Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 1: Dinner Date (Peppino Spaghetti x Taokaka)

Before his pizzeria managed to gain more success thanks to the Arena, the only joy Peppino could find in his stress-filled day-to-day routine was cooking. Even if he was a perfectionist that often stressed out over even the smallest imperfections in the meals he made, he always took pride in the finished product.

Heck, one of the major reasons his pizzeria was failing in the first place wasn't because his food tasted bad. It was because he couldn't find the right ingredients. Now, after the Arena AND his victory over the Pizza Tower, he had far more ingredients and he could make as many meals as he pleased, though he made sure there was enough for his growing business.

There was also now somebody in his life that enjoyed food even more than he did! Granted, she mostly ate pretty much anything edible that came within her line of sight, regardless if it was made well or not, but he still loved that part about her. That passion for cuisine, that is.

Her name was Taokaka and, while her hyperactivity could stress him out sometimes, he found that he enjoyed that part about her as well. Even if she caused a mess at the pizzeria while chasing after a light that the Noise shined on the floor (which usually ended with that trouble-maker getting reduced to ribbons by her iron-claws) or kept spacing out whenever she was told something, she always a big source of warmth and affection.

With the Kaka woman, she not only enjoyed the food that Peppino made, but she found his somewhat grumpy attitude rather endearing and his skill in battle also was a huge plus in her eyes. In her eyes, he was perfect. 

Right now, the two were about to engage in yet another dinner date, but Peppino decided to put a new spin on this. Something that instantly got his girlfriend excited. "Alright...BEGIN!" He started a timer, rushing towards the kitchen, with taller woman following him.

"HUNGRRRRRRY!" She yelled that like it was a battle cry, her claws coming out as she sliced apart some mushrooms, the piles falling neatly around Peppino as he punched some sauce cans, the liquids flying into the air before landing flawlessly on some pizza dough.

Throwing several cannonballs she kept in her sleeves (she kept a lot of stuff in there, it seems), Taokaka flattened the dough before she slammed her claws down, slicing apart the cheese when she turned her claws into chainsaws. The grated substances flew onto the dough as the chainsaws whirred, some corks in the chef's ears as that happened.

Striking off a checklist, Peppino flipped an entire table with other ingredients to cut. "Think fast!"

"RIGHT! MEOW!" Leaping into the air, Taokaka zipped around like lightning, slicing apart some tomatoes, cheese, and other assorted ingredients. Peppino ran around with the pizza dough, catching them as they fell onto there. 

"And now, the finishing touches!" He threw the pizzas like frisbees into the oven, with Gustavo giving a thumbs-up as he started up the oven. Brick was also there, causing Taokaka's fur to stand on end.

Her feline instincts kicking in (due to Brick being a giant rat, after all), she rushed at him, but Peppino and company were prepared. Getting out some cutting boards, Brick matched her blow-for-blow, the training session managing to distract her from her hunger as the pizzas cooked for just the right time. Peppino found himself getting a little distracted as this happened, watching as she fought with a series of lightning-fast movements.

He remembered a few times in which she convinced him to train with her and the two proved to be fairly evenly matched. While Peppino specialized in rushing attacks involving throwing and good old fashioned brute force, Taokaka's chaotic style was complimented by her nimble movements and impressive claw-like weaponry. Each training session proved unforgettable and really worked up a sweat in both of them.

Much like this moment, that is. As soon as the oven finished, Peppino whistled. "Dinner is served, my dear!" 

"Nya?" Forgetting about Brick, she saw the pizzas fly through the air, her claws then cleaving them in multiple different directions...and causing them to be split into 8 pieces each. Molten cheese dripped from Taokaka's claws, the woman standing above the finished meal while panting heavily. It almost looked like she was finished with a mighty battle, sweat dripping from her skin.

Turning off the timer, Peppino looked at the clock with pride. "Best time! How do you feel, Tao?" He asked.

Smelling the meal, Taokaka's sharp-toothed smile grew wide, her head then moving down to nuzzle into her boyfriend's side. Purring loudly, she hugged him close. "Chef-guy, you're the best! This is gonna be the best meal Tao's ever had!"

"Ever had so far, you mean?" Peppino joked, a louder purr happening after that.

SPLAT!

Both of their expressions froze, looking utterly shocked, before their pupils looked to see that the Noise had dropped a humongous pineapple onto the pizzas. "Take THAT, lovebirds!"

"...okay, it's not that bad." Peppino shrugged.

"I got this straight from the dump!"

"TAO GONNA BEAT THE CRAP OUT OF NOISY-GUY!" Joining the enraged Kaka woman, Peppino let out his signature scream of rage, the two lunging at the terrified Noise before he was enveloped in a cartoonish ball of punches and dust.

As this happened, Gustavo and Brick looked at each-other. "I think that went well!" The latter stated positively.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

(NSFW Chapter ahead! All characters involved in the lewd situation are 18 and/or above)

Day 2: Tentacles (Lop x Rayvis)

For what felt like eternity, Lop felt like she was one with her lover. Like all of her worries melted away amidst a sea of wet squirming noises.

Never before in her life had she felt such pleasure. Never before had she felt warmth like this. The way every appendage slithered around her soft fur and athletic form was absolutely amazing. She could feel the fluids from the tips coat her fur in even more of that warmth, like she was drifting peacefully across a wide sea.

That same liquid pooled around her throat, some of the dark purple appendages going into her mouth. "Ulk...ulk...ulk..." With a blushing smile on her face, she swallowed down her lover's seed, her throat showing the outline of those tentacles as they massaged her throat.

Her limbs had sunken into the vast expanse of tendrils, each one of them massaging her fur. Her back muscles also got some of the thicker tendrils massaging around them in counter-clockwise ways. All that training with her lightsaber had been exhausting, considering her style required her to move around and keep out of her opponent's reach while she rushed into land a decisive blow.

Thus, the Lepi woman welcomed the sensation of those tentacles lovingly rubbing around her sore areas. She shuddered when they also started to move towards her rear, stroking her cheeks with such tenderness, yet she could detect the hunger within them. They wanted to feel as warm as she did.

So, she pushed her rear outward a bit, giggling as she sucked on the tentacles a bit more. She even gave them a teasing bite with her lagomorph-like teeth.

An aroused growl could be heard all around her. One belonging to her lover, that is. When that happened, she felt those tendrils bury themselves into her asshole, causing her eyes to widen and her body to stiffen. She moaned as some of her pussy juices sprayed outwards, many tentacles catching the droplets.

"Nourishing." A seductive voice echoed around her, the tendrils dragging against her vaginal folds up and down.

"Mmmmmph..." Lop hummed in agreement, her anal walls clenching down on the tendrils within her. She wanted every inch of him. She wanted to sink into him some more.

That way...she could relax...but she also kept her mind sharp when it came to her quest.

She knew she couldn't stay here forever. She knew, in her heart, that her sister was still out there. Maybe she had abandoned the evil Empire? Maybe she was still sticking with the remnants? She didn't care. She wanted to see her and let her know that, no matter what, they were still family.

As for Rayvis? The nomadic Gen'dai had found himself finding peace in a way he never expected. War was within his blood. Battle was within his heart. Yet, despite it all, he found a new sense of tranquility whenever he and Lop crossed paths. Not only was she a worthy opponent, but his newfound willingness to try things outside of battle had also opened him up to enjoying her company whenever they just chatted and hung out.

It was new to him, but he was slowly getting used to no longer feeling lost whenever there wasn't a war. After all, it wasn't like the galaxy wasn't still filled with opportunities for him to unleash his battle prowess. It was thanks to Lop that he wasn't unleashing that fury upon those that didn't deserve it. Granted, he only fought those that could fight back, but Lop was still always there to make sure he didn't lose himself to bloodlust.

Right now, he was also enjoying one thing that both he and Lop had found themselves doing a LOT. She would crawl within his body-mass, his tendrils embracing her form, and...well, it's been mostly described already. It was a showing of trust between the two. THIS was when he was at his most vulnerable.

At any moment, the Lepi could have used the force to twist around some vital tentacles. She could have hidden her lightsaber somewhere and then initiated an attack from within. But he knew her better than that. Likewise, Lop could have been crushed by those tentacles if he willed it, but she knew him better than that.

They knew each-other quite well after more than a year of traveling together. This passionate moment was proof of that.

Eventually, more of Rayvis' sexual fluids would flow into Lop, her eyes rolling into the back of her head as she orgasmed as second time, coating more of the tendrils in her juices. "Mmmmmmnh..." She hummed, squirming around as she felt the tendril in her mouth leave her throat, leaving her to gasp blissfully.

"I love you..." She breathed, kissing several of the tendrils near her.

Resting against a large rock in the cave they were in, Rayvis patted his chest, his body opening up to reveal the cum-coated rabbit-like extraterrestrial. "Love you too." 

"Can I spend the night here?" She wondered, her answer coming in the form of her boyfriend's tentacles closing in around her. "I'll take that as a yes." She giggled, once again feeling all of those wonderful tendrils squirm around her.

She would continue her journey once more when morning came, with perhaps a training dual with Rayvis before that. Whatever awaited the duo, they would face it together, ready to see whatever else the galaxy had in store...and they would ALWAYS make sure there was time for moments like this when night came.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 3: Stargazing (Sarah Silkie x Shockwave)

For Shockwave, he could understand the logic of why somebody would think space was beautiful...but only when viewed at from a distance.

It's vast...mostly empty...without air...and utterly cold. But, if one looked hard enough, there was beauty. So much beauty. Countless worlds and a near-infinite amount of stars, ready to be catalogued and researched.

Though a scientist at spark, he didn't mind a bit of astrology as well. The idea that the Cybertronians were at the center of the universe? Preposterous! Illogical! There was far more out there in the vast universe...

...and he always found himself stuck with having to follow the whims of egomaniacal tyrants. Had it not been for his logic circuits dictating that the defeat of the Autobots needed to happen if he was to continue his experiments and studies, he would have quit the Decepticons a long time ago.

Once upon a time, looking at the stars would be enough to clear his mind. Now...there was something else that gave him peace of processor. Actually, it gave him more than just peace. He felt...happy.

Something he had never felt EVER in his long (and actually quite miserable) life. A whole life in which he was ostracized by his fellow Cybertronians for his appearance and pursuit of things that flew in the face of what their perceived belief that they had already learned all there was about the universe and that any new knowledge was 'useless'.

He had met her. A shorthair cat prime with a bubbly attitude and such a love for life. Sarah Silkie was her name and, right now, she was sitting atop one of the parts of his satellite mode, the two drifting through the night sky of her homeworld.

When they met, their alliance only happened because they were both stuck in the Arena and had to work together in order to make it through in one piece. Shockwave wanted to view it as just that: an alliance and nothing more.

Maybe it was because he was cooped up in his lab for so long and endured so much torment from Gigatron that he felt...a yearning. A yearning for somebody to truly listen to him...understand him...care about him. He never knew he wanted this until she laughed with him. Smiled with him. Viewed him as not only a genius, but also aesthetically pleasing. 

Shockwave couldn't explain the warm feelings in his spark at first, but he quickly deduced that, indeed, he was feeling attracted to the blonde organic. Therefore, he would pursue these feelings to gain more data about what was happening. It was as he was doing this that he started to understand his feelings a bit better, especially after the two started to converse and get to know each-other more.

Before now, he had never opened up to anybody. Now, he couldn't get Sarah out of her mind. Her beautiful smile, her soft fur, and (most of all) the way she seemed to bring out the best in everybody around her due to her joyful innocence and kindness.

As for Sarah, she had never really thought of getting into romance before, as she wasn't really into most guys. Even though she would soon learn that she was more open to dating women, she still was more interested in making friends than hooking up with anybody. But Shockwave? He was different.

He was truly beautiful in her eyes. Cool, as well! All that smooth metal was pleasing to both her eyes and her sense of touch, but so was his voice, which she found to be as smooth as honey. As for his personality, she could tell he had a passion for knowledge and that appealed to the constantly curious aspect about her. There was so much she wanted to learn about her world and, now, there were other worlds to learn about on top of that!

She could also see that, deep down, Shockwave was incredibly lonely, so why not give him a chance and maybe go out with him for a little bit? One thing led to another and, pretty soon, the two had established a long-distance relationship.

While she was a bit peeved about the fact that he was working for somebody as cruel and megalomaniacal as Gigatron, she could respect that he wasn't a sadist like some of his Decepticon peers. He was still a scientist and he had done many things that she considered even cooler. Taming the 'Driller', developing portal technology, and even creating a dragon-like lifeform by the name of Scourge!

As for him, he would watch as Sarah gave him news about Las Lindas' growth, fascinating him in terms of how organics weren't bound by Functionism or any of the other limitations that the Transformers put upon themselves. They were free to grow, make mistakes, and evolve from there. Transforming in their own way, that is.

Suddenly, he had begun to see how the Autobots on Earth felt about humans. They weren't vermin. They were...fascinating. Yeah, he still looked at things in his own robotic way, but it was a step up from viewing all organic life as something to be swatted to the side like trash.

The love developing between the two had also led to them occasionally sneaking away from their respective homes and just enjoying each-other's company. In this case, Sarah could now look at the stars more closely, watching them shine as Shockwave catalogued them all.

"And what are you gonna name that star?" She asked, pointing to a shinier light in the sky.

"I believe that would be a planet. It would require further study...but...perhaps I shall name it after you?"

"Awwwww, you're so cheesy, Shocky!" Sarah chuckled, moving onto her belly as she scooted to where one of the panels opened up, revealing his eye within his flying mode. She gazed into it, finding herself lost in the vibrant red glow of it. "You know...if you ever wanna move into the barn, go right ahead. We'll treat you WAY better than that Gigatron guy."

"I'm afraid I must remain on the side of the Decepticons. SOMEBODY needs to ensure that place doesn't fall apart over a single solar cycle." There was a tinge of bitterness in Shockwave's usually emotionless voice, but she saw where she was coming from. From what she heard, the Nemesis was an utter madhouse, filled with rampaging egos and dastardly plots that spiraled out of control.

Looking back to the sky, Sarah gasped in delight when she saw several lights streak through the sky. "Ooooooh! I know what that is, but it's on the tip of my tongue!"

"A meteor shower?" Shockwave wondered. "It certainly is a fascinating sight."

"Make a wish, Shocky! Quick!"

"...I believe that's more attributed to 'shooting stars', not falling asteroids...but...well...no. It's not logical-"

"To believe in magic?" C'mon." She huffed. "One of those adventures you talked about included a demon and reality-changing rocks. Don't be a spoilsport!"

