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       #Post#: 1602--------------------------------------------------
       Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 4:43 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       Another roll of Yarick's eyes  followed what the new face had to
       say. The bad feeling only got worse as the fae went back on the
       attack, unlike before, when he missed, he felt something pulling
       his feet out from under him causing him to hit the ground *hard*
       knocking the wind right out of him.
       The man rolled onto his back to try and suck in a breath of air.
       A glare came to his eyes at Grim's words of triping over his own
       feet before he found himself pinned by the handsome tattooed
       man. Yarick tried to struggle, but he knew it was pointless, he
       was caught. The man's words had the fae blushing quite dark. He
       wasn't used yo others flirting with him, especially during and
       after a fight.
       The sudden kiss showed Yarick just how serious the man was in
       wanting to claim the fae, getting the blush to darken even more.
       Grim's following words got the fae to huff as the man claimed he
       won and he would be good now. "You can't be serious... you...
       you cheated..." was all he could sputter out as he turned his
       face away, clearly flustered and embarrassed at being pinned
       down like this, helpless and at the mercy of the man holding him
       down.
       ---
       Watching the exchange between Grim and Yarick had Bas chuckling.
       Seeing Grim stealing a kiss made Bas' eyes gleam with a great
       deal of interest.
       "Oh but Grim didn't cheat. He was assisted, which means I get a
       kiss too," Bas spoke in a much deeper tone.
       He was instantly standing over Grim and Yarick. He took in the
       gorgeous sight and then slide his long fingers into the Grim's
       hair and pulled the man's head back. He leaned down and kissed
       Grim deeply on the mouth.
       Bas pulled Grim off of Yarick and helped the fae to his feet.
       "Now it's your turn fae," he murmured gently pulling the Fae in
       and placing a gentle kiss on his lips. He released the fae and
       stepped back.
       "Just as I imagined, sweet and a bit spicy," he murmured with a
       wink. "Might I suggest trying to woo the fae instead of forcing
       yourself on him?" He said turning to look at Grim.
       ---
       Grim chuckled at the flustered man. Before he could answer bas
       did himself. He heard about the man grabbing a kiss.”wait I
       didn’t..” he said to feel his hair gripped and pulled back to
       give a groan and a hot kiss that came after. He was a bit
       stunned but pleased.. and even more so at how hot that looked to
       him when he kissed the fae rather gently.
       “I am wooing- fighting is wooing.. and I took advantage of the
       situation so therefore I get to fuck his ass.” He said with a
       grin on his face.”but I can wait.. for a rematch.. and don’t
       worry you won’t find me- I’ll find you.” He said with a wide
       grin.
       ----+
       The glare in Yarick's eyes turned to the newcomer as the man
       claimed Grim didn't cheat. His blush deepened at the man's claim
       he would get a kiss too. That tone sending a shiver down the
       fae's spine. With wide eyes he watched as the drow stole a kiss
       from Grim after pulling the guy back by his hair before pulling
       the guy off of Yarick entirely.
       He would have tried to make a run for it, but the wizard already
       had a hand on him, pulling the flustered fae to his feet. Before
       he could even protest, the man's lips were pressed gently
       against his own. His first and second kiss every, suddenly
       stolen. The pale blue and white wings on Yarick's back stretched
       out, fluttering as he blushed even more at Grim claiming he
       would get to fuck Yarick.
       "You two have a weird way of flirting... if that's what the hell
       this was..." He said, shaking off how stunned he was. Moments
       later he was speeding off, leaving the two sexy strangers
       behind. The fae was so flustered he went to seek out someone he
       could talk to about this, Khali.
       ----
       Basredun rather enjoyed hearing Grim's protest before claiming
       his mouth. The tattooed masterpiece of a troublemaker was quite
       intoxicating.
       Bas chuckled at the man's crass mouth. He'd been admiring Grim
       from a distance, getting to know the man's character. "I guess
       we differ on what wooing is,"
       Bas' eyes flickered brightly at the wings popping out in
       reaction to the kiss he'd given the fae. "If you want flirting,
       this is just the beginning," Bas purred winking at the fae. He
       watched the fae speed away, thinking of how fun the chase would
       be with the fae.
       Bas moved to run his long fingernails up Grim's back lightly.
       "Well my apologies for letting the pretty one get away. How
       about I offer a consulation prize? Some fun with me, for as long
       as you want or can last," he purred into Grim's ear.
       --++
       Grim listened as the fae spoke. He chuckled to watch him run
       off.  He felt the fingernails up his back and the talk of a
       consolation prize. Grim gave a soft chuckle.”maybe- but I really
       want that man now- love the wings he has.. think I’ll compliment
       him next time on those.” He said to grab bas’ collar.”I will if
       you tell me what that shadow was..” he said having never
       encountered a demon as that before.. he was use to shadowwalkers
       but not that.
       ——-
       Khali was out and about his home. Taking care of everyday things
       of repairs to collecting his kids. He managed to have quite a
       family after they settled.. course the man couldn’t seem to keep
       his hands of Thesia. He saw yarick coming down and looking
       rather miffed.”hey!” He said to give a smile as he put the
       basket down to feed their chickens.”you look in a sour mood-
       what happened?“ he asked his white hair furling a bit in the
       small gust of wind. “Mind giving me a hand with the cats? Kind
       of not wanna lose the other hand.” He joked as he went for one
       for the meat to take to their respective bowls.
       ------
       Khali was finally spotted getting Yarick to finally slow down,
       his wings still buzzing like an irritated hornet. "I got into a
       fight to help End and Skoll out... guy cheated and pinned me..."
       Yarick started as he helped the one armed man with his chores,
       his speed coming in quite handy to get such things over with.
       "He.... he told me since I lost... he... gets to...." his cheeks
       turned very red. "He asked me to be his.... I don't know how to
       put it... I... I think he was flirting? Then he kissed me....
       then the guy who helped him cheat kissed me.... I don't know
       what is going on..." He lamented in frustration.
       ----
       Bas wasn't all that surprised to hear Grim was starting to
       obsess over the fae. "That would be a good idea. You Might
       actually try and ask him his name as well," he suggested. "just
       so you are aware, I plan to woo him as well."
       Bas raised an eyebrow, smiling a bit wider at Grim grabbing the
       collar of his jacket.
       "Well, all right. Just no creasing the brocade," he said
       reaching up to take Grim's hands from his coat collar and pulled
       Grim closer and whispered.
       "That was a shadow demon. To escape the underdark, I had to bind
       myself to it. He comes in handy for many things. My place isn't
       all that far, if you'd like a more comfortable space to have our
       fun,"
       ----
       Khali chuckled just a little at the words of helping end and
       skoll.”more like end put you in grims sights.. and given where
       grim came from- the man thinks a lot like the rest of the desert
       folk.”he told him.”it’s not cheating.” He said to walk as he
       heard the next part to pause to see his face blush.”hmmm? So he
       replaced his obsession with skoll and end with you.” He told
       him.”most likely for him- he shown to bend to the knee for
       strong warriors— which is why he seemed so stuck on the women-
       believed he chased Ki around for a while too. Never thought he
       was into men.” He said to finding the man useful in helping him
       with the chore.”honestly- since he’s flirting- use your looks to
       your advantage, can’t tell you how many times end just let him
       take her top off- was damn near distracted to be taken care of..
       maybe you should show off some skin- he might be too distracted
       to fight back.” Mused Khali. He knew if he just told the man to
       fight dirty back- he’d just get a response of honor- he knew how
       hard it was to break himself of that and yarick still had some
       time to even try.
       —-
       “True.. mean I’ve seen the guy hang around with end and skoll…
       end dragged his ass from the desert so honestly wasn’t sure what
       to think- I definitely underestimated him.” He said to chuckle.
       Grim felt the pull in and blinked at his words.”lead the way..”
       he purred. The man quite enjoyed this new venture- a distraction
       from his previous goals as he followed the wizard back to his
       place.
       ----
       "I've noticed that as well. It's rather encouraging that he
       responded to our kisses in the way he did. Means we have a
       chance,"
       Basredun's two tone eyes flashed brightly at Grim's purred
       response. "What is your preference in the bed? Do you like
       fucking or being fucked?"
       Bas didn't bother with walking or dragging the man to his place.
       He snapped his fingers, letting the shadow demon teleport them
       to his
       private room.
       "I normally don't rush this way, but I can feel your
       impatience," Bas said as he removed his clothes and aided Grim
       with removing his pants.
       Bas moved to sit on his oversized bed and beckoned  Grim over
       with one finger. "Come here you sexy marvelous masterpiece," he
       purred in a seductive tone.
       -+++
       Hearing End had seemingly knew this would happen got the fae all
       the more upset. Why would she do this to him? They were supposed
       to be friends!! Then Khali suggested using his looks and show
       some skin. "I don't want him to want to fuck me more! Besides...
       if you haven't noticed, I don't exactly have tits... don't think
       that strategy would work all that well for me...  besides...
       where is the honor is such things!" Yarick complained, his
       cheeks turning even more red at the confirmation that not only
       was Grim flirting, but the guy was obsessed with him? Clearly
       the guy was mistaken.
       "You have to be mistaken.... I.... ive never attracted anyones
       intrest... im pretty sure im not into men or women..." He
       finally muttered to himself as he aided Khali with his other
       chores. The thought of Grim pinning and kissing him was playing
       over and over in his mind. Once the chores were done, Yarick
       decided a little training might get his mind off of Grim and his
       cheating friend. Two honorless men plaguing his every thought.
       The next few day, Yarick was quite jumpy, darting at nearly
       every shadow. By the time a full week had past, he finally
       calmed down, taking the false comfort that Khali had to be wrong
       since he hadn't seen hide nor hair of Grim or the Drow. He
       accepted this false comfort, letting his guard back down as he
       convinced himself he was too fast to catch. Even if Grim did
       have his eye on him.
       His guard was down as he did his weekly shopping for easy to
       store food at the market. His thoughts on trying to convince
       himself that he didn't feel a certain way when the two men
       kissed him.
       ---++
       Khali felt for the man as he listened to him speak.”I don’t know
       about that- your acting flustered as is, your already showing
       some form of an attraction- besides end wouldn’t just dump
       someone on you unless she felt you could handle it.” Said
       Khali.”and unfortunately you’re gonna have to break yourself of
       that honor.. it took me a while after losing to Jalal and my
       arm. “ he said to sigh.  He watched him fly off looking rather
       distracted as he mused on telling end to try to help him, or
       start stepping in again for his sake.
       ——
       “I don’t mind doing the filling if that’s what your asking- but
       your welcomed to ride if you don’t want to be pressed into the
       bed.” Flirted grim.
       He looked around to chuckle.”well now that’s convenient..” he
       said to feel his pants being pulled off.”and quite forward.” He
       said with a wider grin.
       He took the man’s sweet flattering words with interest as he
       climbed into bed, of course he was no real brute when it came to
       sex,as he soaked his own fingers, and got the drowning ready to
       fill him. He groaned at the feeling before he went at it, as
       skin slapped skin to roll over and let bas ride him the rest of
       the way. The sex was wild and passionate as hands and mouths
       roamed.
       -----
       Basredun had very much enjoyed the afternoon spent with Grim,
       the memory often filling his mind everytime he saw the man in
       passing. Which, was quite often given his habit of spying on
       Grim and the fae had only grown more obsessive.
       If he hadn't been dealing with more pressing matters, he'd
       probably have kept Grim in his bed for more than a day. As it
       was though, there was work to do behind the scenes in
       preparation to take over the oasis. Plus the outside scourge
       that was building up. The fanatics were moving faster than he'd
       anticipated and that displeased him.
       At least he'd been able to find out what the lovely fae's name
       was. He was looking forwards to surprising the fae with this the
       next time they met.
       As he had the past few days, Basredun pulled out his crystal
       ball. "show me Yarick," he spoke softly.
       The ball flashed and brought up the image of the fae at the
       market. After a few moments he asked to see Grim and chuckled in
       amusement seeing the man was close to the fae, waiting to ambush
       him. "Maybe..I should pop in to say hello myself,"
       -----
       Grim was enjoying his stalking to see the fae heading toward the
       store to shop. Watching every movement as he found a spot before
       seeing yarick come around to walk forward to force the fae back
       as his hand went to the post that would stop him from backing up
       further.”hey sexy..” he told him.”Hope you’re thinking of me as
       much as I am of you… if you’re up for a rematch I don’t mind.. I
       win I get that sweet ass of yours.” He said with a purr.
       -+--
       The sudden appearance of Grim back Yarick backing away before he
       felt his back hit a pole as the tattooed man cornered him,
       getting a deep blush out of the fae at being called sexy before
       the bag in his hand dropped at Grim challenging him to a rematch
       for Yarick's ass. "You you can't can't be serious...." He
       stammered out as the blush intensified at the realization that
       he had been thinking about Grim and Bas near constantly since
       their last fight.
       The fae tried to take a steadying breath but being trapped like
       this was doing things to his body he didn't think he was capable
       of feeling. "If... if I win you will leave me alone?" He found
       himself questioning. He felt desperate in that moment.
       ----
       It took Basredun a few moments of thought before he teleported
       into the shadows near Grim and Yarick and slowly walked out.
       "Fancy running into the both of you again. Might I suggest a
       different venue for this rematch? I would love to get a pretty
       show of you two in a proper fight. And...the winner gets a
       special prize from me. A private dinner at my home." Bas
       proposed, and waited for the two to respond.
       "You're looking particularly handsome today Yarick," he couldn't
       help but say.
       -+++-
       Grim grinned at the man’s flustered self. His head getting close
       to yarick.”I’m quite serious..” he said dangerously close to the
       faes lips. His eyes boring into the faes as he heard the next
       question, .”for a little while..” he said to glide his hand down
       the side of yaricks face. He was close to kissing again when bas
       came out to sigh at the interruption. “What about the loser?”
       Asked grim now simply annoyed at his attempt to flirt with the
       fae warrior was interrupted.
       +++++
       The breath in Yarick's throat caught as Grim got closer to him,
       the man's face nearly a half breath away from his own. It seems
       even if he won, it would only temporarily get the man to leave
       him alone. When the drow appeared before Grim could kiss him,
       the hand caressing his cheek was causing his stomach to twist in
       weird ways.
       His eyes finally pulling away from the intensity of Grim's. A
       private dinner was far better than getting fucked for losing.
       "At least dinner would be more reasonable..." He said as he
       tried to squirm but found there was no way around Grim.
       ----
       Bas was quite enjoying the scene in front of him. The intensity
       of Grim and the contrast of Yarick's sweet innocence was quite
       beautiful.
       The annoyance on Grim's face had Bas grinning slightly,
       especially over the question. "The loser gets to stay for
       breakfast," Bas purred, trailing a finger up the man's tattooed
       back.
       He was pretty sure both would understand what he meant.
       Bas played with the end of Grim's hair before drawing his hand
       back. "You should take your kiss now, while you've got Yarick
       captive," he suggested.
       --+++
       Grim grinned a little now understanding the man. “Shouldn’t have
       interrupted in the first place..” he said trailing his hand back
       up yarick’s  neck to ease his mouth on the man’s to a rather
       soft kiss. He leaned back.”nice teaser for what I want from a
       fae like you- let’s go for that fight so I can see those
       gorgeous wings at work.” Purred the beserker.”.asked for the
       practice area to be free too.. so no people.” He said with a
       smirk.
       -++++
       What the drow had to say caused shock to color Yarick's eyes as
       the man seemed to flirt with Grim *while* telling the man to
       kiss the fae. It was the strangest thing. The blush on Yarick's
       cheeks got darker and darker as the hand trailed up his neck
       before the tattooed hottie gave him a rather soft, even sweet
       kiss. It earned a groan out of Yarick as his body reacted in
       ways he didn't concent to.
       A near panicked look came to the fae's eyes at what Grim had to
       say after that kiss. "I'll.... I'll meet you there?" He said in
       a questioning tone, though the uncertainty told that he was
       probably going to run off and hide for a while if he wasn't
       dragged there.
       ++++
       "now where's the fun in that?"   Basredun purred back, enjoying
       the sexy show Grim gave him. It seemed that Grim was learning to
       be a bit gentler. Not that he hadn't appreciated Grim's rougher
       side.
       The groan that came from Yarick was quite a lovely sound to
       Basredun's ears.
       "Ah planned ahead did you?" Bas couldn't help but tease Grim
       just a little bit. "Glad to know you're learning,"
       Basredun's left eyebrow arched at the way Yarick responded. "Or,
       I can escort your gorgeous selves there,"
       Before either could argue, he took hold of the Fae's wrist.
       "Grab a hold Grim," he purred. Once Grim had a hold, Bas snapped
       the fingers on his other hand. The shadow demon teleported them
       instantly to the training field.
