.

a/n that was long i'm sorry😭 it had been in my head for the longest time and writing it felt so good lmao hope you guys enjoyed🩶

[itsscromp]

Im not losing him !!

Hey everyone, As I said yesterday, I was rewatching Vol 3 and I felt so inspired to write this story around moments of the film, in a y/n pov. Rewatching it just made my heart happy and sad at the same time. I love Rocket so damn much I wish he was real and he was my best friend. Word count:2.6k !!!!

It has been a disaster from the very moment you went to bed, A sovereign warrior named Adam Warlock crashed into Rocket's room and blasted him in the chest, Everyone tried to fight him off to the best of their abilities. But now your best friend is fighting for his life as the med pad has activated a kill switch that was implanted into his heart.

"A kill switch !!??" Peter spoke up

"A device set to destruct if anyone goes poking around inside him or even if we use Med-Paks" Nebula said as she was investigating the kill switch.

You could only watch in horror as the x-ray revealed it inside him, Who in the bright mind would do this to him.

"And why would Rocket have a kill switch ??"

"Apparently, someone considers him proprietary technology and sent that golden lunatic to get to him."

"So he'll die if we operate on him ??" Mantis asked worriedly

"And he'll die if we don't." Drax said.

"There has to be some way to bypass it." You finally spoke up

"It looks like there's a passkey that could override the kill switch."

"Y/n you've known Rocket for the longest, What do you know about where Rocket came from ??" Mantis turned to you.

"He won't talk about it" Your eyes trained on Rocket, the many what-ifs were running around your mind a million miles an hour. But right now more than ever, Rocket needed you guys. He needed you to save him. Whoever did this to him they were gonna pay.

"Much of the tech was developed by a company called OrgoCorp and there's a code on all of it. 89P13, He's got maybe 48 hours"

You immediately grew worried at the time length and sprung into action.

"Where are you going ??" Peter followed you

"OrgoCorp have to have records right ?? Maybe they'll have a way for us to override the kill switch and save rocket."

"They won't just give us that information" Mantis informed you.

"Well, that's why were gonna break in"

"We kill anyone who gets in our way !!!" Drax spoke a little too enthusiastically.

"Not kill anyone." Peter reminded him

"Kill a few people" He tried to bargine

"Kill no people" You enforced it

"Kill one guy, one stupid guy who no one loves"

"Now your just making it sad"

The guardians then arrived at OrgoCorp, Which was a Bio-formed factory. You couldn't help but be in slight awe and disgust at the same time.

As you were setting up the bowie's shields, the ship started to lock into place.

"Why didn't we go through ??" You spoke to Nebula through your communicator.

"We did, It's not the shield"

Making their way to the cockpit, they found they were stopped by the Ravagers, a criminal gang that Peter had a history with. In actuality, the reason why they were there was because Nebula had contacted her sister Gamora who is now the leader of the Ravagers ever since the events of Thanos happened. Granted you never met Gamora, nor right now would you wish to. But you saw Peter try all his attempts to get her to remember the previous events that had happened between the two.

Getting the code from OrgoCorp was hard enough, Having way too many close calls before the signal was alerted that you guys breached the perimeters, Drax only sustaining minor injuries, the group went back to the ship to find that the codex they got wasn't the kill switch. Only it was a recording of Rocket's past. Everyone was horrified by what they were watching, Tears fell from your eye's as you heard the painful and heartbreaking little screams.

"Rocket..." You muttered

"Why did he never tell us about any of this ?" Mantis spoke through her sobs.

"This is worse than what Thanos did to me." Nebula gritted through her teeth.

"Well, what about the passkey. Is it their ??" Peter said.

Nebula skimmed through the files. But no passkey.

"No. But a file was removed today, Downloaded and deleted a million characters in length. The biometrics say it was this man, Recorder B2H6."

"Wait, I saw this guy outside of records today" You pointed out

Gamora then looked closer at the recorder.

"Looks like one of the High Evolutionary's recorders."

"The High Evolutionary ??" Mantis remembered hearing his name as she and Drax were looking for the passkey. "The founder of OrgoCorp ??"

"OrgoCrop is just a way to fund his experiments that lie outside intergalactic laws, He's created whole societies. Xeronians, the Ani-men, The sovereign"

"The sovereign ??" Drax said confusingly

"Corners of the universe consider him god."

Mantis then went to the ship's coordinates to track down where he is.

"I am groot"

"Yes"

"Yes what, That he's Groot ??"

"He said maybe this man downloaded the passkey into the computer on his head."

"Huh ??" Gamora looked at Groot confusingly wondering how in the flark did she understand him.

"That could store the passkey." The hologram revealed the computer on the recorders side profile.

"We find him we save rocket" Peter said

"The High evolutionary's coordinates"

You looked at everyone and nodded. "Put the coordinates in the nav"

"Wait a minute, Are you kidding me ??" Gamora followed you as she was trying to reason with you. You didn't care, You needed to save your best friend's life. "What he wants is that gutted badger in the Med-Bay and you're gonna bring it straight to him ??, Its almost certainly a trap."

"Trap isn't a trap if you know the trap is trying to trap you its a face off."

With the coordinates located for counter-earth, the guardians then changed into their uniforms and arrived on the planet. You were shocked with how closely it resembles New York City. Even more shocked when you saw anthropomorphic creatures as its citizens. After an almost rocky start, the guardians get some information from a family on the whereabouts of the recorder. They agreed as well to let you use their car. So you, Peter, Nebula and Groot got to the car.

"Drax, stay here with Rocket, watch him. That's who they're coming for."

"I wanna come."

"No."

"Mantis watch Drax" Peter asked her, even though she looked slightly annoyed. He then handed Groot two of his pistols. "Groot you know what to do with these." The three then got into the car although nebula was having trouble.

"Push down on it" Peter said to her

"What ??"

Push it down" You repeated for her

"I am pushing it down."

"Push the button"

Nebula tried to but ended up pressing the keyhole instead.

"It looks like your pressing the keyhole."

"The what ??"

"There's a button under the handle, Press that in" Peter spoke firmly, Nebula did so but she didn't open the door.

"Okay, Now what ??"

"Open the fucking door !!!" Both of you said to her, she got in finally but a bit grumpy

"That is a stupid design and both of your instructions were very unclear." The car started and the 4 headed to the High evolutionary's building, along the way you were shocked to see that what goes on in the streets of this version of New York city is absolutely no different to what it was back on terra.

"This is the perfect society ??" Nebula questioned.

the four arrive at the Headquarters of the High Evolutionary only to be stopped by his guards.

"Here we go"

The four approached the guards when you spoke up.

"We're here to see..."

"The High evolutionary is expecting you"

"Which means it is a trap." Nebula muttered to you

"It's a face-off"

"Only two stay here"

"Why ??"

"Policy against weaponry and your arm is a gun" The guard gesturing to Nebula's bionic arm.

"The second reason, We can't risk bigger groups."

Right now the four were caught in a rock and a hard place, who goes up and confronts him and gets the passkey, Peter then pulled you aside and whispered to you.

"You go in their y/n, This is a much bigger deal for you than it is with everyone, Our one chance to save your best friend's life. Don't worry, Groot will go with you ok ??"

"Ok," You nodded as you gestured Groot to follow you, Once scanned for any weaponry the two then went up the building to the high evolutionary. He gestured to you two a finger as to say he was busy. But as you kept waiting for him, you grew more angry and annoyed at him. Until you turned and found the recorder.

"You !!" You shouted at him

"Hey yeah, you !!" This got the recorder's attention.

"I take it the passkey, It's in that thing on your head."

"I would advise against any aggression." The high evolutionary finally acknowledged you.

"Oh. Got time for me now ??" You turned to him.

"Your friend once took advantage. I learned my lessons, I aimed some small part of my mental capacity back in my own direction and now, gravity itself serves my whims."

"You must find Counter-Earth familiar"

"Counter-Earth ??"

"I visited your planet many years ago."

"Earth hasn't been my planet for 15 years."

"Your people had wonderful spirit"

The high evolutionary went on to explain how he wanted to make a perfect version of Earth without stubbornness or bigotry. But being a guardian for so long you get sick of the classic villain speeches.

"I don't care, I don't need another speech by some impotent whackjob whose mother didn't love him rationalizing why he needs to conquer the universe."

"I'm not trying to conquer the universe, I'm perfecting it" The HE said as like he is doing nothing wrong.

"I just want the passkey"

"Then bring me 89P13"

"I am groot" Groot spoke up angrily

"He says 'Suck my.."

"Why are you so angry ??" the HE interrupted you

"Because I know what you did to my friend !!" You gritted out of your teeth.

"Everything I've done, I've done for the betterment of the universe."

"Newsflash Einstein, Better universes generally don't include don't include a bunch of octopuses selling meth to guys with cockroach heads."

"They do not, which is why as I have done many times before, I'm going to have to raze it all and start again."

"What ??"

With that, the building slowly rose out of the ground and into the sky. "Nebula stay here, I'm going back to the ship." But the two turned around to find Drax and Mantis there, having disobeyed their orders and went to find them. Quill quickly hopped on the motorbike and headed back to the bowie while the three lunged onto the levitating ship.

"I am groot ??"

"Kill 'em all"

But before Groot could do anything, the high evolutionary pinned you two down with his telekinesis before walking away. The recorder laughed.