"It's not that. I just don't believe in the concept of merely wishing my problems away. Logically, I must work out a feasible solution to whatever is the issue." Shockwave explained.

"Then just do it for fun! Learn to loosen up a bit, Shocky! I've heard you laugh before, y'know." She cherished those times in which he heard even the slightest chuckle from the robot. She then moved her hands to where his chest was in the satellite mode, feeling the spark get warmer. "Don't overthink it. Just...say what you wish for."

Gazing upon the falling streaks of light in the sky, the Cybertronian allowed his logic circuits to cease dominating his processor for just a moment. "I suppose...I already got my wish. One I never knew that I wanted to make until the day it came true."

"Hm?" She tilted her head, only to see some of his body partially transform (not enough to interrupt his floating, thankfully). His claw was now moving to take her much smaller hand, his thumb rubbing around it gently. Upon realizing what he meant, she nuzzled into his hand, purring loudly. "I love you too, you big lug."

"Thank you for coming into my life. I'm...glad you decided that I would be your conjux." He said softly. "Then again, if I had to make an actual wish for something that has not come true yet, I suppose I would wish for Tartantulas to get lost in a black hole."

"Yeah, he's a bit of a creep." The shorthair prime winced. "Now, my wish? I just want everybody to be happy at the farm. We're one big family and...I want us to stick together. Always."

"Given the comradery between you all...I don't see why you would have to wish for it to stay that way." 

"Well, whatever helps." She shrugged, continuing to purr into his hand. "Can we just...stay like this? For the whole night?"

"I'll have to land soon. Perhaps near your favorite tree? Then we may resume recharging in each-other's presence? I am certain that we will both be experiencing pleasant simulations in our slumber. There is enough data in my databanks to prove that my simulations will involve you greatly."

She hummed in agreement, finding it quite lovely in hearing the way he spoke so eloquently (robotically to some, though) about pretty much anything. "You're the best, Shocky."

"As are you...Sarah-y."

That made her snort in laughter. "Maybe leave the love-names to me, Shocky."

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 4: Royal Romance (Ananzi x Olga Discordia)

The Dark Elf Queen, Olga Discordia, knew there was no point in staying stuck in any regrets involving the past...but she still had a strong urge to slap her past self in the face for many reasons.

One of the biggest was allowing her kingdom to fall into disarray simply because she was too busy focusing on refining her dark magic. While she couldn't argue with the results (as she was now the most powerful Dark Elf of them all), she wished she had found a balance between magical training and actually ruling over her kingdom.

Now the Black Fortress had found itself in the Other World, where its magical energies could be used for beneficial purposes rather than running rampant across the land, she had plenty of time to reflect on how she wanted to rule over her subjects.

It also gave her time to realize that, for the first time in her life, her heart was filled with an unexpected warmth. Long ago, while Olga wasn't COMPLETELY heartless, she was also quite cold due to the years of watching her kingdom fall into decay due to a series of unexpected cataclysms.

Now? A certain princess by the name of Ananzi had come into her life.

The circumstances of their meeting was a whole other story (an entire 'Arena' story, in fact), but the two found themselves bonding over the various hardships they had faced as prominent figures of their kingdoms. While Ananzi wasn't a ruler, she was still a princess and one that had been betrayed by her own father. Her vile power-hungry father, that is.

Both desired order. Both had closed themselves off to everything around them to the point in which even they were getting sick of the isolation. Both were now interested in merging their kingdoms, intent on defeating Janos and ushering in a new age of prosperity for all those that were part of their merged kingdom.

And both...were falling quite deeply in love with each-other.

Despite her usually stoic demeanor, Olga was discovering that, deep down, it was nice to have somebody by her side that truly understood her. She supposed that was why she and her strongest warrior, Chloe, were usually seen alongside each-other. She had never considered that Chloe was her 'best friend', but, now, she understood that fully.

As for Ananzi, she loved Olga's orderly disposition and was impressed by her mastery of the power of the abyssal darkness that surrounded her kingdom, but she also discovered the joys of the chaos that was love. She didn't usually like chaos, but the warm feelings she felt around the queen were utterly amazing!

To summarize things, both were entirely new to the concept of 'love' after being surrounded by strife and their own troubles for so long. Now? They had enough time to do some soul-searching, as well as get to know each-other more.

Pretty soon, there was talk in the Black Fortress and across areas in the Other World that Ananzi would become a queen soon through an upcoming marriage to the Dark Elf Queen. Ultimately, that was just rumors, as the two were still in the dating phase, but the two were certainly thinking of that idea occasionally.

Right now, Olga was resting in a hot spring within her own fortress, created through a combination of water and volcanic materials to provide the heat. As she rested, she soon became aware that another presence was in the room...but she ignored it, having a feeling she knew what it was.

Upon feeling that presence get closer, she opened her eyes, only to see a single spider dangling in front of her. Arching a brow, she suddenly felt a pair of ebony lips press against her cheek. "Good morning, dear. Surprised you, didn't I?"

Blushing, the Dark Elf Queen maintained her neutral look, though the corners of her mouth were moving upwards as she scooted over, allowing the arachnid woman to move downwards, her claws clutching around a large strand of silk. "Your technique is certainly interesting, but there will come a time in which even the smallest spider will alert me to your presence."

"My magic ensures that you'll never be able to tell if it's one of my spiders or another one entirely." Ananzi held out her hand, the spider sinking into her skin, before she slipped into the hot tub, holding around her arm. "So...what's on your mind?"

"The inspection of my kingdom continues. Everything is in order...and...it's..."

"Something wrong?"

"...everything is fine. That is the issue. I'm not sure how to comprehend this." Olga confessed, her pointy ears falling a bit. "For the longest time, I've been a queen ruling over a time of crisis. Now...there is no crisis, spare the issue involving..." She stopped what she was saying, noticing the frown on her lover's face.

Ananzi sighed. "Yes, I know. My father." She clenched her claws, her teeth almost sharpening into venom-tipped points as she thought about him. "Forget him. I'm done trying to please that tyrant. It's so much better building a kingdom that'll eclipse any of his aspirations." She then held her lover's hand. "And since there's no current crisis, that just leads to more time for us, doesn't it?"

Looking away, Olga smiled, a bit bashful. "True. My subjects seem to be happy about our future union. They just can't know that I'm..."

"Nervous?" Ananzi cupped the Dark Elf Queen's face. "Now, where did the headstrong ruler go? Is she shy?" She teased.

"...perhaps a little." Olga suddenly pressed her lover against the size of the hot tub, her larger breasts pushing against the other pair. "Now, onto the subject of how to spend all this time we have...I'm open to ideas." She said with a flirtatious gleam in her eyes.

Her eyes widening at this sudden motion, Ananzi grinned as her extra legs grew, holding her lover close as she moved her hand through her partner's long hair. "Do tell...and tell me slowly. I want to savor this." She moved her lips to the other pair.

What followed was a moment so passionate that the two guards outside could hear it through the doors, leading to the stoic guards to blush a bit as they stayed there to make sure there would be no unexpected guests to interrupt the moment.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 5: Relaxation (Amaterasu x Optimus Prime)

Letting out a howl, Amaterasu got onto all fours, running across the hills of Nippon and leaving a trail of flowers in her wake.

While most would think that a goddess would rather spend her time in her own realm, luxuriating, she was the type of goddess that enjoyed time in the mortal realm. Everything was just so wild and free...like her soul.

She knew that she had to return to the Celestial Plain to continue fighting against the forces of evil, but, for now, she savored this freedom. It also meant she could lend a hand (or claw, really) to help any mortals in her path. Already, many in Nippon were speaking of how the goddess had brought prosperity to wherever she ran.

However, as she ran, she stopped when she noticed something in the distance. A giant metal figure sitting near a cherry blossom. A very familiar mechanical figure, too.

Quickly, Amaterasu made her way to the spot, eventually landing next to the metal giant. "Been a while, hasn't it, Optimus?" She asked, resting against the tree as she looked up at the melancholy being.

The Autobot Leader let out a surprised gasp, his optics looking left and right. "I wasn't asleep, Kup! I...oh. It's good to see you again, dear." He looked a lot more at ease, but the goddess could tell he looked tired. VERY tired.

Her ears pivoted downwards as she gave him a sympathetic look. "Difficult day at the Ark again?"

"Yep. New day, same...difficulties." He rubbed the back of his neck. "I don't want to burden you with my problems, but-"

"There's no need to feel guilty." She leaped onto his shoulder, double-jumping to achieve that, before sitting atop the cybertronian. "It's literally my duty to help. A duty I enthusiastically have, too." She pressed a hand against his face-plate. "Besides, I missed you and I would love to chat over some sakuramochi."

'Note to self: ask Wheeljack if he can make energon cubes with the same flavor.' Optimus thought, having seen how much Amaterasu and Chibiasu enjoyed that meal. "Well, a mission to stop the Decepticons from stealing a rare jewel that would empower their doomsday weapon went well...but Hot Rod...his recklessness nearly cost us the victory. I may have been a bit too harsh on him and..."

"He's sulking again?" Amaterasu wondered.

"That, and I've been hearing complaints from some of the Autobots that the humans once again have been mistaking them for Decepticons. They don't feel welcome and I wish I could do something to ensure them that everything was going to be fine." Optimus sighed. "But...lately, I wonder if I'm doing enough to ensure that."

"The fact that you're trying your best should be enough. I've heard about the way you lead your Autobots and I think you're doing more than leading them. You're caring for them, as a father would to his sons." Amaterasu assured. "You're firm, but kind. Serious, but willing to laugh at a joke. I'd say that's a good balance." She then looked to the horizon. "I only wish some of those in the Celestial Plain had a similar strategy."

Now, it was Optimus' turn to notice that she looked a bit weary. "I see. Well...is there anything I can do to help with whatever's going on in the Celestial Plain?"

"No need to worry yourself. You have your battles to fight and I have mine. The fact that you've been there for my son AND fighting for the peace of your Earth is nothing short of impressive." She stretched, giving a slight canine-esque whine as she did so. "I think, in the end, we needed this. Just...this." She gestured to all that was happening around them.

The beautiful setting sun. The falling cherry blossoms. The fact that it was just him and her. It felt like the two were, for a moment, at peace with everything.

"This is what we fight for." Optimus said, moving his hand to let her sit atop it, allowing her to rest against his chest and feeling the pulse of not just his spark, but the Matrix of Leadership. "A chance for everybody we care about to feel this way."

"Yes. It's not easy...but if enduring battle after battle means that there's a future for our families and the families of others...then I'd partake in a thousand more battles." Amaterasu stated.

"It would be nice if there were no battles at all." Optimus admitted. "One can dream."

"At least, we haven't lost the ability to do that." She then used her Celestial Brush to draw a simplified version of Optimus, herself, and Chibiasu together. "I think about this dream in particular."

The idea of raising the excitable and noble-hearted Chibiasu alongside the one he loved was certainly a dream that made Optimus' spark feel even more at peace, though the fact that he was happily in love with the anthro celestial wolf did make him think back to his days with Elita-One and the dreams he had of living in joyous union with her.

He still missed the deceased Autobot dearly, but he had a feeling that, because he was happy dating somebody that loved him for who he was (rather than just for his title of being 'Prime), his previous love was at peace in the Well of All Sparks.

And so, the two just sat there, basking in the rays of the sun. The two knew they'd have to return to their responsibilities in fighting a seemingly endless war soon. But, for now, they knew they would have more moments like this to look forward to, as well as many others, like dates in Kamiki village and quality time with the rest of Amaterasu's family.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 6: Misery Loves Company (June Moon/Enchantress x Killer Croc)

If there was one thing that Waylon Jones was told his entire life, it was that he was going to die alone as a freak of nature.

His childhood bullies were keen on reminding him of that. His neighbors were keen on reminding him of that. His aunt...oh, his aunt was VERY insistent on making him feel like he should have never been born.

Whenever he thought back to those moments, he often remarked to himself that what he went through was the EASY part. Once his mutation started to progress and cause him to look more crocodilian than ever, things got worse. SO much worse.

People treated him like an escaped lab experiment gone awry. They treated him like an animal, not like a man. He could fill entire jars with the amount of bullets that had nearly pierced his tough hide. He could make a collection of the many sharp objects people had tried to plunge into him after thinking of him as a monster to be stopped or a beast to be eventually mounted on a wall.

After a while, it was easy to see why he had retreated into the sewers, often thinking of all the ways he would make Gotham pay for tormenting him. For a while, he reveled in being the monster that they called him. They started calling him that same nickname he earned when he wrestled during one point in his life: Killer Croc. A name he now proudly had.

But, whenever he was alone, the loneliness of his life hit Waylon like a ton of bricks. The constant reminders that, perhaps, all those cruel people in his past were right. He would die alone and forgotten. For a while, he tried to hide the pain through ferocity and toughness...but even he had to remind himself the tears flooding down his face weren't crocodile tears. They were very much real.

Turns out, he wasn't the only one that had found Gotham's dark cavernous sewers to be a good place to get away from the cruelty within the city. Aspiring artist June Moon had also found herself there, but she wasn't just there to lament her failed career and the fact that she had no friends.

She was also trying to protect others from something within her. SomeONE, actually. Someone quite evil.

Her name was the Enchantress, an ancient sorceress that had stolen the powers of many succubi throughout her life, eventually becoming a terrifying force to be reckoned with. So powerful that she had to be sealed away within members of the Moone family, often held at bay by rituals.

Unfortunately, June was an orphan that had not learned of such rituals, thus allowing the Enchantress to take over many times and cause havoc. June's already miserable life had taken a turn for the worst each and every time this happened, leaving her an utter wreck.

Eventually, she would hide in the sewer, sadly drawing an almost perfect picture of Gotham City...before realizing she had an audience of one. One that had emerged from the rushing rivers of the sewer. "Heh. Neat." Waylon had commented, gazing upon the painting on the wall.

June had heard rumors of the infamous 'Killer Croc'. One of those rumors was that any that looked into his red eyes were doomed to be devoured. But she didn't see malice in those gleaming red eyes. Just...tiredness.

A look she was familiar with, given that she saw it whenever she looked into the mirror.

Rather than be afraid (or let the Enchantress take over her mind due to her promises to 'eradicate the vile creature'), she decided to engage in conversation, which lead to her suspicions about this 'Killer Croc' being confirmed. He wasn't a monster. Just another Gothamite that had been discarded and thrown away. Like her, really.

As for Waylon, the way this woman talked to him surprised him. As miserable as she looked, she showed understanding. Compassion. Not the condescending kind back at Arkham, but a desire to form a connection.