       He released Yarick and stepped back and made a different motion,
       which had the shadow demon retrieve his favorite chair from his
       home. Bas settled in his chair, ready to watch the two fight.
       "Would you like a countdown? I'd be happy to oblige,"
       ----
       “Oh I’ll grab a hold.” Said grim as his arm went around both the
       men to grab a peice of ass before they got to the place.”think
       you and I are definitely gonna work well together bas.” He said
       and looked at yarick.”how nice right? Now you’re gonna go
       through with it right? Just imagine the *dishonor*if you back
       out now.”he purred. He stretched getting ready to fight the man.
       ------
       A look of almost defeat came to Yarick at the Drow's suggestion
       of escorting them there before grabbing the fae's wrist. His
       eyes widened as he made a squeaking sound when Grim grabbed his
       a.ss and shot the man a glare. A snap later, and they were on
       the training field.
       At that moment he was let go as Grim stretched, ready to fight,
       though, the fu.cker had to bring honor into question. Yarick
       couldn't deny that he would be a coward to back out now. "You
       two just enjoy tormenting me.... don't you?" He questioned as
       his wings unfolded and fluttered like that of an angry hornet.
       The buzz nearly lifting Yarick off the ground.
       He let his eyes glance at Bas at the suggestion of a countdown.
       "Yeah.... sure... count us down...." He said with a huff as he
       cracked his knuckles. The moment Bas said one, the fae flashed
       into a burst of speed making it almost appear as if he were
       teleporting around. Much like before, Yarick would give a flury
       of punches before moving out of range so Grim couldn't get hold
       of him. Never staying in place for more than a moment and due to
       hovering above the ground, could ignore most terrain defects as
       he attacked. Unlike before, he didn't let up, never staying
       still for more that a second and ignoring the comments the two
       made as the fight dragged on.
       -++++
       Basredun couldn't help a smirk when Grim grabbed his ass. From
       the sound Yarick made, the Fae had gotten the same treatment.
       "Getting handsy already Grim? You must be horny," he couldn't
       help but purr, lust filling his gaze.
       It was rather satisfying to hear Grim say the would work well
       together. "oh I agree,"
       Basredun was rather impressed by Grim bringing Yarick's sense of
       honor to goad the fae into fighting.
       "Torment is such a strong word, and quite inaccurate in this
       situation. Of course if you got off on pain, I'd be happy to
       oblige you," Bas couldn't help but say.
       If the fae had any idea of the torment he'd survived from the
       underdark, he wouldn't fling the word around so carelessly.
       Bas counted down slowly, and then sat back enjoying the fight.
       Watching Yarick's quick movements as he fought was mesmerizing.
       Grim's style while different, had a more rugged and rough beauty
       to them.
       -++--
       “Well not my fault you two have such great asses.” He said as he
       heard the next question. “He’s not wrong.. teasing maybe? Yes I
       like teasing you.” He said with a smirk. Once the fight started
       did it showed the man did learn. He attempted to trip yarick
       when he ran across the ground and came close to grabbing him a
       few times.. but given the fight was wearing him down.
       One hit or felt like a body hit launched him back as he rolled
       and seemed out for the count. Grim had lost- but what yarick
       didn’t know- was how much more this man would latch onto him and
       wanting more.
       -+---
       The attack finally stopped when Grim finally hit the ground and
       didn't get back up. Yarick was panting as he finally let his
       feet settle back on the ground as he watched the tattooed man
       for several long minutes until he decided the guy wasn't getting
       up.
       "Try not to be dead... that would be inconvenient to explain..."
       Yarick complained to Grim as he reluctantly approached to make
       sure the man was alright. It almost felt like a hollow victory
       knowing the man would leave him alone now, or at least leave him
       alone for a while.
       He pushed Grim with his foot until he got a sound out of the man
       before walking towards Bas. "There fights over, now you two can
       stop being stalkers...." He informed the drow, not wanting to
       mention that he now had dinner plans with Bas.
       #Post#: 1603--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 4:48 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       Basredun visibly winced at the body hit that took Grim out. That
       had to have hurt quite a bit. Hearing Yarick's comment had him
       chuckle a bit. It would take a great deal more to kill Grim.
       Basredun stood up, a knowing smile on his face when the fae made
       sure Grim wasn't dead.
       "I don't stalk, I spy," Bas replied with a wink. "I'll pick you
       up at 7," he added and then made his way over to Grim's sprawled
       body.
       "You seem to be in need of a helping hand," he said and leaned
       down over Grim.
       He brushed the hair gently off of Grim's face and stroked the
       side of his face before teleporting them off to his home. It
       took a little leg work to lift Grim off the floor and lay the
       man onto his bed. Bas sank onto the bed next to Grim with a
       huff. "Making me do all the work today huh?" He teased
       playfully.
       Then Bas started checking Grim body over slowly and healing what
       he could. "Feel better now?"
       ----
       Grim made a small groan as he was pushed by a foot, he was
       slowly coming out of it hearing voices, to seeing the drows face
       and felt his hand. He fully came too realizing he was on the bed
       and not in the arena.”I lost big time..” he muttered… to end up
       grinning.”just makes it all worthwhile- gonna enjoy courting
       him.” He said to look over.”and I feel great. You’re not bad for
       a non-tuner.” He said to move his body a bit.
       --+
       Hearing Bas's response time being called a stalker got an eye
       roll out of Yarick before his cheeks blushed quite dark at the
       man's mention of picking the fae up at 7 before going to Grim.
       The pair vanishing moments later. That was when a sudden
       realization happened. How was the guy going to know where to
       meet him?
       A grin came to the fae's lips as he left himself believe that
       Bas wouldn't know where to find him. It wasn't like the guy knew
       what his routine was or where he lived. Still the turbulent
       feelings inside of him made him question himself. Why did he
       feel sad? It was a good thing he won, how the two would leave
       him be, well, aside from dinner. But then again the guy didn't
       know how to find Yarick so the fae reasoned he would get out of
       that as well.
       He left the training grounds and headed back into town to go
       about his usual routine. The anxiety he had been dealing with
       over Grim and Bas slightly quelled, causing him to lower his
       guard.
       By the time it started to approach 7pm, Yarick was slowly making
       his way to the food tents, intending to grab some food before
       headed home.
       -+++--
       Basredun chuckled hearing Grim talking about courting the
       Yarick. "Does it bother you that I want to do the same?"
       Bas was pleased by Grim's offhanded praise. "You're quite
       welcome handsome. Let's get you cleaned up, then I can start
       cooking for our dinner. You're welcome to stay and rest if you'd
       like."
       After a rather interactive and enjoyable time in the shower with
       Grim, Bas got dressed and started getting things ready.
       Five minutes before 7, Basredun retrieved his crystal ball to
       see where Yarick was. His eyes flashed in annoyance seeing the
       fae was going to the food tents.
       "Seriously?" He muttered shaking his head. With a snap of his
       fingers he was three feet from Yarick.
       "Just what do you think you're doing Yarick? I've been slaving
       away cooking for dinner all day. You are not going to get food
       from any of these tents, Now, let's go," Bas said holding his
       hand out to Yarick.
       ----
       The thoughts of what was going to be Yarick's dinner were
       quickly dashed when the fae nearly jumped out of his skin
       hearing Bas' voice right behind him, causing him to turn around
       quickly with an expression of surprise. The scolding tone
       coupled with the warlock's outstretched hand had Yarick blushing
       quite dark.
       "How? How did you find me?" He questioned looking quite puzzled
       as he, rather reluctantly put his hand into Bas'. He wasn't
       going to argue with the guy, he had agreed to dinner with him.
       ----
       Basredun felt a little badly for  startling Yarick. Though the
       Fae's blushing face was rather lovely to see.
       The question had him pausing, considering what he should reveal
       to the fae. He wasn't all that sure what the fae might share
       with other people about him.
       "We wizards have ways of looking in on people when we want. Some
       use spells and bowls if water, others use magical objects." He
       replied caressing the back of Yarick's hand before drawing him
       back into the shadows.
       This time, Bas made a motion, and muttered a spell under his
       breath.  The shape of a door took form  and he reached out to
       open it, and drew Yarick in after him.
       They stepped into the front entry way of his home, which for a
       drow had a rather welcoming vibe. "Grim should be here soon
       enough, would you like a drink before we start dinner?" Bas
       asked, releasing the Fae's hand.
       He moved over to the black table that held various decanters and
       glass containers of spirits. "I feel you might like the honey
       mead,"
       -----
       Grim slowly woke up to yawn, his body stretching to smell
       something good. He slid out and found his pants to throw them
       on. He smoothed his hair out to walk in and see yarick.”oh nice-
       you actually came.” Said grim with a smirk. “Bas food smells
       amazing.. “ he said before looking through the spirits.”mmmm
       anything fruity?” He asked looking back. As he promised he kept
       a bit of physical distance from yarick. Least enough to not make
       him uncomfortable. He figured if anything he could use the time
       to learn about the guy.”yarick- I know your fae and all- but
       what made you be a warrior?” He asked actually holding a
       conversation rather than being flirty.
       -----
       More curiosity filled the fae as Bas explained how he had found
       Yarick as he guided the man through a door the man had magically
       made appear. His curiosity was replaced with concern when the
       drow explained that Grim would be joining them before offering
       the fae a drink.
       He was going to decline but seeing Grim suddenly come in from
       the back room had him agreeing to a glass of the suggested mead.
       He slowly sipped his drink, keeping his eyes on Grim with a look
       of suspicion in his eyes, especially when the guy asked why
       Yarick was a warrior.
       "My bloodline has been in service to the queen for
       generations.... it was expected of me." He answered flatly,
       though his tone far more friendly than it had been previously.
       The man not actively trying to fight or fuck him was a nice
       change.
       -----
       Basredun turned at Grim's voice smiling at the gorgeous man's
       shirtless state. He never would tire of that tattooed muscular
       chest.
       "Thank you grim, ah yes. Let me serve you,"
       Bas filled two glasses, one with an amber liquid and the other
       with a rather bright blue liquor and handed them over. Then
       filled a third with wine for himself.
       While the two spoke, he used a few spells to set the mood.
       Several spiraled floor lamps lit up, his magical lyre started to
       play, and a table and chairs seemingly appeared out of nowhere.
       Sipping on his wine, Bas used a bit more magic to set the table
       and got the food set out.
       "Hmm...if you had had a choice, would you have chosen to follow
       a different path?" Bas couldn't help but ask.
       "Please, have seat, and let's dig in. There's a little of
       everything. I wasn't quite sure if you were a meat eater or
       not," he added, making a pulling gesture which moved the three
       chairs out so they could all sit.
       He'd chosen a smaller table, wanting the dinner to be more
       intimate and not leave too much space so they could converse
       without any trouble.
       "Let me know when you're ready for a refill or if you want
       water," Bas added, taking his own seat after his guests were
       seated.
       --+-
       “Really? Expected- such a shame.” Said grim  quietly. He could
       still remember how the fae man was being dragged into the oasis
       by end. The man looked horrible at the time. “Wanted to say- you
       really suprised me with that speed of yours. I know most tend to
       be noble houses too- was yours?” He asked. Since they had been
       in the oasis it became known about  Adan with those that came
       in.  Even the once guard that plagued Eden in the very beginning
       was in the oasis working- and often at the butt end of her
       jokes. So things went around.
       The man groaned at the hot meal.”cook better than most those
       tents.” He told bas.”how did you get the meat to be so tender?”
       He asked before taking a drink.
       -----
       A look of offense crossed Yarick's features at Grim's comment of
       his birthright being a shame. He let out a huff at the following
       question. "Treefall..." He answered before his attention was
       taken by Bas as the drow began to cast several spells to set the
       mood of the room, even summoning a table and chairs. The food
       appeaing on the table next before the wizard made a hand gesture
       to pull the chairs out for the three of them.
       "If I had a choice? If I had a choice I would still be in the
       queens forest serving her will..." He said with a rather solom
       expression as he took a seat and fixed himself a plate of the
       offered food. "I do eat meat," he added.
       Yarick quietly started eating, glancing at Grim as the man
       groaned and complemented the meal. "I... must agree, you are an
       excellent cook..." He allowed before getting a refill of his
       own. Drinking at the moment probably wasn't the wisest choice,
       but he needed something to sooth the weird feelings fluttering
       in his stomach.
       --++-
       Bas filled his plate with a healthy amount of the smoked pork
       shoulder, and the roasted vegetables, sliding on some fresh
       tomatoes; listening to the answers that Yarick gave Grim.
       The talk of noble houses had his eyes flashing momentarily
       thinking of his past life.
       While he didn't know the whole story behind Yarick's being found
       in the desert, he had the feeling the man might have been exiled
       or banished from the fae kingdom. It seemed to be a reoccurring
       theme among the fae that lived in the oasis.
       Basredun smiled at the praise about his cooking. "Thank you both
       for the compliments. The trick to the tenderness is smoking the
       meat slowly, say three hours, and then cooking it in the oven
       for the last hour or two. Oh, there is dessert as well, so save
       some room,"
       --++++
       Grim looked at the man.”I understand that- but given the
       circumstances you are not- instead you’re working around the
       oasis.” He told the man.. The man wasn’t about to ask how he
       ended up there. The place was for all- those attempting a new
       beginning and been living their lives as they wished.. within
       the limits of their laws that had been made. “Besides your
       obvious love for getting to places quickly- what do you like to
       do? Me besides following you- normally I like to race.. hunting
       is something I do enjoy.” He said.
       “guess fighting has become a form of entertainment now than life
       or death…“ grim finished  with a sigh.”use to be apart of a
       tribe known as the beserkers.. we mostly were wanderers for a
       time. Guess I can say I’m one of three surviving of it. After
       that big ol’ nasty fight with the fanatics. “ he continued as he
       grabbed his cup to ask for more.
       -----
       A fresh glare settled into Yarick's eyes at Grim's comment of
       pointing out the obvious. "No fucking shit...." He huffed as he
       shook his head and focused on eatting as Grim continued on after
       Bas told them to save room for dessert. "What do I like to do? I
       don't often do things just because I like them.... I suppose if
       you are asking how I spend my time not working, I help Khali out
       along with others in the oasis... I don't like being idle." He
       with a raised eyebrow. Yarick hadn't ever been one to do things
       for fun. Given he never indulged his fae desires for intimacy,
       the idea of doing things just for fun was puzzling to him.
       #Post#: 1604--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 4:53 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       Bas nearly bit his tongue in frustration at Grim's comment about
       the glaring obvious point that Yarick was stuck where he was.
       Grim just seemed to like blowing his chances with Yarick. Or
       just giving himself more unnecessary challenges in winning the
       fae over.
       Bas let the two continue talk for awhile, looking quite
       interested about what Grim enjoyed doing as well as him being a
       berserker.
       "I understand the need to keep oneself busy," he commented after
       Yarick explained he didn't do much for fun. "Idle minds and
       hands can prove too prone to mischief I've heard,"
       Basredun had gotten up to fill their glasses when there was a
       very distinct sound of clanging metal from the basement under
       them. Bas' eyes flashed and he gritted his teeth, not wanting to
       deal with his new pet in the middle of dinner.
       "Well I seem to have forgotten to attend to my newest
       acquisition downstairs, I'll be right back," he said flashing a
       smile at the two.
       Before they could ask him any probing questions he teleported
       into the dungeon to glower at the human he had caged there.
       "Are you really about to test my goodwill right now barbarian?"
       Bas spat, looking more than a little annoyed by the distraction.
       The tattooed dreadlocked human stared back at him defiantly.
       "Fu.ck you. I'm not going to stop until one of your guests finds
       me. You're not keeping me here forever you demon lover!"
       Bas shook his head slowly as his fingers started moving and
       chanted a silencing spell. When it snapped into place the
       human's felt the surge of magic and backed up looking quite
       terrified.
       "You're sadly mistaken. You will never get out until you tell me
       everything I want to know. Rest while you can, tomorrow will be
       quite a day for you,"
       Bas left the human cursing him and teleported back to the
       kitchen. There he pulled out the baklava he'd slaved over to
       create over 100 layers, and carried it out.
       "I've heard most Fae love their sweets, I hope you are one of
       them," Bas said as he set the dessert down.
       -----
       “All work and no play? You know there’s fun things to do that
       can keep you busy right?” Said grim.”I’m just gonna have to take
       you on some dates.. don’t worry won’t be all fighting- just some
       activities maybe something will snag you that isn’t helping out
       others. Find pottery making pretty fun..” grim said to chuckle.
       Not often did he admit to doing anything of the sort but yarick
       and bas were the exemptions  in his eyes.