"This is amusing really, How stupid are you, Hmm ?? It was so obviously a trap."

"It's not a trap, It's a face-off" Nodding to groot "Now kill them all"

Groot then pulled a grenade out hidden in his chest and tossed into the middle of the room, Blowing up everyone in the radius. The smoke cleared to reveal the hidden Blasters that he had hidden as well, You two killed off the others that were still standing only leaving the recorder standing.

"No! Don't !! " He whimpered when you aimed the blaster at his head. "Don't !! No, no, no !! No, please please spare me !!!"

You lowered your blaster as he looked at you almost gracefully.

"Thank you. Thank you. Thank...

"That'd be premature"

"Huh ?"

Before he could think, you tackled him out the window, falling many feet above. Groot quickly went after you and reached you. Growing wings out of his back, Gliding to the ground, You shoved the recorder down onto the ground. Killing him, Finally extracting the passkey out of his head. You made it back to the ship to save rocket.

"It's going to be ok buddy it's going to be ok" You said to him as the code started to boot up, But something was wrong. Very wrong.

"Okay okay here we go.."

Gamora noticed it too

"This isn't right"

"No, no, no, It's good. It's gonna work, it's working." You said in a way it was almost in denial, It has to work. It has to.

"It needs to be faster."

Rocket began to flatline. This turned critical, You ultimately lost it from the pressure, This couldn't be it. You didn't want your best friend to die. Not like this, All the fun memories you had with each other couldn't have led to this.

"No, no, no !"

You shook Rocket gently to get him up, but it was no use. He was dead.

"Come on !!" You began to perform CPR on him. "Come on !!"

"Y/n"

"No !!!!!, No !!!!!!!!!!!" You let out the most heartbreaking scream. Groot and peter were at a loss.

"Y/n" Gamora tried to calm you.

"No !!"

You continued the CPR, You were not losing him. This all couldn't be for nothing.

"Y/n !!"

"I'm not gonna lose him !!"

"He's gone."

"I'm not. Letting him go !!"

During the whole time, Rocket found himself in a place he wasn't familiar with. It was all white and had cages. He then heard footsteps and turned to find a figure heading to him... It was Lylla.

"Lylla ??" His voice broke seeing her for the first time since it all happened. The guilt overwhelmed him.

"Friend"

"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry..."

"Rocket."

"I let you down, I got you killed. I got everybody killed." He spoke through his sobs, If he hadn't... What if... they all came back to him.

"We were right" Lylla comforted him "The sky is beautiful, and it is forever, And I've been flying with our friends."

In the background, Rocket could see his other friends Teefs and Floor waving to him. He waved back at them.

"Can I come ??"

"Yes."

But as he gently started to walk forward, She stopped him gently.

"But not yet, You still have a purpose here." She said gently

Rocket meanwhile his breath shuddered, He wanted to be with his friends again.

"A purpose for what ?? They made us for nothing. Stupid experiments to be thrown away..."

Lylla gently placed her hands on his shoulders

"There are the hands that made us, and then there are the hands that guide the hands."

The two shared a tender moment. Nuzzling their muzzles against each other before hugging. Lylla was right... While he wanted to be with his friends. He had a family. A family who also loved and cared about him, Formed by his amazing friends, Pete, Groot and y/n.

"My beloved raccoon, This story has been yours all along, you just didn't know it"

Rocket gently let go of her after a bit.

"I'm not a raccoon"

Once he finished the sentence he fell back. Like he was falling back into his body. He woke up in the med-bay gasping for air. The code then sprung to life. Going the way it should be.

"The passkey's going through" You were in a mix of shock and relief. Gamora then rushed over and grabbed a med pad, Wrapping it around Rocket's chest and activating it. This time it did it, It worked, You couldn't help but let tears fall as you took the oxygen mask off of him. He was ok.

"Y/n ??" He spoke weakly.

The tears became heavier as you gently sat him up and hugged him tightly. Rocket slightly tensed up from the hug as Groot also came in and hugged him. Overwhelmed by all the love and affection, Knowing that the others risked their lives for his. He started to cry as well and returned the hug. His best friends saved him. They saved him... He would be forever thankful for you guys.

taglist: @callofdudes @raccoonfallsharder @rogertaylorswift @mybelovedraccoon

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Mongabay:

Justin Catanoso is no stranger to wood pellet plants, as he lives near four of them in the U.S. state of North Carolina, where biomass giant Enviva has several facilities. While that company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this year, it remains the single largest producer of wood pellets globally.

This firm is one of several (alongside Drax in the U.K.) seeking to expand its global stake in the shift to renewable energy — a category of energy generation that industry and regulators insist burning biomass belongs in. However, a recent analysis shows it’s not renewable and adds more carbon to the atmosphere than coal and gas. But due to complicated language in the Kyoto Protocol treaty that extended the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, several nations and the European Union still allow the burning of wood pellets to be counted as such, and thus made eligible for subsidies, too. This is a tremendous problem for global efforts to slow the biodiversity and climate crises, Catanoso says.

“In my area of North Carolina, which is the mid-Atlantic, we will have the climate of northern Florida in about 15 years. That’s how fast our climate is changing here,” Catanoso says. “It’s upon us, and we are not pulling the levers fast enough. To slow this down and cutting down trees, calling it carbon neutral … that’s just one of those loopholes that is just completely man-made.”

[tinkertoysdamn]

WIP Wed Starmora Thanos POV nonsense

Gamora was strong, obedient and highly capable.�� For Ronan to have alienated her must have taken an act of supreme idiocy.  Still, Thanos wasn’t worried.  Once Gamora had a taste of the outside world she would come home.  

“She has escaped the Kyln, my Lord.”  Ebony Maw was one of Thanos’s most loyal and obsequious of his Children.  As nominal leader of the Black Order, he had seen and done many distasteful and horrid things.  Even so, he had only earned a fraction of the favor Gamora had with Thanos.     

“Excellent.”  Thanos had seen to her training himself, if Gamora had failed he would have been disappointed.

“She has collected some companions.”  The way Ebony Maw said the term, it sounded like he had discovered some new, poisonous species of bug.   

“Of course.”  Minions were always useful, it was good to have a collection of them on hand.  “When they cease to be useful, she will discard them.”  Thanos was certain of it.  “Who are they?”

Ebony Maw flicked his hand, using his powers to drift a tablet into his open palm.  “Drax the Destroyer,” Ebony Maw recited.

A dangerous and risky choice, getting his cooperation must have required some doing.

“A lab experiment of some sort, a rodent, perhaps?”

A most unusual choice.  “What skills does the rodent possess?” Thanos asked.

Ebony Maw scrolled through the file.  “He has escaped multiple prisons according to the Nova Corps.” 

That made more sense.  Gamora was nothing, if not prudent.  “Who else?”  Thano’s curiosity peaked.

A deep frown crossed Ebony Maw’s face.  “This appears to be a tree.”

What?  “A tree?”

“Yes,” Ebony Maw confirmed.  “A talking tree from a gravely endangered species.”

Thanos chuckled.  “One I will not need to cull then.”  He was nothing if not fair.  “Anyone else?”

“There is one more.”  When Ebony Maw read the name, he paled.  “Oh my.”  He had tried to be quiet to quell his distress and failed.

For someone to elicit that reaction in Ebony Maw must be someone powerful indeed.  “Who is it?”  Thanos had to know.

The sigh was long and deep.  “It’s Peter Quill, sire.  The one who calls himself Star-Lord.” 

The name sounded vaguely familiar.  “And he is?”

“He defeated Korath on Morag but more importantly—”  Ebony Maw steeled himself.  “He is the one who persuaded Supergiant to leave our Black Order.”

Oh.  He was going to be a problem. 

[nuclearr-wessels]

‧⁺✧ Bugborg Week ♡°‧

title: One of These Days (link to AO3)

wordcount: 4,120

rating: T

tags: hurt/comfort, reunions, post vol. 3

Nebula has found the perfect way to cope with Mantis’ departure from the Guardians – only for Mantis to come back and ruin it all.

For @bugborgweek2023 ♡ Based on a Song: “One by One” by Cher.

‧   ──────────   ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆  ──────────     ‧

After the initial turmoil of the fight against the High Evolutionary, the days on Knowhere had simply melted into one another. Nebula was surprised by how quickly everyone adjusted to their new lives.

Rocket led the reformed Guardians on missions, aided by the Kraglin and Cosmo, who absolved everyone else of the task of repairing Knowhere. Time after time, Nebula was called to help with a technical problem. She didn’t mind making herself useful in this way, because her new duties did not really involve anything she was used to.

After only two weeks with the children, she and Drax had developed a more or less strict routine. She had not expected getting along this well with him. But it was still hard. Children were unpredictable. Some were mature enough to join Rocket soon, but others needed help understanding the simplest things. Or eating without throwing up every other day.

With all that going on, there was little time to mourn those they had lost.

Drax told her she was being unnecessarily dark. But to Nebula, the absence of her new family cut that deep.

She did try to reach out to Gamora from time to time. She also upheld communications with Quill on Earth.

From Mantis – she didn’t hear a word.

And if she was frank with herself, she preferred it this way.

Always having had her close was agonizing anyway. Oftentimes, Nebula would go so crazy in her presence that she couldn’t help but scream at the woman.