As their meetings increased in number, they started looking forward to them, even actively seeking each-other out in the sewers. With Waylon's enhanced sense of smell, that proved easy. Their meetings were mostly just talking about how things were going in Gotham, as well as both talking all about what they would do if they weren't outcasts.

Heck, June even helped revive one of Waylon's old hobbies. Mainly, wood carving. His claws certainly helped with that.

Regarding the Enchantress, the calming effect Waylon's meetings with June had caused her to show up less and less, much to her anger. Even worse for her, June's growing feelings of attraction towards the crocodilian-like one had kept at bay further. She would figure out ways to be unleashed in the future, but, right now, that proved difficult.

Indeed, the two had started to feel their bond grow into something more. Sure, they wanted to take it slow, but, as of now, June was already finding herself sleeping against the larger man's chest, finding his scales smooth and pleasing to the touch.

His tail curled around them as they slept in the damp sewers, the rumbling noises from his throat expressing nothing but joy. "You're so cute." June commented.

"Oh...so I can be cute?" He replied, a bit bashful at that. "I've...never heard that one before. Really."

"Well, I think you are, no matter what they say." She said, planting a kiss on his cheek, leaving an ebony-colored kiss-mark on said cheek.

From then on, Waylon swore to himself that, even if he wound up fighting the Batman in an underwater setting, he'd do everything he could to make sure that cheek would never be washed again. 

Misery loves company...but company can always cause that misery to fade and be replaced by warmth and joy, if things go well.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 7: Recipe (Bagan x Taffy)

"And then stir the cookie dough...slowly...like this."

"Your technique is so good! I'm sure the others will love these cookies when they're done!"

To the citizens of Earth Prime, this would have been a bizarre sight. For the Crests that protected the world, this would have been unfathomable.

Here was Bagan, the destroyer of worlds and one of the major causes for the annihilation of the Prime homeworld, baking cookies with a lop prime by the name of Taffy.

Ages ago, he would have never given the art of baking much thought as he destroyed all in his path. All because he thought that destroying things was the only thing he was good at. After all, it was why he was created. To serve as an antagonist towards any heroes that could stand up to his might. To endlessly destroy until he was destroyed himself.

But, even back during his rampaging days, there was a yearning within Bagan. One he tried to ignore for the longest time, but he couldn't anymore. Years of reflection while trapped within the world's core, as well experiences in the Arena, had made him realize that nothing about his devastating goal was fulfilling to him. His heart was never really into destruction.

Instead, he found himself drawn to something that involved the act of creation. Something that he once thought was anathema to himself. 

Not only that, but even when he opened his heart slightly, he found that he yearned for companionship. Somebody that would be by his side and assure him that everything was going to be okay. That he was forgiven for the terrible passionless deeds he had done.

Taffy had seen the light within the kaiju's soul. She always did try to see the best in others and she clearly saw that Bagan wasn't a bad person. Just somebody that made a LOT of bad decisions.

That, and, instead of finding his demonic appearance frightening, she found him to be quite beautiful. His muscular frame, his soothingly deep voice, and those cherry-red eyes...

What mattered more to the both of them was that, together, they could forget the pain of their pasts. Bagan could forget the mistakes he had made and Taffy could forget the times in which many around her made her feel like utter trash. Long story, but she also had her ups and downs regarding her past.

With Taffy, Bagan felt his true passion blossom. His love for cooking, that is. His claws expertly slid around the cookie dough, his ability to sense heat allowing him to cook said dough to just the right temperature. Taffy's own skills in cooking worked well with him, as she had a greater sense of timing and how to utilize the myriad of ingredients that Bagan had knowledge of.

As the cabin in which the kaiju lived in started to smell of delicious snickerdoodle cookies, Bagan sighed. "Do you think they will accept me? After everything? I've been having dreams. Dreams in which I can walk amongst the primes as if I were not the cause of their past suffering."

His lover was no fool. She knew that the sheer TON of devastation he wrought was not forgotten by the Crests. Still, she didn't let that dissuade her from resting a hand on his claw and looking up at him. "I'll vouch for you. Every step of the way."

"I don't deserve you." He softly said, lowering his head as he rubbed his skull against the fluff of her neck. "You could have easily brought me before the Crests...became a hero that finally brought me to my knees..."

"You're more than just 'the beast of destruction' to me. You're my friend...and I'm happy to have you as my future hubby."

"Wh-what? Future what-now?" Bagan tilted his head. "Like...a wedding and everything?"

Blushing furiously, Taffy fanned her face. "Sorry! I didn't mean to be so forward!" She was already imagining herself getting married to Racheal AND Bagan (as well as Minos, given that the bull prime and Racheal were also in a relationship). 'What a big wedding that would be! I'm getting excited just thinking about it! ' She thought.

Giving that some thought as well, Bagan moved his claws to rest the cookies against the makeshift stove in the cabin, his tail wrapping around her body as he massaged her shoulders. "Perhaps I would look decent in a tuxedo. I just wonder how it's going to work with my spikes."

"I'm sure we could work something out." She replied, leaning into the massages.

Despite all of her reassurances, Bagan still thought about finally coming forth towards the Primes. 'As much as I love you, my dear...I cannot ignore what I've done. One day, I will be through with hiding. I will show myself before those I had brought so much pain to. Let them decide what happens next. Only after that may I be content with my past.'

For now, he would savor the time he had with the kind-hearted lop prime. Perhaps when they both got the recipe for this meal just right. 

The formulation of the recipe for how they would have a happily ever after together? That was still ongoing.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 8: Lazy Days (Mae Borowski and Pals)

The nasty rumor that black cats spelled bad luck was one that persisted in Possum Springs. Granted, Mae's fur was more of a teal coloration, but still. Her string of bad luck sometimes made her wonder if that rumor was indeed true.

The conga line of all that she had gone through almost convinced her that she was destined for one screw-up after another. From that one violent incident involving a baseball bat to her college days being a bust to her town slowly dying to that whole mess involving that Black Goat Cult...it just seemed like the madness wouldn't stop.

However, throughout it all, especially during the recent events in her life, she had managed to restrengthen the bonds with her pals, including Gregg, Angus, and especially Bea. In the case of the crocodilian anthro, something else had begun to develop between them. Bea had discovered that she quite liked how free-spirited her friend was (she was, in fact, a little envious of her having that outlook), while Mae appreciated that Bea would always stick with her through thick and thin.

Four years after the incident with the Black Goat Cult, things actually started to look up for Mae and company. Not only were Gregg and Angus still going strong as a couple (and got to visit much later, though the details of how that went are a whole other story), but a series of portals had opened up a string of opportunities for the town of Possum Springs. Business would be booming again and they would actually start getting tourists!

The idea of change was a scary one for many in Possum Springs, but Mae, as well as her friends and family, embraced it with open arms. It was better than just sitting around and waiting for the demise of the town.

Speaking of changes, Mae had also arrived from her adventures in the Arena (long story, again) with another new friend. A Rahkshi by the name of Vorahk. Thanks to a series of events, he had gained full sapience, breaking away from being a mere pawn of Makuta and becoming his own person. He was often spotted using his staff like a guitar, providing some music for the residents of the town, as well as doing some courier duties from  the portals to the town.

Still, there had been plenty of stress to go along with this good luck, like that entire incident with the graboids, the death of Bea's dad, and the villainous remnant of the Black Goat Cult on top of all that. Right now, Mae and her pals needed a break from it all.

A break from it all...and spending that break together in each-other's embrace.

Mae rested against her bed, Bea's taller muscular form wrapped around her. For the past four years, the crocodilian anthro had worked through her stress by way of a good workout strategy, resulting in her looking a bit more like a body-builder. Her crocodilian biology had also caused her to increase somewhat in size, fueling Mae's attraction to her.

Purring, Mae hugged her closer, rubbing her face against her neck and causing Bea to give a satisfied rumble from her throat. Though she was still depressed over the fate of her father, she was still able to now pursue her dream of attending college thanks to Mae and her family. For all her friend had done for her, she vowed to herself to let Mae know every day that she loved her so...freaking...much.

Her large tail was also draped over the third member of this group. The horror movie-loving mouse anthro, Lori Meyers, let that tail rest over her, the scales rubbing against her fur as she scooted so that she was in-between both ladies. 

For the past four years, she had been developing a crush on Mae, eventually asking if she was seeing anybody when the mouse anthro turned 18. Turns out, Mae was more comfortable with being friends with her, but, eventually, they decided that including her in this now polyamorous relationship was fine. 

In terms of who the mouse anthro ended up in an actual relationship with, that would be the Rahkshi looming over them all, resting his bio-mechanical body over them all, as if to protect them from any other threats that would occur. This prompted Lori to twist herself until she was looking directly at him, booping her snout against his own.

Vorahk gave a happy clicking of his mandibles, letting her wrap her sleek body around his own. Immediately, he flopped down, causing Mae to mewl in surprise and Bea to snap her jaws while looking around. "Geez, big guy! Give us a warning next time!" Mae exclaimed.

"And get your damn knee off my tail. Got it?" Bea grumbled, though she calmed down upon seeing that it was just Vorahk.

Lori just gave a mumbled squeak, holding the robotic being close and looking deep into those red eyes. The fact that he looked like something that emerged from one of the horror movies she enjoyed so much was definitely something that attracted her to the Rahkshi, as well as his noble personality.

Pretty soon, the four would wind up in disorganized positions, snoring through the afternoon as they welcomed this moment of relaxation. There would surely be more chaotic moments in the future, but they were certainly confident they would face those trials together. 

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 9: Warmth (Felicia x Jon Talbain)

When Jon Talbain first felt the curse of the werewolf overtake hm, he had abandoned any hope of ever feeling the embrace of another.

He was convinced that his newfound savagery would be a huge roadblock in terms of seeking out any companionship, platonic or romantic. He was ready to go through life alone. Nobody would have to suffer at his slashing claws and razor sharp teeth.

Granted, he never stopped holding onto his humanity, even when that became difficult during certain nights. Despite how much he had resolved to be fine with his fate, the terrible ache of loneliness  still ate away at him from the inside. That yearning for companionship never faded.

Imagine his surprise when a beautiful hybrid of woman and feline hugged him one night, convinced that he was feeling miserable and needed some comfort. The words had froze up in his throat when that happened, leading to her suspicions being confirmed that he REALLY needed some kind of comfort.

After that first meeting, Jon would get to know Felicia better. She, despite knowing of the many cruelties of the human world they found themselves in, was always ready to lend a helping paw and even had plans of building her own orphanage. No matter what happened, she was an endless ray of sunshine in the darkness that he seemed to always see the world enveloped in.

Simultaneously, Jon felt the best he had ever felt around her...and even more fearful than before. The possibility of losing his new friend to the savagery dwelling within himself terrified him. Several nights, he would think of ways to shoo Felicia away. Convince her that he wasn't worth it.

But, no matter what, he would always feel her embrace. She seemed to have a sixth sense that allowed her to know whenever he was feeling especially down. Purring against his muscular form, she was always there to assure him that everything was going to be okay. That she would be there for him throughout the journey he was embarking on in order to possibly cure himself of the werewolf curse.

Felicia had seen the goodness in his soul. Despite how much he tried to state that he was cold to the plights of others, she noticed how he always chose the noblest action to take, often defeating the bad guys quickly before returning to the shadows. 

Overtime, she had helped him understand that not everybody would see him as a monster. Instead, they would see him for the TRUE him: a noble protector. A true hero. 

Indeed, Jon had always wanted to be a valiant protector. His lack of confidence in himself was really the only thing holding him back. Heck, whenever he felt really confident, it seemed that the savage parts of his curse were fading away.

It was during the Arena that both found themselves in that they realized that something was happening between them. Their bond had grown to the point in which both were discovering they had feelings for each-other.

The warmth Felicia always provided him...both physical and metaphysical...it filled his heart with something he had not felt in a while: joy. As for Felicia, his noble soul had drawn him closer to him, eventually leading to the two sharing a kiss.

After the Arena, while Jon was now locked in his werewolf form, he had full control over it. At this point, he no longer cared that he was no longer human. He and Felicia were going to start a new life together. A life in which they not only defended the innocent, but also helped with that orphanage that the feline woman had started a while ago.

Right now, Jon was resting in his bed, holding his lover close as they enjoyed each-other's warmth. Both could even hear each-other's hearts beating in tandem. Felicia purred a bit more as she rubbed her face into his chest, the werewolf holding her closer.

"Thank you..." He mumbled in his sleep. "For everything, my love."

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 10: Two Worlds Coming Together (Heart x Pero Pero)

Most in Egg Island would be rather shocked to hear that a Big Jaw and a Big Swimmer were finding themselves falling in love with each-other. After all, one was a land-dwelling carnivore, while the other was a sea-dwelling piscivore!

Then again, that land-dwelling carnivore was no ordinary Big Jaw and that sea-dwelling piscivore was no ordinary Big Swimmer...and this romance had no ordinary beginning.

Specifically, it had begun with Heart accidentally falling off a cliff. He was lucky that Pero Pero was passing by when that happened, her kindly personality leading to him being dragged to shore, safe and sound.

It would then lead to him waking up to the sight of the long-necked Elasmosaurus licking his face in an effort to wake him up, his adoptive son pacing around him. She found the ensuing freakout to be quite amusing.

Despite that awkward start, the two had hit it off quite quickly. Heart had found himself coming to the beach frequently for food, his meetings with the kind-hearted Big Swimmer increasing. Due to this, they got to know each-other more. Though she liked her ocean home, even introducing Heart and Umasou to it through a few strolls through the sea, she always wanted to see what the rest of the land was like, though she knew that was impossible, given that she could only crawl upon the land for a short amount of time before having to return.

Imagine her joy when Heart managed to lift her into his shoulders, allowing her to be carried while Umasou also rested atop her head. The very first moment that this happened, Heart walked through a field of flowers, allowing her to gaze upon the beauty that was on the other side of the cliffs that stretched around her oceanic home.

Already, she was touched by this gesture, but her opinion of Heart became truly glowing when she got to know his adopted son better. Despite the fact that he was literally named after another word for 'delicious', Heart was a dedicated father, always looking out for his Hard Shell son. Umasou had nothing but nice things to say about the Tyrannosaurus Rex and, as of now, Pero Pero was also becoming well liked by the child for her gentle personality and the fact that she also liked to crack many jokes.

Some of them teased Heart, but, while he tried to make it seem like he was annoyed by them, he found them to be charming.

Even when Heart revealed his ferocity when he and Pero Pero were attacked by a Sea Big Jaw, Pero Pero never saw him as a savage monster like so many of her kin did. Instead, she continued to see him for the noble soul he was. 