       The meal continued with light conversation when grim heard
       clanging metal. His face went somber at the sound to turn to bas
       to see him vanish.
       The man saw the dessert to seem to put his hand up.”I’ll refuse
       it out of respect- I’m not one for sweets like that..” said
       grim. The man enjoyed his fruits, somehow eating something
       sugary never dealt well with him.
       ----
       A dark blush trickled across Yarick's cheeks as Grim decided he
       would take the fae on dates. Even promising they wouldnt all be
       fighting. "You consider fighting a date? You have strange ideas
       about courtship..." He questioned as the conversation, or at
       least what passed for conversation on Yarick's part as he mostly
       just reluctantly answered Grim's questions.
       It was when Bas went to get the drinks refilled that the man had
       to disappear due to clanking sounds. A suspicious look crossed
       his eyes as be stared at the space the drow had been. "That's
       not concerning at all..." He commented as he finished off his
       dinner. Moments later the drow returned with a dessert that
       smelled heavenly.
       " it looks divine, I can't remember the last time I've had
       baklava," the fae said, a slight grin on his lips. He, like most
       fae, did love his sweets.
       -----
       "oh yes that's right, you're more into natural sweets," Bas
       murmured, not in the least but bothered by Grim's not wanting
       any of the baklava. "Just means Yarick can take the leftovers
       home to enjoy,"
       Basredun served Yarick a good sized piece, and took a smaller
       piece for himself. Then with a flourish of his hands, conjured a
       dish of mango sorbet for Grim, presenting it to the man with a
       smile. "For your enjoyment, handsome,"
       ----
       “Beserker tribe finds fighting a way of courting.. usually the
       defeated is the submissive in bed.” Said grim to trail his hand
       up his glass.”I would ignore it.. sounds like that is best
       just.. left alone.” Said grin quietly as he tried to keep his
       head from his own dark thoughts
       “Thank you.” Said grim to start eating his dish.”sugar isn’t
       good for me- if you think I’m wild now- I get worse.” He
       admitted.  His eyes went to the direction of where the noise had
       been.”so bas your turn- I know your a drow and got a shadow
       demon- but I was wondering how you came upon the oasis.. or
       least heard about it?” He asked him.
       -----
       The thoughts of what Grim said about the berserker courtship had
       the blush on Yarick's cheeks get much worse. Their fist fight,
       even if the man had cheated... he had pinned Yarick, was that
       why he wanted to sleep with him now? He was quite confused and
       decided to not ask more questions. He had gotten himself into
       enough trouble as it were.
       When the dish was put in front of him, Yarick slowly started to
       eat it, making a pleased noise at the taste. "Oh fuck, this is
       amazing, how do you not have a food tent of your own?" He
       questioned as he enjoyed his dessert, finishing off the sweet
       food rather quickly.
       His curiosity peaked when he heard Grim's question to Bas.
       "Better question, is your name really Bas?" He questioned having
       yet to hear the man called anything else. "Anyways, dinner was
       great, I should probably head out though..." He said as he
       finished off his most recent beverage putting him at a heavy 5
       drinks. To say he wasn't stable when he stood up from the table
       was an understatement. He hadn't realized how much he had been
       drinking seeing as his glass just never seemed to empty.
       --+--
       Bas couldn't help but grin a but at Grim's explanation about how
       a berserker might be the submissive in the bedroom. While he
       didn't mind being submissive in bed, he did like being on the
       other side as well
       "Good to know," Bas murmured watching Grim enjoying the sorbet,
       thinking of what fun they might have later in his bed.
       "Such a serious question," Bas said eying the two for a long
       moment. "The oasis is rather well known, even where I am from.
       It wasn't easy to find by any means,"
       Hearing the Fae's praise about the desert brought a bright smile
       on the drow's face. "Why thank you, Yarick. Honestly I really
       only cook for people I like. I'm not much of a social person
       either."
       "My full name is Basredun Faldroth. You can call me Bas if you'd
       like."
       The drow frowned seeing Yarick getting up and swaying on his
       feet. He rose and moved to steady the fae. "I didn't realize the
       mead would affect you so much. Please, it's late and I'd feel
       better if you stayed here for the night. I have a guest room you
       can use,"
       -----
       Grim blinked at his answer, “how wasn’t it not easy? Mean when I
       arrived here it was with the group- kind of gotten picked up by
       an airship. When we arrived it was clear and sunny.. granted
       things been acting funny lately.. especially since the dragons
       started coming here- feel it’s a bad omen.” He said to eat more.
       Grim was also on his feet to steady the fae. Seeing the man
       drunk and almost out to give a hand. He was a bit bummed they
       wouldn’t just sleep together but the words were already
       said.”let’s get him to bed at least.” He told bas.”probably get
       him outta these boots too.” He said to really take in what the
       fae wore. “Maybe the shirt too- “ he said as he wanted at least
       a peek.
       -----
       The room was starting to spin when he felt Bas and Grim each
       grab a shoulder to keep him upright. His cheeks turing more and
       more red as Grim talked about undressing him while Bas suggested
       the fae suggested he stay in the guest room. "You just want to
       see me naked...." He slurred out as the booze was now hitting
       him rather hard. He knew he was going to have a hangover, he
       could already feel it.
       With the haze of booze, the idea of Grim undressing him didn't
       seem all that bad. The tattooed canvas of a man was already
       shirtless himself. "I.... suppose it would be... a good idea to
       sleep this off...." He finally agreed.
       -----
       Bas knew very well he'd been too cryptic for Grim's mind. "I can
       get more into the details with you later if you'd like," he
       offered, not yet sure of how much he could trust Yarick.
       His eyebrows rose at Grim's suggestion of stripping the fae of
       his shirt. `you just want a sneak a look, don't you?` he teased,
       mentally speaking to Grim.
       He'd done it a few times before, so knew the man wouldn't freak
       out too much.
       He snickered, amused by Yarick's nearly saying the same thing
       moments later.
       "I have night clothes you can change into if you'd like," Bas
       added, not wanting to scare Yarick off.
       He moved to put an arm around Yarick's waist and helped him into
       the guest room. "I'll set out some water, and some mallow root,
       it'll soothe your head and stomach if you need it," Basredun
       added, sitting the fae onto the edge of a four post bed and
       started to take the Fae's shirt off.
       "Grim, there should be a night shirt in the top of the dresser,
       please grab it," he requested and then knelt to gently tug off
       Yarick's boots.
       #Post#: 1605--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 5:00 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       “I said you could keep your pants- you must be drunk.” He said
       to help bas to at least get him to the bed to lay him
       back.”shoulda known your a light weight.” Said the man. He saw
       bas had beat him to taking things off to frown a little.   He
       heard bas inside his head to raise a brow at him. The drow was
       becoming more and more mysterious. He went for the night shirt
       to walk over and slide it on the man.”least your comfy now.” He
       said. His fingertips felt how smooth the fae man was.
       “Get some sleep and don’t worry I’ll remind you we didn’t do
       anything.” Grim teased before heading out of the room.
       The man’s body was aching in places but he was beginning to feel
       the restlessness. While he did find fun in causing mischief- he
       would suffer moments of just needing to get out. “Should hunt
       tomorrow. Maybe that will help.” He said to himself.  He turned
       to see bas,”so.. thanks for dinner.” He said to walk over and
       down his glass.”wanna have a little fun before bed?” He asked as
       his mind went back to the noise he heard.
       --+--
       "You're drunk..." Yarick slurred back at Grim before he leaned
       more against Bas as the drow slipped his arm around the fae's
       waist. He gave no resistance to being hauled off to the guest
       room. He was aware enough to blush quite deeply as the man
       stripped off his shirt before the guy was gently pulling off his
       boots.
       Then Grim was in front of him, pulling a sleep shirt over
       Yarick's head. A shiver racing through him at feeling the graze
       of the man's fingers on his skin as the shirt slipped on. The
       flustered feeling didn't get any better at the man's promise to
       remind him they didn't do anything before heading off. The fae
       unable to help watching him leave. "Good... good night..." He
       told the men before he managed to get himself under the covers
       and was snoring softly within moments.
       He didn't stir again until the following morning, his head
       pounding as he felt the need to puke his guts up. He rushed into
       the nearest bathroom and spent a good while retching. Once he
       felt he could move again, he cleaned up, ditching the night
       shirt. He then found the root and water, taking both before he
       wandered out of the room, still shirtless. The scars from his
       past life littered on his chest and back. The most promenade one
       being on his shoulder where it looked like he had something go
       through it. "Hello?" He questioned, still mostly out of it.
       -----
       Basredun chuckled a bit at Grim's calling Yarick a lightweight.
       "Have you even tried the honey mead? I should have kept a closer
       watch on how much he had. It's deceptively sweet and packs a
       punch as well,"
       The dark elf followed Grim from the room, leaving the fae to get
       himself settled for the night.
       He headed in to start clearing the food and dishes from the
       table, rather pleased with how the dinner had gone.
       Bas glanced up at Grim, nodding slightly at the thanks and then
       grinning at the suggestion of them having fun before bed.
       "You know I'm always up for fun with you sexy Grim," he purred
       back, giving the human a smoldering lustful look.
       Bas wasn't about to waste his time cleaning when he could be
       having fun, summoned his helper demon. After giving it orders to
       clean up and leave the baklava alone, he grabbed Grim's arm and
       tugged the taller man into his room.
       "How about a wrestling match to decide who tops tonight? Oh..and
       I'll answer your questions now that we're alone,"
       Basredun stripped down, leaving only a pair of black silk shorts
       on, knowing the distraction of all his bare skin would work in
       his favor.
       Once Grim was ready, Bas let the other circle him, answering
       that first question Grim had asked at the table.
       "I came tens of thousands of miles to get here. It took over a
       year to get here. Life in the underdark is oppressive and I
       wanted out. The Oasis has given me a life I couldn't have ever
       imagined was possible."
       Bas took the next moment to strike, moving quickly to sweep the
       man's feet out from under him and sat on Grim's chest, and tried
       to pin the taller man down.
       "Have any other questions gorgeous?"
       --+--
       “I have it’s just too sweet for me.” Said grim honestly. He felt
       his arm taken and tugged to head about wrestling bas.”oh? You
       want to try to top me?” He purred a little as he just dropped
       his pants. The man not caring his ass was showing in the least.
       “Sounds like a bitch, and yeah I can understand.” He said as his
       body maneuvered around the drow.”heard this place would be the
       last place standing and safest.. some dude with an eye covering
       told us.. didn’t believe him til most the tribe was wiped out.”
       He said to see bas twist to swiftly bringing his feet from under
       him.”yeah the noise I heard- clearly someone is down there- a
       fucktoy?” He asked grinning as he flipped them both around.”or
       something else? “ he questioned. He kept his mouth shut around
       yarick- being he felt there was more to bas.
       -+--
       "Try? You really think I can't overpower you? I may look fragile
       but I'm far from it," Bas replied with a smirk.
       "It was quite arduous but definitely worth it, getting to
       finally be free,"
       "Eye covering? Must have been a master tuner," Bas mused,
       recalling having run into a few during his long journey. He'd
       managed to survive the few skirmishes with them, mostly through
       retreat or trickery.
       Bas let out a groan at being flipped onto his back, and with
       some quick contortion moves got out and used his legs to pin
       Grim's arms and put a gentle choke hold on the man.
       "Mm why would I need a fu.cktoy when I have you as a lover? Just
       one of those pack barbarians that attacked the teens a couple of
       weeks ago. Been trying to get into his head to get what
       information I can."
       He applied just a little more pressure, his intent to make Grim
       pass out.
       -+++-
       “Mm yup. “ he said to smirk thinking he had bas he felt the man
       slip and found himself in a chokehold he struggled in the man’s
       arms his breath cut off. He heard the man’s answer. He felt the
       arm tighten before the dark would come in his eyes rolling back
       as he passed out.
       He slowly came out of it a little later feeling hands as he
       chuckled.”couldn’t wait for me to wake up bas ?” He asked as his
       eyes refocused to look around.
       --+---
       Once Grim had passed out, Bas released him from the choke hold
       and checked his vitals before moving to lift the other man onto
       his bed.
       After waiting for a few minutes watching the man closely, he let
       his hands start exploring Grim's impressive physique.
       When the man finally woke, Basredun smiled at the question and
       nuzzled Grim's chest. "Mmm no, you're too fu.cking gorgeous to
       keep my hands off of. But now that you're awake, the real fun
       can
       begin,"
       Bas teased Grim's nipples with his tongue and sucked on them
       before slowly trailing  nips and kisses down the man's body.
       "Toss me a pillow," he ordered  before teasing Grim's hard
       member with his tongue.
       He caught the pillow, moving it under Grim's ass and moved down
       to prep his lover for a brand new experience.
       -++--
       Grim chuckled to feel the nuzzle at his chest.”I’m so
       flattered.” He said with a sigh before feeling his body being
       teased and brought to feeling a need. Grim tossed the pillow as
       he groaned at the tongue. His eyes went a little wide at what
       bas was about to do next.
       -++-
       "then my plan is working," Bas murmured in a pleased silky tone.
       He moved down, pushed Grim's legs up against his chest. "Hold
       these for a little bit,"
       He then moved to grab some lubricant and began to gently and
       slowly loosened Grim using oil soaked fingers.
       "Do you want me to stop?" He asked pulling Grim's legs down and
       started rubbing more if the oil over his lover's body while
       thrusting his fingers slowly in and out.
       ----
       Grim felt his legs being pushed up to hold them. He felt the
       fingers work at him to groan a little at the feeling,”like hell
       you will..” moaned the man as the feeling of the rubbing of the
       oil, and the fingers combined made him feel more needy.”think I
       want more of you bas.. “ he said his head tilting back, feeling
       a little submissive was new to the man but at least one guy
       reciprocated him with a fun tussle, and following through.
       -----
       Bas couldn't help but grin wide at Grim's reply. "My gorgeous
       dirty Grim, ask and you will receive your deepest desires,"
       Basredun moved up, oiling his very hard member and slowly pushed
       inside of Grim. Seeing the exposed neck had Bas moving to
       lightly bite and mark his lover's neck.
       It took a few moments before he was fully inside Grim's hot
       tight a.ss.
       "By the gods, you are perfection," Bas praised guiding Grim's
       face with one hand and kissing him deeply on the mouth. Their
       tongues tangled and he began thrusting his hips, in a slow
       steady pace.
       ----
       “Such a silver tongue you have bas..” retorted grim as he made a
       noise at being filled. The attention to his neck accepted as his
       hands went into the man’s hair.
       He took a bit to adjust to hear bas praise before their mouths
       met, grims legs pressed back as he panted at the feeling of
       being railed. Skin slapped skin as he felt himself nearing to
       the end.”oh bas..” he slid out to hold the man close making a
       mess of the both of them.
       He felt the shake of his orgasm as he laid back.”holy shit bas..
       talk about a great first time..” he said having never really
       received before.
       --++-
       Bas grinned against the man's neck, Grim's comment about him
       having a silver tongue brought a chuckle. "It does come in handy
       for seducing you," he pointed out.
       In no time he was lost in the heady pleasure of making love to
       Grim. It was far more intense being the one in the dominant
       role. The roll of their bodies moving together, the slick
       friction and embrace of Grim's legs and arms brought him his
       climax. He exploded filling Grim with his hot seed.
       Breathing deeply, he collapsed on top of Grim not minding the
       messy stickiness between them.
       "Mmm..it was." He agreed, taking Grim's face in his hands and
       showered him in slow passionate kisses.
       After awhile, Bas slowly pulled away and moved down to clean
       Grim's abdomen with his tongue. Then he moved to lay on his side
       near Grim, his fingers gently running over the man's chest. "We
       should sleep, or at least try to. I'm definitely going to have
       to wrestle you again," he added with a wink.
       -----
       Grim enjoyed the hot kissing as his mouth worked at bas to watch
       the man lick and clean him up. He blushed a bit.”mmhmm.. gonna
       have to win the next one.. though this clearly doesn’t feel like
       a loss..” joked grim to snuggle bas. He drifted to sleep and
       wouldn’t wake till the morning.
       -++--
       It took a rather embarrassingly long amount of time for Yarick
       to realize he had been wandering the halls for a long while but
       had yet to find anything familiar, or even find Bas. After what
       felt like a few hours he would have been happy to see Grim at
       that point.
       Twice he tried to speed through the place with his powers but
       only got more and more lost. He then started going through
       random doors until he found a room with a forest inside.
       Thinking he had found a way out, he dashed inside only to
       realize this wasn't the oasis forest and he was still lost in
       this house, only now lost in a house *and* lost in a forest.
       "Who keeps a forest in their house?" He complained to himself as
       he continued to wander.