Granted, she screamed at a lot of people.

But with Mantis, it has always been different. Because with her, Nebula sensed the possibility of interacting with her on another level. Beyond the short fuse and screams. With neither accusations nor secrets. All the possibilities of the universe, in a simple touch.

At least that’s what she wished for.

And she had never learned to act on this sort of thing. Something she personally yearned for. This was not a cut-clear mission with simple steps she had to follow to obtain the target.

Mantis was a living, breathing person, a fucking elusive one at that. You never knew what was going on in her pretty tilted head. One minute she’s a demure pretty girl, next thing you know she single-handedly takes down a celestial planet. Being half celestial herself. There was something in knowing that she could Nebula disassemble with a word, or even make her disassemble herself, if she was just pissed-off enough.

She would surprise Nebula with every other sentence. Most times, that left her with a profound butterfly tornado in her stomach. Other times, it just made her angry. How could she ever be with Mantis if she spiraled every time she didn’t know how to deal with her?

It was a good thing she left the way she did, Nebula told herself. Mantis had taken all those dilemmas with her. Problem solved.

And after a few months, even the butterflies had died down. Granted, it had taken a bit of additional pressure from Nebula herself.

I don’t need her. I’m better off without her. She wouldn’t understand anyway.

And it had worked.

Right now, Nebula figured herself to be in a good spot. She suffered under Mantis’ departure, but not so much that she wanted to chase after her to cut out her organs and sell them to the highest bidder.

Part of what had helped her cope – and it was hard to even admit that to herself, so she made sure nobody else knew – a music file sent by Quill to her.

His reasoning had been that the singer’s voice was as deep as her own.

.

### so that you can sing along better! :P

.

Nebula scrunched her nose as she typed her reply.

.

### i don’t sing

### >:(

.

Either way, this “It’s a Man’s World” by one Cher did hit a nerve with her. In that it was all about heartbreak. And being unable to find love. Mourning a life long lost. But it was also danceable, and – keep that a secret – hummable. Late at night, when she was all alone in her cabin, Nebula would tilt her head to the music.

One song hit her harder than the others. A relentless hope dripped from the lyrics of “One by One”.

.

He gives a new kind of meaning to what I am

I know that I could never love any other man

One of these days he’ll understand, understand

.

At that, Nebula looked up from the weaponry she was cleaning. Her chest heaved with unwanted emotion. Would Mantis understand? If Nebula poured her cybernetic heart out to her?

Maybe yes, maybe not – maybe ‘one of these days’, Nebula mused.

Deferring the problem to the future was great, because Mantis was a part of her past. Not future. So, she would not have to deal with this problem.

Actually singing the lyrics strengthened Nebula’s conviction. It helped her build a palace in her head, where she could be with Mantis. In that future, she will understand what Nebula sees in her. Complicated intricacies and secrets would be things of the past.

Nebula also found that her body would move on its own to the music. She’d close her eyes and clench her fists as she sang. Much like dancing, it was very freeing to be so emotive.

But one fateful day, she’d had it with emotions.

She did her usual late night routine of blasting the Cher songs over her headphones (rather helpful little devices) and dancing around her room. Not for fun, but to get all those feelings out of her system before going to bed. Made for better sleep – after a day of getting half-digested children food all over yourself, that was the only sensible thing to do. Half of her uniform was already deposited on the chair next to her bunk, and her head was as light as her hands were heavy.

“We’re gonna love one another ‘til morning comes! Seek the sweet salvation for what we’ve done! Give up resisting one by one, one by one!”

She didn’t watch the door – why would she? No one ever disturbed her home time.

Accordingly, her shock was loud and brutal when she did see a pale figure swaying in the doorframe, a sweet smile across her face, with glowing antennae bouncing in her sideways dancing.

“Fuck!” Nebula ripped the headphones from her ears and threw them at the intruder. She did register it was Mantis, but her muscle memory still made her draw a sword from her arm.

“Oh my God!” Mantis cowered, her eyes and mouth distorted with equal shock.

Nebula exhaled – once, twice – “Mantis,” she murmured.

“Yes, dumbass, it’s me!” Mantis cried.

Nebula lowered her arm. Blinked. It really was her. Mantis’ name fell from her lips anew when she stepped forward to pull her into a hug. It was no conscious decision. This was like being on autopilot.

Gently, they melted into the touch. Mantis’ waist was pliant in her embrace. She shifted her feet to make room for Nebula’s.

Nebula buried her nose in the crook of her soft neck when she placed her elegant hands on her back.

Her scent was still the same. Like a flowery summer lake.

She herself most smell of motor oil – that little detail kicked Nebula back into reality. Her head twitched when she pulled out of the hug. Not too fast to startle Mantis, but quick enough to no longer indulge in the sparkly bubble this woman always created around her.

Mantis’ hands stayed on her arms. Her face broke into a joyful grin.

Nebula could not return it. She stepped back. “So… you’re back.”

Mantis nodded, arms sinking to her sides. Nebula remembered a time when all she ever did with her hands was fold them in front of her. She had gained a lot of confidence in those years.

Nebula sniffed. “Cool. Welcome back. Did you… have a good journey?”

“Yes. It was uneventful.”

“Good.”

“I did not want to disturb you.”

“You… didn’t,” Nebula lied.

“I think I did,” Mantis shrugged, flailing her arms in front of her. “I’m sorry.”

Anger pooled in Nebula’s stomach. “Don’t you dare tell anyone what you saw. Or heard. Understood?”

Mantis stilled her movements, understanding that Nebula was not in as playful a mood as her. “Yes,” she said in a mockingly dutiful voice.

Nebula nodded. God, her head ran so hot it was about to melt. “Good,” she said after a while. When she turned around to collect her headphones and sort the clothes on her chair, Mantis told her, “I’m staying in my old room. It’s late already, so Kraglin wants to throw the party tomorrow.”

Nebula hummed.

Mantis was already half-way out of the room. “See you tomorrow then.”

“Yes. Tomorrow,” Nebula said, like she had forgotten how to speak properly. She looked over her shoulder to see Mantis wave at her with a smile.

That cute-ass smile. And her graceful hands, dressed in black fingerless gloves that reached all the way up to her elbows. Still with the green highlights in her hair, only now it’s even longer –

God, with no photograph of her around, Nebula had almost forgotten how fucking pretty Mantis was.

She sat down on the edge of her bed. Staring at the floor.

She’d need no photograph now. Mantis was back.

Nebula had just been about to heal entirely, and now that bug came strolling back around, dragging her ass here like nothing had happened –

If wasn’t like something did happen – that’s the point.

A primal scream erupted from Nebula’s throat. She threw the headphones once again, this time into her desk, making them split in two.

Shit – she’d have to repair those.

Breathing hard, she collected the pieces. At least that would give her something to do.

It wasn’t like she needed a reason to avoid Mantis, however. She could just as well do that on her own.

The next day was like walking a tightrope. Nebula was always alert. It wasn’t like Mantis could sneak up on her again, not with those Abilisk abominations following her around like dogs.

Nebula swallowed as she watched them from around a corner. Seeing Mantis deal with those deadly monsters so effortlessly did things to her stomach.

As though to shoo away the imaginary butterflies, Nebula waved her hand in front of herself.

“Could you help me with the grills?” Kraglin asked her a few hours later.

Nebula spotted Mantis by the cooking station. “I’m busy,” she uttered.

“Doesn’t have to be right now,” Kraglin clarified.

“I said no!”

“Gee, okay.”

“Women,” Cosmo snarked as Nebula strutted past her.

Nebula grunted away any comment – she needed to restrain herself, or she’d explode.

She threw herself into the work with the children. None of them were in the mood for advanced astrophysics though.

“Can we go to the party now?”

“Not until you’ve solved all the equations,” Nebula said, looking out the window. Mantis was entangled in conversation after conversation, beaming brightly. But her smile was fake. Nebula could smell it. That bug was hiding something.

Probably thought she was above this ragtag band of losers by now.

“Nebula, we solved those fourteen minutes ago!”

“I don’t care!” Nebula snapped, but her bark was drowned by Drax barging into the room, covered in confetti.

He screamed, “Who wants a bomb full of scraps of paper?!”

The children squeaked with raised hands and followed the ball he threw into the corridor. One of the kids climbed into his arms, where he cuddled her with that unbearable baby speak.

Nebula ground her teeth. She returned her attention back outside into the main yard. But Mantis was gone.

“Are you not coming?” Drax asked her. His voice was hoarse from screaming already. It figured, he and Mantis were best friends. He was thrilled to have her back.

Nebula stretched her fingers. “Maybe later.”

Drax sent the child away to join the others. “I think we should go together,” he told her. “To clear up a misunderstanding.”

Nebula did a double take. “A what?”

“Mantis told me you were avoiding her. She senses a lot of harsh feelings from you, that she cannot blame on walking in on your singing.”

“She told you?!”

“Of course.”

Nebula scoffed, trying to suppress her anger and almost swallowing her tongue in the process. “That’s – that’s ridiculous. If she wants to tell me something, she can do that herself.”

In his usual matter-of-fact tone, Drax noted, “She can’t do that if you always run away like a stupid little coward.”

“A what now?!”