It was when he rested against her back as they basked in the sun did Pero Pero feel her heart start to beat faster. She knew that Heart was from an entirely different world. Specifically, that of land. She was of the vast watery world of the sea. 

But these differences, as well as a slew of other ones like him being a Big Jaw, mattered not to her...and they mattered not to him...or Umasou. All three felt amazing together. They felt...like family.

While Heart did have to eventually leave to reconcile with the family he was adopted into (which Pero Pero helped encourage him to do when he felt doubt creep in his mind), he would always return to the beach, he and Umasou always eager to see their Big Swimmer friend.

Though they both had yet to confess their budding feelings for each-other, Heart and Pero Pero had begun to drop a few hints here and there. The Big Swimmer would find herself embracing him more often, her long neck rubbing against his own while he hugged her back. Meanwhile, he had begun to tease her as well, leading to him hearing her adorable giggle many more times.

As for Umasou? He knew there was something developing between the two of them. Though he was already eagerly anticipating calling Pero Pero 'mom', he decided to wait and see if they would both confess to each-other about their growing love eventually. 

Such a moment would come. Just not for a while. But it would inevitably come, given how close the Big Jaw and the Big Swimmer were becoming.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 11: Peace (Minos x Racheal Saleigh x Taffy)

Over the years, the farm known as Las Lindas had gone from just another speck on the map to a place where the workers didn't just feel like a bunch of people stuck together. They felt like family.

For Minos, he had not felt this feeling in a long time since becoming a drifter. The responsibilities of being a Crest (specifically, the Crest of Earth) had weighed heavily on him. So many lonely years had passed and he honestly felt quite lost.

That is, until he stumbled upon Las Lindas. To make a VERY long story short, he finally could find the peace he had been secretly longing for. A place where he could humbly help out in cultivating the earth's bounty. Where he found himself interacting with those he swore to protect all those thousands of years ago. It was honestly the most social he had ever been.

For another drift by the name of Racheal Saleigh, she had been a lot more hesitant in terms of accepting the farm as her new home. Her trust in others that weren't her adopted sister, Sarah Silkie, was at an all-time low when she first came to the farm. Yet, despite her cynical attitude, she couldn't help but admire Minos for a variety of reasons.

At first, her interest in him was purely physical. His musculature was amazing, his strength was incredible, and he was also quite handsome. Him having a smooth deep voice like honey was also a nice addition. Alas, he seemed to have eyes for Mora, but even that relationship seemed more 'one-and-off' rather than anything serious.

As time went on, Racheal ended up opening up to the bull prime about her insecurities when he offered to draw her (as he was also a skilled artist). During their talk, Racheal began to see Minos in a new light. Much like her, he had been basically alone, but at least she had Sarah. He had NOBODY. She didn't know anything about him being a Crest, but she could tell that he had a 'world on my shoulders' mindset. It then made sense as to why he worked hard at every task he had at the farm.

What followed after that was more drama involving her and Mora, but, eventually, Mora and Minos agreed that, ultimately, their relationship wasn't working. Instead of leaping at the chance to get together with Minos, Racheal decided to get to know him more. He wasn't just some hunky prize. He had feelings of his own and the bombay prime wanted to respect that.

Her peace of mind in the farm also increased when she also realized she was beginning to fall for the kindest soul there. A rabbit prime by the name of Taffy.

Taffy was already filled with joy at the opportunity to help out others at the farm. She was always a motherly soul and this did not go unnoticed by the tomboy. Her admiration of the lop prime increased when she saw how happy she made Sarah, to the point where the shorthair prime admitted to Racheal that she had begun to see Taffy as a mother figure.

Still, much like with Minos, Racheal had noticed a loneliness within Taffy, especially after she broke up with Miles. She had heard her mumble about how much she wanted to start a family of her own. How much she wanted to start a new life with a lover of her own. All Racheal wanted to do was hug around her, thank her for all she did...and, after a certain moment when they visited Paraiso, kiss her on the lips.

Yes, they once visited that island and, after some hijinks, the two ended up sleeping together, both finding comfort in their embrace. When they got back to Las Lindas, the following happened. Racheal and Minos decided to give starting a relationship a try, while Taffy would find herself with growing feelings for both.

Both the bombay prime and the Earth Crests were such noble souls to her and it helped that she had a thing for those with their personalities (as well as muscles in general, to boot). Both were always there for her whenever she felt down and she could also see that both were having the same yearning as she did.

So, one day, the three ended up deciding that it wasn't good for them to keep their feelings bottled up and pretty much confessed at the same time. Yeah, it was a pretty chaotic event, but they made it work.

All three really wanted this to work and their efforts paid off! Minos now found himself with a romantic sparring partner in the form of Racheal and Taffy provided him with a comforting affection that reminded him of his crush on his fellow Crest, Grace. Meanwhile, Racheal and Taffy's bond grew due to their new relationship, with plans of getting married also being discussed!

Minos was always one to accept anything that required hard work. Racheal could never pass up on a challenge. Both would gladly accept making a three-person relationship work. As for Taffy, she was glad that she was having to spend less time playing 'peacemaker' (given how well all three personalities worked with each-other) and more time lavishing affection on her two lovers and vice-versa.

However, lately, both Racheal and Minos had begun to notice something. Taffy would often vanish into the woods and come back perfectly fine, with some new ingredients in her hands. While they were both happy to know that she was fine, they wondered why she was a bit defensive about talking about it.

Not only that, but Minos swore that she had the scent of an old foe in her fur. Pretty soon, Racheal was also acting like nothing was happening and everything was fine. The Bull Prime tried to keep his uncertainty down, but it was increasing day after day.

Nightmares of that scent began to fill his mind. The scent of devastation...of a certain reptilian beast that had ravaged the prime homeworld. The very thought of the kaiju's return was nerve-wracking. If that THING ever returned, he would not only worry about this world's destruction, but he would also have to leave the farm to protect them...perhaps for a very long time.

Peace was a wonderful thing...but it was also fragile. Thus, Minos swore to himself that, no matter what, he would protect this peace...and he wasn't going anywhere, traditions be damned. He would stay and defend his new family, no matter what.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 12: Heads in the Clouds (Superman x Lois Lane)

Flying through the sky in the arms of one of the kindest men she had never known. That was not something Lois Lane ever expected to happen in her life, but here she was.

She was no stranger to hearing about unusual things. Her father had sometimes accidentally let it slip that he was involved in 'protecting the Earth from extraterrestrial threats' ever since she was still in middle school. Her curiosity had stayed with her all the way when she got a job as a reporter at the Daily Planet. 

Now, she was pretty much used to all sorts of madness happening in Metropolis, including the presence of aliens. She never expected one of those so-called 'dangerous extraterrestrials' to be work alongside her.

She had her suspicions that Clark Kent was more than he seemed. He always vanished whenever the mysterious 'Superman' showed up and, day after day, she and her cameraman (Jimmy Olsen) would slowly reach the conclusion that, indeed, the large muscular dorky man that accompanied them was the legendarily strong vigilante of Metropolis.

At this point, Lois had already started to develop a small crush on Clark. For one thing, he was a mixture of both incredibly handsome (given his massively muscular build that made it kind of hard for him to get through doorframes) and incredibly cute (the way he wore glasses made his eyes look much larger than usual and his facial features were quite soft). 

In terms of personality, Clark wore his heart on his sleeve. He found it next-to-impossible to lie and he kept getting distracted whenever he noticed somebody was in need of help. Yet another hint that this man wasn't just an ordinary mild-mannered guy from Smallville.

Lois originally felt quite angry that Clark would hide something like this from her, given her ironclad resolve in always making sure she knew the truth of everything, but it didn't take her long to realize that, ultimately, Clark had made MANY enemies during his time as Superman. Enemies that could hurt those he loved if word ever got out that he was Clark Kent. 

She also realized that, in the end, Clark was still being himself. Helpful and trying to make the city a better place. The weight of the world was always on his shoulders and, after a visit to the Kents when she sought answers about this whole thing, she would realize that Clark had NO friends growing up, his anxieties about fitting in having made him grow up mostly alone.

Pretty soon, Lois would do all she could to ensure that Clark knew he wasn't alone, whether he was reporting for the Daily Planet or saving the world as Superman. The two's friendship grew stronger as they understood each-other, with her opening up about her own insecurities about being kept in the dark by those around her.

What began as friendship blossomed into a full-on relationship after a few years, especially as they both really started to like each-other's quirks. Clark enjoyed Lois' devotion to making sure everybody in the city was informed of the truth and nothing but the truth, but it also caused her to be quite hyperactive when it came to getting the full scoop, her boundless enthusiasm increasing now that she had somebody to talk to about her theories (with Jimmy also being included in that).

With Clark, Lois already enjoyed his dorky attitude and she could now see that, even as a man who could create earthquakes with a single step and hurricanes with a single breath, he was STILL a mild-mannered dork throughout. One with a warm heart that she just wanted to rest her head against and feel said warmth forever.

The two made for a great duo and that was reflected whenever she rode atop him as he flew through the sky. Their heads were in the clouds both literally and figuratively as they conversed in the upper atmosphere, taking in the sunset as they chatted.

Eventually, the two would share a kiss as the sun vanished over the horizon, the two dorks finding solace in their embrace from all the chaos that dwelled in the world below. The world both swore to keep safe and protected in their own ways.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 13: Remembrance (Oroku Saki x Tang Shen)

Hidden in a remote corner in Japan, there was a wooded area that had once been inhabited by a mysterious clan. One that had vanished from both memory and scripture. Probably because all scriptures that mentioned them were either destroyed overtime or simply were lost to the ravages of time.

This was the former home of the Hamato Clan. A peaceful secretive clan that lived in isolation, wanting to keep away from the troubles of the outside world. There was a rich history of the rise and fall of this clan, but, to make a long story short, only a handful knew of this clan and where the main village once stood.

One of those people that knew of it was once raised by them...and would grow up to be their destroyer.

He had moved past this one spot in order to get to his destination. Memories, both good and bad, would flood through his mind, almost making him falter, but there was a certain place deeper into the woods that he wanted to visit. One he NEEDED to visit at least once per year.

He had traveled far from his current home in New York to get here. All of this troubles there? All of his current battles? They were meaningless to him now. He would return to handling them in due time, but, right now, all he could think about was making it to this one spot.

He was alone as he did this, his Foot Ninja having already done a patrol of the place before he continued to jump through the trees. Eventually, he would land on solid ground, his intimidating form standing tall.

The large armored samurai-like figure's red eyes gleamed in the light of the setting sun, his silver armor reflecting that light brilliantly. His long purple cape flowed as the wind gently blew it before it relaxed. With that, he started to move slower than he did before, almost as if there was some hesitation in his steps.

At long last, after almost half an hour, he would arrive at his destination. A destination that many considered 'cursed' by the spirits of the dead. What was before the armored one was a graveyard he had built himself. Every soul that had perished here at the hands of ruthless bandits, he had dug a grave and marked it, honoring their souls.

But there was one grave that he would soon kneel before. A grave that he rested several beautiful flowers against, replacing the ones that had long since wilted overtime. Surrounding this grave were the ruins of a village from long ago. Unlike the Hamato Clan's village, there were still some traces that there was a village, like a few structures here and there, but much of it had been reclaimed by nature.

Anyway, the armored figure looked at the grave, his hand moving across the name engraved on it gently. 

TANG SHEN

1950-1985

"Gone, but never forgotten."

He had written those words onto the grave. He had made sure all of her personal belongings (as many as he could find, that is) were buried alongside her. He had tried to give her a proper funeral, along with those that had died along with her village, with the help of the Hamato Clan, but they had turned down that offer, considering him an outcast for 'daring to expose the Hamato Clan to outsiders'. 

The rage of being turned away from the gates as he held Tang Shen's corpse burned in him still. He also remembered the face of one he was raised alongside. The one he once considered 'brother' despite not being truly born into his family. Hamato Yoshi. The one Tang Shen had loved. The one who, because of his loyalty to his clan's traditions, said he could do nothing to save her life when her village was ransacked.

But, the longer Saki stared at the grave, he started to remember the good times. As much as he considered rage and hatred to be his fuel, it would always run out and he just felt so TIRED. Calming, he sat down, recalling past memories with the woman.

He still remembered the first time they met. She was trying to steal some food from the clan to feed her village and Saki was the one that caught her, yet she had used all sorts of trickery to escape. The next time that happened, he wanted to defeat her to heal his wounded pride, but, with every escape, they both started to treat it as a game. One that amused both of them.

It was during this 'game' that his brother, Yoshi, also got involved, but he offered her a place in the Hamato Clan, as well as resources to feed her village. With this compassion began the friendship with her and the brothers. She would visit without the rest of the Hamato Clan knowing and they would usually hang outside of the village, getting into all sorts of hijinks, as well as sharing techniques with each-other. Some involved healing. Others involved the ways of stealth and combat.

Oroku always liked the sessions involving self-defense and trickery, even learning how to use smoke pellets from Shen effectively without revealing himself. It was as they trained that he had begun to develop feelings for her, but it wasn't just her mastery of stealth and quick wit that attracted him to her.

It was also her compassion. He had once regarded compassion as a weakness, as he still had burning hatred within him for how he, despite being raised within the walls of the Hamato Clan, was treated as an outcast. All anybody had to do was mock him for his deformed face. Deformities that were with him since birth.

Since his mother was near the blast radius of that terrible event that happened on the year of his birth in 1945, that is. The same mother that, even after being afflicted by the radiation while pregnant and being at death's door, had the strength to crawl towards the Hamato Clan's village that she knew of since childhood and give birth to him there.

Even after being adopted into the family of the Hamato Clan's leadership, that feeling of being an outcast never left...but, much like his family, Tang Shen did not look upon his face with revulsion and disgust. Instead, she focused on what was inside. She saw a brave man. A man with great determination and a will that could never be broken.

The ensuing warmth that Saki felt in his chest convinced him that he had found his soulmate. Alas, it was not meant to be. She and Yoshi were already starting to get closer, his compassion and love of life having attracted her to him as more than just a friend, but a lover.

It pained Saki. Resentment filled every fiber of his being...but the bond he had with his brother was strong. That and, in the end, he wanted her to be happy. If she was happy with Yoshi...then so be it.

Which made the pain of her death all the worse when Yoshi, now the head of the Hamato Clan after his father's passing, refused to come to her village when it needed aid, as he found himself having to follow Clan traditions. Saki was the only one that defied this, but even he was too late when he arrived at the burning village.

He was also there to witness Tang Shen being mercilessly cut down by the bandits that invaded, her screams still echoing in his mind.