       #Post#: 1606--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 5:06 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       Basredun woke to the familiar tight arms wrapped around him. It
       was almost like sleepinh with a boa constricter when Grim was in
       his bed.
       Bas smiled in amusement and rubbed his face against the man's
       chest, and nipped the tattooed skin lightly.
       "Grim, you need to let me go now, come on wake up," he spoke in
       a louder voice than normal.
       "Come on, I bet a certain guest has been up for awhile now. He
       can't really get out unless I let him out," he reminded Grim.
       With some of what he had in his home, the magic wards would keep
       anything or anyone contained in the house until he lowered the
       ward. Given the creatures he kept and the secrets he had,
       Basredun was more than a little cautious.
       The sound of a loud blaring alarm filled the room, making Bas
       curse. "Shit! We need to go now. Yarick must have found one of
       the portal doors. He could be in great danger, we need to find
       him fast!"
       Once Grim was off of him, Bas grabbed a robe and pulled it on
       and then grabbed Grim's hand and snapped his fingers.
       Seeing the open door brought a dark curse in his drow tongue.
       Bas conjured a sword for Grim and his staff. "Course this is the
       door he'd go for. Be careful, there are many dangerous creatures
       I keep in here, all very deadly,"
       -------
       Grim felt the nip. He groaned softly.”five more minutes.” He
       almost didn’t let go until the alarm blaring caused grin to let
       go and almost fall off the bed thinking he had crossed the
       border between the desert and jungle. His head snapped to throw
       some pants on. Once he had his blade he stood.”deadly huh?
       Sounds fun.”
       Once the door opened grim didn’t think twice to take off. Of
       course after a bit of a search he saw yarick not paying
       attention to his surroundings- and a rather violent beast
       creeping to attack him. He made a face to see a vine on his
       perch and came swinging in to smack into a tree. He slid off to
       recover and get between yarick and the creature.”yanno wandering
       in peoples homes is kinda rude!” He said back at yarick before
       the thing came out, a mix of a lion and a wolf leapt out as his
       blade struck the creature to get his hand out to use the blood
       tuning to make it choke on its own blood. “Shit he wasn’t
       kidding..” said grim with a flush to stick to yarick.
       --+--
       The antsy fae turned quickly when he head something, only to see
       Grim smack right into a tree. Yarick gave the man an unamused
       glare before his eyes widened in shock at the beast that cane
       out to attack, Grim managing to hold it off. He had to admit, he
       had never been more attracted to Grim than in that moment.
       Blades appeared in Yarick's hands as he summoned them, the
       little magic he was able to do, "you always have the strangest
       timing..." He complained before using his speed to get to a more
       sensitive area of the beast. His fighting was far different than
       what he had used against Grim. The fae being fae deadly than he
       had been previously unarmed. A show of just how much the man had
       been holding back on Grim in their fights.
       Seeing a second lion beast coming out to attack Grim was enough
       to distract Yarick long enough to get swated into a nearby tree,
       nearly getting knocked out as he tried to use the tree to get
       back to his feet as the magical blades vanished without him
       being able to hold the magic with his mind so fuzzy at the
       moment. He didn't see that the one that had been going for Grim
       was now practically on top of the fae.
       ------
       It took Basredun a few moments to erupt a few extra wards around
       the door before  he opened it and let out a long sigh as Grim
       rushed off like a badger on a rampage.
       "Just go running off without talking things over," Bas muttered
       and pulled out his crystal ball to see how far Yarick had
       gotten.
       Bas activated some protective spells before using  the shadow
       demon to port himself to where the other two were battling the
       second lion beast
       "Forzir!"  He cried, a flash of fire leaping from his staff to
       hit the beast in the back.
       Though it didn't outright kill the creature it did have draw the
       lion beast away from  the stunned Fae.
       Bas let out a long suffering sigh as the beast came rushing at
       him, rather pissed off from getting it's backside hit with fire.
       "Darath mordinau dirma har!" He yelled, making a motion with one
       hand and hit the ground with the end of his staff.
       A black wave of magic shot forth and engulfed the lion beast in
       a cloud of darkness. The body of the beast collapsed with a loud
       thud making the ground shake.
       "Dammit," Bas swore and moved to nudge the beast with a bare
       foot. "Sorry Beasty, I really didn't want to kill you."
       Basredun moved towards Grim and Yarick looking quite worried.
       "Are you all right? Did it scratch you or bite either of you?"
       Bas was already gently checking out Yarick and then turned to do
       the same to Grim.
       ------
       “And?” Grim said with a smirk. He watched the man go for the
       beast. His feet flying to get the beastie off before he heard
       bas spell to drive it off. Once the thing was on its back he
       didn’t waste time idly as he slammed into the creature as it got
       up to distract it from yarick to feel blood rush from him. Not
       that he cared any.  He watched as the spell hit to cause it to
       turn to bas stayed in front of yarick to turn.”hey.. you
       alright?” He asked making a small noise.
       It was then when he heard bas as he came close and his worry.”ah
       it’s just a scratch- if it’s poison I got.. stuff on me..” he
       said to feel a little funny.
       -+++-
       To say Yarick was unprepared for Bas to fuss over him in such a
       manner when the fight was over. Even Grim asking him if he was
       alright. "I... think I'll be fine... I don't thing it got me too
       bad... well, except for my side...." He said looking as the claw
       marks across his side, adding to his scar collection.
       He had already felt terrible from drinking too much so when he
       started feeling even stranger he just braced his back against
       the tree. His wings folded against his back for the moment.
       "Who, the fu.ck, keeps a forest full of monsters in their
       house?" He found himself questioning.
       -----
       Bas let out a sigh and pinched his nose when he saw where they'd
       gotten scratches.
       "Shit," he muttered and worked a bit of healing magic to repair
       their skin. "The poison on the creatures claws induces
       hallucinations, and will make you feel drunk or really out of
       it, it varies though."
       It looked like the poison was affecting Yarick a bit faster than
       Grim. Bas knew though that Grim would be hit with the same
       symptoms soon enough. They really needed to get out before
       another creature tried to attack them.
       His eyebrow rose at Yarick's question. "Technically this is a
       different world, the door's just a portal to it. And I move the
       dangerous ones here so I can study them. I'm one of those
       curious types,"
       Basredun mentally went through his options. If he sent the
       shadow demon for the antidote he'd created the two wouldn't have
       to go through the last and most painful symptom. Teleporting
       with them could cause worse problems as he'd found out during
       his first experience with the poison going through his own body.
       "Araviste, retrieve the antidote from my lab." He ordered the
       shadow demon, as he pulled Yarick over one shoulder and turned
       to Grim and cast a weightless charm on the tattooed man.  Bas
       bent to grab him and get grim over his other shoulder. He spoke
       one last spell, which had the sword and his staff get smaller
       and attach to his robe.
       "All right best get moving. Can't just stay here and wait.
       There's worse things out here,"
       -----
       “Different worlds? Bas you’re holding out.” Said grim.
       His head swam a little before he felt himself lifted by
       magic”hey I can still walk!” Protested the beserker. The man
       feeling not so great about being carried.
       “come on elk I swear I’m fine!” Said grim wriggling in bas grip.
       -++-
       When Yarick was picked up and tossed over the drow's shoulder,
       the fae started to squirm to get away for several minutes before
       finally giving up and grumbling to himself incoherently as he
       fell deeper into the throws of the posin in his body.
       Yarick had been still long enough, and Grim squirming enough
       that a massive spider was able to go unnoticed as it attacked
       web to Yarick and Grim before yanking the pair away from the
       wizard and running off. Once back at it's web, the spider spun
       up Grim first before it began to work on the pasted out Yarick
       who was hanging upside down.
       -----
       Basredun chuckled at Grim's comment. "You have no idea how true
       that is,"
       He shook his head at Grim's protest. "Yes, but you'd end up
       turned around and lost in a forest full of dangerous creatures
       or end up in a ravine. I'm not taking that chance. Not with with
       my lover,"
       When Grim called him by another name, Bas started to walk
       faster, worry filling him.
       Had he been paying more attention he wouldn't have missed the
       spider following from above. Only when the two were suddenly
       yanked from his arms did he catch sight of 10 foot spider
       dashing off with them.
       "I hate mother fucking spiders...why'd it have to be a 10 foot
       wide spider?! Curse the spider goddess!!" Bas moaned.
       Memories of being tortured by his siblings and thrown in a
       dungeon filled with spiders filled his mind. He shook violently
       and forced himself after the creature, muttering more curses
       under his breath.
       "Gonna kill the spider...and kill it good and dead. Then no more
       spider to mess with my head."
       His resolve to rescue and free the fae and Grim won over the
       fear and brought back his cold logical mind back into play. He
       pulled out his crystal ball, using it to find his way to where
       the spider had strung up the two. Seeing one long silky cocoon
       and Yarick in the middle of being wrapped up, he worked his way
       up to Grim as quietly as he could. His body shook as he climbed
       out onto the overhead branch and pulled the mini sword off and
       used it as a dagger to cut through the silk fibers.
       With Bas still light as a feather, it was easy to get him down
       and quickly freed of the cocoon.
       *Be quiet, the spider will hear,* Bas sent mentally to Grim and
       restored the sword to it's original size.
       Still shaking, Bas felt the cool embrace of his shadow demon as
       it reunited and took the potion bottle it offered. *Distract the
       beastly thing* he told the shadow demon, and turned to give Grim
       a mouthful of the antidote.
       It would still take a good while before it cleared the affects
       of the poison completely, but at least Grim wouldn't suffer
       worse things.
       The shadow demon launched itself at the spider, startling the
       creature and making it go on the defensive, lashing out and
       turning away from Yarick.
       Basredun was shaking as he went in trying to get to Yarick
       praying the creature would be occupied enough with the shadow
       demon.
       ----
       Grim felt the snag and felt the cocoon.”well shits this is worse
       than the scorpion.” Came out as he struggled inside the silken
       trap. Course when he saw bas heard what the man in his head
       almost ready to ask out loud how he had done that. - course when
       he was forced to take the antidote, made a face.”I wasn’t bit
       yanno elk.” He said to see the spider. “Good job getting me
       free- I’ll get sting!” Flew out as blade and man went out toward
       the spider. His skills came in full swing as the brawler managed
       to dodge the attempts at catching him with silk to jump and digs
       it blade in the head. “Ha!” Said grim to feel it start trying to
       fling him off.”this will make a mighty fine meal!” Came out like
       someone on a hunt before he nailed the blade down further with
       his foot when the spider gave enough time to. It collapsed
       before he pulled out the blade to go up where yarick was and
       freed the man.”got him elk!” He said to land. Course when he did
       so a bunch of babies came out of the now dead spider as grim
       freaked a different way.”fuck there here.. come on!” He said
       taking yaricks hand and asked elk.”where’s the tribe- we need to
       get back- azhars right!-“ said the now panicked grim.
       ----
       The feeling of being yanked out of the cacoon woke Yarick up. He
       instantly clung to Grim. "Captain!" He sqeaked with a deep
       blush, seeing the man who he had affection for in his old
       platoon. When they hit the ground, he felt the pull and stumbled
       along as he saw millions of little red caps causing him to let
       out a scream as he gripped Grim's and then one on Bas's hands
       before managing to hover above them high enough to lift the two
       off the ground before taking off through the forest, narrowly
       missing braches and whole trees as he sped through the forest
       faster than most would think possible.
       Unfortunately, the poison was taking a stronger and stronger
       hold, and the skilled forest flyer, was taken out when he hit a
       low hanging branch hidden in what looked like just thin leaves,
       sending Bas and Grim flying farther into the forest and knocking
       Yarick out cold on the forest floor, his nose, absolutely
       broken.
       #Post#: 1607--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 5:18 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       Bas managed to get around the spider thanks to Grim's berserker
       attack, until one of the legs snagged his robe and made him
       trip, falling face first through the tree limbs.
       "Mother fu.cking bit.ch a.ss spider!" He cursed as his body
       broke through the smaller branches and got the wind knocked out
       of him on a thicker one. It took a few moments before he could
       gasp in a much needed breath.
       It took a good moment before he realized the potion bottle had
       shattered. "F.uck!" He swore as he jumped the rest of the way
       down.
       At least Grim had gotten Yarick free. The sight of the swarming
       baby spiders had him freezing for a moment, fear and panic
       overtaking him
       Worry started to fill him that Grim hadn't gotten enough and how
       Yarick was going to deal with being paralyzed and stuck in his
       mind, even for a short while.
       And then he was being yanked off his feet by Yarick as the fae
       dragged them away from the swarm of spiders.
       "Yarick you need to stop!" Bas called out, realizing the poison
       would move faster through the fae with him flying.
       The next moment he felt his body go airborne and then slammed
       and tumbling over into the forest floor. The impact knocking him
       out completely.
       ------
       Grim felt yarick lift him up.”sting when could you fly and who
       is this captain?” Came out as they took off. His face saw the
       branch.”wait  sting!” To flinch at the hit to the face to hit
       the floor. Grim fared better than the other two.”Elk! Sting!” He
       said his panic rising.”you can’t go too..” he said his voice
       sounding emotional to see the spiders of the young heading their
       way. The flashes of their last battle raged in the
       hallucination, his sword coming out. In his state of mind the
       two had died and he was alone. A cry ripped through his lungs as
       he went to fight, slaughtering the young and blood tuning as he
       went.  By the end of it he was huffing to go over and seemed
       upset to collecting yarick to end up crying over the man a
       little. It seemed after a while the poison was ebbing away on
       grim as he came to his senses.  Wondering where they were to see
       bas knocked out and yarick looking not so good with the broken
       nose. He scooped both up.”d..demon.. you surely are awake right?
       Show me the door.” He said his head wheeling around.
       ----
       With his master knocked out, the shadow demon hovered over
       Basredun watching the berserker as he panicked and tried to
       fight invisible foes.
       While Avariste was tied to the drow, there were times he could
       act without commands. Usually though only when he felt his
       master was in danger.
       The shadow demon shifted back, hiding as Grim collected the
       passed out fae and drown wizard. The question had Avariste pause
       before showing himself to the berserker and beckoned the human
       to follow.
       ***Basredun...you need to wake up.*** The demon reached out with
       it's mind, hoping Bas would wake and soon. This place reeked of
       old spirits and elder creatures.
       Avariste floated, guiding Grim out of the forest and towards the
       doorway.
       --++
       On their way to the doorway, Yarick began to stir with a groan
       as his hands first went to his nose, letting out a cry of pain
       as he reset his nose, sobering him enough to regain mobility
       enough to struggled out of Grim's grip as he attempted to fly
       off before a bat like monster swooped in to snatch Yarick as two
       more were coming for Grim and Bas.
       By the time the beast had brought Yarick back to it's nest, the
       last stages of parylization began to kick in and he could no
       longer move outside of blinking.
       -----
       Grim was following till he felt a squirm. “Yarick.. it’s me..”
       he said behind to calm him down.  But the more he tried to keep
       a hold did he lose his grip to see yarick go up. He watched as
       the man was snatched and saw the other two.”fu.ck.” He drew his
       blade to cut one and got on the back of another with bas  still
       in tow. With some work he managed to make the thing make its way
       to the nest he stabbed the one he was riding to hand and run to
       a place that looked safe.”Bas..” he said.”come on wake up! I
       need you.” He said as he felt the remnants of his ptsd still on
       its high but no longer influenced by the poison. His face
       fluctuated as he thought. “Demon keep your master safe..” he
       said to get his blade. He made a soft glare to creep his way
       toward the nest. His body making its way slowly till he got
       close enough to attack the beast. He killed it to turn to yarick
       who was laying there.”..yarick..” he said quietly to touch the
       man’s shoulder. He saw no movement as his heart dropped to shift
       the man into his arms to tear up before seeing his eyes blink.
       He made a small look of relief.”just.. stay calm alright fae
       boy?” He said to hoist yarick up.
       ----
       Avariste kept probing Basredun's mind as he guided the
       berserker. The appearance of the strange demonic creatures had
       him hissing, and protectively wrapping himself around the
       wizard.
       Avariste watched Grim attempt to wake his master, and gave the
       man a thumbs up when asked to keep his master safe.
       ***Basredun Faldroth , Wake Up!*** The demon projected loudly,
       finally feeling the wizards consciousness stir.
       Basredun's eyelids fluttered as he came to, the sense of
       crawling on his skin making him go into full alarm. "Where are
       they Avariste, what's going on?" He rasped out, his body
       throbbing in many places. The sharp shooting pain in his
       clavicle and numbness down his arm had him grimacing.
       **Help me fix my arm first** Bas requested, knowing he'd need
       both his hands.
       ***It's an elder demon's nest, they're inside still.*** Avariste
       replied and moved to help pop Bas's dislocated arm back into
       place.