“You are running away from your feelings,” Drax said, “like a stupid, little, childish wimp.”

Nebula screamed at him.

“Who runs from something that can’t kill them?”

“What do you know?!” Nebula yelled. “You don’t fucking know if you can die of a broken heart, you troll!”

Something in Drax’ face changed. He grimaced. “Heart? What – you and Mantis?” He retched, stumbling out of the classroom.

“Yeah, go throw up,” Nebula called after him. But her voice was without edge. She packed her bag and left, too. Not for the party but her own room. It was high above the yard. Above the music and closer to the stars.

She watched them pass by from her bed, arms behind her head.

Her future has caught up with her. Or, well, her past has caught up with her. Mantis The Person was her past. Her future only contained a dream version of Mantis, who would understand Nebula’s complicated feelings.

A cyborg with feelings – she rolled to her side, drawing her legs closer.

Even though she suffered in this purgatory, she’d lie if she said there were no positive sides to Mantis’ return. She loved hearing her cartoonish laugh echo through the halls. And knowing that she was safe.

It had been her every right to leave and discover herself. Nebula cringed at the thought of what she might have found in the wide galaxy. Or who. Someone much better.

Not a cyborg whose heart was beating out of her chest.

Nebula curled herself up further. Maybe she could take out that needless organ tomorrow. Then she wouldn’t have to worry about any of that anymore.

But not tonight. Tonight, she’d simply cry.

She did not check the time when she woke up from the knock and instead staggered straight to the door. Must be one of the kids. They often asked her to help them clean up a mess they made and were too afraid to show anyone else.

“Yeah?” she drawled as the door slit open – to reveal a pair of large, dark eyes, below the prettiest eyelashes you’ve ever seen.

“Hello, Nebula.”

Sure enough, Mantis’ voice was as dreamy as always. But a tiny furrow crawled between her elegant eyebrows, and her hands were back in that timid position in front of her stomach.

Nebula raised an arm to rest against the doorframe, still only half awake. Her hip hurt from all the weight she was putting on it one-sidedly. “Hey.”

“Can I come in?” Mantis asked quietly.

Nebula nodded. Why the hell not? She felt weak, stepping aside to let Mantis in. She hushed a “thank you” as she stepped to the center of the room, turning around slowly.

Nebula closed the door and sniffed. Her room was already smelling of that summer lake, damn. “Everything all right?”

Mantis tilted her head, narrowly avoiding her eyes. “I don’t think so.”

That was too wishy-washy for Nebula’s taste. “Well?”

Mantis straightened her posture, meeting her gaze. “Whatever I’ve done, I want to make it up to you.”

Now Nebula was awake. But still weak. She ground her teeth, jaw cracking. “It’s fine.”

“I can see that it’s not. I can’t stand that you don’t like me anymore.”

Nebula could’ve kicked herself. Was this a nightmare? Annoyed, she growled, “That’s exactly the problem, Mant.” She closed her eyes to shut out the rest of the universe and sober. Her voice came out flustered when she murmured, “It’s not that I don’t like you. I like you… too much. I didn’t know how to deal when you left. I knew I should’ve been happy for you. Finding your place in the world and all that. But that was a lousy time for me. And now that I’ve come to terms with you not being here, you just… drag your ass back here.” She gave Mantis a look, hoping her words could take care of the problem. “You did nothing wrong. I hope you found your purpose. I genuinely do.”

Mantis’ sad eyes sank to the ground. But her voice drifted off to the stars. “I thought I could never find it. But then I remembered. And dragged my ass back here.”

A smile tugged at Nebula’s lips. Mantis did return because of the Guardians.

She shifted on her heavy feet, nodding. “If you wanna join Rocket and the others, just go to HQ. They’ll receive your message in under five hours.”

Mantis stepped closer, her voice urgent. “I don’t wanna join Rocket, Nebula.”

The suddenness made Nebula look down – they were too close, so close it hurt her chest.

“I came back because I missed you!”

How cruel – Nebula closed her eyes.

“Sometimes I missed you so much it physically hurt me,” Mantis uttered. “I missed your voice, and your clunky steps, too! One time, I even cried when I wanted to steal yaro root because I knew I couldn’t share it with you.”

Nebula faltered. “Steal yaro root?”

Mantis leaned back with a frown. “Do I look like I would pay for it?”

That familiar tone made Nebula break into a smile – she has missed Mantis too, so fucking much. Her blind enthusiasm and matter-of-fact tone, that she no doubt got from Drax. She was so over the top. And cute, staring at Nebula like this.

Against her better judgement, fearing the pain that staying with her would bring Nebula, she offered, “I, um… I still have some. Yaro root, I mean. In the freezer compartment. You wanna share? I can heat it up right now.”

Mantis’ features softened. She nodded, making her antennae bop adorably. Lovely little bug, Nebula thought. Love bug.

Together, they went all the way up to the roof to watch the stars of the morning hours.

Mantis didn’t smell of alcohol. Nebula would’ve known if she had drunken last night, because Mantis was ridiculously unable to hold her liquor.

She kicked her feet, dressed in black boots, off the roof.

Nebula sat comfortably in her own way, one leg angulated to rest her arm on it. Maybe she was still too tired, or maybe it was the fact that she now knew that Mantis had missed her, too – either way, she stared at her shamelessly. Just when she wanted to reach out and stroke through the green highlights of that silky hair, Mantis turned to her.

“You looked very cool when you were singing.”

Nebula groaned in embarrassement.

“It’s true! You were lighting up the room,” Mantis smiled.

Nebula weighed her words, looking up shily. “I’m… sorry I threw my headphones at you.”

“That’s okay,” Mantis babbled, like it was nothing. “I startled you. But I didn’t want to interrupt you. You were vibin’.”

Nebula chuckled at her tone.

“I can’t sing for shit,” Mantis laughed. When she struck up “Come and Get Your Love”, she did sound like a suffocating animal, but Nebula wanted to imprint the memory into her brain anyway.

“Good to have you back,” she said with a pat to Mantis’ shoulder.

Nebula then reached in the box between them to eat another piece of yaro root. She’d frozen them at just the right degree of ripeness. The taste was sweet and spicy on her tongue.

There weren’t many pieces left. She took another one to hand it to Mantis.

Mantis grinned and ate it straight from her fingers. To keep Nebula from pulling away, she cupped her hand with both of hers. She chuckled as she chewed.

Then it happened.

Something deep, deep inside of Nebula clicked. She softened.

And Mantis gasped. Just when Nebula thought she had choked on the food, she saw her antennae light up.

Just like that, Nebula’s love and care for her had rushed through their touch.

Now Nebula did jerk away her hand, heat boiling in her head. She felt terribly intrusive all of a sudden. A boor, overrunning Mantis with that mess of a heartbreak.

“S-sorry…”

Mantis turned to face her. The cosmic wind flowed through her long hair as though in a dream. Softly, she said, “Don’t apologize.” She carefully reached out to caress Nebula’s shoulder – and she let her. “It’s fine.”

Nebula hissed. “I didn’t know if you would… understand. My emotions are all over the place.”

“I’m an empath, dumbass,” Mantis said, surprisingly tender. “Understanding emotions is my thing. That’s why I came back as soon as I understood my purpose.”

“What is it?” Nebula wants to know, her voice all quiet.

Mantis cupped her cheek to turn her head. Her pale face broke into a teary-eyed smile. Antennae glowing. Her pitch-black eyes were rapid with relief.

Nebula’s mouth fell open as she understood.

Without quite pulling her in, Mantis guided her into her personal space. Her nose was soft against the implants on Nebula’s face. Her sweet scent was all over her. And her shallow breaths were the most beautiful sound in the galaxy.

This time, Nebula did not pull away. She sucked in a breath and leaned in.

As soon as their lips met, Mantis inhaled and drew her in with her other hand. It was urgent on Nebula’s nape, so in contrast to her patient lips.

Nebula treasured the soft touch, the lingering tenderness – and the relief! Her brows furrowed as she shifted her body, concentrating only on Mantis. Zeroing in on their kiss. Her hands crawled up her small shoulders almost automatically, as though she was meant to hold her. A secret program deep inside of her that Mantis had now activated.

They kissed again, through quiet gasps and raging heartbeats. Mantis kept giving Nebula small kisses. They lured her in.

Nebula’s hand rose to her hair, and from there, she took the lead. She tilted Mantis’ head, and in turn, Mantis parted her lips for her.

Nebula gasped when she tasted her tongue, spicy with yaro root. And soft, and warm… She gently pulled Mantis’ hair to deepen their kiss.

And Mantis sighed into it. Her antennae glowed blissfully. Nebula pulled away to let her breathe, nuzzling her soft cheek. Her perfect skin was flushed – Mantis was blushing because of her. The notion was surreal.

Nebula swallowed. Her fingers trembled in Mantis’ hair. “I’m your purpose?” she dared to ask, rough and low.

Mantis opened her eyes, soft with emotion. She pinched her kiss-swollen lips and nodded.

Nebula exhaled – oh, God, she loved her so much – it did hurt physically. But it also gave her the loveliest haze. A blissful short circuit.

Her metallic arm came up to cup Mantis’ cheek. She leaned into the touch with a hum.

Nebula searched for words. “I can’t believe – this is happening now. All of this was so far in the future.”

