Sunlight warmed Merry's skin as she sat amongst the flowers in her garden. Plucking a rose from the bush she brought it up to her nose. The flower's delicate petals were soft against her skin and the sweet smell heightened her already happy mood. She was still riding high from last night's activities with Ronan and their conversation that happened before. Smiling against the silky petals, a dark shadow caught her eye. Turning her head completely she saw another Kree warrior walking towards her. As he got closer, Merry noticed he was smaller than Ronan – in both build and height; he was also older, evident by fine lines around his eyes and mouth.

"My lady," he took a short bow and looked down at her, "I am Lieutenant Paxer, Ronan's Second in Command."

"Oh!" Merry exclaimed and stood up, dusting the debris off her yellow dress. She smiled at the warrior, "I have not gotten to meet any of Ronan's crew."

Giving her a sad smile he looked down at her, "I wish this introduction was under better circumstances."

Merry's smile wavered at the tone of his voice. "Is something wrong? Is it Ronan?" she panicked.

"No, ma'am." He took a breath, "I regret to inform you that Asgard was attacked and suffered many causalities; one of them being the Queen."

She cupped a hand over her mouth and tears began to streak down her face. She turned and stumbled a bit, Prax caught her and steered her toward the bench in the garden. Helping her sit down, he moved beside her.

"I am sorry for your loss." Prax's voice was sympathetic. He softly patted her on the back as she cried.

Merry sniffled and wiped the tears from her face. The one positive to her parents having such a powerful position within Xandar was as a child, she was able to go with them to other realms and planets. At the age of 7, she was playing in the royal gardens at the palace on Asgard. Alone, as usual, Frigga offered to keep her company. Visits to Asgard were common, as they were protectors for the majority of the universe. It was a silver lining to her pathetic life until it was ripped way when she turned 13 and was forced into confinement. Frigga never forgot her, even sending her a beautiful silver gown as a wedding gift.

A gift that was ripped apart by Ronan.

Fresh tears welled in her eyes. While she knew Ronan could not have known such a thing could happen, it still pained her that she no longer had the beautiful token of friendship. "I am sorry for carrying on like this."

Shaking his head, Prax spoke softly. "Lady, it is the natural order of things to cry at such tragedies. My only regret is that news did not travel sooner so that you could have attended her funeral service." He gave Merry a small smile, "However, the Queen has entered Valhalla for she died protecting her realm."

Through her grief, Merry was happy that Frigga was in Valhalla. It was every Asgardian's dream to enter the sacred hall once their life was over. "I am glad she is in Valhalla. It is the highest of honors."

"That it is." Prax agreed. "She sounds every bit the warrior her son is."

"Her spirit will certainly live on in Thor."

"A fine legacy," Prax looked out over the garden, "I sometimes wonder if Ronan can carry on his father's." Prax was wise enough to know that he should never doubt his commanding officer but Ronan's heart was compromised.

"What happened to Ronan's family?" Merry questioned. Ronan's father was still alive but soon after the wedding he fell gravely ill. He mainly slept and he was submerged in black liquid with tubes running in and out of his body. There was no mentioned of a mother or siblings.

Prax's eyes closed and he opened them slowly. Turning to look at her, she saw years of struggle dance over his features. "Just like now, I was Second in Command. Only this time to Theus, Ronan's father. He was a wonderful leader, wise and considerate." He remembered Theus fondly. "Unfortunately, Xandar did not feel that same and set out to destroy what was left of the Kree Empire."

His eyes were cast down as memories flooded back. "So much violence and death, including Ronan's mother, Yeila, and his younger sister, Lela. Desperate, Theus went on a search for help. That is when he met your parents."

Merry's eyes widened at the knowledge Prax was unloading on her. Ronan's mother and sister were killed and by her own people. "Where was Ronan and his brothers?"

"They were on a different planet. Theus had sent them hoping it would educate them." Prax knew he needed to stop talking but it became almost lethargic to retell the story. "Theus met with your father and they struck a deal: Theus would be given an Infinity Stone in exchange for all the riches we had left. Including rare gems that would grant them prestige over others."

Wrinkling her nose, Merry tried to conclude what an Infinity Stone was. Observing her confusion, Prax spoke up. "This Infinity Stone is very powerful – it can destroy planets with a single touch."

"What was Theus going to use it for?!" Merry cried out.

"To destroy Xandar." Prax lowered his head in shame. "We were all struck by grief. We suffered at the hands of enemies for many years and our numbers dwindled. Theus protected us and our families but it was still no use." Steepling his hands under his chin, he drew in a slow breath. "Luckily enough, Theus still held a shred of sense. Once he learned of what your parents had put you through the terms of the deal were changed. Instead of an Infinity Stone, he asked for you so you could be a bride to one of his sons. The catch was that you had to be at least 18 years of age."

