Chapter 25: Chapter 25
The sun had barely risen over the horizon when Lobo and Terance arrived at the entrance to the time bubble. They had been tasked with extracting Loki and keeping him distracted until Baxter was ready for him again. Lobo was in his full domination outfit, with his whip, hat. leather chaps and boots. He looked scary and intimidating. He was in his second werewolf form, the one designed to intimidate.
He was taller, broader, and more muscular than usual. His fur was dark grey, and his eyes were glowing a bright yellow.
Terance, was tiny in comparison, standing at only 5'8' and at 300 pounds of grey Browm wolfkind, in a fuzzy jockstrap.
His kit consisted of a frozen green jockstrap with gold trim. His torso covered with a thick, hairy pelt of fur and coarse body hair. He was a gentle soul, with a deep, rumbling voice. Unlike the aggressive and dominating demeanor of Lobo, Terance was more nurturing and protective in his approach to others.
As they entered the time bubble, they could hear the moans and sounds of pleasure coming from the room. Lobo smirked, his eyes glowing with mischief and desire.
He pointed to the bedroom with his whip. "Come on, Terance. Let's get to work."
Terance raised an eyebrow, his eyes curious. "What do you have planned?"
Lobo leaned in, his voice low and husky. "I'll show you when we get there."
The two of them approached the bedroom, their eyes locked on the door. Lobo took the lead, his muscles rippling with each step. Terance followed close behind, his tail swaying gently back and forth. They knew that Baxter had fisnhed up with Connor and Loki, and was taking a nap in the back room of the apartment. Any noises coming from the room were simply illusions.
Lobo grinned and Terance's eyes widened in surprise as they stumbled upon a scene that, while expected, challenged their sensibilities.
Connor was passed out on a couch, exhausted from Loki's endeavors. Baxter was curled up on the bed in the back of the room, his long fluffy white tail poking out, and 3 wings poking out of the covers.
His chest rose and fell gently as he slept. The werewolf brothers, Lobo and Terance, couldn't help but stare at the sight of Baxter's barely covered, toned muscular form, with a gradual smirk forming on Lobo's face.
"Looks like our boy here is exhausted," Lobo murmured, nudging Terance's arm with his elbow.
"Seems so," Terance replied softly, a small smile on his face.
Lobo's grin grew wider. "Come on, let's leave him to rest. He'll need his energy for the tournament later. How long has he been in here since his heat started?"
Lobo asked, eyeing Baxter's sleeping form with curiosity.
"9 months," Terance replied, his gaze lingering on Baxter's toned form as well. "His heat ended a while ago. He went through his second puberty and is done growing. He decided to use his time training. He wants to use the last month to get to know Lothar." Terrance said. "I think Lothar is the last one of the pack he hasn't been with."
"I've been with everyone else." Baxter said, standing behind him. His voice incredibly deep and rumbling, a very warm presence coming from his body.
Lobo and Terrance turn to look at Baxter. they gasp. The slender angel was gone.
In his place stood a towering, muscular figure. Baxter’s bare chest gleamed in the dim light, his sliver fur glowing with an ethereal light. Massive muscles clung to his body. Locks of dark sliver hair cascaded down his back. 6 wings rose gracefully from his back, gently cascading shadows, iridescent light and the occasional rainbow maxed with some hellfire. At the base of each collar bone was a patch of ever burning flame, where his calming bites were. His upper body was wide, and powerful, with a slightly soft look. He was not vascular. The occasional vein could be seen amongst his hairy pelt. The angel was built for strength, comfort and cuddles.
He had narrow hips and trim waist, and was hung in the manner of the pack, with his morning wood Haning at his knees. A massively think, 8 foot long tail curled around one leg, snow white fur and feathers.
Baxter’s voice matched his appearance.
His words were written at the highest level of confidence, sureness, and command. There was no room for doubt or uncertainty. It displayed his powerful personality. He was dominating, but not domineering. He would rather woo his men than command them. He was a savage brute of a man, who had been civilized. His eyes were poetic and mesmerizing. They spoke of an artist and compassion. They conveyed promises of safety and healing. They were the eyes of a cat.