Mantis gave her a crooked smile. “Then the future is now.”

And deep inside, Nebula knew she was right. She usually was. “Yeah.” She leaned in for another kiss, a timid smile on her face when Mantis sighed before their lips even met. She was so pliant in her embrace – though not without mischief. Somewhen, Mantis’ hands ran along Nebula’s thighs, teasing at her belts.

“You’re so strong,” she drawled, as though high on love.

It was obviously a cheap attempt at manipulation that didn’t involve her mind-fuckery, but it worked just as well. After the initial shock of how easy she was, Nebula couldn’t help but smirk at that cute voice praising her. She responded by pulling Mantis’ hair, gently but determined enough to show off her biceps. She lowered her head to mouth at Mantis’ neck. Mantis sighed at the lascivious kisses, angling her head to give Nebula better access. Her elegant fingers were soft at the back of Nebula’s head. And her smile was worth more than all the gold in the galaxy.

Distantly, Nebula had the feeling that she might listen to another Cher song more often now – “Paradise is here”.

.

It’s time to stop your crying

The future is this moment

And not some place out there

Tonight I need your love

Don’t talk about tomorrow  

Right now, I need your loving

Right now, give it to me!

.

[guardian-angel12]

Experiment: Flame and Ash (Chapter Three)

Previous chapter

There's nothing to say tonight You've made up your mind To leave this behind Stead of standing in line You're sure that in time You'll be alright

'Cause it was not meant to be this way If you could go back in time Swear you'd change it all But that's not possible Tell me what you're running from

Peter hadn't stayed still for more than a few moments, the longest had been when they had docked the Benetar before they boarded the Quadrant. 

He had paced around nonstop. "Why her?" he asked for the millionth time, a question no one had the answer to. "What could they gain from her?" he turned around as if expecting someone to answer, but none came. 

Mantis was wringing her hands in the corner, Drax sharpening his knives over his knee, stiff and ready to go get Gamora and Kraglin back, if only they actually knew where they were. 

Rocket was silent and going through a hundred files on the navi-computer, Groot watching him from his shoulder. 

"The more you ask the more the answer is still, 'no one knows'." Rocket answered irritably. "So shut the hell up already. I'm workin' on it."

Peter sucked on his teeth and finally spun around to Tess, silent as death and staring straight ahead at nothing. "Will you please say something?" he spread his arms out in emphasis. 

Silver eyes went straight to his and Peter froze, seeing that deadly promise inside of them and not knowing what to think of it. He knew she was more than pissed—raging, actually—so her being still and quiet was probably a mercy rather than a punishment. 

"Tess, I'm sorry, I just want to find them."

"Don't you dare even half insinuate that I don't." she stood and took a few steps toward him. "They just took the most important person in my life from me, for all I know they'll torture him...kill him. He's already hurt. I just don't know what to do!" 

She was forcing herself not to cry, cursing and tearing herself apart internally to just hold back the tears that were stinging her eyes and burning in the back of her throat, but it was so hard. 

She was scared. And couldn't admit it. Kraglin wasn't there to notice, neither was Gamora. 

And Yondu...he wasn't going to tell her what to do. She couldn't just go to him for guidance. She had to do this alone. 

"I know, I know, I just...I can't lose her." Peter's voice was no more than a breath. "Either of them." 

Tess nodded, breathing in deep and looking around at the others. "Rocket?"

"Still nothing. These guy's are ghosts." 

"There had to have been a symbol," Peter said, "Something to trace back—" 

Tess suddenly spun around to them, looking mostly at Peter but glancing to Rocket and Drax. "Did anyone recognize the ship model?"

Rocket thought for a moment and nodded. "Yeah, some kind of o’nine inter-space remodel from the inner sectors, Kree territory."

Tess bit her lip and started pacing. She was beginning to think maybe she knew what this was. And she was getting colder the more she thought about it. "Rocket, set me up the long-range comm." she said quietly. 

"What for?" the humanoid looked over his shoulder to ask. 

"I need to reach out to someone, they might be our only chance of tracking these people down."

                                        - - -

Martinex T'naga was not usually a cautious man, at least not for his own life, but when it came down to his captain, or his crew, anything could seem risky to him. 

That was why suspicion was all he could truly think when he saw the transmission that had come in from deep space, saying it was from an old Ravager vessel he barely recognized anymore. 

Yondu's contact code was on it, but he knew that it wasn't him before the female voice came over. 

"This is Tessa Udonta, I'm needing to speak directly to Stakar Ogord, I'll come alone, you pick the place. It's important, otherwise I wouldn't have asked."

There was a pause in the message, almost like she was collecting herself before continuing, it only made Martinex's radar go off more.

"It...it possibly has to do with the Kree, I think. My brother—Kraglin...his life may be in danger. Please... I don't know who else to turn to."

He only stared at the screen for a few minutes, at a loss, but the way her voice sounded, so desperate... so scared, it made his demeanor soften just a bit. 

My brother.

That seemed like a jab right where it was most tender. Since hearing that Yondu was dead he just couldn't shake the knowledge that they had never spoke again, even if he had technically broke the Code and the Code said that they couldn't anymore, they were still brothers, maybe it would have been more honorable to at least ask why Yondu had done it in the first place. 

He would never get the chance now. 

His life may be in danger.

Martinex didn't know a whole lot about Kraglin, only what he'd heard from different sources. He especially did not know the man he was now, his only memories of the two or three times he ever saw him being a boy of all bones and a narrow, calculating gaze...the same one Yondu had had, the gaze that marked a survivor. He was only twelve when Yondu had brought him into the fold, and some of them would've thought he'd been welded to Yondu's side for the way he never left it unless made to. 

Thats when both Stakar and Martinex knew he had found his right-hand man, only he had a lot of growing to do before that. 

Tessa wanted to speak to Stakar, but the last time she had wanted to 'talk' apparently she had barely made the decision not to kill him,  there was no way he was letting his captain go alone to her again. Niece or not, he didn't trust her. 

Maybe Stakar would be angry for it, but he knew what he was going to do. 

"Aleta, I need someone to cover for me for a rotation, I'll explain later." he pressed his finger to the comm to say, he knew she would trust it, but he also knew she would ask a million and one questions when he got back. He could live with it. 

And it was not a hard decision to delete the transmission from Tessa and leave without a word to Stakar.

                                       - - -

One chance, that was all she would get to make him agree to help her. The first sign that this could end badly and he was done.

After what she had pulled with Stakar months ago, Martinex felt this may be more than she deserved. But even after that, he acknowledged there was a small piece of him that still just wanted to know her. 

The fact that she was Yondu's daughter—his chosen daughter, like him and Martinex had been sons to Stakar—is what made him send her a location to meet at. 

As he waited in the hazy cantina a dozen different scenarios played in his mind of how this would go down, and a dozen more of just what she would be like. 

"She's just like him." 

He found himself actually hoping that was true. 

The door opened, and a cloaked figure stepped inside slowly, but with some kind of deadly, maybe dark air about them as they stepped, considering everyone and everything around them. 

The figure felt feminine, and for a woman was averagely tall but thin, strands of silver hair falling out of the hood like they had escaped a hasty braid. 

He kept staring as the woman kept looking around. A little less than a full hour early to the time Martinex—under the guise of Stakar—had said to meet. Ravager behavior. 

Then this was Tessa. 

This was Yondu's line. 

He followed her with his eyes, resisting the urge to stand and address her and just watched, seeing her calculate everything around her. She was looking for Stakar. 

                                       - - -

Brothels and bars were not exactly Tess' favorite places to be, not when the memories she had from them either hurt to think of her lost life or that she had spilt an unholy amount of blood in them. But today she barely even thought about where she was as she stepped into the dimly-lit bar, the smell of alcohol and unwashed bodies was all that reminded her to think of her surroundings. 

She gazed around, looking for Stakar and getting a scan of everyone in the decent-sized room, mostly harmless drunks and a few scantly-dressed waitresses. Maybe some were prostitutes, Tess didn't exactly care at the moment, the only thing that mattered was finding the Arcturan man who may just hold the fates of Kraglin and Gamora in his hand. 

Her edge was peaking a bit as she swept her eyes around the space, but she couldn't find Stakar. She was sure this was the location he had chosen, being early was no issue because Yondu had always told her Ravagers came to their meetings an hour early whereas most others arrived only about half an hour. 

He had to be here. 

She swallowed the dryness in her throat and took a breath, focusing. And when she did she noticed the eyes that had been following her since she had walked in. 

She paused, discreetly moving herself to where her eyes couldn't be seen in the shadow of her hood but she could look over at the golden eyes that hadn't yet left her, and the Pluvian man that they belonged to, sitting in the corner of the cantina. 

She moved herself around the opposite way to get a better look at him, some kind of familiarity to him that she was trying to recall. 

She acknowledged the navy blue leathers he wore, then, finally, the flame on his chest, and she knew. Her mind flashed back to that day that had changed her life, the day those golden freaks had shown up and sent them off on the last mission they would ever have—the one that had left her life ruined. 

He was the same man that had stood beside Stakar when he had been on Contraxia, stood there with a posture that seemed defensive and protective as the older man had yelled all kinds of things to Yondu about the Code and how he had broke it. Bringing exile upon himself. 

He had come in Stakar's place, but Tess only wondered if he had been told to, or if he had done it upon his own decision. 