Back in the present, his eyes widened as he gasped. If he still had a body, Saki would be sweating heavily. However, he realized that droplets were falling down on the soil beneath him. Droplets coming from his eyes.

His hands gripped into the soil, his sorrow mixed with fury at how somebody like her was slain so unjustly. It was one of the many events that fueled his desire to rule the world. To bring order to the chaos. To make sure something like this never happened again, no matter the cost to his soul.

It was also her loss and his banishment from the Hamato Clan that led to his vengeful founding of the Foot Clan. But that's a whole other story.

Still, he didn't want to leave this area without a few parting words to his old friend. To the love of his life. "I...have returned to this world, Shen." He began, trying to speak softly. He wiped away the tears from his helmet, composing himself.

"Much has happened, but...you probably don't remember this, but do you remember that girl I talked about? The girl from his village that I found?" He looked to one part of the ruins, remembering the state he was in after destroying every single bandit that had ravaged the village.

Devastated. Lost. Broken.

But he then heard the sound of a crying infant. One surrounded by the corpses of her parents. Parents that had spent their last few moments fighting the bandits, slaying a few more even after being struck down. A baby that he found himself cradling close to his chest, causing her crying to cease.

"That child...the one I named 'Karai'...she has become one of my strongest enforcers. A mighty warrior that will help me in bringing peace to this miserable world." He stated. "I...only wish you could have seen her. She's even mastered a few of your techniques. I'm sure you would have found some way to surprise her with an even more elaborate one. Like you did with me." He chuckled.

He sat there for a while longer before standing up. "I will return next year. Know that I will not stop in my quest. I will make the world a better place. I will not falter. I will...avenge you." He turned away, closing his eyes. "I know much of what I've done is unforgiveable..." He then remembered the look on Yoshi's face before cutting him down during his vengeful attack on the Hamato Clan. How much regret was in those eyes. A look he shared with him before striking the killing blow.

"...but I'm doing everything for you. Everything I can. No matter how long it takes. Now matter WHAT it takes." He began to leave, giving a few glances back. "Farewell...Tang Shen. Farewell...my love."

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 14: Balance (Loona x Spongebob and Gigi)

Much had happened ever since Loona gave dating another chance, starting with a certain sponge. Much more had chanced upon her visiting one of those parties hosted by Queen B herself, Beelzebub.

Now, Loona found herself crushing on two different people. One of which was the sweetest, kindest, and most hard-working people she had ever met. Somebody that had stolen her heart with his optimism and boundlessly willingness to help others out.

The other was one of her first actual friends. A hellhound that had helped ease her social anxieties, the others among her friend group also helping out with that.

Their names were Spongebob Squarepants and Gigi...and, at first, the hellhound was wondering how the hell she was going to balance having TWO relationships. But, turns out, both the poodle hellhound and the sponge had ideas of how to make it work.

It had all started during one Valentines Day. A day in which most demons headed over to the Ring of Lust and engaged in all kinds of carnal joys. For Loona, however, it seemed that the romance between her co-workers (Moxxie and Millie) was infectious, as she wound up sending a Valentine to both of her crushes...and it was only after those letters were sent did she realize what she just did.

Pretty soon, Gigi and Spongebob wound up meeting face-to-face when they met her at the same spot in Imp City (an Italian-style eatery that Gigi had recommended at one point). Hurriedly, she had tried to explain things, but, while there was some initial confusion, it seemed that both the poodle hellhound and the sponge came to the same conclusion.

They had known that Loona was fond of both of them and they had both explained to her what they were busy with. Loona already knew that Spongebob was usually hard at work at the newly built Krusty Bucket, especially in regards to helping the new hires and researching new methods alongside his new boss (Plankton) as to how to ensure the success of the Krusty Krab's successor.

Meanwhile, Gigi was an aspiring beautician and stylist, which meant long shifts at the fur salon in Gluttony she worked at. All of them were busy, but they had periods in which they could have some downtime, which they usually spent with friends...and that's when the duo had another idea.

Gigi's home was in Hell. Spongebob's home was in Bikini Bottom. Their hours were also the total opposite of each-other, which meant that, while one was working, the other could be hanging out with their girlfriend.

Hearing that caused Loona's tail to wag. Gigi felt the same way about her? They had known each-other for quite a few months and it seemed that the poodle hellhound was quite fond of the new side of Loona that had come out as a result of her social anxieties slowly vanishing. She was fun-loving, a total party hellhound, and she also liked how physically fit Loona was as a result of her going on more of her adopted dad's missions.

Spongebob was also happy to see that Loona was making more friends, for if his girlfriend was happy, so was he. His friendly personality also endeared himself to Gigi, who saw him as a good friend after a few more meetings with him. She was also curious as to how 'jellyfishing' worked, which probably meant that the whole friend group was going to find themselves trying that out (though Loona made it clear to watch out for the 'stingers', whatever that meant).

And so, the new routine began. When Spongebob was at work, Loona and Gigi (as well as her other pals, if they could come) would hang out, becoming closer (and with Gigi teasing that she was also open to a certain feline-like Lord of Destruction joining the ever growing pack, given that she had caught Loona glancing at the muscular tiger-like one). Meanwhile, when Gigi was busy with her job, Loona would visit Bikini Bottom, hanging out with Spongebob and enjoying his company.

Was it chaotic? Was it stressful? Not really. All three had figured out how to make this work. Right now, as Valentines Day began again, Loona was scrolling through her phone, chuckling at some of the photos Spongebob had sent her. Apparently, he had yet another madcap adventure in the place known as Rock Bottom, riding atop a Tylosaur alongside Patrick, while Squidward was holding onto the tail, screaming comically as he was flailed around.

He was also carrying a large basket filled with large dinosaur bones, causing her tail to wag as she realized what this meant. In fact, there was a message below the photo that stated 'Happy Valentines Day, Loona-bear!'

"Happy Valentines Day to you too, dork." She replied, kissing the phone, ready to visit him as soon as he was finished with whatever escapade this was.

As she did this, Gigi moved closer to her, planting a kiss on her cheek before noticing one of those photos. "Not a dull moment there or here, am I right?" She asked, the two now looking at the photos together.

"Nope...and you know what? We wouldn't want it any other way." She then planted a soft kiss against Gigi's lips. A kiss she returned. "Happy Valentines Day."

"You too, babe."

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 15: A New Start Together (Daji x Cleopterix)

Given that her universe was most likely gone and all memory of her past was also gone, one might think Daji would be quite a morose soul.

Quite the opposite. Past or no past, she knew who she was. She was kind, dedicated to the healing ways of her water magic, and she was somewhat flirty. She was fine with the fact that, while she didn't seem to have a past, there was still a present and future for her.

Still, she knew she would have to find a new home soon. Traveling across the multiverse was nice, but she still wished to find a place where she could relax and meditate. A place where she could practice her magical techniques in peace.

Additionally, there was somebody that she wanted to spend the rest of her days with. Somebody she knew would appreciate also finding a place to call home.

Cleopterix was through with being a puppet of whatever forces ruled her universe. Now that she had a clear head, she was now focused on discovering who she was. Perhaps even seeking out others from her universe and seeing if they needed to be saved from the same plight she went through.

Much like Daji, the woman she had grown close to during that one Arena, she had been traveling all across the multiverse. Wherever she went, she fought for the one thing she truly believed in: justice. 

If she saw evil, she would rush towards it and slice it away with her spear. The gusts she created with her wings would blow it all into oblivion. The hawk-like skinwalker was happy with the fact that she had discovered something she enjoyed and excelled at.

But to find a home she could call her own? That gave her pause. Something about that felt nice, especially if it meant she could be with her lover. One of the major reasons for her finally coming to her senses and do some soul-searching was meeting Daji and their growing friendship.

A friendship that had become a passionate romance, that is.

Daji found out that she quite enjoyed the fact that her avian companion could combine steel resolve with righteous fury, while the avian skinwalker found the fox anthro to be equal parts a great source of tranquility, as well as enjoyably teasing.

It was with each-other that they opened up the most, finding comfort in each-other's company. All their troubles? They all seemed to wash away when they were with each-other.

Right now, the two were on a bench, Cleopterix's spear resting against it as the two looked at several portals that had opened up in front of them. "How about that world?" Daji wondered, looking at a portal that led to a kingdom filled with mushroom-like citizens. "That looks lovely!"

"Hmmm...maybe not one so crowded." Cleopterix rubbed her beak in thought. "I was thinking someplace not too remote, but also not packed. A place where people could call to me for aid."

"If you're thinking of a secluded mountain where travelers have to brave many dangers just to get to you...well, I see the vision, but no." Daji shook her head before moving closer to her. "I was thinking...a large wooded area...with a hot spring nearby...where we can relax for the rest of our days...together." She fluttered her eyelashes, giggling when she saw how ruffled Cleopterix's feathers were getting.

Indeed, she had to pat down her chest-feathers as she began to imagine that idea, the two of them relaxing in the warm waters and holding hands as they did so. She also imagined Daji giving affectionate kisses to her beak. "I...may have an idea of how we can solve this problem. I've been told of this duo that's been traveling across many fantastical worlds."

"Oh? And who are they? It's always a joy to meet new people!" Daji beamed.

Looking at a card she found on the ground one day, Cleopterix held it up. "I believe they call themselves...the Dungeon Flippers?"

"Well, what are we waiting for, dear? Let's give them a call!" The fox anthro would watch as Cleopterix stood up and let out a loud bird call.

Silence followed before she started to laugh. "What is so humorous? You said a 'call' was needed." Cleopterix wondered.

"S-sorry, my dear!" Daji wiped away a tear after she was done laughing. "I mean calling them by phone. They left a phone number and everything." She pointed.

"Oh. I see." The hawk-like Skinwalker blushed in embarrassment before looking at one of the portals. "I think the nearest phone will be right through there." She held out her arms. "Shall we?"

Leaping into them, Daji kissed her lover's cheek as she found herself being carried bridal style by her girlfriend. "Let's fly! To our new home!"

"Yes. To our new home." Cleopterix smiled warmly. With a mighty flap of her wings, she headed towards the portal, both ready to reach this goal together in each-other's embrace.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 16: A Heartfelt Gift (Zhima x Zodd the Ruiner Nergigante)

All creatures, great and small, knew it was wise to flee when they saw the shadow of a pair of wicked-looking wings fly over the horizon. This was no demon. This was not one of the Zodiacs.

This was a monster that had found himself in this world thanks to an Arena wish he had made. This...was the Eater of Elders. A Ruiner Nergigante by the name of Zodd.

The draconic monstrosity landed in the middle of the ancient ruins, but the look on his face indicated that he wasn't here to hunt. Instead, he seemed to be looking for something. Standing up on his hind-legs, he scrolled his claw through one of ruined temple walls.

It seemed odd that Zodd, somebody who spent a lot of his time putting utter fear into any demon that dared attack his village home, would be going out of his way to look into archeology. Why would he have any need for that? Was it to understand his territory better? Anybody who watched him would probably find themselves transfixed on whatever he was doing, curious as to what his intentions were.

Finishing whatever he was doing, he made sure a large sack attached to his back-spines was secure. Spreading out his wings, he made his way towards the village where a special somebody dwelled. As he left, the demons that were hiding out in this location fearfully came out, hoping that he was gone.

"Could we follow him to the village? Maybe rampage there?" One demon wondered.

"Are you kidding me?! While he's still active?! He'll tear us apart if we try that!"

Looking to the temple ruins, the first demon noticed that Zodd was looking at a very specific part of the wall. "Of all the sections he could have read...why did he pick the one with just some lousy lullaby on it?"

Back in the village, Valentines Day had come and, for the villagers, that also meant they were doubling as many tributes as they could give the Zodiacs that protected their home. Given that they were all very desirable women, most of the gifts this time around came from those that wanted to be their suitors or, at the very least, partners for a night. Some of the more flirty Zodiacs certainly appreciated the challenge of a night with many lovers.

For Zhima, the mouse Zodiac, she had her fair share of Valentines Day gifts given to her. However, they had decreased in number ever since a few years ago. Something Baozi finally wanted to talk to her about. "You seem pretty happy this year and you got the least amount of tribute given to you today. Aren't you kinda sad?" She wondered, chewing on a bone that had been given to her.

Normally, one would expect her to get lots of chocolates, but...well...she's the DOG Zodiac. The last time that happened was something nobody wanted to mention again. Ever. Never ever.

Back to the present, Zhima was, indeed, peacefully sitting on a chair, looking up at the sky. "Not really. I keep trying to tell everybody that I'm spoken for and-"

"Wait a minute. It's all coming back to me." Baozi put a finger to her chin, remembering a time a bunch of suitors came before the Mouse Zodiac, wanting to be her boyfriend or girlfriend, before a massive draconic being landed behind them. He didn't even have to do anything before they suddenly realized that they were looking into the eyes of the one Zhima had chosen to be her lover. "Again, what do you see in that guy? He doesn't talk a whole bunch, he's kind of a jerk, and he just...looks kinda ugly."

"You know looks aren't everything, right?" Zhima asked, arching a brow.

"I mean, he IS kinda beefy, but still!" She replied.

"Well, if you weren't so afraid of him, you'd find that he's actually really sweet." Zhima remembered the many times in which Zodd visited her and Squeak. While he spent most of his time patrolling the skies and looking for any wayward demons that were invading his 'turf' (the village, that is), he would always bring food and warmth to the duo, as well as trying to hang out with her while doing his best not to scare anybody else.

It wasn't easy. Not at all. But he tried. Really, he tried.

"I mean...hmmmm...I guess...oh, hey! Here he comes right now!"

The moment Baozi said that, everybody cleared the room, the Elder Dragon landing with a mighty thud. His wings fanned out and his gleaming eyes looked towards the Mouse Zodiac before him. Giving a low chuffing sound, he moved his head to nuzzle against her entire form, making sure his horns and quills didn't pierce her.

"H-hey!" She giggled. "I missed you too, big guy! Happy Valentines Day!" She nuzzled her nose back against his own, causing him to collapse onto his side and even let out a slight purring sound.

Despite the sheer intimidation his appearance brought, even Baozi couldn't help but think this was kind of cute. "To this day..." Yumi walked in, chowing down on some sweet truffles offered to her. "I'm still wondering how this started."

Eventually, he moved his wing towards her, showing a sack filled with all sorts of treats he had picked up on his travels. But there was something else he wanted to offer. His claw began to dig into the floor, showing a series of notes he had found in that temple. "This...this is an ancient song of healing! The only place this was rumored to be found is in demon territory." Instantly, Zhima began to zip around the much larger being, causing him to rear up in surprise.