As the two men stared at Baxter, they couldn’t help but become entranced.
His eyes, full of warmth and passion, held a promise of pleasure and healing. Lobo felt a shiver of desire run down his spine as Baxter moved closer.
Lobo cleared his throat, struggling to find his voice. “Uh, hello there, Baxter. We were just, uh, checking on you, and to remove Loki."
Baxter raised an eyebrow, a large grin playing at his lips. “Oh, I see.
Well, I did ask for someone to distract Loki. I guess you two fit the bill.” Baxter's voice was teasing, and Lobo and Terance couldn't help but feel their cheeks heat at his words.
Baxter's presence was not overpowering, and Lobo and Terance found themselves struggling to maintain eye contact, they just wanted to snuggle up to the angel and let go of thier worries. "Baxter, I can see why Loki won't want to leave your side. You were stunning before your heat, and now you radiate pure comfort." Lobo said.
"You radiate a warmth that draws people in. Every time I see you, I feel like my troubles just melt away."
Terance nodded in agreement, unable to tear his gaze away from Baxter's strong, muscular form. "You're right, Lobo. There's something really soothing about Baxter's presence. It's like he's a safe haven, a refuge from all the chaos and turmoil in the world."
Baxter smiled at their words, feeling his heart swell with affection. "Thank you, guys.
That means a lot to me." Baxter said, his voice warm and genuine.
Lobo and Terance could sense the depth of emotion in Baxter's words, and they exchanged a glance.
They had both been drawn to Baxter's kind and caring nature, and they had known from the moment they met him that they wanted to be a part of his life.
"Baxter, we're here for you, always. Whenever you need us." Lobo said, his voice steady and sincere. "Baxter, did you allow your heat flow naturally. or did you guide it?"
Terance asked, his voice curious.
Baxter thought for a moment, before answering. "I allowed it to flow naturally, but I also guided it. I wanted to make sure that it was a positive and enjoyable experience for me and my partners. I put in a lot of work and preparation, to make sure that I was mentally, emotionally, and physically ready. And I also had the support of my pack, who helped me every step of the way. Being with everyone I loved was what made the difference. I maxed out my potential with my heat. I was fed nothing but love, acceptance and empathy, strength, masculinity, joy and cum. In a way I am the collective aggregate of the entire pack."
Baxter explained, his deep voice rumbling, his wing brushing up against Lobo's arm. "Every time I make love, I invite their energy into myself. Every time I heal someone, I learn a little bit more about their soul, their spirit, their body. Through this process, I've become a living vessel for the knowledge and energy of my pack. I exist because they have accepted me, and I thrive because they allow me to share myself with them. There is a tiny bit of space left for a bit more in my cup that I am saving for Lothar." Baxter scratched his large pec absently.
He smiled warmly at the werewolf brothers. "I want you both to know how much your support means to me. You have both been by my side through thick and thin, and I am grateful for everything you have done for me."
Lobo and Terance both blushed, feeling their hearts swell at Baxter's words. "It's nothing, Baxter. We're just happy to be able to help. You deserve all the happiness in the world."
Baxter inclined his head. "Thank you, I'm lucky to have you all."
"Baxter, why is my dad passed out? I thought he had the higest stamina in the pack?" Lob asked.
His voice low and rumbling, in typical werewolf form.
" Loki's energy batteries depleted during his last session with Connor," Baxter explained, his voice gentle and calm. "Connor pushed him to his limit, and he just couldn't handle it anymore. He passed out, and now he's in the back room, trying to recover."
Lobo nodded, understanding. "Yeah, Connor can be pretty intense. He tends to push people to their limits, both physically and emotionally.
But he also knows when to pull back, to give them time to rest and recharge. He has a deep understanding of the human body, and he uses this knowledge to help his partners reach their full potential.
"But don't worry, Lobo," Baxter reassured him, his voice calm and soothing. "Loki will be okay. He just needs some time to rest and recover. And when he wakes up, he'll be ready for the tournament. He always is. Can you suppress his powers until the tournament?" Baxter asked Lobo, his voice firm and authoritative.