"How long ago did this occur?" Merry asked.

"9 years ago."

Merry wished she could be shocked by her parent's scheme to marry her off so young, even at 9 years old but she could never afford that luxury. "Even though a deal was struck my parents still tried to pawn me off."

"Such activity was not unknown to Theus. Hence why he never gave your parents anything."

"So, how did I avoid being forced to marry?"

"Theus was a very powerful man. If you think Ronan is magnificent, you should see his father. He sought potential suitors and encouraged them not to make arrangements with your parents."

"What became of this Infinity Stone?"

"Ah, yes," he said. "We knew not where your parents cast it off to. At least until Ronan sent out a team of scavengers."

"Peter Quill." Realization hit Merry. That must be the orb he spoke of. The object Ronan had commissioned him to gather up.

"Oh, so you have heard of him." Prax chuckled. "I can see why Ronan is annoyed by him but I must admit when he told Ronan he had to dance for the Stone was the very definition of comedy."

Merry stared openly at Prax. His skin was a darker shade of blue than Ronan's, most likely due to his age. He looked weary and Merry made a mental note to speak to Ronan about giving him some time off.

"Prax," she began, "why are you telling me all of this? Surely this information is something that Ronan should be telling me."

"I am telling you this, my lady, because Ronan's heart is heavy with grief and he strives for revenge for those who destroyed his people and his family." He made a gesture towards Merry, "And now he has even more reason to hate Xandar. The treatment bestowed upon you has become personal and Ronan will always protect what is his."

As much as Merry reveled in Ronan's possession of her, she wished not for him to be filled with such negative feelings. "And what do you want me to do about it?"

His tired eyes looked over her. "Show him that both of you can begin a new life. Let go of the past and look to the future." Giving her a nod, Prax stood up. "I must take my leave. I would be eternally grateful if this conversation was kept between us."

Standing up alongside him, Merry gave Prax a quick hug. The lieutenant stiffened a bit but then gave her a short huge back. "I promise I will not tell a soul."

Back on the bridge of the ship, Ronan sat back in his large chair. He was just about to retire to find Merry when Prax walked in.

"Lieutenant." Ronan sad, giving Prax a curt nod.

"I have some news for you, sir."

Ronan waved his hand, "I was just about to make my way back to my chambers. I suggest you do the same."

"I believe it is important, Ronan." Prax said sternly. "It involves Merry."

The giant warrior narrowed his eyes at his officer and lifted his hand up to signal for him to carry on.

"Queen Frigga of Asgard has died." He was blunt and to the point, not needing to say it delicately for Ronan's ears. "Merry was distraught and upset at the news."

Ronan felt a rush of guilt. He knew that pretty dress Merry wore the other day was a gift from the Queen and in his lustful rage he ripped it to shreds. Regret pooled in the pit of his stomach as he stood up and passed Prax.

"Sir, where you going?" He asked, alarmed at Ronan's behavior.

"To rectify a wrong."

Ronan made his way down the hall to the chambers he shared with Merry. Checking to make sure she was not inside, he beelined toward the closet. His eyes scanned the room until they settled on what he was looking for. Thrown across the back of a chair was the dress; the bodice was intact, albeit missing some beads, but the skirt was completely ripped in half and was distressed and twisted. The lace bow was ripped at the seams.

Picking up the lightweight gown he fingered the silky fabric. Merry truly looked like a goddess when wearing it. All silver and gold, she looked as if she should rule the moon. Folding it gently so he didn't ruin it further, he tucked it under his arm and left to visit the ship's seamstress, Lea. He knew she mainly worked on the Kree armor and basic clothing items so he was hoping she could muster enough skill to fix Merry's dress.

After Prax had left Merry in her garden, she stayed and contemplated all that he had told her. He was right in that both she and Ronan needed to move on from their respective pasts. Picking at the yellow fabric of her dress she thought of her life before marrying Ronan. She was constantly being looked over and shown off like some show animal but that isn't her life now. Merry sat on the bench and took a deep breath and sighed dramatically.

Frigga was gone and all she had was Ronan. His heart was broken and Merry vowed to herself that she would fix it. The only way to do that was to break free from her own chains. Her parents were no longer in her life, they had no say on what she did or what she enjoyed. A smile graced Merry's face as she stood up. She was able to make her own choices. For the first time in her life, Merry felt a weight lift from her shoulders. Her past was just that and she wanted to create a beautiful future with Ronan.