Many variations of 'Are you hurt?!' were said by her before she calmed down, not seeing any sign of a fight. "Oh, good." She wiped sweat off her forehead before getting out her flute, sitting atop his shoulder as he sat up. "Well, that was very thoughtful, but maybe warn me next time? I know you're big and strong, but I worry sometimes." She confessed, the Ruiner moving his head to nuzzle her a bit more to comfort her.

As that happened, she began to play the melody, everybody in the room feeling invigorated by the mystical energies that created. While this was a temporary spell, it was still impressive that Zodd had managed to find such a thing, given how guarded it was by the demons.

He knew his mate had a love for music and he would do everything to ensure that she got to experience even the rarest of tunes. The way she played made his heart sore, his body swaying to the beat as their heads rested against each-other. Even those that were fearful of the Elder Dragon couldn't help but go 'awwwww' at the sight.

Indeed, it was yet another happy Valentines Day in this village, with the greatest tribute that Zodd offered just now being his heart. Metaphorically speaking.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 17: Sharing is Caring (Takashi Komuro x Rei Miyamoto x Saeko Busujima)

(NSFW Chapter ahead! All characters involved in the lewd situation are 18 and/or above)

In one of few moments where he and his pals weren't fighting against the hordes of 'Them', Takashi had a while to think about many things.

Searching for a place to rest through the apocalypse? That was a major priority. Reuniting with the friends and loved ones of his group? That had already happened many times and it was always reassuring to see that they had survived through this disaster. Maybe even finding a cure for this madness? He could certainly dream about that, though a part of him still liked the lawlessness that had come over the land.

He would do some reflection on that part of himself later. Right now, he was focused on giving thought to his love life. 

Two women in particular were now heavily interested in him. One of them had been his friend since childhood. The other had bonded with him greatly thanks to their similar perception of the undead apocalypse around them. Respectively, they were Rei Miyamoto and Saeko Busujima.

With the former, their relationship had been rocky due to a number of factors, but, overtime, they had slowly restored their romantic bond. Thinking about that made Takashi think hard about what attracted him to her beyond her just being beautiful. Now that they were actually dating, he knew fully well. She was as brave as he was and they had each-other's backs for years.

Even after the hiccup in their relationship all those years ago, that bond of trust came back in full force and both very much found themselves falling head-over-heels in love with each-other. A few nights of passion between them had also happened.

Not even the transformation of Rei into a gazelle anthro (thanks to the Arena) diminished his feelings for her. In fact, he found her new look to be rather attractive. He still remembered feeling around her hindquarter, their lips locked in a kiss as he felt around her smooth fur and grinded his cock between her loins, letting her know fully well that he still loved her, both with these actions and his sweet words.

Still, he could not ignore his crush on Saeko. As mentioned earlier, there was a part of Takashi that liked how utterly chaotic things had gotten, allowing a slightly sadistic and battle-hungry side of him to show up. One that had been dwelling for quite some time.

That same feeling was almost like the same feelings within the sword-wielding woman, only her inner bloodlust was far more intense. Beneath her stoic exterior lurked a psychotic battle-hungry soul. One that would bring down entire armies of the undead and feeling orgasmic bliss while that happened while STILL maintaining enough focus to utilize her skills in combat.

Saeko had found herself drawn to his own ruthlessness in battle, but also because he was always there to lend a hand. She felt like she could be herself around him and it made her feel the most content she had ever felt ever since the more traumatic moments of her past.

At first, he only saw her as a friend, but after many moments together, their bond grew into something more. Something that even ended in a few nights in which they made love to each-other.

Inevitably, this led to something of a rivalry between Rei and Saeko. Both women desired the same man, but, as they spent more time with each-other, they started to come to a sort of understanding. Especially after an incident involving an island and its beach.

The two (while admittedly under the influence of a lust-creating substance) had kissed each-other. Bore each-other's souls to each-other. Rei had admitted that she found Saeko to be quite cool and beautiful, while the other woman found Rei to be both adorable and the fact that she made Takashi happy made her admire her rival. Pretty soon, the two had made love on the beach, though both then agreed that what happened on the island STAYED on the island.

Didn't stop them from occasionally getting frisky with each-other. Takashi didn't know it, but his questions to himself involving how he was going to make his relationship with each woman work were about to be answered.

Right now, Rei was being eaten out by Saeko, her tongue skillfully licking around her folds as she wrapped her thick thighs around her head. "F-fuuuuuck...how did you get so good at this?"

Her partner merely responded by slurping around the inner folds even more, causing her to get a taste of Rei's pussy juices. Removing her mouth from that pussy, she moved up, dragging her breasts across the other's smooth fur before cupping her face. "Rei...bite me." She extended her neck, whispering that last bit in a sultry tone.

That caused Rei's ears to perk up, her eyes blinking. "H-huh?"

"I want to be like you. I want Takashi to be happy with both of us." Saeko clarified. "He deserves the best...and, thus, I think he would be quite happy if we both agreed to be his loves."

Processing what she just heard, Rei thought about the part about them essentially having a threesome relationship. "Do you really think that's gonna work? I mean-"

"We make our own rules, remember? I believe he told us that at one point." Saeko gave a small smile. "It also means I can be with you. I've always wondered if I like girls...and you helped me realize that yes...I do."

"I...I do, too." Rei moved several of her fingers through her partner's silky purple hair, her tail starting to wag as she envisioned a wedding with Takashi in the center and his two brides (herself included) holding his hands. "Alright. We'll tell him first thing tomorrow morning. I believe he'll make it work. I guess, for both his and our sake, we can stop being so bitchy to each-other and just let this happen."

"Indeed. Now, transform me." Saeko pressed herself further against the other one, causing Rei's blush to increase in intensity. "And, perhaps, we can then transform him, if he wants. I wonder what sort of mighty were-creature he'll be?"

"Hey, hey, hey! I'm not even sure how this works!" She stammered. "So, easy there! I...guess if you really wanna try...hold still." She closed her eyes, moving her herbivorous teeth to give a gentle love-bite to the other's shoulder.

Biting her lip, Saeko held her lover closer. "Harder...that feels so gooooood..." She moaned, grinding her pussy against the other one. The way her clit was rubbing against the other's clit caused Rei to bite down a bit more, though nothing seemed to happen at first. Eventually, the two went back to grinding against each-other, kissing each-other deeply as they lost themselves in passion.

None of them realized that some small antennae were starting to grow behind Saeko's bangs.

As for Takashi, he swore he could hear some familiar moaning in the abandoned house the group was sleeping at. Shrugging, he returned to sleep, thinking of the very same scenario Rei was thinking of. One in which he and his two crushes were living together happily.

That put a smile to his face...as well as caused his cock to harden incredibly. He let out an aroused snarl, closing his eyes as he started to stroke his cock. A cock that was starting to look a bit more...wolf-like. Not that he noticed, given how tired and horny he was at the same time.

A transformation was happening, indeed. The metaphorical one involving the relationship between the three was part of that. One that would ensure the bond between those three would grow stronger and stronger, as well as more passionate.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 18: Family Dinner (Dawn x Heavy)

For the pin-up model/archeologist known as Dawn, she knew it was going to be sooner or later that she'd introduce her steady boyfriend to her flirtatious mother soon.

So far, her relationship with the human-turned-mechanical minotaur simply known as Misha (better known as the 'Heavy Weapons Guy' or 'RED Heavy') had been going well. While both were incredibly busy with their jobs, he was starting to find more time to not just spend time with his family, but also spend time with her. Both were ready to have a long-distance relationship, but this had helped things out considerably.

To him, she was somebody that could help him understand that there was a life outside of the battlefield he had grown so accustomed to. To her, he was not just an absolute hunk, but a wonderfully dedicated man to those he loved. When she learned of how he took care of his family and fought to provide for them, that made her attraction to the bulky bio-mechanical one grow even further.

Now, the time had come for both families to meet up with each-other. It was an idea proposed by Heavy's mother, who was curious to meet the one that had picked her son to be her boyfriend. Given that she saw that her son was happy with his decision, she seemed perfectly fine with Dawn coming over.

With that said, she DID warn the canine anthro that she would fold her like a towel if she dared do anything to break her son's heart.

"Your mom's kind of scary." She had nudged Heavy as they ate, the two sitting alongside each-other as they chowed down.

"It helped keep the bears away when we lived in the mountains." He replied, his three sisters having also sat at the table.

Before Dawn knew it, she was chatting with three rather beautiful amazonian women. Her tail wagged as they got closer, all three curious as to how their relationship started. One sister in particular was somebody that was already married, giving her an understanding of the wonderful thing that is love. Mainly, Zhanna, the one that was happily married to the madcap Jane Joe/RED Soldier.

It seemed that things were going well, though Beth (Dawn's mother) was already chugging down wine and giving Heavy a flirtatious look. "You know, after this...we can go over to my place and I'll give you a whole other meal to enjoy." She wiggled her eyebrows at the muscular one, causing him to tilt his head in confusion.

"Ugh." Planting her head into her hands, Dawn realized what she meant. "MOM. Not at the table."

"Excuse me?" Heavy's mother turned her head to the other woman. "I'm sorry, but you would flirt with my dear son so openly? I admire your boldness...but...there are consequences for that."

Instantly, before Beth knew it, all three sisters were behind her, their eyes gleaming in the sudden darkness surrounding them. Zhanna even punched her fist into her hands, the aura creeping around the dinner table.

Slowly sipping her wine glass, Beth nodded. "Point taken."

While this was still a mostly wholesome moment, it seemed that not even Heavy and Dawn were free from the concept of 'awkward family dinner moments'.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 19: A Thrilling Date (Jeri x Torque)

When her boyfriend shared with her the plans for their date, Torque was interested. VERY interested. "Leave it to the nerd to come up with the best date." She smirked, zooming across the empty hallways of the abandoned building, her slithering form moving quickly.

Her forked tongue flicked, but she knew it wouldn't do her any good, given that her target was purely mechanical with only a few organic details. It made this so much harder...and so much more interesting for her.

She continued to sneak around, hearing for any noises that could give away the location of her target. Every creak. Every door opening. Every thump. Any bump in the darkness. She was all ears.

This was a chase of equals, though. The one that had planned this date...her suave and creative lover...was also on the hunt, ready to get the drop on her when she least expected it.

Given that his model was based on one of the most feared creatures in his universe, he was also very much aware of how they used stealth to their advantage. His form was no exception to this. Even when he was being friendly, he always accidentally snuck up on those he met, freaking them out briefly.

He crawled through the air vents, his sleek form fitting through them as he even let out a few hissing noises. Hearing those, Torque grinned. "Trying to imitate me? Cute."

"Or are you imitating me?" Jeri joked back, continuing to hide in the vents as he used his tail to throw a rock in his opposite direction.

Torque let out a louder hiss as she turned to the noise. Rushing towards it, she stopped when she scanned the area, seeing nothing...except for some cigarette buds. "You're making this WAY too easy." She remarked, continuing to look around as she felt like she was getting closer. 

The sound of something moving through the vents caught her attention, causing her to move towards it at lightning speed. She swerved and zipped through the vents, zeroing in on her target. "And...I've...got...YOU!" She yelled.

Only for a stray cat to yowl at her before escaping the vents. Torque laid there within, groaning. "Freaking cliches." She muttered. "That 'fake scare' stuff from those Earth movies. Every single freaking...wait a minute."

Before she could remember what usually comes AFTER a fake scare, she felt her tail getting tugged, a pair of ebony claws having grasped them. "GOT YOU!'

"Got me?! GUESS WHO'S GOT YOU?!" She suddenly wrapped her coils around the one that did that, bringing her would-be captor to the ground and looming over him.

It was Jeri, the Xenomorph-like android now unable to escape. He struggled heavily, but he seemed happy about his predicament. "Well, shoot. At least I can say that I got the drop on you first."

Crossing her arms, the viper gave a confident smirk. "Sure, but it doesn't mean shit if you can't KEEP the drop on me." She moved her hands to cup his face. "Then again, I know you. You were HOPING I'd do this to you. Get you all nice and comfy in my coils?"

"You know me all too well." He said, letting out a few puffs from his secondary mouth after using up his cigar. "So, how are you liking our date so far? I might just use the data to think of an even more thrilling scenario."

Wrapping her arms around his back, Torque lifted him up, bringing his face close to her own. "Much as I like the prospect of that, save the computing for later. For now...c'mere, you big nerd." With that, she planted her lips against his own (well, he lacked any, but it's the thought that counts).

His tail wrapped around hers as they continued to do this, his circuits heating up as he gladly returned his lover's embrace.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 20: Loss (Merga x Rouge the Bat)

Normally, Rouge was a big fan of Valentines Day. She enjoyed being a flirt quite a lot more during that time and it resulted in her getting entire boatloads of chocolates as a result. So many Valentines had been sent to her over the years that she had lost count at the 500th number of them.

But this Valentines Day was different. Right now, her mind was heavy with the thoughts of a certain somebody she had lost many months ago.

Shadow the Hedgehog. Her teammate. Her friend. Her lover.

She had a feeling that he was still alive, but she had no idea if he was somewhere in her universe or, perhaps, he perished with the CWC-verse when Tails rumored that he was sent there. The very thought of him perishing AFTER undergoing a mutation that reduced him to a monstrous dragon-like creature...

It was terrible to think of already. She also had realized that, after one of their passionate moments together, she was now carrying his child. The idea of motherhood scared her, but, at the same time, the thought of raising a child alongside her missing lover sounded so nice. If he somehow returned, it would be quite a joyous moment.

But, for now, she looked out the window and watched the rain fall, loneliness filling her heart. Omega was still undergoing repairs and Melanite was still sullen, sometimes refusing to move as he continued to miss his adoptive dad. "Shadow..." She placed a hand against the glass of her apartment's window, tracing a heart over the misty surface.

Around others, she had managed to keep it together, still holding onto the hope within herself. Now, she allowed herself a moment to let the tears fall. "Happy Valentines Day." She said to nobody.

She wouldn't be spending this particular holiday alone, however. There was somebody else that was still hurting over the loss of a loved one. Only, in her case, she fully believed she would never see the love of her life again.

Standing atop the roof of the apartment was Merga, the water dragon of another universe. Recently, she had been chosen by G.U.N to be Rouge's newest partner, having witnessed her prowess in battle. That, and she was also chosen as a babysitter that could care for Melanite when Rouge couldn't be there.

Right now, she was thinking of somebody not just from her universe, but from before she was imprisoned in suspended animation. The princess of the Earth Dragons that had caused the Water Dragons so much pain...Cordelia.