Lobo nodded, his eyes flashing with determination. "Yes, sir. I can handle Loki. You just focus on getting ready for the tournament."
Baxter smiled, his heart swelling with pride. "Thank you, Lobo. I appreciate your help. And Terance, can you make sure that Connor gets some rest as well?"
Baxter requested, his voice soft and warm.
"Of course, Baxter. I'll take care of Connor. He's going to need his energy for the tournament too." Terance replied, his voice full of determination.
Baxter nodded, satisfied. "Thank you, Terance. I appreciate your help."
With that, Baxter turned to leave the room, his magnificent wings sweeping behind him. Lobo and Terance couldn't help but stare after him, their tongues practically hanging out of their mouths.
They had always known that Baxter was a sexy and powerful being, but they had never seen him like this before.
He was a magnificent creature, full of strength, compassion, and wisdom. He radiated a warmth and security that made them feel safe and loved. And his body, my gods, his body was a work of art. It was a testament to the power of love and acceptance.
They both felt a stirring in their loins, as they took in the sight of Baxter's powerful, muscular form.
Baxter came back in the room, wearing his jockstrap, wings put away, carrying Loki over one shoulder, passed out.
Lobo and Terance looked at him in absolute awe of not only his mind blowing transformation, but also his raw, unyielding power, and their undying loyalty to him. Their grownups voices came out almost as low growls, as they each vowed to protect and cherish him forever. Baxter looked at the two men in front of him, in all their muscled glory and saw their love for him burning fiercely in their eyes.
Baxter gently places Loki in Terrances arms, and then bends down to pick up Connor and gently drapes him over Lobo's shoulder, as if he weighs nothing.
Connor murmurs something in his sleep, moaning slightly, before settling back into a peaceful slumber. Lobo and Terrance exchange a glance, realizing that they have a lot of work to do.
"We'll make sure they get some rest," Lobo says gruffly, his deep voice rumbling with determination.
Terrance nods, his eyes shining with compassion. "And we'll be ready for the tournament too. We won't let you down, Baxter."
Baxter smiles warmly at them, grateful for their support. "Terrance, I can feel your question. I haven't changed how I am. There is just a lot more of me now, and now that my wings are back, my burden is gone. So, please ask."
Baxter encouraged Terance, his voice gentle and approachable. Terance took a deep breath, gathering his courage.
"Baxter, were you always so... big?" he asked, his voice hesitant and a little embarrassed. Baxter chuckled, amused by Terance's question.
"No, Terance, I wasn't. My size and strength are the result of my heat, which I allowed to flow naturally. I worked hard to prepare myself, both mentally and physically, to make sure that the experience was a positive one for me and my partners. And it paid off. Everyone's love made the difference."
"What does Fluff think? Thats the biggest question everyone is asking. You are now free to be with anyone in the pack you like, with no restrictions." Terrance asked.
His voice was timid, but Baxter could hear the curiosity and concern in his words.
Baxter chuckled, his laughter a deep, rumbling sound that seemed to resonate through the room.
"Fluffy has always accepted and loved me for who I am, Terance. And now, with my true form revealed, he has only grown more excited and eager to explore this new side of me. Are you really asking about the sexual dynamic between us?" Baxter raised an eyebrow.
"Yes, I am. Because we all know that's what everyone is really curious about."
Terance blushed, his cheeks turning a deep shade of red. "I-I apologize, Baxter. It's just that, well, you're a bit different now, and I was curious about how that would affect your relationship with Fluffy."
Baxter chuckled, amused by Terance's curiosity. "Well, I can assure you that our relationship is as strong as ever. The sex happened once and it was over quickly. Fluff and I went on an adventure across the multiverse, as we tend to do when it is just the two of us. Fluff adores my new form. He wants a puppy pile with me, himself, Bull, Shadow and Brute." Baxter explained, smiling at the thought of their playful interactions.
Terrance nods, "That sounds exactly like Fluff. What was it like being with the women folk?" Terrance asks.