       **I need you to get another bottle of the antidote, and
       quickly** Bas replied and found his staff and returned it to
       it's regular size and headed further into the nest.
       ***Yes master,*** Avariste replied and vanished.
       At this point Basredun was ready to raze and destroy the entire
       place once he got Grim and Yarick free. He was done with dealing
       with monsters, oversized spiders and whatever the hell these
       demons were.
       Basredun finally found Grim a little while later, looking a
       complete mess. Blood on his face, leaves and twigs stuck in his
       hair, and scratches and bruises all over.
       He moved down, his bones popping a bit as he knelt on one leg to
       look Yarick and Grim over closely. **He'll be okay Grim.
       Avariste is getting more of the antidote. Just no sudden
       movements and keep your voice down,** he advised.
       -----
       Grim saw bas to smile- to see him and heard the popping a bit to
       make a face.  He gave a nod as he held yarick not really letting
       go. His hand on the blade clearly on a fighting high. He was
       starting to wonder if he grew soft and kept his ears open as he
       waited for what bas explained for.
       ---
       Seeing Grim smiling at him had Bas chest suddenly feeling tight,
       as a strange sensation filling him. Having never felt love
       before, he had no clue what it was. Just that it was a feeling
       he could get used to.
       A soft popping sound cane from his left shoulder and his bond to
       Avariste brought the demon's heightened awareness into
       Basredun's body.
       ***Hurry master, they're coming!***
       Bas took the potion and opened Yarick's mouth to slowly pour
       some inside. He tilted the Fae's head back and massaged his
       throat to get it to go down.
       He'd just finished when the sound of hundreds of wings filled
       the cave above them.
       **Avariste can you get us out of here? Or am I going to need to
       fight my way out?**
       Knowing the shadow demon had used up a great deal of energy
       already, he didn't want to hurt his servant if he could help it.
       ***Give me five minutes and I can get us all out,***
       **Grim think you can help me fight off these demons and survive
       five more minutes?**
       As Bas spoke to Grim in his head, he placed a protective charm
       on Yarick and another on Grim.
       Just as he finished, the first wave of elder demon's descended
       towards them, letting out unearthly screams of fury.
       "Avoid the tentacles! Aim for their eyes and down their mouths!"
       Bas shouted out as he unleashed a bright flash of magic from his
       staff. Half of the demon's were destroyed , melting and popping
       like pustules of slime.
       ----
       The sound of Grim coming in and scooping him up after
       dispatching the monster was quite heroic, but seeing how torn up
       he was over the condition of the fae made his heart ache. He he
       wished he could move and sooth the man. It wasn't too long after
       that Bas found them, forcing Yarick to drink some potion and
       forcing him to swallow it.
       Before it began to have any affect, it seemed the bat beast
       things were coming in mass. He watched helplessly as Grim and
       Bas defended him. He was finally able to move enough to get to
       his feet to avoid one of the creatures. "Captain! Gunner! Watch
       out!" He called out as one of the beasts swooped in from behind.
       ----
       “Yeah I can..” said grim not grasping the concept of thought but
       kept his voice low. Grim bolted once he let the man do a charm
       to take off. His body fluidly dodging the tentacles as he aimed
       for the eyes to start laughing. He heard yarick calling him
       captain to rush at the beast and scooped up the fae as he
       chucked the blade hitting the eyes.”could use a way out bas!” He
       called as his body avoided the tentacles as he tossed yarick
       like a rag doll to catch him and yank the blade as he got close
       to slide back.
       -----
       Bas kept up his magical attack, mentally counting down the time,
       hoping five minutes was enough for Araviste to be ready.
       "It'll be ready shortly, Gotta wait for my bonded to recover
       enough to teleport us out of here!' Bas called back, unleashing
       a gas cloud into the next wave.
       A few more moments passed, with Basredun feeling his body
       closing in to it's limit. He pushed past the aches and pains,
       shooting a fire spell to get more of the elder demon's.
       ***GRAB them NOW!***
       Basredun got through the pile of bodies collecting on the ground
       and grabbed hold of Grim's shoulder. "Hang on!"
       They were quickly swept away as Araviste collected the shadows
       to wrap around the trio and pulled them through the shadow
       realm.
       For a few seconds they saw the realm and felt it's coldness
       before popping out and falling into his house through the open
       door.
       Bas let out a groan and tugged the two further into the hall and
       kicked the door shut. His staff blazed as he spoke a strong
       sealing spell on it.
       Spent from the excursion, Basredun's head fell against Grim's
       chest and closed his eyes.
       "Is everyone intact?" He groaned softly. "Just gonna rest here
       for a bit,"
       #Post#: 1608--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 5:36 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       When Grim rushed the beast before scooping Yarick up, then
       tossing him like he weighed nothing, got a massive blush and
       squeak out of the fae. The up close and personal view of Grim's
       fighting was both terrifying and thrilling. He was more than a
       little glad Grim had never properly got ahold of him in their
       fights. The guy was *powerful*. The hallucinations finally
       lifted as Grim and Bas worked to protect him. He held on tighter
       to the tattooed man as he and the drow went back and forth over
       a way out.
       Moments later, shadow enveloped them and they were back in the
       hallway, Bas kicking the door closed. Yarick's heart was
       pounding, not ready to let go of Grim. In the relief of being
       safe after whatever the hell had just happened, Yarick couldn't
       resist as he put his hands on Grim's cheeks and pulled the man
       into a kiss. "Thank you... for saving me... both of you... I...
       feel indebted to you both..." He admitted softly, a dark blush
       on his cheeks. "Think we could all use some rest after all
       that..." He added, "think I'm not missing any parts, might need
       to check later," he said with a touch of sarcasm.
       -----
       Once the door was found did grim land  on the floor with a thud
       and a holding the two close. “I know I am.” He said to chuckle.
       Soon as grim heard yaricks words and his indebt to him smiled.
       “… then be my boyfriend..” he said with a grin.
       Course the sarcasm was met with grim grinning.”do I need to
       strip and see if it’s all there?” He teased before taking a
       minute.”… where’s your bath bas- can clean all of us up.” He
       said with a more sincere smile.”yarick looking beaten up and you
       look like you could use a good soak.” He said with a smile.
       ----
       Basredun got quite a lovely view of Yarick kissing Grim.
       "I wouldn't quite agree with that. I invited you in my home and
       endangered you by not keeping you safe," he sighed.
       He couldn't help but smile at Grim's boldness to ask Yarick to
       be his boyfriend. "I guess I'd ask for time to decide what to
       ask for."
       "Rest does sound good," Bas murmured in agreement.
       He laughed softly at the Grim and the Fae's exchange. "I
       wouldn't mind seeing that happen,"
       Basredun's eyes closed for a few moments, slowly opening at
       Grim's question about his bath and mention of a soak.
       "At the moment I can't move, I may need a hand with that. Sorry
       it's going to be a bit of a walk. Yarick got himself pretty deep
       into my home. No porting or magic from me for at least a couple
       of days." He sighed.
       Bas gave Grim directions to find his huge bathroom and inside a
       bathtub big enough to fit all three comfortably.
       ----
       Hearing Grim's request for the debt had Yarick blushing very
       dark as he cast his eyes away from the man shyly. The the
       comment about stripping the fae to check and the drow wanting to
       watch had him blushing harder than he ever thought possibly. It
       didn't help when the giant of a man asked about the bathroom for
       a *soak*. The man truly did intend to get him naked.
       The usually sassy and mouthy fae was silent as they went to the
       bathroom. Unable to fully process this. Once in the bathroom,
       Yarick pulled away from Grim and fluttered down to his feet to
       remove the dirty blood stained pants he had been wearing,
       discarding them into what he assumed was a hamper before going
       to the mirror and looking over his injuries. Around his eyes
       were already bruising. He would need to see a healer once he
       finally got out of this house. There was only a thin loincloth
       separating himself from being fully naked in front of the two
       men and he was feeling *quite* shy.
       +++++
       Grim managed to the bath to put down the fae, it seemed  he was
       doing better. He turned to help bas undress as he got the tub
       going and realized it had hot water to adjust again.”better.” He
       said once filled he undressed himself to get bas under his
       shoulder to see yarick acting shy.
       “Don’t be shy.. promise I won’t do anything- too sore to
       honestly.” Said the beserker. Though his eyes were already
       trailing down at the last peice of cloth that wasn’t coming off:
       “bet bas has something you can wear that isn’t like a dress on
       you.” He said with a tease as he got himself and the drow in the
       water to start cleaning the exhausted man the best he could.
       -+++-
       Bas was quite enjoying being taken care of and the stripping
       show he got. Yarick's body was quite gorgeous and had a slightly
       feminine grace to it which drew him in even more.
       "No need to be shy Short King," Bas flirted a little as he was
       lifted and settled in the hot water. "I know exactly what I'd
       want to dress our fae in," he murmured and let out a soft groan
       as Grim started washing him up.
       "Your hands feel divine, thank you Grim. I'll thank you properly
       once I've recovered enough. Maybe a massage and then an oiled
       wrestling match?" He purred with a lustful tone.
       -----
       Grim and Bas's words had Yarick's blush dark, especially being
       called a short king. He took a deep breath to finally pull the
       last of his clothes off before quickly getting into the water,
       getting out a groan as his muscles relaxed in the hot water. He
       tried to ignore the noises Grim was getting out of Bas and sunk
       deeper into the water thinking about what the drow might think
       of dressing him up in. He hoped the man wasn't actually
       considering a dress.
       The fae worked on distracting himself by washing up his body
       before attempting to wash his face, only to make a pained sound
       as he agitated the injury causing his nose to begin to bleed
       again. "Fu.ck..." He complained and he tried to pinch his nose
       to stop the bleeding but it only caused more pain that he tried
       to bite through.
       --+-
       Grim blinked at the words never hearing king before. He
       blinked.”oh? Care to say?” He asked as he continued to work.
       “Oil wrestling match?” He asked and blushed just a little.”I
       wouldn’t mind.. but when I wake up- mind letting me in the
       oasis- I do have work to do after..” he said.
       That’s when he heard a pained noise. He saw the nose was
       bleeding again.”don’t pinch..” he said to shift for his pants
       grabbing a green stone.”now I can fix little stuff just not
       big.” He said as he took yaricks face gently. He had a look of
       absolute concentration as he used blood and the green stone to
       heal yaricks face.”… is that better?” He asked making a worried
       expression.
       ----
       Basredun's eyes swept over to Yarick when the fae let out a
       groan as his body sank into the warm water. It was hard to not
       admire the fae's fit body.
       "I have a shirt that would make his eyes pop even more, it may
       be more if a tunic in him, but I could adjust it a bit,"
       He smiled at Grim's question. "Oil makes you a bit slippery, but
       even more fun," he purred. "Just poke me when you need to go,"
       His eyes closed, his tight cramped muscles slowly relaxing in
       the hot water. Hearing the curse, his eyes flew open and he sat
       up in the tub, concern on his face.
       He was relieved when Grim helped Yarick and healed his broken
       nose. "Should probably get out before we get all wrinkled," Bas
       said slowly moving to get out.
       He grabbed a robe that was hanging up and called out for his
       helper demon.
       "Zuris, bring some more robes for my lover and my short King,"
       The short red skinned demon appeared with two robes and set them
       near the tub for Grim and Yarick.
       "Anything else master?" Zuris inquired in a soft hiss.
       "Are you two hungry?" Bas asked, remembering they had yet to eat
       that morning. "Have any requests?"
       ----
       A startled look came to Yarick when Grim took the fae's face
       into his hands before working on healing the man's nose with his
       tuning. "Yeah... that feels much better..." He agreed before
       reluctantly pulling away to finish cleaning himself up.
       By the time their bath had ended, Yarick was finally feeling
       more like himself, well, a very hungover version at least. His
       blush grew when Bas called him his 'short king' before a red
       demon thing appeared with the robes. He got himself out of the
       tub before wrapping himself up in the quite cozy robe, a yawn
       escaping him. The mention of food made his stomach turn in just
       the wrong way to get the fae to shake his head in disagreement
       at the idea of food.
       "I don't think I can stand to eat anything right now..." Yarick
       said as he tied the belt to the robe. The size difference
       between himself at the drow caused the robe to practically
       swallow the little fae.
       --++-
       Grim chuckled.”got it..” he said as he finished cleaning up
       before slipping the robe on.”I could eat.. something light
       though.. still feel tad sick.” He admitted.”what was in that
       antidote?” He asked.
       He looked over at yarick to blush at the sight of the man being
       swallowed by his robe.”nice nap sounds good right now.. but
       gonna insist you come sleep with us yarick.. don’t want you
       getting lost again…” he said to the fae with a serious look.
       -----
       Basredun couldn't help but admire how adorable Yarick looked in
       the oversized robe. It kept him from asking Zuris to resizing it
       to fit the fae a bit better. Seeing Yarick yawn, made him yawn
       even louder. "Great you started the yawn fest," Bas sighed,
       though he sounded more tired than annoyed.  He nodded in
       understanding at Yarick not wanting food.
       "Perhaps some tea and crumpets would do? It's a mixture of
       purifying compounds, it does tend to make you a bit drowsy
       after, but by morning that will pass," he reassured Grim.
       Bas was quite in agreement with Grim on keeping Yarick close.
       "It's a big bed, but fair warning, Grim's a tight clinger when
       he sleeps. It took me awhile to get used to it."
       Basredun led the way to his bedroom located across the hall. He
       pushed one of the ornately carved doors open, and held it for
       the two to go in and let it close behind him.
       When they stepped inside, the red velvet walls changed to a
       calming blue and the lights slowly turned themselves down. Bas
       passed by the huge bed to pull out some pants for each of them
       to put on and a night shirt for him and Yarick. The clothes
       adjusted to the wearers once they were pulled on.
       Bas made a slight motion with his hand and The soft sounds of a
       harp playing faintly filled the room. A moment later cups of tea
       appeared on the small side table along with a plate of crumpets.
       "Would you like some tea before laying down Yarick?" Basredun
       asked, sitting on the side of the bed.
       #Post#: 1609--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 5:46 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       A new blush crossed Yarick's features as both men insisted on
       the fae sharing a bed with them. He couldn't exactly argue with
       them considering they had to risk their lives to save him. He
       made no protest, or even really a noise as he followed after the
       two, accepting the change of clothes, being plesently surprised
       when it adjusted in side to fit him.
       He couldn't help but think that Bas certainly knew how to set a
       mood. The sleepy fae moved to climb into the bed once dressed
       and looked at Bas when the man offered him a cup of tea. He
       hadn't realized he had been thirsty until that moment and
       reluctantly accepted a cup of tea, sipping it slowly.
       He could have sworn the tea itself was spelled, as the moment he
       took a few sips and put the cup down, he leaned against the drow
       to doze off, snoring lightly.
       ++++
       Grim chuckled softly at the sight of poor yarick falling asleep
       quickly. “Seems your tea works wonders and thank you.”he said as
       he finished his. Out of the others he cared not to throw on
       night clothes.
       It wouldn’t be long till he drowsed with the two. After a little
       sleep, did he wake later to poke the drow. “Hey bas.. I need to
       go.” He said. While he would love to stay, his normal tendencies
       to move and work was starting to get to him. He needed to be out
       and about- like much of the desert folk- staying still too long
       usually created an air of anxiety and the idea they could just
       die if they stop.
       -----
       Basredun wasn't all that surprised by how quickly Yarick dozed
       off, and moved an arm around the Fae's back.
       "Chamomile is a natural wonder," he agreed and covered his mouth
       as another yawn escaped. "You're quite welcome."
       With a little help Bas moved Yarick into the middle of the both
       of them and passed out completely.
       He let out a soft groan of protest at the poke on his chest.
       "Give me a moment," he mumbled.
       Bas blinked and slowly and carefully slide out of the bed so not
       to wake up Yarick. He walked Grim to the front door,  and pulled
       the man down for a long kiss.
       "Try not to do too much, you didn't sleep for long. I can't
       really predict what effects my potions will have on different
       races. I've only ever used them on myself,"
       After he'd seen Grim off, Bas went back to bed, sliding an arm
       over Yarick's chest.
       ----
       It had been a very long time since the fae had slept so soundly
       than he did snuggled up between the two much larger men. A groan
       of complaint leaving him as Grim and Bas slowly pulled away when
       the tattooed canvas decided he needed to head out.
       He woke the following morning, snuggled up against Basredun's
       chest. The man's arm around him. It took several long moments
       before his mind caught up with his dazed, comfy mind. He hadn't
       reported for patrol since the day before yesterday. He had been
       MIA for over a day. He pulled away quickly in a slight state of
       panic as he got out of the bed, pulling his shirt off so his
       wings could unfold.