She considered only for the smallest moment to turn and leave, she had said she wanted to speak directly to Stakar, anyways, but now was hardly a time to be picky. 

"Where is he?" she asked as soon as she made it to the table in the dark corner, looking down at those gold eyes that had not removed themselves from her yet, that face that looked like crystalline shards carefully molded together set in an indifferent expression. 

"Not coming." the man answered, his voice edged with a sound like the gentle scrape of metal echoing through it. 

Tess felt a tiny spike of regret wash through her. She never did know for sure how bad she had left him... "He dead?" 

"No," came his calm reply. "He doesn't know you want to talk to him." 

"And why?" she held her jaw tight as not to snap the words. 

"Because as first mate it's my job to watch my captains back, so I'm here in case this isn't what you say it is."

She read between those lines, and knew what he meant. He would stand a better chance against her than Stakar if this was another assassination attempt. 

Even if she knew that was not her intention by a long shot, she knew enough about his kind to wonder how hard it would actually have been to kill him first had he been there with Stakar that day. 

Steel against crystal... she wondered which of them would break first. 

He seemed to wonder the same, the way he kept glancing at her hands. 

Bold. She respected that. That was real honor—loyalty, and if she hadn't already been irritated and overrun by emotions she might have admired it. 

"Who are you?" she asked, bracing her hands on the table in fists. 

"Martinex T'Naga."

Tess cocked her head slightly, then ran her tongue over her teeth as she slowly sat down, trying to reign herself. 

Martinex was noticing so many things about her, from the way she carried herself, the way she talked, her small habits when she was frustrated... they were all Yondu. Those things this young woman did were all like his brother. 

She was mostly what he had pictured, only, admittedly, more beautiful, especially with the knowledge of what she had been before this life. 

She appeared Arcturan or Xandarian in features, only her flesh had a look about it that made him know she wasn't either of those. He had never seen skin that looked like the veins beneath glistened. But her eyes were what confirmed it. 

They looked like orbs of steel sitting just under the shadow of her hood, the sheen stark against the pupils and he could see webs of black and white flowing through the irises. 

But for all she was unlike anything he had ever seen before, he could feel her power radiating off of her like fumes. He was feeling all that rage and power and bitterness, absorbing her energy—and somewhere underneath it all he could feel a passion, some kind of love that she clearly reserved for very, very few. 

"I truly do just want to talk." Tess said, her voice more even as she leaned forward, elbows up on the stained wood surface. 

"That was the impression you had my Captain under last time."

His voice was cold. Tess held back a sharp retort. "I was...in a different mindset then."

"And now?"

"I just want to get my brother back."

"Kraglin." It sounded like a question. 

"Yes, and they have my friend, too."

"Any ideas on who took them?"

"No, not really. Just that they're trained. And they were ready for us. I think... I think they were actually after me."

"Then if they took him that means they're waiting for you."

"I know what it means." He looked down from her, running his fingers up and down the glass of dark liquid he held between his hands, and Tess took a deep breath. "I wouldn't have came to you if I had another option." 

"That's what worries me."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

He jerked his eyes back up to her. "It means you're a loose canon, and if you truly would've never reached out if not for desperation, then how fast will you be to mark me, or the others as expendable?"

Tess leaned forward, and he saw something light in her eyes, like all the vein-like colors in them started to softly glow. "Loyalty actually means something to me." she gave him a pointed look, sweeping her eyes quickly over him. "Like it should to Ravagers."

"Don't you imply it doesn't to me—"

"Then why did you abandon him?" she instantly hissed, her voice suddenly acidic as her throat burned. "Why did you throw him away?"

He drew back slightly, knowing who she was talking about without her saying so, and he realized that despite the situation she was begging him to help her with, those questions still burned inside her, she still wanted answers. He knew all too well what that kind of pain looked like. 

And he knew what it felt like to lose someone you loved. To feel like you were alone.

Martinex shook his head a little, looking away from her. "He broke the Code." 

"No, don't throw that bullshit at me!" she snapped, her voice low but harsh. "Did you even try  to figure out what was fully going on?"

"It didn't matter, Stakar told us what happened and that was the end of it." he closed his eyes tightly, but she didn't care, in her eyes he betrayed Yondu as much as the Ravagers in the mutiny, she didn't care that they had done that Ravager funeral. It would never feel like enough for the pain she knew he went through. That was her father, and he wouldn't know they had ever done it anyways. 

For some reason it made her feel like she had done something, as if her getting answers would make sure he knew the truth. "He didn't know what really happened—!" 

"I didn't want to!"

Tess was a little surprised at the sudden outburst, not really a shout but more like an exclamation he was trying his best not to draw attention to them with, his glass-like fingers balling into a fist and slamming the table once when he said it. 

"Then why did you?" she asked slowly, almost accusingly. 

"As first mate, you have to make hard decisions, even if I didn't like it, Stakar was still my Captain, the man who gave me a home, a family... We were taught that the Code was obsolete, and the fact that he would deal in children... I just couldn't face him."

"He didn't deal in them! He was lied to, and you wouldn't know that because you never cared enough to find out yourself."

"That's not true." he looked broken as he said it, but her heart was too cold at the moment to pity him. "Me and Yondu... we had like what you and Kraglin have."

"No, don't you dare compare that!" she found herself straightening up, squaring her shoulders almost like she was about to stand and walk away. "If Yondu had exiled him I would've tried to figure out why, I would've been there for him, we both would've for each other."

"You don't understand. You don't know how hard it was—He was my brother, we grew on that ship together, learned together. When Stakar brought him there I was twenty three, and I hadn't even made it to first mate yet. I was the first person Yondu trusted, and by the time he was healthy enough to train we trained together. Sound familiar?"

She didn't know how he knew, but she didn't have time to think about it, even if her mind couldn't help but imagine; her father, younger than she was now, and only a little older than she had been when brought to the Eclector, that weak and scared kid, even if anger was always their masks. Him and his big brother, just like Kraglin and her. He had been the first person she had trusted even a little, when he had kneeled in that cell and spoke softly to her. Some part of her knew from that moment that everything was going to be alright after that.

"You aren't the only one who has regrets, Tessa." Martinex's hallow voice sounded more distant, his words coming in a little breath of a sigh that sounded like the ringing vibrations of bells or metal—something in that noise like he was remembering times or recounting all the things he could have done different. 

Maybe he had never said those three words she had never said either. Maybe it was too late for both of them. 

Tess felt a lump lodge itself into her throat, its presence becoming more demanding as she thought longer on that regret, she would not have the same regret for Kraglin. Or Gamora, for that matter, so she collected herself and tried to make her case. Resorting to that emotionless, suck-it-up demeanor she took when she couldn't afford the emotions. "Listen, Sparkles," she said, leaning forward again. "It may be too late for you and your brother, but as far as I know, it ain't too late for me and mine, and if you truly cared about Yondu, then you'll be willing to do anything to help the man that made up a huge chunk of his world."

He didn't respond, but was sucked backwards in time when he heard her words, saw the way she acted, how she was like a replica of the man he had known. And how she could call him that. If it weren’t for the files him and Stakar has first received about her Terran origins, he would have believed in an instant that Yondu’s Centaurian blood was flowing through her veins. 

"Bested again, that's nine outta twelve for me." Yondu, still only twenty years old had sneered in good nature down at the older man, pinned under his broad hands and his legs pressed into the floor by the Centaurian's knees. 

"I let ya off easy for that." Martinex sassed, nodding towards his brother's busted lip and cheekbone leaking dark blue. 

"Ah, don't be sore about it, Sparkles, ya just don't wanna admit I'm stronger than you." 

He snickered up at him. "You're yet to make me bleed, Blue." 

"Now that," Yondu hauled him back up one-handed, squinting at his taller stance. "Is real petty." 

It hurt, even if he would never admit it, it just hurt. 

All those years ago the two had sparred with each other over Yondu's considerable strength and Martinex's near-unbreakable body, both of them forever trying to best one another. 

And then, there they were, separated in life and in heart, standing in the snow, golden eyes glaring into crimson and not a single word spoken yet so many hurts and truths revealed in those few seconds. 

But no apologies, no forgiveness... nothing. 

Strangers. Enemies. 

"If you hate me, I understand," Tess said, forcing him back from the thoughts. "I do, too, but Kraglin means more to me than anything. He meant the world to Yondu, too."

His brother's son. 

He carefully looked up at her. "How far are you willing to go for him?" 

She picked apart the question, but there was only one answer. "I would die for him." 

"I can't help you get him back without resources, and Stakar will have to authorize them."

"Can't or won't?"

"Can't."

"I know what this is about, but I would never betray someone who helped me, especially with something like this." She rose from her seat, feeling her anger start to boil over the flame of fear. "I don't have time for solutions that aren't definite."

"He wouldn't turn his back on his grandson."

"Yeah like he's done shit for him for years!" she hissed. "Don't you worry, T'Naga, I’ll figure it out myself. If I have to rip every archive apart myself, I will find him." 

She didn't give him the chance to respond before she stalked away, but not before giving him a gesture of inclining her index finger towards him as she turned around, tossing the door open when she got to it. 

He instantly knew that gesture, Stakar's gesture... he had passed it to Yondu, and in turn, to Tess. He wondered if she was purposely trying to be his replica or not. 