He was always straightforward, Baxter liked that about him. "Being with the women of our pack was a new and exciting experience for me," Baxter said, his deep voice rumbling with pleasure. "A man is not a gentleman if he reveals what he does with a lady. It is not polite to kiss and tell." Baxter blushed, all of his flames turning pink.
"Ah, come now, Baxter." Lobo chuckled, his deep voice vibrating with mischief. "You can't leave us hanging like that."
Baxter sighed, rolling his eyes. "Fine. Let's just say that the reequipments for the heat was met. "
Terance grinned, nodding in approval. "I respect that. But I do have one more question, if you don't mind," Terance said, his voice calm and composed.
Baxter nodded, giving him a small smile. "Of course, Terance. You can ask me anything."
Terance hesitated for a moment, before asking, "Baxter, how do you manage to stay so grounded and centered, despite everything that's happened to you?"
Baxter sighs, his very large shoulder slumping. "I cheated. A long time ago, I placed 3 of my four missing wings in the most grounded people I know, to keep me focused in the present."
Baxter admitted, looking down at his feet, the green color of reality twisting in his eyes. His face looked pained. "Taking them off was one of the hardest decisions I have had to make."
"W-what do you mean by 'missing wings'?" Terance asked, his voice trembling with shock.
Baxter's expression softened as he looked up at Terance, and then to Lobo.
"I placed my wings in Fluffy, Tony and Drake in a previous incarnation of theirs. I trust them completely, and their grounding energy helps to balance me. I couldn't do any of this without them." Baxter said, sadly.
Lobo nods, "I rember feeling the echos of your pain in the universe that day. With your new wings, does the separation of your old wings still hurt?" Lobo asked, eyes full of compassion.
Baxter shook his head, a small smile on his face. "No, Lobo, it doesn't hurt anymore. Placing my wings in Fluffy, Tony and Drake was a difficult decision, but it was one that I knew I had to make. And now that I have my new wings back, I feel complete. I feel whole."
Terance and Lobo exchanged a glance, their hearts swelling with admiration and respect for Baxter. They hug Baxter for a several minutes longer than necessary, then head out. Lobo shuts off Lokis magic for a while, and bring Connor and Lok to Aries room for revival.
The demon massages their backs, feeding them energy. Soon they wake up.
Loki stumbles out of the room, scratching his head. "What happened? Why am I in Aries's room?"
Lobo grins at him, his eyes glinting with mischief. "You passed out in Baxters room, and he asked us to take care of you. You're lucky we found you before Aries did. He would have had a field day with you."
Loki groans, rubbing his temples. "Ugh, I don't even remember. Did I do anything...
embarrassing?" Loki asked, his voice low and hesitant.
Connor chuckles, shaking his head. "No, nothing too embarrassing. You just tired yourself out a bit too much, that's all."
Connor said, his voice gentle and reassuring.
Loki sighs, running a hand through his hair. "I guess I still have a lot to learn about my powers. I'm sorry for causing so much trouble."
Lobo claps Loki on the shoulder, his expression serious. "Don't apologize, Loki. We all make mistakes. However, that was your 9th round in Baxter's room. Because we have plans today, the bulk of yuor powers are suppressed, while we get ready. You're welcome to use them to help others, just not for yourself. Do you understand?" Lobo suddenly stepped into Dungeon Master role, commanding all the space around him. When he was in this role, his will was magically enforced.
All present must follow his commands. His voice made the rules. Loki nodded, his expression serious. "Yes, Lobo. I understand. I won't use my powers for myself. I'll use them to help others instead." He wanders off to lend a hand.
Lobo nods, satisfied with Loki's response. "Good. Now, we have a lot to do before the tournament. So, let's get started. First, we need to make sure that everyone is ready. That means checking in with the rest of the pack, and making sure that they have everything they need. Baxter and Lothar need about an hour together.
"Dad," Lobo asks Connor, "The gods on our team, Hercules, Apollo, Loki, Shiva and Fenrir, I am wondering about them. This tournament is involving the all the gods. Are we forcing them to split their loyalties between us and their divine obligations?"
Lobo asked, his brow furrowed with concern.