       "Bas, I need to go... gods I am going to be in so much
       trouble...." He complained the last part quietly to himself as
       he impatiently waited for the drow to get up.
       _____
       Grim felt the long kiss.”I’ll try not too.. “ he said to wave
       off and went to do his work. It felt good stretching his limbs
       as he got a few things done- and walked to the hunting section
       to gather a bow and arrow with a few satchels.”going hunting?”
       He heard a familiar female voice.
       “ooh end.. yeah.. felt restless.” He joked as he saw her with
       her own kill.”suprised your not trying to bed yarick again.” She
       teased. Grim just chuckled.”I will get my boyfriend there- just
       will take it slow.” He said as her face changed.”boyfriend?” She
       asked with a bemused expression. All she knew was she was gonna
       give yarick a hard time.”yeah.. he’s still passed out so
       probably won’t hear from him for a while.” He told her as she
       just smirked wider.”enjoy it.. and be careful- beasties are
       coming in more and more lately.” She said to walk in the
       direction where they could gut their kills.
       Grim made his way out as he began his nightly hunt, but what he
       didn’t know was the boar he was stalking had a herd. He came in
       to kill one- but what he didn’t realize what he slaughtered was
       just an adolescent. He came face to face with a boar that was
       taller than he was by a good two feet, and looking
       pissed.”fuck.” Flew out as he readied for a fight. There was no
       real place to hide or climb so he fought. It took one nasty ram
       and one of the spiky quils to stab him as he held it.”…dammit..”
       came out. He breathed as he started his painful walk home,
       without the kill and hurt. By then he could see the golden dawn
       before he managed to get close to where the patrols among the
       outside wall would be, before collapsing as he couldn’t walk
       from the pain alone anymore.”… this will be a shitty way to
       die..” he mumbled before giving a call out for help.. noticing
       not a one made a frown before his head fell back realizing
       patrol wasn’t around yet.
       ++++
       Basredun let out a soft groan as he was woken by Yarick's voice.
       He blinked slowly taking in the sight of the pixies half dressed
       state and the panic in his eyes.
       "How long did we sleep for?" He wondered as he got out of bed
       stretching and going to rummaging for clothes.
       Bas tossed Yarick a blue tunic style shirt and some pants. "I
       can adjust those to accommodate your wings and fit you better.
       Zarus, bring Yarick his things please,"
       The demon appeared with the Fae's boots and weapons. "My
       apologies, master, I have yet to repair his clothes,"
       "It's fine Zarus, I'll replace them if need be," Bas said with a
       wave of his hand.
       Once they were dressed and ready to go, Bas led the fae to the
       door. "Perhaps I should go with you, help you with your tasks. I
       do feel responsible for you being out of commission for so
       long."
       -++-
       "Until morning! That is how long we have slept! Ive missed my
       patrols and guard duty! End is going to kill me..." The
       panicking fae lamented, taking a small amount of relief when the
       man was able to give him clothes that the drow adjusted for
       Yarick's wings once it was on his small frame.
       He couldn't get out of the door fast enough, but paused when he
       heard Bas suggest coming along. He was in too much of a panic to
       get to his duties he didn't even attempt to argue with the man.
       "Alright... fine... come on then..." He said as he took the
       drow's hands into his own, much like he had in the forest the
       day before and lifted the guy just enough that his feet were off
       the ground before speeding off the the patrol tower, trying to
       think of some kind of reason as to why he had been missing.
       He wasn't all that surprised at the reaction he got from the
       person giving out patrol assignments. "Where have you been? We
       were about to send a search party for you!" The person
       complained before giving Yarick his route for the day. "It was a
       one off, shouldn't happen again..." was all he answered before
       making his way out of the building and headed in the direction
       of his route to patrol.
       Things went as usual, though having a tag along was quite
       strange and slowed him down quite a bit, not wanting to leave
       man behind as he did. They were about halfway through the patrol
       before he heard a  voice calling for help.
       His brow furrowed as he hurried towards the voice, his eyes
       going wide when he saw Grim, hurt, and laid out on the ground.
       "Grim!" He gasped as he rushed over, moving the man into his
       arms to look him over and see where he was hurt. "Basruden! It
       is Grim! He is hurt!!" He yelled.
       ----
       Grim called out for what felt like a while before he heard a
       familiar voice to see yarick.”couldn’t get enough of me?” He
       joked rather painfully.  He tried to move a little.”was hunting
       .. and I ah.. angered the big one.” He told yarick. He sighed at
       himself.”really should just take someone with me third time this
       month I’ve gotten in a pickle..” he commented against the man.
       ----
       "well healing bodies need more sleep," Basredun pointed out. "I
       highly doubt she'd kill you. You're one of her best fighters
       aren't you?"
       Basredun thought that Yarick would argue so wasn't prepared to
       be grabbed and lifted off his feet and carried off. The fae
       seemed rather flustered and panicked, which made him look rather
       adorable.
       Bas kept silent as Yarick reported in, noticing the odd looks
       the others gave him. He followed after Yarick, intent on seeing
       what the Fae's day was like. It was far different than the long
       days he spent on his own.
       During the patrol he had a rather strong sense that something
       was wrong with Grim. He'd noticed he'd had these intense
       feelings whether the man got into dangerous situations away from
       him. He came to a short halt, a hand going to his head as the
       feeling got even stronger.
       Yarick's yell from ahead had him cursing softly and rushing to
       join the Fae where he was holding Grim.
       "Just how big was it?" Bas couldn't help but asked having picked
       up on what Grim had said from a distance. He slowly started
       chanting a healing spell and ran his hands above each wound he
       saw before going over the rest of Grim's body. He was sure there
       would be internal injuries as well.
       "I agree. No more going off on your own. I don't want to lose
       you Grim." Bas murmured gently, moving a hand to caress Grim's
       face.
       -----
       Seeing Grim hurt like this made the fae realize he cared a *lot*
       more about this guy than he originally thought. Relief of his
       anxiety came when Bas rushed over and began to heal the worst of
       Grim's injuries. Once the man finished, Yarick worked on lifting
       the guy, "mind having me a hand?" He questioned the drow. "I...
       don't live to far from here.... he can rest there..." He
       suggested with a blush before hauling the 7 foot tall giant of a
       berserker back into the Oasis and into the small tree home he
       loved in. The door ways certainly designed for someone his hight
       and not the two giants of men he invited the plainly decorated
       house. In fact, it looked as if Yarick only ever slept in the
       place it was so bare.
       Yarick collapsed onto his bed once the pair had gotten Grim onto
       the bed first and let out a huff. "You are heavy..." He
       complained.
       ----
       “Taller than I am by 2 feet.” Said Grim with a chuckle. He
       pulled the quill out as he felt himself healing to hear bas’
       words.”yeah.. I will take you with me next time.” He said to
       laugh a little to flinch. He felt himself hoisted by the fae and
       with some effort managed to get to yaricks home. Once in the bed
       and hearing yaricks complaint shot back with.”I’m not heavy-
       you’re just weak.” He said a bit tiredly.
       +----
       Basredun moved to take Grim's other side and helped Yarick carry
       Grim back to safety. It was a bit of a struggle bending down to
       get in the short Fae's home.
       "Good, cause I've very invested in you Grim," Bas replied
       softly.
       Bas let out a soft chuckle at the their banter and sat on the
       edge of the bed, glancing around the minimalistic style of the
       place.
       "With you two tired, can I get you anything? Someone should tell
       the patrol about the giant boar, right?"
       -----
       A look of indignation came to Yarick as he glared at Grim. "I am
       *not* weak! You are nearly twice my size, of course you are
       heavy!" He protested as he sat up. He then got himself out of
       the bed with a huff.
       "I will have to go back to finish my patrol, I'll let them know
       about the boar... uh... I don't really keep much here... but you
       can help yourself to anything you find in the kitchen... I'll
       uh... be back after work...." He said, almost shy at the idea of
       coming home to the two. "I'll... pick up something for dinner
       while I'm at it... if you have any requests... speak now or
       don't complain...." He told the pair. Once he had his answer, he
       sped off to the guard tower to inform them of the boar attack
       before he went back to his patrol.
       Thankfully, the rest of the patrol was quiet. When he was
       finished, he stopped in to check on Khali and let the man know
       he wasn't dead. Considering he went over to the man's house
       rather religiously, it was unusual for him to not show.
       "Need any help today? Sorry I didn't come yesterday... things...
       happened..." He admitted as a blush crossed his cheeks. It
       didn't take much prodding from the one armed man for Yarick to
       explain everything that had happened over the last two days.
       "So.... now... I just... I don't know what to do... I owe the
       man my life... and he... said he wanted me to be his
       boyfriend.... and then finding him today hurt..." He groaned out
       as he scrubbed his face in his hands before resuming whatever
       chore Khali had given him.
       ------
       Grim just chuckled at the man’s protest.”then my weight
       shouldn’t be the problem.” He reasoned the way he knew best to
       be glad in a bed. “I’m just gonna help myself to this bed- “ he
       said to hear him speak about getting dinner ready. “I’ll have
       whatever you can make- not much of a complainer. He joked. He
       groaned after he left.”really.. just can’t help but hunt on my
       own.. end could do it- but she ain’t normal either.” He said his
       face now in the pillow.
       ——-
       Khali smiled.”mind getting that ball down- my little one managed
       to get it up there.” He said pointing up one the tall trees.
       After it was done he sat with yarick listening to how he was to
       chuckle.”seems your gaining feelings yarick.” He teased as he
       watched the man putting meat for his pets cubs. “Just realize
       you might just want this guy-  no shame in that.” He said.
       +++-
       Basredun grinned, amused by Yarick's annoyance with Grim. He was
       quite the feisty fae, it made him wonder how Yarick might be in
       bed.
       "You do what you need to do, I can take care of Grim. Let me
       take care of dinner, it's the least I can do," Bas assured the
       fae. He didn't want Yarick feeling like he had to rush back.
       Bas watched the fae leave before going to peruse the kitchen.
       "Yes please rest up Grim. I'm well aware of what you will eat,"
       he called back chuckling a bit.
       While Yarick's cupboards and fridge were close to being empty,
       there would be enough to whip up something passable for dinner.
       "Looks like they both need someone to look after them," Bas
       mused as he got things organized and then made a list of
       groceries to grab from the market.
       It hadn't escaped his thoughts that he'd need to go back to his
       own place and check on Conrad again and try and dive through his
       memories again. It seemed like he'd picked up a new job of
       caring for Grim and Yarick, not that he minded. He'd just need
       to schedule things differently.
       After checking in on the sleeping Grim, Bas headed off to the
       market. What should have been a quick trip ended up being a bit
       longer, with people stopping to greet him.
       It was a rather strange experience to say the least. Even more
       so when he was nearly bowled over by a wild red headed toddler.
       "Feria get back here!" He heard someone yelling and shot a
       suspicious look at the girl.
       "Are you in trouble? Or are you just running because you have a
       lot of energy?"
       The girl blinked at him then moved to grab his leg and hide
       behind him as the caretaker got closer.
       "Feria, leave the...dark elf alone dearie. Your dad's due to
       pick you up soon. Come on honey,"
       Bas reached down to tussle the kids fluffy hair. "How about I
       walk you back?" He suggested in a soothing tone and then offered
       her his hand.
       The caretaker looked quite shocked when the girl grinned and
       took his hand. Bas followed the woman back, asking a few
       questions about the girl. "Maybe she just has extra energy she
       needs to work off. Have you considered making a fenced in play
       area? Then she can run around it without running into people,"
       "That's actually not a bad idea, thanks. I'll bring it up at the
       next community meeting."
       Bas waved to the girl and headed back to Yarick's place. There
       he out away the food he'd bought and started cooking dinner. The
       smell soon filled the entire tree home, making even his own
       mouth water.
       ------
       Hearing what Khali had to say brought quite the scowl to
       Yarick's face, clearly not being pleased with the answer he got
       from his friend. His cheeks were burning red as he decided this
       was a good tike to leave. The fae sped to finish the chores he
       had agreed to help with before heading home, thinking about what
       Bas may have managed to cook with what little food Yarick kept
       in the place.
       He was shocked at how good it smelled when he returned home and
       opened his front door. "Holy fu.ck it smells good in here....
       what the hell did you make?" He questioned not recognizing any
       of the smells as things he regularly kept. For a brief moment he
       had forgotten about his friend's words that he was getting
       feelings for the men.
       The fae fluttered into the kitchen to see what the man was
       making.
       -----
       Grim woke up after a time to smell some wonderful smelling food.
       He slid out of bed to flinch. Even with all the healing and time
       healing- there was just some pains that couldn’t be taken care
       of. He walked over to hear voices and saw bas cooking.”and hear
       I thought I’d be tasting yarick’s cooking skills.” He joked a
       little.
       -----
       Bas looked slightly messy, smudges of spices on his face and on
       the small apron he'd found stashed in the back of a drawer.
       His head jerked up at the sound of Yarick's voice calling out
       and chuckled to himself.
       "Come and find out," he called back.
       When the fae entered he'd see a table filled with varying
       curried dishes, spicy diced potatoes, a cucumber dill salad and
       freshly baked flat bread. "The braised pork should be done about
       now," Bas said moving to pull out the pan he'd borrowed from one
       of Yarick's friendly neighbors.
       He grinned at Grim as he came in to joke about eating Yarick's
       cooking.
       "I thought I'd make you something new for a change. Wash up and
       we can eat,"
       #Post#: 1610--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 6:18 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       A look of pleased shock came to Yarick's lips at what Bas told
       him he had cooked. "You had to of gone shopping, I know for sure
       I didn't have any meat, cant wait to dig in, it looks great" he
       said in praise with a chuckle before turning to look at Bas, the
       look in his eyes very mixed as his internal emotions were still
       confliting inside of himself after that conversation with Khali
       claiming the far actually wanted the guy.
       "Trust me, you don't want to try my cooking, I can burn water,
       End was pretty impressed with that one," he commented, not
       exactly joking, but he was at least, making an effort to be
       friendly, not exactly something he had done towards Grim, up to
       this point he hadn't been much more than hostile towards the
       man.
       -----
       “Alright but yarick I wanna try your’s sometime…” he flirted as
       he walked over. The smell intoxicating.”oh I bet you’re selling
       yourself short, “ he purred as he walked over to sit on a chair.
       He took notice of how *friendly* yarick was acting to give a
       soft smile.”you know- your cute when your like this too.” He
       complimented as he put his head on his hand with a smirk.
       -----
       "I did do some shopping, you were pretty low on food. I hope you
       don't mind me stocking up your fridge," Bas replied, noticing
       the look in Yarick's eyes.
       He shook his head, a bit amused by Yarick's claim to burning
       water. "Anything can burn if you don't stay to keep an eye on
       it," he pointed out and started serving up generous portions of
       the food.
       "Please by all means tell me what you really think. If it's too
       spicy don't force yourself to eat it,"
       ----
       Hearing Grim's insistence that he wanted to try the fae's
       cooking had Yarick roll his eyes before he blushed at being
       called cute before looking rather adorable with his head resting
       in his hand like that.
       "Well, long as you come over and use it all, I don't usually
       cook, or even come home.... guess I will be seeing more than I
       expected... of you both..." He said as he accepted the plate of
       food and sat down to start eating.
       "Oh Basruden this is perfect!" He moaned out as he really tucked
       into the food. It didn't take him very long to eat his food,
       leaning back with a pleased sigh. "What do I need to do to
       convince you to make me dinner every night?" He questioned
       jokingly almost sounding flirty.
       -----
       Grim accepted his plate to set it down to begin eating. He heard
       the man usually not being home.”so you never come to sleep or
       eat by yourself?” He asked as he made sounds of enjoying his
       food.”it sure is.. has a nice kick to it too!” He complimented.
       As he was now stuffed had moved to the couch to let himself
       relax.”keep feeding me like this I’ll get fat. “ said grim with
       a chuckle.  “Well least I got to see you home- now I know where
       you live!” He said to yarick with a smile.”pretty quaint place.”
       He said to really take in the room he was in.
       -----
       Basredun couldn't help but  grin at Yarick's insistence he come
       over to use the food. It very much sounded like an invitation to
       see the Fae again, which he'd been hoping for.
       Bas rather enjoyed the praise and compliments from Grim and
       Yarick. It was rather nice to have his talent appreciated  so
       much. It wasn't like he cooked this way for just himself.
       Normally he just threw something together to meet his basic
       needs.
       Yarick's joke had him shooting the fae a thoughtful look. "It
       really wouldn't take all that much, just give me some of your
       attention and time. That's all I really want,"
       Once everyone had finished eating, Bas cleaned up what little
       was left and laughed hearing Grim's comment. "You get fat? I
       rather doubt that with how active you are."