But Martinex had heard what he needed to. She was loyal to who was loyal to her, and she was willing to die for her family, like a true Ravager.

                                       - - -

Tess was shaking again as she walked briskly back towards her small ship, her footfalls not even registering. Not much was. 

Her world fell into numbness when she realized she was back on square one, with no real way of finding out who those people had even been. 

She was risking more each second. And now she had to deal with the surreal knowledge that she had just sat across from the man that was everything to Yondu that Kraglin was to her. 

That she had just sat down and faced everything she had been running from and trying to hide from for the sake of her brother that she felt was all her life truly needed to be. 

"Tessa."

She stopped like she had been shot through the chest when she heard that burnished voice behind her. She turned around slowly, just her head over her shoulder mostly. 

Martinex was a few paces behind, seeming like he had hurried out of that brothel to make it this far before she left. "I can get you coordinates." he said. "But after that, I think that's all I can do."

Tess just stared for a few silent moments, almost like she was waiting for him to change his mind. It was too good of news after his initial refusal, she told herself. 

"I have the feeling you don't need help on the physical side anyways. Just send me the information you have, and I can work into it."

Tess swallowed hard. "Thank you." she managed to get out, eyes going a little soft. 

He nodded, and his eyes fell on the small flame emblem she had been subconsciously fidgeting with between her fingers, tied to a string that hung around her neck.  She held onto that flame...the symbol of who they were, because her heritage had become the same as his. He found himself hitting his chest twice to her, a soft salute. 

Tess nodded, blinking rapidly. But she couldn't get herself to do it back before she walked away. 

                                       - - -

"Tess, where the hell have you been?" Rocket started following her as she moved through the landing bay, walking fast to make it back up to the main deck. 

So he had either been waiting for her, or he was the only one who knew she was coming back at that moment. For some reason he seemed so... protective of her since Yondu had died, even if he had a sort of strange way of showing it. Like he was trying not to make it clear. She wondered why but wasn't going to breach the subject right now, not when she was so close to having a lead. 

"Getting intel." 

"Wanna share how you came by that?"

She made it to the navi computer and Peter and Drax were already there, both looking at her like they expected a full explanation. 

"I didn't kill anyone." she told Rocket as he continued behind her. 

"I don't care about that, I just wanna know who from."

She stopped in her tracks, and looked at him, then glanced at Peter. "Ravagers." 

Peter turned his head sideways a little, processing the answer. "Wait, Ravagers?" Tess didnt answer and went straight to the computer, fingers running across the controls almost as fast as Rocket usually did. Peter walked up right beside her. "Like you spoke to them?"

"I met up with them, I knew if I had even a little information on the ship then he could hack into that."

"Who? Stakar?"

"No. His first mate."

"And you didn't think this information should’ve been shared before you took off? Why wouldn't you tell me?"

"Because I needed to do it alone."

"No offense, but I dealt with them a lot longer than you did, you should've told me."

"Damn it, Peter, don't smother me! Nothing happened and I can handle myself."

Rocket was shaking his head but said nothing, Peter just pressed his lips together and started ambling back around the room, hands on his hips. 

"Did you learn where Gamora and Kraglin are?" Drax asked, hands clenched like he was itching for a yes. 

"I hope so." 

"Hope so?" Rocket asked.

"Wait, a, second." Peter drew out his louder words, throwing a hand out to gesture at Drax. "You're not going to say anything to her?" his voice hit a higher tone. 

"I asked her if she got the intel." Drax answered matter-of-factly. 

"No. About her just leaving," he threw a hard glare at Tess. "without telling anyone."

"Tess can handle herself." Drax said like it was obvious, his broad shoulders lifting just slightly. 

"Thank you, Drax." Tess said, giving an irritated look at the other two. 

Rocket rolled his eyes as Peter turned around. "So, spit it out already. Where are they?" the anthropoid asked.

Tess pulled up a holo and ran her fingers across its surface, showing a glowing image on nearly the opposite side of the expanse of space the Quadrant hovered in now.  She let out a breath. "I owe you one, Sparkles." 

"That's halfway into the outer rim," Rocket said as he looked over the map. "Not only that, it’s in the Dark Sectors. Worse parts than anything you've seen in the frickin' Andromeda. Crime in there is a sorry excuse to what's in that Sector."

Peter's sea-green eyes were a little wide as he stared at the map, Drax squinting at it as if just waiting for them to say 'screw it' and forget the hesitation. "Yondu used to tell us that jobs out there were too risky to take, even some of the bigger factions got cut in half out there." 

Tess nodded, swallowing and looking down. "None of you have to come. I can handle it myself."

"Like hell you can." Peter instantly said. "I didn't survive Ronan and a Celestial just to chicken shit out of a guild."

Tess looked at Rocket and Drax, both of them nodding, fire behind their eyes. "Alright then. Let's get them back." 

"And kill everyone who gets in our way." Drax added. 

"Agreed."

[beanutbutterbisquick]

Some gotg3 spoilers (ish)

Uhm so like. I just realized that Mantis has never touched Rocket. Mantis has empath powers so. Rocket must have had a reason (obvious to audience but not to the guardians till the final movie) and so to the knowledge of everyone, he’s just some cranky raccoon thing. In GOTG 1 and 2 we get a little insight into his character and why he behaves as he does but,, we don’t get the true reason. It’s always sort of a vague general idea. “He call me a vermin, he called me a pest” or “I didn’t ask to be torn apart and put back together like some sorta monster”

Yes, he’s open about it; to an extent. The team in GOTG3 finally realize what he meant when he said all of that (insert them watching his file). And they still don’t fully know what the High Evolutionist said/did to him. They don’t know about his friends.

So. Rocket never let Mantis touch him because he most likely (definitely like totally) carried a lot of that anger and sorrow with him most of his life. I don’t think Rocket has a thing with being touched (Drax, GOTG 1 ending scene for example), but when he knew she could have sense his emotions and he probably didn’t wanna let her feel what he’s gone through. I also imagine that he experiences a level of pain from these memories, too. I’m gonna go cry now.

[rubaefool]

The blind leading the blind

Rant incoming, be warned!

One of my favorite Daredevil single issues is #7 from the first Mark Waid run.

We don't really get Matt/Daredevil interacting with kids a lot due to the nature of their jobs. Children aren't going to file lawsuits and they are not going to play on rooftops at midnight. Sure, they get rescued a lot, but that's because everyone likes kids, ergo, villains target them to make a point.

I think we forget that at the end of the day, people who idolize superheroes are still kids. Kids are the ones who imagine themselves haing the power of Superman and kids are the ones who imagine themselves being a friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man. Which is why stories with children playing a major role (other than damsels in distress) is something that always makes me smile. I guess I just feel nostalgic about my childhood whenever I see stuff like that.

(It's why the scene where the children gain Thor's powers in L&T was something I loved, because which kid doesn't want to imagine themselves having the power of Thor? I totally would, it's awesome! And that scene of Drax being such a cute dad in GotG 3, beautiful.)

This isn't the first time children have played a major role in a DD story. In the Nocenti run, there was a small gang of skateboarding kids called the Fatboys, who hung around Daredevil from time to time. (They even helped him out on some of his adventures too!)

So, spoilers ahead. The story basically follows Matt taking a small group of blind kids on a weekend Christmas trip, which goes wrong because average Daredevil story because of a blizzard. The remaining part is about how Daredevil (or rather, the kids in this case) save Christmas.

We get to see Matt with kids in this one, and it's adorable. He's charming enough to get along with most of them, and isn't some awkward adult. (We're told that this is something he does every year, it makes sense that he's well acquainted.) However, his cool-lawyer-adult act doesn't hold up for very long, especially under stress, because he simply isn't used to having children in such situations. He's out of his depth. His senses are muddled because of the snow and he has to deal with eight terrified blind children. And he tries. He tries to cheer them up, he loses his temper at them and later apologizes, and he occasionally treats them like a group of adults. He somehow manages to go through all the pains of parenting in a single snowy day. And because he's a vey stubborn bastard, he keeps on trying until his body gives up.

And what do the children do?

They return the favor, of course! They rise to the occasion. When they realized that the only adult in charge was incapacitated, they didn't panic and became the unexpected heroes of the story. Somehow, they managed to not follow any of Matt's instructions when he was still directing them, but when he went out of the picture, they banded together and saved Christmas. And so the story ends on a high note and everyone's happy. There's also a fun bit of Santa imagery but hey, it's a holiday issue, I'm not complaining.

Something I love about these children is that they're not some chosen ones with otherworldly powers. They're not warriors trained from a young age. Hell, they're not even street-smart like the Fatboys were (which is pretty much the main reason why Matt took them out in the first place; he wanted to help them overcome their social anxieties.) These are literally a random bunch of terrified kids who when faced with a dangerous situation didn't shy away from it (as some would expect) but instead faced them head-on.

Now, the main story is interspersed with flashback scenes featuring some tidbits about what Matt's mental state is like. You've got an early instance of Foggy calling out Matt's bullshit (which only increases with each new issue) and Matt explaining (or rather refusing to explain) why he's turned to optimism as a coping mechanism. It's a pretty good summary of the Waid run, and also a perfect example of the fact that this run isn't actually as lighthearted as people think.