Connor shook his head, his expression reassuring. "No, Lobo. We're not forcing them to choose. They're here because they want to be here. Because they believe in our cause. And because they want to help us win." "I see. So, they're fighting for us not because they have to, but because they want to."
Connor nodded. "Exactly. And that's what makes them such valuable assets to our team."
"Do they know that they are free to choose?"
Lobo asked, his eyes narrowing with concern.
"Yes, they do," Connor reassured him. "We've made it clear to them that they are free to leave at any time. But they've all chosen to stay, because they believe in what we're doing.
Lobo nodded, satisfied with Connor's answer. "Okay, good. Why have they not been partispating in group activities for a while? They seem to be content to train, keep to themselves mostly and not stand out."
Lobo said, his voice thoughtful.
Connor nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Yes, they've been staying out of the spotlight and keeping to themselves. I think they're just trying to avoid unnecessary distractions and keep their heads down. They don't want to attract any unwanted attention."
"What do you mean by unnecessary attention, Dad?"
Lobo asked, his brow furrowed with confusion.
"Well, Lobo, "Connor began, his tone serious and measured, "They approached me a while ago, saying they don't want their respective pantheons pressuring them into doing anything they would not rather do. They don't want to be forced into conflicts of interests. Aslo, they react to time differently than most mortals. They age slower. Overall, they do not need to engage in daylily actives like we do. It may come across as being introverted or lethargic."
Lobo nodded, understanding his father's words.
They're trying to avoid being caught up in the political drama of their pantheons. That makes sense. We should respect their wishes and give them space."
Connor nodded, his expression grateful. "Yes, we should. They're valuable members of our team, and we need them to be at their best if we want to win this tournament.
Lobo nodded, his expression serious. "Have you talked to Odin and Zues recently? When we leave The Sanctuary, Only a few hours will have passed, and the grounds should start filling with people. Did Zues, Hel and Odin tell us what they wanted us to do?"
Connor nodded. "They are labeling us as an elite group of warriors and diplomats. A collection of celestials, mortals and deity's from across the multiverse. Fluffy is being labeled the tournament lisaon, as he is the one who seems to know everyone. We are not expected to fight in the tournament to compete. We are expected to patriate in exhibition matches, to entertain and educate. When we are not doing that, we are to mingle and show off."
Connor said, smiling confidently.
Lobo nodded, his mind already racing with the possibilities. That gives us a lot of freedom to move around and connect with people. It will be a lot of fun."
Connor chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Yes, it will. Just remember, Lobo, the goal here is not win the tournament. We need to stay focused and keep our eyes on the prize. Our prize is the freedom to be ourselves publicly and
Lobo nodded, his expression serious. "I understand, Dad. Des the rest of Team Jockstrap remember that its not our goal to win? Its to play diplomat, and to dominate everyone in a holistic manner?"
Lobo asked, his deep voice rumbling with amusement. Connor nodded, his expression serious. "We want to show everyone that we're not just a group of strong warriors, but also intelligent and capable leaders. We're here to inspire and mentor others, to show them that there's more to life than just physical strength and power. We're here to show everyone that we're a force to be reckoned with, but also a force for good."
Lobo nodded, his expression determined.
"Understood, Dad. We'll make sure to keep that in mind."
Connor nodded, satisfied. Now, let's get back to work. We have a lot to do before the tournament starts. I suggest we get some rest, too. We're going to need our strength for the days ahead."
Lobo agreed, and the three of them made their way back to the main hall of The Sanctuary. As they walked, Lobo couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation.
The tournament was finally here, and they were going to make the most of it. They had trained hard for this, and they were ready. Lobo was determined to make his father and the rest of the pack proud.
As they entered the main hall, they were greeted by the sight of their teammates, all gathered in one place. Lobo did a headcount. Fluff, Drake, Tony, Bull, Lothar, Pyro, Shadow, Dazzle, Baxter, Aries, Connor, Spot, Christoph, Celeste, Diana, Thanos, (Hel was topside) Terrance, Brute, Loki, Hercules, Apollo, Shiva and Fenrir. Paws, Fang and Howl were safely tucked away in Lobo's mind. Lobo sighed. That was a lot of people, and a lot of testosterone in one spot. They were all piled on several couches, leaning on each other, without any regard for personal space or boundaries. Diana and Celeste were sitting separately on a love seat, drinking tea.