Merga had expected to hate her when they met, but, instead, they became friends. Cordelia wanted peace and Merga, deep down, didn't want to just be a war machine for the Water Dragons. Both found peace with each-other, even bringing out each-other's humorous sides. It wasn't long before they began to see each-other as lovers, wanting to spend the rest of their days with each-other.

Unfortunately, war still began and Cordelia wound up being a causality in the midst of it all. Many years later, Merga could only sink further into her grief, though the memory of her lover did snap her out of her insanity when a recording of her voice urged her to remember the joy of peace and the love they had.

Now, as she found herself on Mobius, Merga could only hold onto those memories and wish she could turn back the clock. "Happy...Valentines Day..." She managed to say through a very tight throat, a choked sob nearly escaping her maw.

Instead, she let out a powerful roar/scream, the rain smashing against her scales before she collapsed, her claws digging into the ground. Slowly, she wrapped her tail around her body, continuing to sink into depression.

"It's a lot warmer in here, you know."

Hissing at the sudden noise she heard, Merga calmed down when she saw it was Merga, the bat mobian having opened her window. "...I suppose." She sighed, crawling across the building before slinking in through the window, her scales absorbing the water around her to ensure she didn't get the floor wet. 

The look both women were giving each-other gave them all the info they needed to know about how they were doing. Both were tired...melancholy...and somebody was playing overly sappy romantic music from the room down below, as if to pour salt on the wounds on their hearts.

But those wounds seemed to close just a little as they stood there. "Somebody like you..." Merga began. "...it's not fair that you're spending this holiday in this room...alone."

"Likewise, you shouldn't be all miserable on the roof in the pouring rain." Rouge replied. "I know you're a water dragon, but..."

The music seemed to get louder...and the reptilian one's feet seemed to move on their own, the tune almost reminding her of a song she and Cordelia danced to.

The bat mobian would also find her hands moving towards the other pair. The two friends were soon becoming very aware that, deep down, they needed this. They needed to feel the warmth of what they once felt.

It was starting to rush back to them a little bit as they began to sway side-to-side slowly, Merga's tail moving to curl around the other's legs. It was an awkward slow-dance, but, with every step, they both started to feel less and less lonely.

The more they swayed together, the more their bodies started to come together, Rouge's wings wrapping around the taller woman while Merga's tail swayed around gracefully. Their gazes were locked on each-other, getting through the pain they were feeling deep down together.

Eventually, they would simply relax on the couch, chatting away as they also shared memories of the ones they loved. Rouge would go on about how excellent Shadow was at incorporating guacamole into the meals he made, while Merga would talk of how much she would troll Cordelia whenever she could before following that up with a romantic gesture.

It was through this interaction that the two felt slightly more healed during this day. Heck, Melanite even flew over to rest atop Merga's head, as the Dark Chao may have been a bit hostile towards the Water Dragon at first, but he had gradually been warming up to her as the weeks continued.

It was during this chat that Rouge remembered a tape that Shadow left behind before his seeming demise. One that told her that, as his mutation worsened and if he were to completely lose his mind, all that mattered to him was that she found happiness eventually. While he did love her, he cared about her emotional well-being even more.

As for Merga, she knew that Cordelia would have wanted her to follow her heart. To become a protector of peace rather than a bringer of battle. The more she looked at Rouge, the more she wondered if Cordelia was looking upon them both right now, a warm approving look in her eyes.

Their hands touched, but, for now, they just rested there, happy to not spend this Valentines Day alone...though, during the night, Rouge found herself planting a kiss on the sleeping dragon's cheek, causing her to give a happy chirping noise while curling up in the couch.

"Happy Valentines Day." Rouge had said that with much more enthusiasm this time, smiling softly as they both dozed off.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 21: Joy in the Jungle (Krystal x Stellas)

Deep in the jungles of Sauria, there was usually the peaceful sounds of the locals going through day-to-day life or the sound of creatures resembling prehistoric Earth life clashing for survival.

For Krystal, she was fine with being in the epicenter of either moment. She was currently rushing through the trees, swinging through the vines while using her staff to keep back the large carnosaur-like beasts that were chasing her. "Sorry, boys, but I'm not on the menu today!" She laughed, enjoying the adrenaline rush.

Maybe there was a reason she and Miyu Lynx became fast friends. The opportunity to brave impossible odds was certainly a nice one!

But she wasn't just grabbing some stuff from dangerous territory just so she could enjoy the rush. In her hands were various sweet-tasting melons. Ones that could only be found in areas packed with vicious creatures and dangerous terrain.

As soon as the coast was clear and she had escaped her pursuers, the space vixen anthro landed on her feet, cupping the melons close to her chest as she made her way back home. "Wait until she sees what I've managed to find." She said to herself.

She didn't expect to come to the garden near her hut being covered in blue flowers. Rare flowers, that is, that only grew on mountaintops. "Now, where did these come from?" She wondered, moving her fingers through a few before something rustled within them.

Emerging from the pile of flowers was her soulmate. The one that she had grown quite close to over the past many months. The stegosaurus anthro known as Stellas.

The usually shy one had a few new cuts and bruises, but she looked happy despite that. 'Hello! Do you like the gift? ' She wondered, her tail waving around as she gazed upon her lover with hope. 'They're beautifully blue, like you! '

Speaking to her lover telepathically like usual, Krystal gently placed the melons down and cupped the taller woman's face. 'You're hurt. I appreciate that you found all of these for me, but-'

'I knew it was slightly dangerous, but I think I learned from you well in terms of self-defense! ' Stellas assured, though she did wince when she felt a few of those bruises once more. 'I wanted to make our anniversary memorable and I think I did a good job. Did I? '

Understanding that Stellas was a capable fighter after all their moments of training together, Krystal pushed back her fear of what could have happened if something went wrong in those mountaintops and gave her a loving smile. 'You did a fantastic job. I can only hope my gift is just as good.' She gestured to the melons, the Stegosaurus anthro's eyes lighting up with glee.

'My favorites! ' She exclaimed, digging her beak into one of them and chewing on the succulent insides. 'You didn't have to! '

'Ah, but I love you. I would find a million melons for you if I wanted to.' Krystal stated, sitting next to her as they enjoyed their feast.

While they did so, both began to think back to when they first met. That fateful meeting on that aquatic planet...so much had happened at Wario's resort. The best parts of it were how they slowly got to know each-other, both feeling a little down before they realized they didn't have to be miserable forever.

Not when they had each-other and supported each-other. Krystal helped Stellas gain the confidence to choose her own path, while Stellas helped the space vixen anthro get past the heartbreak of her previous relationship not working out. They had decided to give dating a chance and, after a few months, both were very much enjoying that decision.

'You know...just being with you a gift.' Stellas remarked.

'One that I enjoy every single day.' Krystal replied to her girlfriend's statement, planting a kiss on her cheek that made the taller one's tail swish around with barely contained joy.

And so, the love between these two continued to blossom in the jungles of Sauria. Their home. The one they would share together for many days to come.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 22: A Peaceful Night (Po x Tigress x Song)

For Po, he thought he'd spend much his nights in the future continuing to fantacise about defending the Valley of Peace as the one and only Dragon Warrior.

For Master Tigress, she thought she'd spend her nights continuing to train, working through the anger that still boiled within herself.

For Song, she thought she'd spend her nights wondering if she could continue helping her sinister sisters, even as her heart yearned for a more peaceful life.

There are times in which dreams can come true in the most unexpected of ways. For these three, their desires wound up coming true, especially in the company of each-other. One of the many reasons both fell for each-other, after all.

The friendship between Po and Tigress was quite strong, even after such a rocky start. She went from despising him for 'stealing' the role of Dragon Warrior that she once thought she was destined for, but she had grown past that, especially after seeing that he was more than just a silly kind of guy. He was noble, brave, and filled with determination. Factors that she considered VERY attractive.

In fact, she had begun to see him as more than a friend after that adventure involving Lord Shen. It had dawned on her that she rather liked how warm he was, given how many hugs they had. As for Po, he did have a small crush on her, but he never imagined he was her type...until that fateful moment that came after he started dating another feline anthro.

Song had originally dated him to string him along for her sister's next scheme, but it seemed that his noble heart could melt even the coldest of them, for her warm and caring side came out whenever she was around him. Her cheery exterior that hid her misery suddenly became a cheery interior, especially after he inspired her to finally leave the evil path of her sisters.

She would soon find herself visiting the temple where the Furious Five resided far more often, finding herself not only spending more time with Po, but with a slightly jealous Tigress. While it seemed like their mutual attraction to Po would cause some conflict, the two ended up closer than both expected.

Song now found herself crushing on BOTH Po and Tigress, the latter being quite appealing with her sense of duty, her musculature, and her fighting style. 

It would soon be apparent to Po that both were crushing on him hard and that...was a whole other story. A story that had already been told.

The bond between all three had steadily grown stronger overtime, with Tigress currently looking up at the stars as she rested against the sleeping panda anthro. Her hand was within his own, while her other held Song's close as well.

All this reflection made her realize just how beautiful this night was...and how happy she was to have forged bonds like this. "My Dragon Warrior..." She murmured, crawling over Po's form to plant a kiss over his head.

That promptly caused him to snort and chuckle in his sleep, surprising the Furious Five leader, but also making her chuckle. "Silly panda." Song mumbled in her sleep, snuggling against his round form before also finding herself in Tigress' embrace. The purrs the two of them were giving massaged Po's form, his body shifting to help them rest against him some more.

Their days would be filled with training and dealing with whatever other threat the Valley of Peace would have to endure...but they would do so together. Together and in love. 

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 23: Ed Over Heels in Love (Ed x Sakaki)

There were few times in which Ed was completely serious. Times in which every corner of his miniscule mind was able to focus completely on a task that had nothing to do with things he was familiar with, like gravy and chickens.

Instead, he was doing all he could to make sure that his first serious relationship would work. Thus, he was making sure everything involving his Valentine's Day gift was perfect. 

No schemes from Eddy (he had ignored his friend's scam idea that involved selling painted granite as 'Heart Candy'). No yelling from his sister (she was too busy hanging out with Jimmy on this day anyway). No attacks from the Kankers (though he did leave a Valentine for May out of kindness, only to flee as fast as he could before she noticed him).

Instead, he was carrying a huge sack behind him as he traveled through the portal that would lead him to the alternate version of Japan where his girlfriend lived. Looking around, he would eventually come across a very familiar woman.

One that was carrying a heart box in her hands and looking around with that usually stoic expression of hers. An expression that changed into a soft smile when he came into her line of view.

"Oh! Ed. I'm glad that you came. I...hope you like the gift." Sakaki offered the box before the dullard, blushing.

Sniffing the air, Ed's eyes widened cartoonishly before he flipped the box open, revealing a whole lot of gravy. "Awwww, ya' shouldn't have, my gravy galloot!" He replied, hoisting his bag over his shoulder to reveal its contents to his love. "Happy heart day!"

Revealed to her were cat toys, cat food, and generally stuff that Maya would enjoy. "All of this...for me..." She couldn't believe her eyes, her heart hammering in her chest as she looked into the gentle dopey gaze of her beloved.

"Anything to make you smile, Sakaki-so-lovely!" He dopily said, twisting his body around while clasping his hands together, hearts flying around his head.

The way he was so zany and so kind-hearted utterly endeared himself to her. Likewise, her kindness and friendliness had endeared herself to him. Both seemed to also understand each-other well, their gifts reflecting that.

What also reflected that was what would fulfill their desire for companionship, as Sakaki then took Ed's hand before kissing his cheek. "Thank you." She softly said, watching as the taller dullard blushed as they wandered towards the setting sun. "So, how are things?"

"Oh, lemme tell ya'!" Ed then went on a long spiel about how chaotic things were in the Cul-De-Sac, both enjoying each-other's company greatly as they leaned against each-other.

As they chatted, the Knucklehead trio were watching closely, Tomo's eyes pressing hard against the binoculars. "No way! A heart box filled with gravy?! A huge bag of cat stuff?! Where are the flowers?! The actual chocolates?! Do these morons even know how to romance?!"

"Hey! Sakaki's happy! He's happy! They're both happy! That's all that matters!" Kagura argued. "Besides, at least they didn't gift each-other with a sign that says 'Forever alone, but stuck with me forever'!"

"Ah, please! Yomi loved that gift, even if she said that message made no sense!" Tomo proudly stated. "I outta give her something that makes even less sense and is even MORE romantic! That's a challenge for next year!"

Osaka merely continued to watch the two walk into the sunset, causing her to peer at the sight. "Gals...I think they're fading away...into the wild warm yonder..."

"GAAAAAH! THE SUN'S EATING THEM UP!" Tomo shouted in a semi-joking and semi-serious way, causing them all to tumble all over each-other, the binoculars knocking her on the head after they flew up in the scuffle.

As they laid there, Kagura gave a sad smile at the walking couple. A part of her still felt bad that she never got to tell Sakaki how she felt about her, but seeing Sakaki happy in general was enough for her. "Happy Valentine's Day, you two dorks." She chuckled.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 24: Tranquility (Paige Creed x The Magician)

While the lynx anthro actress known as Paige Creed enjoyed her job, she also understood that it could be utterly exhausting, especially when it got in the way of her personal plans.

For Valentine's Day, she had thought of going to a fancy restaurant for dinner alongside her boyfriend. There was much of the town she wanted to show to him, given that he was still getting used to living a civilian life after spending his days as a terrifying bioweapon.

Oh, yes. Her boyfriend wasn't some other actor or even somebody from her universe. He was a friend that she had met in the Arena. A floating humanoid demonic figure known as The Magician...or 'Magi', for short.

While he still retained some arrogance and a bit of a fiery temper (befitting of his power over flame), he had slowly been adjusting quite well to helping others rather than trying to destroy everything in his path. There were still challenges he had to face, but, with the help of the Creeds, he was set for a bright future.

It was also through this help that he and Paige had started to grow closer. She was still a huge flirt, but she still enjoyed the serious romance that she found herself in. The Magician was quite a gentleman, always looking out for her and even flying her from one place to the other with her not even having to ask.

As for the Magician, their friendship had been a huge factor in him pursuing romance with the lynx anthro. He not only found her to be quite beautiful and very physically fit, but she also had boundless kindness and a warmth that was more comforting to him than the fires he could create in his hands.

Now, back to the present, this day would prove to be more than a little chaotic. Their best laid plans for the day had gone completely off the rails.

For The Magician, he found himself getting dragged into the adventures of a civet anthro, her megalodon anthro girlfriend, a bunch of rabbit anthro ninjas, and more. There was never a dull moment in the city, but this one had resulted in a tournament fight and a madcap car chase. 