Giddy and excited to get to Ronan, Merry hopped up from the small bench and took off towards her bedroom. She skipped down the dark halls of the Astor, passing warriors and other members of the crew. They all watched her as she flew by, yellow dress and silver hair bouncing behind her as she passed them. Prax saw the little lady as she made her way down the corridor that led to her bedchamber. He smiled and hoped to the gods that they can all start over again.

Bursting through the door of the bedroom, Merry saw that Ronan was lounging on their bed. He was completely still, only moving to look up from the book he was reading.

"Wife." He simply said and went back to reading.

Merry smiled back and tried to catch her breath. As she tried to calm herself down she noticed that Ronan was wearing only undergarments, which left his long legs bare. Her eyes naturally went to the slight bulge that was concealed by the fabric. She knew he wasn't aroused and yet he was still impressive.

She licked her lips as she thought about last night; how Ronan brought her pleasure using his mouth. He had also mentioned that men enjoy it, as well. She had a brief flash of hesitation but then shook it off. Merry was tired of propriety and the thought of bringing the same type of pleasure to her husband excited her.

Casting a quick glance she noticed he was still preoccupied with his book. Reaching down, she grabbed the hem of her sundress and pulled it over her head. Now clad only in her panties and brassiere she waltzed toward the edge of the bed. In what she hoped was a graceful move, she climbed over Ronan's legs and sat astride him.

Ronan closed his book quickly and looked at his wife. She somehow was able to mount herself on top of him without him realizing. He had no complaints.

"What are you about, Merry?"

Giving him a sexy little smile. She reached behind her and unhooked her bra and tossed it aside. Her full breasts filled his view and his hands reached out to cup them. As he fondled her tits, Merry slowly rocked her lower body against his.

"Fuck." Ronan ground out, "What has gotten into you?"

Not letting his words to be taken the wrong way, Merry began a slow grind, working them both up. "You don't like it?"

Lightly pinching a nipple he bite at her neck. "Oh, I do. However, I wish to know where my innocent wife got such a lush idea."

Cupping his face in her hands, she dragged his lips to hers and kissed him deeply. Wrapping her arms around her shoulders she crushed her breasts against his chest. His own arms wrapped around her middle and his hands squeezed her hips.

"I want to please you, Ronan." Merry whispered against his lips.

"You do," he whispered right back.

Shaking her head he gave him a quick kiss and moved herself out of his arms. Climbing off his legs and settling herself to the side, she looked at him. "I need you to take off your undergarments."

The look he gave her was one of surprise but his purple eyes smoldered. Pushing the fabric down he uncovered the lines that lead to his delicious pelvic bones and soon his erection was freed from the cloth. He kicked the piece of clothing off his legs and they landed someone on the floor.

From her position at his side, Merry stared down at Ronan's manhood. Long and thick, it curved slightly; the tip was flushed with a slight red tint. As the base was his swollen scrotum. She gathered up all her courage and reached out and cupped his balls in her hand. Ronan made an incoherent nose and his hips shot up. A bead of moisture formed at the tip of his cock and Merry lowered her head and used her tongue to taste it.

"Merry…" she head Ronan groan.

She looked over at her husband. His eyes were dead set on her and his face was taut. Maintaining eyes contact, she curled her small hand around the wide base of his dick. His face ticked a bit as her warm hand clasped him. Slowly, she moved her hand up; feeling the bumps of the veins along the palm of her hand. When she reached the head, she used her thumb to rub across the sensitive spot. Ronan's eyes fluttered closed as she repeated the movement; up and down his long shaft.

Breaking the eye contact, Merry's eyes watched as her hand worked Ronan's cock. With every passing movement he grew thicker in her hand and it twitched slightly as she began to pick up speed. Pre cum began to leak from the tip and catching his eyes once more, Merry lowered her lips and sucked the head into her hot mouth.

Ronan tried to control it but his hips shot up with force and Merry took more of his cock in her mouth. All he could do was stare at her. She was jerking him off while his dick was nestled between her full lips. She didn't move or do anything but flick her tongue along the head. Tendrils of pleasure went up and down his erection and flowed through his body.

"Suck it, Merry." His voice was hoarse and the deep tone resonated within her causing a spark of arousal so deep her pussy trembled in wanting. "Take it as deep as you can go and suck me, wife." He moved his hips up, encouraging her.

His naughty words only fueled her fire and she began a slow, tentative suck around his hard cock. He was as hard as stone but his skin was soft and smooth. Running her tongue long the column of flesh she sucked him harder. She felt Ronan's rough hands cup the back of her head and gently push her head down. Relaxing her jaw, she took him deeper into her wet mouth. He slowly moved his hips back and forth, easing his cock from her lips then pushing back in gently. With each thrust she sucked harder while moving her hand along the exposed bottom half of his dick.