Connor starts to speak. "Im not going to make a speech. WE are in a time bubble. The tournament got set up yesterday, and we are now set to let people enter the tournament grounds. Odin and Zues gave us clearance to mingle at will and sgin up for exhibition matches with whomever we want. There will be no actual competing."
"Any questions so far?" Connor asks.
Everyone shakes their heads, all present shifting uncomfortably. As the realization of what Connor is saying sinks in, they know that this tournament is much more than a mere competition. But it's unlike any tournament they have ever heard of or participated in. The team members exchange curious glances, unsure of what to expect. What they do know, however, is the level of trust and faith they have in Connor and his guidance.
"Everone has unique skills that we want to display to people. Loki has a unque set up for gamers to play DnD in one of the pocket universes. Team Dragon and Team Wolf kept their powers, so they can demonstrate how to play the game. It is meant to help humans heal from trauma. This is one of our main focal points, the other is the Valley of Strength. It is were we teach people how to fight and learn about magic. I want you guys to find a booth and start drawing in pepople. The more magic we show, the better. Wolf out, use your powers. have fun and be friendly. All I ask is that you do not seduce anyone, and keep your large cocks in your jocks. You are supposed to be large, musclebound and hulking. This is a strictly hands off event."
"Any questions so far?"
Connor asked again, his voice clear and commanding.
Tony's hand shot up. "Yeah, what about the fights? Are we going to participate in them, or just watch?"
Connor smiled. "We're not here to fight. We're here to show off our skills and abilities. We're here to inspire and educate. And we're here to build relationships and alliances with the other teams. We're here to build a community. If you see a list for an exhibition match, sign up for it. Ask for challengers. If they win, they will get a prize from me."
Tony nodded, understanding dawning in his eyes.
So, we're here to build bridges, not walls."
Connor smiled, his eyes twinkling with pride. "Exactly, Tony. We're here to bring people together, not tear them apart. Now, go forth and spread the word. It's time to show everyone what we're made of."
"Terrane, Pyro, Loki, Tony, did you manage to make any magical trinkets for the mortals, that have our paw prints on them?"
Connor looked around the room, his gaze settling on each person in turn.
Loki nodded, a sly smile spreading across his handsome face. "I've got a few things cooking up back at my booth. You'll see."
Tony chuckled. "I've made some paw print charms that glow in the presence of magic. I figured they'd be a hit with the mortals."
Terrance and Pyro exchanged a glance, before Pyro spoke up.
"We've got some charms and trinkets too. I've been working on a special charm that allows the wearer to manipulate earth and water, like me. It recharges in the full moon."
Pyro, Terrance, and Wolf look at Connor. "Connor, we need your approval for something. We would like to be able to give humans prehensile tails. We got the magic working, we just can't make them permanent. Could you make them permanent? It's the prize for completing a list of activities for interacting with Team Jockstrap." Terrance says.
"Giving humans prehensile tails is a big decision, Pyro. It changes their entire anatomy and physiology. It could also have unforeseen consequences. We need to be sure that we're doing it for the right reasons, and that we're prepared to deal with any potential backlash. But, I trust your understanding of the magic and the souls of those who wish to transform. I am in. I think it is worth the risk. My only request is that I get to approve each person individually." Connor says, thinking carefully. "How about this, once they finish the list, they will come to me, and if it does not suit them, I will make the tail a costume peice that has a week long change, that is soulbound to the user, that requires the full moon to charge. Does that work?" Connor asks.
The trio nods.
"Agreed," Pyro and Terrance say at the same time, while Wolf adds, "That works for me."
"Tony. Lobo." Connor says "Did you create portals from the Tournament grounds to the Valley of Champions?"
Tony and Lobo nodded, both of them grinning with pride. "Yeah, we did. It's a simple portal to the Valley, but it's stable and easy to use. We've also created a portal to the Sanctuary, just in case we need to make a quick escape. And we've put up protective wards around the valley to keep out any unwanted guests."