       When he'd finished, Basredun's mind went to the prisoner he
       needed to continue questioning. "I should get going, I've got a
       few things that I need to get to. Though, I would like to go
       with you on your patrol tomorrow if that's all right Yarick.
       It's about time I get to know the people here,"
       -----
       A heavy sigh left Yarick when Grim mentioned he now knew where
       the fae lived before complementing the place. He couldn't help
       the blush, "Stalker...." He complained feeling quite bashful as
       he remembered the last time they had properly talked, Grim had
       told them he wanted to be Yarick's boyfriend.
       *Then* Bas had to **really** make him blush by his own sweet
       requests, before talking about going on patrol with him again
       tomorrow. "I suppose.... that is reasonable... mean... long as
       we don't find Grim half dead every time you come with me..." He
       muttered "I leave at dawn for patrol.... you.... could come
       along as well Grim.... be easier to keep you out of trouble...."
       the fae said, almost confused at his own words, before reasoning
       he couldn't find the guy half dead if the guy was with him.
       -----
       Grim made a grin. “You call me one but your face says
       otherwise.” He said to eat more. His eye on yarick as he blushed
       that much harder.  He continued to eat till he heard yarick.”I
       don’t always come back half dead- sometimes it’s like.. less
       dead.” He said with a smirk.  Be heard the man *invite* him
       along. “Are you asking me out on a date?” Said grim with a
       lopsided smile.
       ------
       Bas held back a laugh at Yarick's calling Grim a stalker. If the
       fae knew that he looked in on him so often he'd probably regard
       Basredun as a peeper.
       Bas was quite pleased with Yarick's agreeing to let him join in
       him on patrol, even insisting that Grim come along as well. "It
       would be much easier to keep him safe if he tagged along," Bas
       agreed.
       "I'll leave you two to discuss your date and get to my work,"
       Bas added, taking a moment to brush a kiss to Yarick's cheek and
       another to the side of Grim's mouth.
       "I'll be here a little before dawn so you can leave on time,"
       Bas promised before taking his leave, dropping the pan back off
       at Yarick's neighbors with some of the leftovers as a thank you.
       Once back at his home, Bas went to check on Conrad, and brought
       him a less exotic meal to stomach. The teen was a little less
       resistant this time, which had Bas finding out a few key details
       that could help against an attack.
       He left the boy resting, deciding to have Yarick introduce him
       to the leaders so he could pass the information along the next
       morning.
       -----
       The fae wasn't sure how Grim managed to get him so flustered,
       before he could even begin to protest the idea of this being a
       date, Bas spoke up, *also* calling it a date and kissing
       Yarick's cheek. He could only let out an exasperated huff as the
       drow promised to return before dawn and made his leave.
       It was the first time he felt truly alone with Grim. "So...
       uh.... you planning on staying the night? Or you ganna head home
       when you finish eating," he questioned, too flustered to even
       say the word date in that moment to protest the idea.
       ----
       Grim gave a smile to bas as he mentioned work. “Alrighty, can’t
       wait to see you later, “ he said to watch him leave.
       Grim heard yarick ask about him sleeping the night. “I can head
       out.. don’t want to crowd you… unless you *want* me to stay the
       night.” Grim flirted.”just tell me where to sleep if you want me
       here.. mean unless you want to cuddle like that night at bas…
       after being rescued.. “ he said to purr.
       ----
       The blush on Yarick's cheeks didn't improve as Grim teased and
       flirted with him. The idea of Grim cuddled up with him again
       playing in his mind. "Suppose if you are in the bed with me you
       can't wander off on your own..." He finally reasoned.
       "Get cleaned up... I intend to go to bed soon..." He told the
       man before he left Grim alone in the kitchen to go take a quick
       cold shower before putting on sleep pants.
       When he was finally ready he went to his bedroom to wait for
       Grim.
       -----
       Grim got up to chuckle at yaricks attempt to reason with the
       idea of why he should be in bed. It seemed the man did have
       feelings but seemed to be in denial.
       He got up to go to the bathroom to strip, he took his own shower
       to dry off, of course.. the man knowing no shame ended up in the
       man’s bedroom naked, his clothes in the chair. He took in the
       man’s form in his sleep pants.”look cuter in the ones that
       looked oversized.” He said with a grin.
       ----
       When Grim walked in stark naked, Yarick was blushing *quite*
       dark. "You are impossible... get... get your pants on and get in
       bed..." He demanded, forcing his eyes to look away from the
       man's naked form. Why did he want to touch the man?!
       -----
       “Fine fine.. they’re dirty though.” Said grim to get the pants
       to watch how the guy had to tear his eyes away. He paused mid
       pull up.”are you *absolutely* sure about me wearing pants?” He
       asked. The man. He chuckled to pull the rest of the way up and
       scooped yarick up. He tossed the man a bit into bed to crawl
       beside him and dragged him close.”night my fae prince..” he
       flirted a bit before kissing the man’s cheek.
       ----
       The blush only darkened farther at Grim's teasing. Letting out a
       squeak when he was scooped up before he was snuggled up in
       Grim's embrace. The fae couldn't even find the world's when he
       was called a fae prince. "I assure you I am not royalty....." He
       protested, even as he slowly relaxed against the tattooed giant
       of a man.
       "But uh... good night....." He added before he felt himself
       drift off to sleep in the man's grip. It was oddly comforting to
       be held like this.
       -----
       “To me you’re a prince.” Said grim with a wide smile. He loved
       how the man finally relaxed and wished him a good night.
       Morning crawled into the home in a form of a sun in the window,
       and birds singing about in the trees. The long haired man cuddle
       yarick having moved against the man’s chest on top of him. He
       winced at the sun in his eyes to pull the blanket up and over to
       snuggle more into yarick.”five more minutes..” he grumbled.
       ----
       Having Grim wrapped around him like this caused Yarick to sleep
       far later than he had planned and was woken when he heard the
       man's words. The fae's eyes shot open as he began to squirm.
       "You need to let go so we can get ready to go! We are already
       running late!" He finally said when he realized he was not going
       to be able to just pull away from the man.
       ----
       Basredun was softly cursing as he made his way to Yarick's home.
       He'd gotten up super early and made breakfast to bring and then
       had been informed by his helper demon that Conrad had hurt
       himself. It had taken a good hour to heal the young man, and put
       him in protective straps so he couldn't try it again.
       "Don't leave his side, keep a good eye on Conrad," he had
       ordered the demon.
       Bas knew he was going to have to get Eden and perhaps others to
       help care for Conrad. The kid was obviously in need of more
       attention than he could give.
       Bas arrived at Yarick's home thinking he'd probably already
       missed them. Still some of the food needed to be kept chilled so
       let himself in. When he saw Grim's shirt still laying out he
       chuckled and went to look in the bedroom.
       "I should have warned you about his python death grip," Bas said
       looking down at Yarick struggling in Grim's strong arms.
       ----
       "Bas! Help!" Yarick called out in a whimper, absolutely helpless
       as his wings buzzed to no effect."How do I wake him up?" He
       questioned.
       ----
       Bas was enjoying the sight a little too much and chuckled. "I
       usually face him so I can kiss him awake," he finally said and
       moved to lean over the fae an kissed Grim deeply on the mouth.
       "Time to wake up Grim. Yarick's late for his patrol,"
       ----
       Grim slowly woke up to hear bas voice but kept his eyes
       closed.”not enough kisses.. want yarick kisses.. that will wake
       me up…” mumbled grim as he went on a chance of yarick being
       desperate enough to try.
       -----
       A deep blush crossed Yarick's cheeks as he listened to Bas'
       answer on how he usually woke the man before walking over and
       giving Grim a kiss that nearly put a shiver down *his* back.
       His eyes went wide at Grim's words of needing the fae's kisses
       to wake up. "Come on Grim! You can't be serious!" He complained,
       but when the man didn't let him go, the fae groaned in defeat.
       He maneuvered himself to face Grim as his blush deepened even
       more as he quickly leaned in to kiss the tattooed giant on the
       lips to try and rouse him.
       ----
       Grim's plan had worked as he felt the mouth. His eyes slowly
       opened and smiled to let go.”what a way to say good morning..”
       he purred to get up.”guess we better get ready huh?” He
       said.”don’t want to make you late-er.” He said to chuckle as he
       found his boots and fixed his belts with his blade.
       ---
       The already dark blush on Yarick's cheeks became an even deeper
       shade of red as Grim stired and began to let go and get out of
       the bed. "Just get ready..." the fae complained before hurrying
       out of bed and quickly pulled his sleep pants off and threw on
       some of his usual clothes. The open backed shirt letting his
       wings stretch.
       A glare came to Yarick's eyes when he noticed the damage to his
       wings from being held so tightly. He grumbled to himself knowing
       he would need to see the healer about getting them fixed, but
       for now he was already super late. Once he and Grim were both
       dressed he rushed everyone out of the house and locked up,
       opting to walk as he couldn't use his speed in that moment, not
       that he was going to share that with the two men. In fact, he
       was doing his best to not draw attention to the damage to his
       wing.
       ------
       Bas chuckled in amusement at Grim's reply. It wasn't a bad  play
       on Grim's part to entice the fae to kiss him. He hadn't realized
       just how devious Grim could be until Yarick had come into the
       picture.
       He watched enjoying the sight of Yarick kissing Grim, and went
       to retrieve the food he'd brought so they could eat along the
       way.
       Basredun noticed how crumpled Yarick's wings looked and got a
       concerned look as the fae pushed him out to lick up.
       "Your wings, do they hurt? I'd offer to help with them but I've
       never tried to heal wings before,"
       ----
       “Do they?…” asked grim as he had clocked the man not zipping
       away as normal.”I held too tight didn’t I?” He asked as a guilty
       look came on his face.”think I heard there’s a place on the way
       that does healing for fae wings. A young woman works there to do
       so- maybe we should pop by?” Said grim now worried at the damage
       he may of done.
       +---
       When Basruden mentioned his wings almost immediately, Yarick let
       out a heavy sigh. "You might have crushed my wings... a little
       but I'll be fine, I'll pop in after work today, I am too late
       for work to worry about it right now. "The fae said, not
       answering the question on if they hurt or not.
       In his own mind it was a silly question, fae wings were hyper
       sensitive, of course they hurt! It thankfully didn't take all
       that long to get to the check in station for patrol. His
       supervisor giving him a questioning look as Yarick explained why
       he was so late that morning.
       He had thought that he had managed to avoid most of the
       questions, until he spotted End and tried to rush out before she
       spotted him.
       -----
       Grim was waiting naturally as yarick was taking care of his
       stuff till it came time to go. He saw panick in his eyes.
       Ends face noticed Yarick attempting to get out quicker but was
       way slower than normal. Her masked eyes taking in the hurt wing.
       Course when she saw him meet up with Bas and Grim.. grinned. She
       walked over to put her hand on the fae’s shoulder.”hey what’s up
       with the wing?… were you too rough?” She questioned. Grim
       flushed.”I may of cuddled too hard.” He said with a side eye.
       End smirked wider.”so you two are sharing a bed?” She teased.
       ----
       Bas didn't really think it was a good idea for Yarick to put off
       getting his wings fixed, but kept his opinion to himself.
       "Sounds like I'll have to stay next time so Grim can crush me
       instead,"
       Basredun couldn't help but grin seeing Yarick rush back out and
       End on his heels.
       He covered his mouth, chuckling at Grim's explanation and End's
       pointed question. Yarick looked almost purple faced from this
       inquiry.
       "Hey Eden, I have some news to share. I found a survivor from
       that fight at the ruins, and have been looking through his
       memories and thoughts. I've got a few things that could prove
       helpful to your keeping ahead of Onyx. And..." He paused
       scratching his jaw.
       "This guy needs more help than I can give him. I spent an hour
       healing him from a self inflicted wound. I could in time get him
       out of the brainwashing he's gone through, but I can't watch him
       24/7. Is there anyone you know that could help?"
       ----
       Once outside and meeting back up with Grim and Bas, thinking
       that End had been avoided was when Yarjck felt the hand on his
       shoulder before looking up at the woman as his face wa nearly
       purple from the teasing. It seemed Grim's rather innocent
       explanation sent End on a whole other train of thought.
       "Get your mind out of the trash bin End," he huffed knowing
       there was no way to talk himself around this to make it seem any
       less of what it was. He was decently sure Grim and Bas would be
       zero help with keeping End from worrying about who he shared a
       bed with.
       "I should get to the healer before I start my patrol... I'm
       already late..." He tried to reason but didn't attempt to pull
       away from End knowing such a thing would be pointless.
       -----
       “Too late.” Said End with a smirk.  Her face went back to his
       wing.”grim- make sure your boyfriend lets the healer do her job
       without speeding off. Last time she didn’t get to heal it fully
       and well.. heh… he ended up in a middle of a situation.” She
       said her arm now around the man’s neck.
       Her head turned to Bas , almost tilting to hear him.”so that’s
       what you’ve been up to-“ she said her face getting a small
       serious look.”your gonna have to show me this kid for me to
       place him with someone properly- and start telling me when your
       yanking people to your place.” She said.”it’s more out of
       safety- anyone can feel they can handle it till they are faced
       with a situation where they can’t.” She warned.
       “Bas will be coming with me, your boyfriend will join back up
       later.” She said to let yarick go grinning more.
       Grim placed his arm around yarick not bothering to tell end
       anything different as in his mind- he had boyfriends.”make sure
       he fixes his wing and yarick- make sure to keep an eye on your
       boyfriend- man’s constantly coming back hurt or near dead..” she
       mumbled to side with bas.”let’s go, and we can take care of this
       quick.” She said.
       -----
       Basredun was relieved that Eden had convinced Yarick to go to
       the healer. Even if she had to do it through friendly bullying.
       He nodded at the red haired woman, noting the serious look. "I
       figured as much. And I'll try to remember to tell you if there's
       a next time. I don't normally just grab random people from the
       desert,"
       Bas couldn't help but chuckle at Eden calling him Yarick's
       boyfriend. "I'm not sure if I am officially his boyfriend yet.
       I'm taking my time wooing him, so I'm more of a potential
       boyfriend." He corrected.
       Bas reached out a hand to her. Once she took it, he snapped his
       fingers and they were teleported to inside his home.
       "I'd advise you to not go wandering off on your own. Ah...I
       should prepare you, Conrad is a rather mouthy belligerent one,
       and has tried attacking me several times. I've had to restrain
       him after he hurt himself,"
       Basredun teleported them both into his inescapable room where
       Conrad was restrained on a bed, looking half out of it.
       "Demon spawn..what do you want now?" Conrad groaned his eyes
       slowly focusing on Bas.
       "Just bringing you a visitor Conrad," Bas replied and moved in
       to look over the now pinkish scar on the guy's throat.
       Conrad's head turned and his eyes widened at the sight of Eden.
       "Visitor? Don't you mean hell angel? That bi.tch fried
       everyone!"
       Bas grabbed the boy's face. "Don't call her that. Her people
       were being attacked. If your "people" want to live, they should
       stop trying to destroy others,"
       #Post#: 1611--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Trouble in the Oasis 
       By: Minyaagar Date: February 23, 2026, 6:29 pm
       ---------------------------------------------------------
       A look of indignation came to Yarick's face as End called him
       Grim's boyfriend as she put him in a headlock, getting him to
       properly try and squirm away to no avail and gave up, standing
       quite awkwardly with the woman holding onto his neck.
       Before he could even protest being Grim's boyfriend, she was
       already calling Bas his boyfriend as well. He finally managed to
       pull away from End with an extremely flustered expression. "I'm
       not.... wait, no, that's not.... uggghhhh," the fae tried to
       stammer out before Grim's arm was suddenly around his shoulders
       getting the fae to freeze up with having him so close.
       A huff left Yarick at End telling him to keep an eye on his
       boyfriend, "the entire reason I invited him along... found him
       half dead yesterday..." the fae grumbled, not helping his case
       in the slightest on the boyfriend front.
       The grumpy fae didn't regain his composure until End had left,
       and even then, he still had Grim draped around him. "Can... you
       let go... we... need to get to the healing tents..." He said,
       sounding like he was complaining already.
       -----
       “Hope it’s not consistent and thank you. But to say-If your
       wooing your a boyfriend.. so you mean potential mate.” She had
       added to smirk at yarick just loving how flustered he was. “That
       isn’t new- remembered seeing him preparing for a hunt that day-
       maybe I should of kept close..” she mused before She snickered-
       her hand reaching out to bas’ . Once they  vanished as grim just
       chuckled.”great sense of humor..” he complimented.”yeah let’s
       get that wing healed- better let her finish your wing though…
       boyfriend.” Said grim with a smile as there was no *real* answer
       of denial from the fae. “And not letting go- end made it clear I
       gotta make sure your healed properly.” Said grim to switch to
       holding the man’s hand to walk out.