Also, there's more Matt/Kirsten. Which is always a good thing.

Also, I guess it has like the cheapest Daredevil cosplay idea ever? (An even cheaper one would be Matt in his tighty-whities from that Miller book, I suppose.)

Also, it has the best Daredevil cover and that is the Truth. I shall not hear anything otherwise.

Okay, that's it, I feel much better now. Thank you for attending my TedTalk.

[elrondhalfelven]

Ooooo okay here’s a fun one, what would be your wish list for a second eidos Montreal guardians game ?

1. peter gets a good haircut

HA but realistically knowing the game didn’t do so well (GAMERS HAVE SUCH BAD TASTE I HATE YOU ALL. MY VILLAIN ORIGIN STORY) means it’s not going to happen and it’s saddd!!!

but anyway!! having nikki gold as part of the lineup is such an incredibly unique and refreshing idea i hope she would stick around. and adam too obviously. mantis should be a main team member and go into more detail on the celestial madonna.

rich should be introduced!!!! he was referenced and the fact that peter dislikes him is very funny to me (just admit ur crush and GO) and you CAN’T tease rich and me to just forget.

nova having moondragon on file was exciting. i know some people think it’s redundant having mantis and moondragon around at the same time but having her be a kind of antagonist (not the main one!!! but go dragon of the moon it would be so unique!!) would be fun and then let her join the team at the end. just lean into the whole dragon thing!

other than that going more in detail on spartax would be good. peter’s heritage was a big gameplay element so i wouldn’t mind going into more detail on that story/character-wise.

story i have no idea. i have a feeling they were setting up something regarding thanos and the stones (drax IS an avatar of life in this version if i’m remembering correctly and he could sense thanos was not gone. the others put it down to trauma but he KNEW in his gut). that would be annoying to me if I didn’t think they would do a better job than the mcu. they absolutely would. that version was so bad sorry. and having a thanos story with the gotg as leads that actually does a good job with gamora (eidos gamora is FANTASTIC) and has adam around? chef’s kiss. god just make it a trilogy and have mr. T. Hanos be the grand finale and go full weirdness with the soul world and the stones <3

having the universal church of truth as the villains in the first game showed they weren’t afraid to go straight into just. idk. gotg bullshit so i would just be excited to see anything they came up with tbh.

also let me blast jack flag out an airlock again it’s so stupid god bless

[marvelfangirl2008cc]

Guradians of the gaxley sims cc

My guradians of the gaxley sims cc links

Starlord outfit https://xdbogoss95.tumblr.com/post/169130055953/star-lord-from-the-guardians-of-the-galaxy-vol-2

Gamora outfits https://xdbogoss95.tumblr.com/post/111130833138/gamora-costume-from-guardians-of-the-galaxy And https://simfileshare.net/download/386134/  Drax groot mantis nebula and rocket gamora  outfits and face paint https://www.tumblr.com/aralenorimaki01/703869061427347456/nebula-mantis-gotg-uniform

Starlord Walkman https://www.patreon.com/posts/77672951

starlord hair https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/details/category/sims4-hair-hairstyles-male/title/wings_hair_os0214/id/1366892/

gamora hair https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/details/category/sims4-hair-hairstyles-female/title/gamora-hair-guardians-of-the-galaxy-outdoor-retreat/id/1449027/

more Star Lord cc by @cantransimmer\

https://cantransimmer.tumblr.com/post/625012062803886080/star-lords-long-jacket-base-game-compatible-the

starlord vest and funrel jacket https://cantransimmer.tumblr.com/post/627480665187844096/even-more-star-lord-stuff-this-time-his-vest-from

star lord shirts from vol 2 https://cantransimmer.tumblr.com/post/627480200138162176/star-lord-gotg-vol-2-dual-swatch-shirt

star kid cc which I will use by @cantransimmer also and I might use a hair by @simiracle here it is https://cantransimmer.tumblr.com/post/625649071859892224/star-lord-kid-stuff

star lord comic cc by @aralenorimaki01 here it is https://www.patreon.com/posts/star-lord-gotg-76277327

and rocket comic outfit and groot outfit also by @aralenorimaki01 here it is https://www.patreon.com/posts/rocket-groot-75988320

[dilfdoctordoom]

Hi if we were to get a sequel to the 2021 guardians video game what would you want from Gamora? She had a relationship with Richard Rider in the past, She has a friendship with mantis, she also used to take care of a kid back then on lamentis. Maybe they could work with that? What would you like to see in her relationship with the guardians? Drax also thinks thanos is still alive. Or would like her to face off with a certain villain.

these are just some random thoughts I had on what they could do in a sequel with her.

There is so so much I'd like explored with her.

I think the sequel set up in general was pretty clear - some kind of story featuring Rich, Thanos & most likely the Cancerverse to explain their absences. And I would loveee to see Gamora react to that... provided we also add Nebula to the mix.

Game!Nebula is someone we've only ever heard stories about, so it'd be nice to see what she's actually like. Is it exactly as Gamora has told us or did she leave out details? If so, why? There's a goldmine there.

Thanos is an obvious, but tentative one. I get kinda nervous when Gamora & Thanos show up nowadays cause barring the Thanos (2019) mini, I don't think Gamora's had anywhere near the complex relationship she once did in like. 20 fucking years. lmao.

Heather!!! Heather & Gamora's friendship is so so important to me personally & obviously, we know Heather exists, she had her own little criminal file thing. It'd be great to see them interact.

Pip cameo'd in the first game when the GOTG find Adam so. Obligatory that fucking trio, it's criminal that we've gotten literally no adaptation that features them.

I'd love to see how she's dealing with Nikki on board but again, something I'd also be nervous about. A lot of people like to shoehorn Gamora into a mother role when it doesn't really suit her. That said, I'd be down for a sisterly dynamic! I think it could work especially well if they bring in Nebula. Which. Let's be real. They're bringing in Nebula if we ever get a sequel.

Her & Drax <3 he's warmed up to her a lot by the end of the game & they are one of my favorite comic friendships of all time so I'd like to see that.

Urm. I want her to get new costumes... the GOTG2020 team one is obvious, but I'd also love the current one she's got (updated to include pants) & some of her purple ones. Maybe a riff on an Annihilation look? DEFINITELY her classic costume that deserves much more attention

[brutashaswin]

My Thoughts on Guardians of the Galaxy 3

(Spoiler free until the cut)

*Rocket’s backstory is the standout part of this movie. Absolutely beautifully and exquisitely done. I cried, and I rarely cry at movies. The voice acting, the CGI of Rocket and his friends, the writing, it was all incredible!

*There were some fun moments between the team! This is definitely Rocket’s movie, but Nebula, Drax, and Mantis have some great scenes. Peter and Gamora take a backseat in terms of screen time.

*Adam Warlock was definitely underused, I kept forgetting he was in this movie. I wish he had more interaction with the Guardians before the very end of the film.

*Cosmo 13/10, she’s a very good girl!

Now for spoilers!

*I was honestly disappointed at the ending. Peter going back to Earth, especially without the other Guardians, didn’t make a lot of sense to me. And him going back to his grandfather was a strange choice. I get that he was Peter’s only remaining earth relative, but we don’t know anything about him outside of one scene in the first movie. I always hate when stories split up the found family for no good reason. The Guardians ARE Peter’s family, blood relation or not. And besides, we JUST found out that Pete and Mantis are siblings, so he has other biological relatives! If they were going to have Peter go back to his grandfather, I would have liked them to visit Meredith’s grave together. I think that would have been more impactful, emotionally.

*I feel like they didn’t really know what to do with Gamora in this movie. No offense to Zoe Saldana, I love her and her portrayal of Gamora. (She’s literally my favorite Guardian!) But I think it would have been better if the alternate Gamora wasn’t in this movie, and they focused more on the team healing from losing her in Infinity War. (And Gamora could still make an appearance in flashbacks or something, kind of like Yondu appearing to Kraglin.)

*As a huge Starmora shipper, I was disappointed that they ended that storyline. I was hoping for a Katniss x Peeta type thing, where they fall in love all over again after one of them loses their memories. However, I’m also glad that they didn’t force them getting back together or one of them falling in love with someone else.

*I really thought Lyla, Floor, and Teefs were going to be able to escape with Rocket. I think writing them off was effective and certainly an emotional gut punch. But I was expecting them to have some kind of falling out after leaving together, and then Rocket finds the others years later and they all reconcile and live on Knowhere together. (Maybe I need to write an AU fanfiction where that does happen, haha!)

*On a similar note, the final scene between Rocket and Lyla was beautiful. However, I wish they would have committed to either killing the Guardians or not. The end of that scene where Lyla told him “not yet” felt like a fake out, and other characters had moments like that too. (Drax and Mantis when they were getting Rocket’s file, Peter almost dying in space…) I get doing a dramatic scene and leaving the audience in suspense of the character is going to survive or not. But Rocket’s should have been the only one, in my opinion, and the others felt a little cheap.

*The music didn’t hit the same as the other Guardians movies! The first two soundtracks are iconic, I literally have the CDs for both of them. But this one didn’t really have any stand out song choices, in my opinion. Save for Dog Days at the very end, which was my personal favorite.

As always, these are just my opinions and you’re welcome to disagree! I’d love to hear what you thought of the movie :)