Connor nods, proud of his sons. "Good, good. That's exactly what I wanted to hear."
"Thanos. What is the most dramatic thing you can think of doing at the tournament?" Connor asks.
Thanos stands up, striking a pose. His muscular physique is on full display, his broad shoulders and bulging biceps rippling with power. His flowing silver hair cascades down his back, a stark contrast to his chiseled features and purple skin. His voice is deep and commanding as he speaks, captivating all in the room.
"Why not have me challenge Zeus himself to a demonstration match?" Thanos suggests, a confident smirk playing on his lips. "I can take on all comers, gods or mortals, and prove the might of Team Jockstrap.
Let Zeus feel the raw power and skill of a true Titan. That would certainly draw a crowd and get people talking." Thanos declares, his voice filled with confidence.
Connor considers Thanos' suggestion for a moment, his mind racing with possibilities. "That's certainly an option, Thanos. I'll have to clear it with Zeus first, but I think it could be a great idea. It would be a powerful statement of our intent and a show of our strength."
Thanos nods. "Hel asked me to wear the infinity gauntlet during most of the event and do a lot of snapping."
Thanos said, flashing a wicked grin.
Connor chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, that's certainly one way to draw a crowd. But keep in mind, Thanos, we're here to build relationships, not destroy them. So, no snapping."
Thanos nodded, his expression serious. "Understood, Connor. I'll keep the snapping to a minimum. Maybe just a few squirrels here and there."
Diana cleared her throat, the sound reverberating throughout the room.
"Connor, I have a question. I know that the tournament is not a competition, but what about the champions? Will there be any champions crowned?" "Yes, there will be champions crowned. But it's not about who wins or loses. It's about the journey. It's about the experience. It's about what we learn about ourselves and each other. It's about the memories we create and the bonds we form. It's about the legacy we leave behind.
We are being presented as a separate party of people who are helping host this event, and some of us are looking to make Earth our sanctuary, we are making it clear that we have no interest in conquest, and instead are interested in integration. The crows there have been fed information about who we are and what we are about." Connor said.
Diana nodded, her expression thoughtful.
"That makes a lot of sense. It's not about winning or losing, it's about the experience and what we take away from it. I like that." And that's what we need to remember. We're not here to compete. We're here to connect. To inspire. To educate. To build relationships and alliances."
"Diana, has Odin and Zues spoken to you about your role as the MC?"
Connor asked.
Diana nodded, her lips curling into a small smile. "Yes, they have. They've informed me that I'll be the MC for the tournament, introducing each team and their members, as well as announcing the various events and activities that will be taking place. It's a big responsibility, but I'm ready for it. I've been studying up on all the teams, learning their backgrounds and strengths, and I'm excited to help bring the tournament to life for everyone attending. Dad, how much of our background should we tell people? You, me and my siblings do not have believable backstories."
Diana said, her brow furrowed with concern. "Should we reveal the truth about us? Or does you have something else in mind?"
Connor nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful. "I understand your concerns, Diana. It's a complicated situation. The truth is, the gods on our team have told us to keep our true identities a secret. They don't want to risk any backlash or retaliation from their respective pantheons. And, to be honest, we don't know how people will react to the truth. The furthest we can go is by saying we are from the multiverse. I doubt people will believe us anyway. Too many new things will be happening, and people will be at capacity."
"I agree, Dad." Lobo said. "I don't think people are ready to hear about a group of immortal shapeshifters living among them. Plus, if we reveal our true identities, we could be putting ourselves and the mortals we care about in danger." Lobo said, with a hint of fear in his voice.
Connor noded solemnly. "We'll tread carefully, and gradually introduce our team to the mortal world, one step at a time."
"Fluffy, are you willing to entertain.?"
Fluffy looked up from his book, his expression calm and composed. "Of course, Connor. I am here to serve and entertain the guests at the tournament. I will do my best to make sure they are all happy and satisfied."
"What did you have in mind for me?" Fluffy asked, curious.