       ——
       “Bas I don’t listen well to when people tell me to not do… “
       said End as her masked face took in his home- it made her all
       the curious.”your just gonna have to give me a tour sometime.”
       She said to chuckle. “That isn’t anything new- I still got a few
       in the cages below us. They all get mouthy.. but works when I
       need to do lessons for mel and that dragon boy.” She
       said.”himself hm? That is a bit concerning.” She said to feel
       the next sensation of teleporting.. she figured he did that for
       her benefit- she felt a little dizzy the first time to hold on
       the man’s arm the second time.  Her head shook as she got a hold
       of herself to let go as bas spoke. Her masked face took in the
       place.”mmm convenient maybe I should make you a jailer..” she
       mused. End walked over hearing the word b.itch. Her face held a
       smile at how bas corrected the boy.
       Her footsteps sounded on the stone floor before she leaned
       over.”mmm.. that won’t do.” She said to rub her fingers against
       Conrad’s throat to take care of the scar. She slowly tugged her
       mask over her forehead to get a better look.”Viking..” she said
       as she thought.”I know someone with similar tattoos.. “ she said
       to look the kid in the face.
       ----
       Hearing End mention the word *mate* had Yarick glaring daggers
       at her and then Grim's defiant words of not letting the fae go
       had him looking up at the man with the glare.
       "I never agreed to that..." Yarick protested before his hand was
       taken and he was led in the direction of the healers. Still, he
       didn't try and pull his hand away, and so long as no one was
       pointing it out, the fae was starting to behave more
       affectionately towards Grim, he didn't even complain as the man
       kept hold of his hand as the healer worked on his crumpled
       wings, gripping the man's hand *really* tight as he bit through
       the pain of the sensitive area being restored.
       It seemed the damage was far more severe than he had originally
       thought, so he was quite tired and winded, even leaning on Grim
       as they left the healers tent. "We need to get going, I'm
       already two hours late for patrol...." He complained, not even
       taking a moment to rest as he let his wings buzz before he
       flinched. While they were healed, they were extremely sore.
       "Fuck.... ugh, I won't even get through half my patrol at this
       rate..." He complained.
       -----
       Basredun smirked at Eden's saying that Yarick was his potential
       mate and the Fae's reaction to it. He rather did like the idea.
       Maybe he should show just how serious he was about Yarick and
       Grim.
       Hearing Eden telling him she didn't do what people told her had
       him sighing.
       "A tour can be arranged, but maybe another day. You could bring
       your mates with you if you'd like," Bas offered. He was still
       rather nervous about opening up to more people, but knew he'd
       have to start somewhere.
       "Sorry if the teleporting rattled you, it takes a little to get
       used to." Bas said noticing how she'd held onto him the second
       time.
       Basredun's ears caught her comment of being a jailer and smirked
       at the idea. Being a warden wasn't a bad idea.
       Conrad stiffened at Eden's fingers going over the scar and the
       tingling sensation as the woman healed it completely.
       Bas slowly let the boys face go, giving Conrad a warning look
       before backing away. He glanced up at Eden's question and then
       back at the boy's gasp of recognition.
       Conrad's face had paled, and he stared up at Eden with wide
       eyes. "H-how do you know that name?" Conrad stammered.
       Basredun placed a hand on the boy's forehead and concentrated to
       see what the boy was remembering.
       The image of a battle, people dying and screaming in agony
       filled his mind. Along with that of a much younger Arik fighting
       for his life and screaming for the boy to run.
       Bas pulled back, a look of sympathy on his face. "Your uncle is
       alive, and I'm sure he'd be happy to know you are too,"
       Conrad shook and turned his face away as it scrunched up as he
       began to cry. "I thought everyone had died, that I was alone,"
       ----
       Grim watched as the man was healed, he made a noise at feeling
       the grip of yaricks as he was meaning healer.”got a hell of a
       grip..” he complimented.
       “Oh it’s okay. Best to be in good shape than patrol and getting
       caught in some trap or fight..” he said. “And be easy, they’re
       healed but they still need time.” Said grim.
       ——-
       “Arik is a friend of ours. Being your his family- I’ll reunite
       you- but first I need to check on you.” Said end. Her hands
       wandered the back of the  teen ‘s head a little to frown.”right
       at the base of the brain.. again..” said end with a frown. With
       some maneuvering she managed to untie and tie the boys
       hands.”don’t move alright- you got something that doesn’t
       belong.” She said softly her red eyes giving a gentle look.  She
       got her knife to carefully cut.”Illia dumb b.itch.” She mumbled
       as she managed to get the chip out as delicately as possible.
       Once she had it, she healed the wound.”let’s find his uncle.”
       She said as she began to get the teenager free.
       ----
       "Maybe don't crush them tonight then," Yarick complained, but
       let his pace slow, allowing Grim to help him when needed.
       Despite the fae's belly aching, it wasn't long before they were
       well on their way through his usual patrol.
       He found himself actually taking in the scenery being forced to
       move at a slower pace, reasoning his wings would be right as
       rain after a little rest.
       -----
       Basredun wasn't really to do with the crying boy, having never
       been the type to comfort anyone before. He watched as Eden spoke
       and checked over Conrad, his brow furrowing at her mention of
       something at the base of the boy's brain.
       He moved closer, watching and moving to gently hold Conrad still
       as Eden worked on cutting something out of the boy.
       Conrad trembled, but didn't actually try to get away. The fact
       the two were being gentle had him not freak out as much.
       "What the hell is that?" Bas asked seeing the odd looking object
       that Eden had cut out of Conrad.
       "Illia put that in me?" Conrad asked staring at it looking quite
       freaked.
       Bas was rather shocked when Conrad was suddenly grabbing and
       clinging to him. "Please don't let her find me, she'll kill me!
       Or tell Onyx and he'll torture me to death!"
       Basredun's eyes flashed and he pulled Conrad up and into a
       rather awkward hug. "We won't let them find you, or get anywhere
       near you."
       He motioned Eden over. "One last teleporting trip for the day,
       I'll get us as close to Arik as I can. Can you take over from
       there? Grim and Yarick may need me for awhile,"
       Once Eden had grabbed on, he snapped his fingers and the three
       were teleported a few feet from the cave home Arik and his two
       lovers had made their home. "I'll be by later to check up on you
       Conrad," he promised before leaving the boy with Eden.
       Two short porting trips later, Bas joined Grim and Yarick on the
       Fae's patrol around the oasis, a bag of food in hand.
       "Here take a moment to eat something, you both must be starving
       by now," he said handing both of them a pancake stuffed with
       sausage and egg.
       ------
       ------
       Conrad looked rather shocked to be suddenly outside in the
       calming atmosphere of the Oasis. He stepped back from the dark
       elf, flushing at having clung to the creature that he'd taunted
       and cursed for so long. "Okay," he muttered rubbing his head and
       glancing around.
       "So...my uncle lives here?" He asked looking a bit confused.
       -----
       “A chip.” Said End.”it’s fae technology that’s been developed to
       try to control those deemed uncontrollable.” Said end. “Seems
       you do well with kids..” end mused.”be definitely be asking for
       your help in the future.” She said with a chuckle.
       “She did and do not worry your safe here, and Illia won’t beable
       to touch you anymore.” Said end with a smile. “I can- and please
       feel free to call me end.” Said the woman.”I know we do have
       similar..ideals but I tend to come out to those that I feel
       inclined to associate with- find we can be friends if you’re
       willing.” Said end. “I can- best you better- I’m sure yaricks
       all grumbly from my little stunt back there- he may be in denial
       but he clearly likes you two.” Said end to take his hand again,
       after tugging her mask down over her eyes.
       “Mmhmm he and two others live here.. “ said end her demeanor
       slowly shifting to both being present. She made her way to the
       cave and called out.”Yo Arik! I have someone here that I want ya
       to see believe he’s your nephew!” She called out.
       ——
       Grim blinked at hearing yarick about not crushing them tonight
       to smile.”so I can stay over again?” He said with a wide grin.
       Grim was enjoying the sounds of the birds in the oasis as they
       walked around the walls. His eyes fluttering to places
       inspecting for wear. “See moving slow isn’t a bad thing.. get to
       see some stuff and take things in.” He said with a smile.
       He paused to take notice of a tuning stone up top to pull a
       notebook out of his pack to note it down.”think I can fix it
       later.. seems there’s always a few going out lately.” Said the
       berserker tuner.
       Grim smelled food, before the voice to react at first to almost
       grabbing his sword to relax. The man’s stomach grumbled to take
       one.”live saver bas!” He said with a smile.”so how was the
       meeting with end?” He asked.
       -----
       A blush colored Yarick's cheeks at Grim's question, "I don't see
       why not... as long as you mind the wings..." He confirmed as
       they walked. It was strangely relaxing to listen to Grim talk as
       the man commented on how nice it was to move at a slow pace
       before mentioning the tuning stones and pulled out a notebook.
       "You know how to fix those?" Yarick questioned, rather surprised
       by the thought. He wasn't given much time to think about Grim
       being handy when the smell of food hit and Basredun appeared out
       of thin air, insisting the pair eat without even so much as a
       hello.
       The fae couldn't help but accept the food without argument. He
       was far hungrier than he had even realized. "Thank you Bas..."
       He found himself saying, though he still couldn't look the drow
       in the face after End's mate comment.
       -----
       Bas had been more than a little shocked and pissed to hear that
       there was someone using tech to control young people. It
       reminded him far too much of the manipulations that the
       matriarch in his house had used on him.
       Her comment about being good with kids had him feel rather
       strange. No one had ever really said anything like that before,
       though he was gifted in many ways.
       He came out of these thoughts when he heard Grim's question. "It
       was enlightening for one thing. Turns out Conrad has a relative
       that lives here. And...Eden is also End? I wasn't aware there
       were two sides of her, that's rather intriguing to me," he mused
       for a moment.
       "There's more if you're both still hungry, and you're welcome. I
       like taking care of the both of you,"
       -------
       Conrad wasn't sure why he suddenly felt so nervous with Bas
       gone. His uncle finding out he was alive would be a good thing,
       so why was he suddenly feeling anxious about it? Eden's calling
       out had him flinching and covering his ears.
       A much older looking Arik emerged from the cave and froze at the
       sight of the scared teen standing next to Eden.
       Conrad let out a gasp as Arik's strong arms wrapped around him,
       pulling him into a very long hug. Then they were both crying and
       clinging to one another.
       "I've always hoped you survived, Niall," Arik murmured pulling
       back to get a better look at him.
       "I...I go by Conrad now. I'm glad you survived too. Bout had a
       heart attack when Eden said you were here," Conrad replied.
       Arik hugged him hard again. "A new name? What made you choose
       Conrad? It suits you."
       The teen's face flushed and shyly glanced down. "The...de-drow
       Bas kind of chose it for me. I've kind of taken to it," he
       admitted.
       ----
       Grim gave his wide smile.”yes I’ll be more mindful of the
       wings.” He said as they walked. “Yeah I do- could say it started
       as a punishment that turned into a job. I enjoy it.. being a
       tuner just touching any stone just sends a thrill.” He said
       honestly.”plus gave me a reason at the time to connect - or try
       to with end.” He admitted.”get paid with blood tuning stones-
       which means I am close to refining a new stone I needed- the
       last one broke.” He said with a pained sigh.”blood stones are
       more rare as the plant  stones..” he mumbled.
       He ate more of his pancake to see how yarick was being to
       chuckle a little.”try to not dwell in your head yarick.. it’ll
       just fester and become more.” He teased.
       It was then he heard bas. “Yup she has two sides.. originally I
       did meet Eden- and *allegedly* may of touched her ass. Course I
       wasn’t the loveable Grim you know today.” He admitted as he
       paused mid bite. The incident at bas’ house never left his
       mind.”honestly wasn’t the best guy either, I had lost almost my
       entire tribe.. and my best friend..elk.. and my old mate sting
       never made it.. “ he said as his hand slowly lowered down to his
       leg. “I was a mess and well- was in the mood, course I swing
       both ways, so I was an ass. Then I learned she was a leader..
       and I challenged her..” he said as he admitted.”I came from a
       tribe where women were not allowed to lead.. so it was new to
       me. I challenged Eden to a fight assuming she couldn’t out tune
       nor fight me given she’s short as fuck.” He said. “Eden that
       bitch shocked me *and* herself when I kinda lost it. I thought I
       had won till end got the hell up and was pissed.” He said.
       “That’s the day I learned that woman had two sides, it takes a
       while but how the two hold themselves is quite different.. Eden
       will project herself as big by how she stands.. end never has
       to.” He told bas.
       “End lets her attitude and fists talk in some situations. Eden
       is more Inclined to talk, try to appeal to the humanity- and if
       that doesn’t work- uses her fists” he said to chuckle.
       ——-
       .
       Eden slowly came out as her shoulders that had a ridged soldier
       look to them droop- her legs taking a wider stance as she placed
       her hands on her hips.  Eden got a soft smile seeing the two
       hug. It dropped for a second to turn her head to the kid as he
       corrected himself.”seems he was taken by the pack in attempt to
       use- he may still be a tad out of it- had to take something from
       the back of his neck - if he has headaches please let me know-
       end tried to be careful.” Eden said to Arik.
       She took notice of a half undressed ogre poking his head out to
       see the reunion. Yuze came out.”another young one.. I’ll make a
       bed ready.” He told Arik.
       -----
       It was oddly satisfying to know Grim did more than cause
       trouble, knowing how to work with tuning stones wasn't something
       even most tuners could do, at least not in the sense that Grim
       seemed to understand them. He couldn't help being a little
       impressed.
       It seemed the fae was wearing his emotions on his sleeve when
       Grim mentioned not to dwell in his own head. It was oddly wise
       advice from the berserker. It was enough of a nudge to re-ground
       the fae.
       Being a little more relaxed as he ate and listened to Bas and
       Grim, he couldn't help his laugh as Grim finished. "She is like
       that, End dragged me out of the desert and bullied me back into
       shape, didn't realize she had a softer side til... gosh, it had
       been a while after I met her, it was Eden that introduced me to
       Khali, felt I needed more friends than End." He mused, chuckling
       at the memory of Eden and End trying to get him to connect with
       just about anyone on a friendly level. He had been a *lot* more
       stubborn back then, intent on returning to the fae kingdom. It
       had taken a lot of convincing to get him to understand he had
       been betrayed.
       "I don't find it all that hard to tell them apart..." He added
       with shrug as he finished off his breakfast before trying to
       stretch his wings again now that he was feeling better, only to
       flinch much like he had before at the healers tent. A fresh look
       of annoyance crossing his features over his wings still not
       working the way they should.
       -----
       Basredun listened with great interest as Grim spoke about his
       tuning ability. He'd heard some about it, but had never known
       how it worked. "What do these blood stones look like? In case I
       ever come across them. I often gather natural sources for my
       potions. It's likely I could come across them, or have,"
       Hearing Grim's talk about his past encounters with the two sides
       of the red haired woman reminded Bas of other drow who had
       multiple personalities. Only that was quite different, it
       sounded more like Eden/end was more balanced and two halves of
       one person.
       "I guess I'll just have to spend more time getting to know End
       and Eden. End did mention wanting to be friends,"
       It rather pleased Bas to hear that it had been Eden to encourage
       Yarick to make more friends. "I'm sure I'll figure the
       difference between them the more I spend time around her," Bas
       replied thoughtfully.
       Seeing Yarick flinching after stretching had Bas rather
       concerned. "Give them a bit more time to recover. Try not to be
       too impatient. If you push too fast, they'll take longer to heal
       properly,"
       ---------
       Arik's frowned, and got a concerned look on his face at Eden
       saying Conrad had been taken in by the pack. He'd heard from a
       few survivors of the group the things they'd been subjected to.
       "I'll keep a close eye on him Eden. Thank you for bringing him
       to me. I'll make sure to let you know. If you are too busy, is
       there another healer that you'd recommend helping?"
       Conrad turned at the new voice and his jaw dropped at the sight
       of the ogre.
       Arik noticed the reaction and gently pulled Conrad in closer.
       "That's one of my mates, Yuze. You'll meet him and Tama in a
       little bit. Are you hungry? Tired?"
       Conrad shook his head leaning into the comforting warmth of
       Arik. "I've just got a lot to process and work through is all.
       All the messed up shit Onyx forced into my head and did to me, I
       just need someone familiar close. I probably will need rest in a
       little bit, definitely an overwhelming day," he sighed.
       Arik ran a hand over Conrad's head and helped him go into the
       cave home. "You have a home here with me for as long as you
       need,"
       *****************************************************
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