Kneading his hand in her hair, Ronan watched as Merry's pretty mouth stretched across his thick shaft. Her sweet mouth as hot and her cheeks hollowed as she sucked him deeper into her mouth. Her hand left the base of his cock and she began to bob her head up and down his length. She took him as deep as she could, the head hit the back of her throat. She created a suction that had him wanting more.

With each pull of her mouth, a jolt ran up and down his dick and he struggled to keep it together. As she moved along his manhood, her tongue lashed at his sensitive skin and soon only the tip remained between her plump lips.

"You look so beautiful, Merry." Ronan managed to get out. "Your sweet lips wrapped around my cock. Your saliva marking my shaft."

Merry flicked her tongue over the small opening of his penis, licking up the fluid that escaped.

"Darling likes to play." Ronan mused. He thrust his hips up and forced half of his cock into her mouth. His fingers kneaded her skull roughly as he held her head still. "You will make me come and I will spill into your mouth." His eyes dilated and he clenched his jaw. "And you will swallow every drop." Pushing her head down further, Merry took him deeper as she sucked as hard as she could.

His wife removed her hand from the base and instead grasped his thick thigh. She took a deep breath and lowered her mouth further while Ronan thrust his hips up. It was a bit too much but Merry wanted, no needed, to do this. Looking up at Ronan she saw that his head was thrown back against the bed and his marvelous chest, torso and abdomen were damp with sweat. The sight aroused her even more and she worked on Ronan's dick faster, deeper; desperate to make him feel good.

Ronan felt his control snapping and he looked down at Merry. Her head was moving up and down in a delicious rhythm and he felt the beginning twinges of his release. He held Merry's head still as she continued to pull at his flesh. A gush of fluid began to splash onto Merry's tongue and she started to swallow. Moaning loudly, he lifted his hips as his little wife milked him for everything he had.

As Ronan came against her tongue, Merry's clit throbbed with a ferocity. She rubbed her thighs together, seeking what relief she could. After a moment Merry removed her lips from his cock and licked her lips. He tasted of salt and earth. Looking down at Ronan's semi-hard dick, she noticed he was covered in her saliva, as well as his semen. She felt a tug at her wrist and looked up. Her husband pulled her towards him and she made her way up to lay beside him. He gave her a deep kiss while moving his hand between her legs.

Making contact with her damp flesh, his fingers parted he swollen folds. "My, my." Ronan breathed, "Someone enjoyed sucking my cock."

His nimble fingers found her clit, hard and begging for attention. As he grazed the nub, Merry moaned. "Ronan, please." She begged.

Wanting to make her feel good above all else, he dipped his fingers against the slick opening and moved them along her clit.

"Yes," she moaned as she moved her hips against his hand.

Moving his fingers faster, Merry was coming within seconds. While her orgasm was quick, it was like a flash of lightning. After she relaxed a bit, he removed the digits and brought them to mouth; sucking off the evidence of her release.

They laid together for what seemed like eons but was merely a few minutes. Ronan's voice broke the haze.

"May I ask what brought that on? Not that I do not hope for a repeat performance." He assured her.

Laying her hand on his shoulder she gazed up at him. "I wanted to make you feel good." Her fingers idly drew little designs on his skin. "I also want to break free of my past. I wish for it not to color how I am with you or how I feel about myself."

"As you shouldn't." He agreed. "There is nothing wrong with what we do. In this bed or in life."

"Don't you have any demons, Ronan?" she asked. She held her breath hoping that he would indulge her and tell her what Prax had told her earlier.

He was quiet for so long, Merry feared she made him angry. He wrapped an arm around her waist and moved his body to face her. "You know I do…"

Miraculously, Ronan did indeed tell her everything that she already knew. Merry knew that he had problem speaking of the events that had happened to him but she knew in order to move on, they had to confront their pasts.

"Is the Infinity Stone on this ship?" Merry asked.

"Yes."

"Are you going to use it?"

She saw something flicker in his eyes and she cupped his cheek. "If I must, Merry."

It was not the answer Merry was looking for but it was better than a definite 'yes.' She cuddled into his arms and spoke into his chest. "I hope you never do, my love."

Placing a kiss on top of her head he spoke again, "I will do what I have to, wife." Wrapping her up close he nuzzled his nose against the soft silver hair. "I love you."

"I love you, too." She answered back, hoping it would be enough. She would have to see.

"I am sorry about Queen Frigga."

Fresh tears prickled her eyes and she quickly blinked them away. "Me too."

Merry said a silent prayer, hoping it will reach Frigga in Valhalla, and asked for strength. She and Ronan will have a happy life; they deserved it.