Connor grinned. "Well, we've set up a special area just for you. Do you want to do your bard Barbarin thing from DnD or something else? Id be willing to craft you another body. His name would be Fluffer if you say yes."
Connor said, his expression hopeful.
Fluffy's eyes lit up with excitement. "Yes, please! I'd love to try out a new form. Thank you, Connor!"
Connor nodded, his eyes sparkling with delight. "You're welcome, Fluffy. I can't wait to see what you come up with. Whatever it is, I know it will be amazing. Use the extra body however you like. Its still going to be you, but it will be whatever race you want, based off of your Fluffy or Fluff form."
Fluffy smiled, grateful to Connor for the opportunity.
"Baxter, Brute, and Aries, what do you plan on doing?"
Baxter's deep voice cut through the room. "I'm gonna go out and mingle. Maybe spice things up with my magnetism and charm. I'm also gonna represent Team Jockstrap in the martial arts exhibitions."
Brute's low, rumbling voice added, "I plan on working with the kids and teaching them self-defense techniques. I might even throw in some acrobatics for fun."
Aries, grinned. "I'll be working on some new spells to show off. Maybe I'll even do some live demonstrations. I plan on attaching streamers of shadow and light onto people.
"Just be cautious, Aries," Connor warned. "We don't want you causing any unnecessary damage. And remember, no seducing anyone."
"No promises," Aries chuckled. "But I'll do my best to keep it within the rules."
Connor sighed, knowing that Aries was not one to be easily reined in. "Just try to keep it to a minimum, okay? Aries, I don't mind you going out in your demon form. Just wear your dragon scale leather pants. No Jockstrap, unless your in one of the adult only areas."
Connor said sternly.
"Understood, Connor," Aries replied with a mischievous grin. "I'll keep it in check."
Connor nodded, satisfied with Aries' response. He then addressed the whole team.
"Drake, Tony, Bull, what are you planning on doing?"
Drake spoke up first, his voice smooth and confident. "I'll be mingling with the crowds, showing off my powers and doing some small tricks. I'll also be helping out with the behind-the-scenes logistics of the tournament."
Tony nodded in agreement, adding "I'll be assisting Drake, and using my technology and engineering skills to make the tournament run as smoothly as possible. I'll also be demonstrating some of the advanced tech that I've developed."
Bull grinned, his muscles flexing as he spoke.
"Me and Terrance will be overseeing the weightlifting and powerlifting events. We'll be judging and coaching. I also have a surprise up my sleeve, but I can't say anything yet."
Terrance nodded, his expression serious. "I'll also be working on a special magic project during the tournament. Wolf has approved it. It's a secret for now, but trust me, it's gonna be amazing."
Connor's expression turned serious as he spoke. "One last thing before we all head out.
I want to address the topic of intimacy. I know that many of us have strong desires and needs. But we need to remember that this is a public setting and not everyone is comfortable with public displays of affection. So, let's keep it to a minimum, okay? We don't want to make anyone uncomfortable or create a scene. However, if you find someone special, feel free to explore those desires in private. We are all adults and consenting individuals, so let's be respectful and considerate of each other. There are areas set aside for such things."
Connor said with a firm voice.
"Terrance, Pyro and Fluffy. Wolf. you are all well versed in intimacy. My request to you three, more than the rest of us, is to not let your desires overrule your common sense. Remember, a lot of the people here are mortal and new to our way of life. I don't want to scare them off. It's all for the greater good. Terrance, I know you have a tendency to slip up. I expect better of you. I know you can control yourself."
Final thing, Remember there is a magical interface that lets us manage the event, send messages and to keep track of the schedule. If you are devarting from your expected cores of action, let us know in the interface. This event is supposed to be chaos, so just roll with it." With that, Connor dismissed the group. They all stood up and dispersed, chatting among themselves as they exited the room. Lobo, Connor, and Pyro stayed behind for a few moments, discussing last-minute details and ensuring everything was in order for the upcoming tournament.
Later that morning, Lobo found himself and Terrance knocking on the door to Loki's booth. They Secretary of Mischief, as Loki was sometimes called, was one of the most eccentric and unpredictable members of Team Jockstrap.