For Paige, she ended up having to reshoot a lot of scenes because of some behind-the-scenes difficulties involving the latest film she was starring in. Many retakes later, she felt like an utter zombie, her dinner plans having been upended by the whole thing.

It was disappointing at first, but the Magician had a few things to say when he noticed how tired and crestfallen she looked. "I do not require a fancy eatery. I know you love me and the fact that you went through so much to make me happy...means a lot. Now, it is my turn to help you feel happy."

How was that so? By her being taken to one of the best burger joints he could find. The gesture was quite meaningful, everything he was doing being done to ensure she wasn't miserable. "I love these. They're so meaty!" She said through a mouthful of food, chowing down as her boyfriend roasted some of the meat a bit more.

It wasn't the fancy date she planned for, but here, she felt a sense of tranquility. The same thing that her lover was feeling, too.

No distractions. No chaos. None of that. Just her and him...together...enjoying some good burgers together.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 25: Memories (Toriel x Xena)

Whenever Toriel sat by the fire, she couldn't help but think back to the past. Of what could have been...what she wished could have stayed that way...

Just her, her husband, and Asriel. There was a part of her that missed being in his company. For as much as she disliked his solution to the whole 'monsters being stuck underground' thing, she still held onto the good memories she had with him. 

She enjoyed his bad jokes, his warmth, and his genuine love for their son. Speaking of which, though she had happily adopted Frisk and Kris, she still yearned for the days in which she was with her sweet and kind son. One that wouldn't hurt a fly and who wanted to be a healer when he grew up.

Such boundless compassion...only for it to be destroyed when a group of humans thought he had harmed his best friend (Chara, that is).

No matter how many times the Boss Monster tried to think fondly of her days with Asgore and Asriel, she would always think back to what happened after that horrible moment. The whole family just fell apart. Asgore chose to try and break the barrier through ways that Toriel found abhorrent, while she basically became a hermit, cutting herself off from the monster society.

She knew it was wrong for her to ignore the needs of those she was once queen to. But the pain she felt in her heart was just too much. She also thought of those other children that fell, only for her to watch as they left the safety of her home and walked straight towards where Asgore was waiting.

Frisk (and later Kris) had been her second chance. A chance to finally break away from her past and provide love to her former subjects and her new family. With the barrier gone and them living amongst the humans once more in MUCH peaceful terms, she once more felt hope in her heart.

Still, the regrets and bittersweet memories came whenever she had a moment to herself. Not to mention, Baskerra had left an idea in her head. That her son was very much alive. But where...and how?

The Boss Monster was broken from her thoughts when she heard some raspy heavy breathing, as well as a looming presence. "Oh? Hello, dear. Care to join me? I was just...deep in thought." She replied, smiling at the titan behind her.

Anybody who knew of the Xenomorphs would have understandably thought this scene as utterly bizarre. Here was a Xenomorph Queen in the same room as the kindly woman, her massive form taking up most of the room. She was hovering over her mate, leaning down to rub her moist chitinous head against the other's cheek.

This was the Queen of Hadley's Hope. The scourge of LV-426. The one who would later be known as 'Xena'.

It wasn't just Toriel that was taking a trip down memory lane. The fires of the fireplace were causing her to flinch, hissing angrily and rumbling a bit mournfully. "Dearest! Are you...oh...maybe I should turn this off?" Her girlfriend suggested, cupping Xena's face and trying to help her calm down.

Within the Xenomorph Queen's mind, she remembered how hot the flames were against her face. She remembered how that one human torched her entire hive and she was caught in the middle of it. She remembered hearing almost every single one of her offspring SCREAM all in unison. It was complete agony...and the screams were now echoing in her head.

Even to this day, she never forgot the terror and rage she felt within herself. Even when jettisoned into the void of space, she never forgot her fury and melancholy. Even when there were no flames to remind her of that traumatic event, she still occasionally looked where her ovipositor once was reminding her that she would never be able to create a new hive again.

However, as Toriel caressed her face, she felt a wave of calm rush over her. Despite not having eyes, she could still get lost in the gentle gaze of the draconic anthro woman. All the hate she felt in her heart had started to fizzle away, though she still kept her distance from the fireplace.

What she felt wasn't the scorching heat of an inferno raging around her. She instead felt...warmth. She never felt this kind of warmth back in her hive. It was a kind of warmth that she didn't want to stop feeling. "Hsssss..." She rested herself down, the carpet rubbing nicely against her bony limbs.

"See? You're alright. Everything's alright." Toriel assured, the two leaning against each-other as they basked in the warmth of the fire.

Both of them had felt alone for the longest time, haunted by regret and pain. But, after everything they had experienced recently (especially with each-other), they felt much more able to let go of the more painful parts of the past...and look to the future. A future spent together with their new family.

The two had plenty of painful memories within their minds...but they were also both ready to make new ones. Much happier warmer ones.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 26: Longing (Legoshi x Haru, with some Legoshi x Jack, slightly NSFW)

All characters in sexual situations here are 18 or over

Jack was the kind of guy that could be summed up with one word: content. 

He had great friends, a friendly personality, and he was quite literally incapable of feeling malice. There's a long story to that, but learning the reason why that was so was enough to nearly bring him to despair. Thankfully, thanks to said great friends, he was able to work through that.

One thing that he was certain of, even before discovering the truth of that, was that, deep down, he felt more than just a feeling of friendship with his absolute best friend: Legoshi the wolf anthro.

Before and after he gained a new muscular body, Jack pined for him deep down. His adorably dorky personality was one major feature that drew him towards the wolf anthro, as well as the fact that they had been living together for many years in their apartment, along with their other pals.

He sometimes daydreamed of finally asking him out on a date, but he always hesitated. A part of him wondered if Legoshi actually liked guys or not. He knew his friend was into women, but he sometimes wondered if he was into both.

He got his answer when he learned of Legoshi's ongoing romance with another in Cherryton. A Dwarf Rabbit anthro, of all people! Specifically, the headstrong Haru. 

Instantly, Jack supported his friend in anyway he could. He wanted him to be happy, after all. He and his pals also found Legoshi and Haru to be a great couple. He was kind and somewhat timid. She was strong-willed and assertive. The combination of those personalities was something they saw as meshing well, even though he was a carnivore and she was a herbivore.

They knew Legoshi better than that label. They had seen how noble he was and they wanted this relationship to work...and so, it did! Even after their years in Cherryton were done, the group kept in touch and they were very happy to hear that the couple's bond was stronger than ever!

Especially after that battle Legoshi had with that space dragon. That's...a whole other story.

Even still, Jack longed for his friend. Legoshi had been there to help him through that tough time after he learned the truth of the origins of labrador anthros. His new physique also made him even more attractive. Heck, he had even learned that Haru and Legoshi had become swingers, often making their own porn films to make some extra bucks!

He sometimes thought of starring one of those films. The idea of feeling his friend's strong arms embracing him...his lips kissing his own...and maybe feeling that large girth enter him...it was a wonderful thought to him.

But, alas, it was not meant to be. Jack wanted more than just a quick fuck. He wanted more than just being 'friends-with-benefits' with Legoshi. He wanted to be his mate. The one he would spend the rest of his days with. He thought of perhaps being shared alongside Haru, but he didn't want to put any strain on their relationship.

They were happy together...and that's how he wanted things to be, no matter how much it ate him from the inside. "Legoshi..." He said to himself, sleeping alone in his bed, but he wasn't sinking into despair.

He was, instead, remembering some words the wolf anthro had told him. That, if he stayed true to himself, he would find his other half. Legoshi had been fully aware that his friend was crushing on him and he too wanted his best pal to be happy.

Not content. Truly happy.

And that's when Jack started to scroll through his phone, ready to get into the dating scene. A part of him still longed for his best friend, but was it really worth staying in perpetual misery.

"You're the bravest guy I know." He said to himself, regarding his friend and his many feats. "It's time I follow your example and move past this sadness!" A part of him was actually happy that he could feel sad. That he could feel something other than just happiness all the time.

Especially since he was seeking out his OWN happiness, rather than the happiness put into him as a result of test tubes and whatever else was used to create Labrador breeds of anthro.

Things were looking up for him, with Legoshi and Haru even sending him a photo of themselves giving him a thumbs-up, wishing him luck in this new chapter of his life.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 27: Thinking of the Future (Chief Bogo x Judy Hopps, slightly NSFW)

All characters in sexual situations are 18 or over

Bittersweet was one way to describe the current atmosphere between the couple sitting on the bed. A bed that was comically small for the male of the duo.

For several months, these two had been seeing each-other, both wondering if the relationship they had was sustainable. They were the chief of the ZPD, Bogo, and one of his most passionate cadets, Judy Hopps. 

It wasn't like they didn't like each-other. As a matter of fact, they absolutely adored each-other. Granted, it didn't start out that way. Bogo was far more cynical about Judy's potential, considering her enthusiasm to be nothing but hopeless naivety in the face of what he considered to be a job too much for her.

She had been intent on proving him wrong and it was only when she was being himself and not putting so much pressure on herself that he found himself being quite impressed. Her dedication was genuine and he soon realized that she was entirely set on making the city a better place through her efforts.

Even when the city was thrown into chaos, when she fell into despair, the cape buffalo anthro did his best to comfort her, letting her know that, deep down, he was happy to have her patrol the streets and keep the populace safe.

As the years went on, it became clear that a sort of attraction was forming between them. They knew it wasn't quite right, given that he was literally Judy's boss and she was his cadet, but the forbidden nature of it all drew them even closer.

And then there was that incident regarding him being fast asleep...and welcoming Judy's advances when he noticed that she was getting horny around his semi-conscious form. He had desired her as much she did him, yet they still had to have a massive talk after that one. One in which both were equally embarrassed.

Anyway, the two had been seeing each-other in secret after that, getting to know each-other even better soon. Bogo turned out to be a bigger softie than Judy realized, as he had a passion for music (specifically, Gazelle's music) and was overall not as much of a 'tough-as-nails' person that he was in the workplace. 

To Bogo, Judy was a breath of fresh air from the usual stress that his job provided. He loved his job, yes, but he sometimes needed a break and spending it with a friend/lover was quite nice. Not to mention, the many times they had a passionate moment together was doubly nice.

Just the two of them, resting in each-other's arms...it was something both wanted to keep happening.

But, in times like this, both had to address the elephant in the room. If word got out that they were seeing each-other, it would no doubt result in a scandal. Again, Bogo was her boss and there was the possibility of people seeing their relationship as her just trying to get a promotion through sexual services.

"So...I guess...it is what it is." Judy sighed, the two having had a chat about keeping their relationship a secret.

"Yep. It is what it is." He gruffly replied. 

A part of Judy felt pained at this. She had thoughts of marrying the big lovable cape buffalo anthro. Becoming even closer to him than ever before. Yet, she didn't want to ruin his career or her own. 

Resting a hand against Judy's hand upon noticing her sadness, Bogo scooted closer. "Listen. It's like I said. Life isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes, you gotta compromise. The way I see it, we don't HAVE to let this be a bad thing." A slight smirk grew on his face. "Besides, wasn't there that Isabelle girl you like so much? She's into open relationships from what you told me."

Judy's ears heated up, remembering the wonderful experiences she had with the anthro Shi Tzu on that one island. "I guess...but she's currently seeing some other woman. I think she's from another universe too."

"And your new roommate?"

"Maybe." She shrugged. "So, you're perfectly fine if I find somebody else, but only as long as they're okay with you and me still seeing each-other?"

"Whatever helps." He said, his hand now being held by her as he leaned in to kiss her head. "The last thing I want is to see you feeling down. We'll make it work. I promise."

Moving to kiss him on the snout, Judy rested her head against his chest. "I just want you to know, even if I find somebody to officially settle down with...you'll always have that special place in my heart." She gave a slight giggle. "Wow, that was corny."

"But I know you mean it and that's what matters." Bogo assured, patting her as they basked in the setting sun's rays coming in from the window.

Suddenly, the door opened, revealing Judy's roommate, Linda. "So...you two gonna screw or something? You okay with me watching?" The hare anthro asked in her usual deadpan way.

The two stared at her before Judy cleared her throat. "Um...maybe?"

"Most likely." Bogo admitted.

"...can I join?" Linda tilted her head.

"...sure." Both replied.

Chapter Text

28 Days of Love

A Valentines Day Arena Anthology

Day 28: Together Forever (Nicole Watterson x Richard Watterson/Zetton)

There were a few times in which Nicole Watterson wondered...what would she change about her life before being married to her husband?

The chaos of her usual life sometimes wracked her nerves, with her husband sometimes being the cause or a contributor to it. His laziness and gluttony certainly didn't help in that regard, as well as how much of a dullard he could be.

But she knew better. For one thing, Nicole could be plenty chaotic herself, given her temper and competitive nature. In fact, she had begun to embrace the madness. To enjoy it alongside her family. Over the years, they had managed to make it work so well. Every week or even day seemed like a never-ending adventure. Granted, some of those adventures probably would result in one or more members of the family needing therapy, but still.

As for those things about Richard, those were only surface-level traits of himself. Nicole knew him better. She knew he was SO much more than a seemingly lazy bum.

He could be surprisingly brilliant and insightful. He could handle things in his own unorthodox way. He was also, at the end of the day, a well-meaning father that was always there for his kids. There were a few times in which he faltered, but that was never out of malice. Even then, moments like that had started to decrease in number, much to her relief.

The love she had for her husband was strong and vice-versa. Nicole absolutely adored how kind-hearted and true to himself he was. He was wonderfully imperfect as she was.

As she slept in the same bed as her husband, she realized he was taking up the bed, but she always took that chance to wrap her arms around him, getting lost in how bulky he was. She even found herself purring as she rested against his flabby frame, her arms sinking as she further embraced him.

There was a part of him that she never same coming, though. Heck, even Richard didn't see a part of his past coming: the fact that he was Zetton reborn.

The monster that had defeated Ultraman. The destroyer of worlds. Zoffy and Alien Bat's finest creation.

Above all, he was stronger than her. Exponentially stronger. That bothered her a bit, as she prided herself at being perhaps the strongest fighter in all of Elmore. He didn't mean to make her feeling this way. She knew this. But she still vowed to herself to reach his level someday.

What mattered more to her, at the end of the day, was that, whether he was Zetton or not, he was still Richard. Same big lovable Richard. The one that, no matter what, would always stick by her side through thick and thin. All the way to the point in which they'd grow old and frail together.

And so, back to the question at the beginning...what would Nicole change?

The answer was always the same: not a thing.