#Affordable gutter cleaning

[housejoycleaners]

House Joy Cleaners: Your Go-To Experts for Tile and Grout Cleaning Services in Brisbane

Dirty grout and stained tiles can diminish the appeal of any space. With House Joy Cleaners' expert Tile and Grout Cleaning Services in Brisbane, you can enjoy spotless, rejuvenated floors that look as good as new. We specialize in cleaning all types of tiles—porcelain, natural stone, granite, and ceramic—using techniques that are safe and effective. Say goodbye to unsightly grout lines and hello to a cleaner, fresher home.

[delongpressure]

Get The Best Gutter Cleaning Companies Services

Are you looking for Gutter Cleaning Companies Services in your area ? if yes, Delong Pressure Washing offers top-tier gutter cleaning services to ensure your home or business maintains peak performance and curb appeal. Serving [Your Location], our dedicated team employs advanced techniques and equipment to remove debris, leaves, and buildup from gutters efficiently and effectively. We prioritize safety and thoroughness, ensuring your gutters are clear and functioning optimally to protect your property from water damage. Count on Delong Pressure Washing for professional, reliable service that exceeds expectations. Experience the difference with our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction in every gutter cleaning project.

[qcscleaning]

Affordable Gutter Cleaning

Looking for budget-friendly gutter cleaning services? Our team provides affordable gutter cleaning to keep your gutters free of debris and functioning properly.

[cultivating-wildflowers]

💜

[kdroofingcolorado]

K&D Roofing and Construction

Roofing contractor in Colorado Springs, Colorado

K&D Roofing and Construction is your trusted partner for all your roofing and restoration needs in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas. We specialize in comprehensive roofing services, including roof repair, roof installation, and emergency roof repair, tailored to meet your residential or commercial needs. As a complete restoration contractor, we offer a full range of services, from small roof repairs to full roof replacements, as well as siding, stucco, painting, gutters, and more. Family-owned and operated, we are fully licensed, insured, and committed to delivering 5-star service on every job. At K&D Roofing and Construction, we take pride in offering affordable, high-quality solutions to ensure your property's safety and beauty.

Business Hours: Mon - Sun: 7AM–7PM

Contact Info:

K&D Roofing and Construction

Address: 4164 Austin Bluffs Pkwy, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, United States

Phone: +1 719-761-3432

Mail: homerestorationsco@gmail.com

Website: https://kdroofingcolorado.com/

Find Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KDROOFINGCO

Google Maps CID: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=27657187719957738

Keywords:

Roofing, roofer, Roofing Contractors, Affordable roofing Comapanies, Gutter Installation, Gutter Cleaning

[roofingservice2015]

The Ultimate Guide to Making Longer Your Roof’s Lifespan

Maintaining the roof over your head is a fundamental aspect of homeownership. A well-maintained roof not only protects your home from the elements but also adds to the overall value and aesthetic appeal of your property. Neglecting roof maintenance can conduct to costly repairs and even premature replacement. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best practices and tips to prolong your roof's lifespan, ensuring that it remains durable and effective for years to come.

Understanding Your Roof

Before diving into maintenance tips, it's important to understand the basics of your roof. The most familiar n types of roofing materials include:

Asphalt Shingles: Durable and cost-effective, they are the most popular roofing material in the U.S.

Metal Roofing: Known for its longevity and resistance to desperate weather conditions.

Wood Shingles and Shakes: Offer a natural look but require more maintenance.

Tile Roofing: Extremely durable and can last for centuries, but heavy and may require reinforced support.

Slate Roofing: One of the longest-lasting materials, often outliving the structure it covers.

Regular Inspections

Routine inspections are the cornerstone of roof maintenance. It’s suggested to inspect your roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. Keep the following in mind during your inspection:

Missing or Damaged Shingles: Replace any that are cracked, curled, or missing.

Moss and Algae Growth: These can damage shingles and should be removed.

Rust on Metal Components: Check for rust and treat it to prevent spreading.

Gutter Blockages: Ensure gutters are clear to prevent water backup.

Flashing Damage: Examine the metal strips around chimneys, vents, and skylights for any damage.

Cleaning Your Roof

Keeping your roof clean is essential for maintaining its durability. Debris, leaves, and moss can trap moisture, leading to rot and other damage. Here’s how to clean your roof effectively:

Remove Debris: Use a leaf blower or a soft-bristled broom to clear leaves and branches.

Wash with Care: Use a garden hose to wash off dirt and debris. Avoid using a pressure washer as it can damage shingles.

Treat for Moss and Algae: Apply a mixture of water and bleach (50:50) to affected areas and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing. Commercial treatments are also available.

Maintaining Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under your shingles and into your home. Regularly clean and maintain your gutters to make sure proper water flow:

Clean Gutters: Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from gutters regularly.

Check for Leaks: Ensure gutters are securely fastened and check for any leaks or damage.

Install Gutter Guards: These can help keep debris out and reduce the frequency of cleaning.

Addressing Repairs Promptly

Small issues can quickly become major problems if not addressed promptly. Common repairs include:

Replacing Shingles: If a shingle is damaged, replace it immediately to prevent leaks.

Fixing Flashing: Repair or replace flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to prevent water penetration.

Sealing Leaks: Use roofing cement or a sealant to patch small leaks temporarily until a professional can inspect and repair them.

Professional Inspections and Maintenance

While regular DIY inspections are important, having a professional roofer inspect your roof annually can identify potential issues that you might miss. Professionals can:

Detect Hidden Damage: Identify issues that are not visible from the ground or to the untrained eye.

Perform Repairs: Address minor issues before they become major problems.

Provide Maintenance Tips: Offer advice tailored to your specific roof type and local climate conditions.

Preparing for Seasonal Changes

Different seasons bring different challenges for your roof. Prepare for seasonal changes with these tips:

Winter: Ensure gutters are clear, check for ice dams, and remove snow buildup to prevent excess weight and damage.

Spring: Inspect for damage from winter storms and clean off any debris accumulated over the winter.

Summer: Check for UV damage and ensure proper ventilation to prevent heat buildup.

Fall: Clear gutters of fallen leaves and inspect for any damage from summer storms.

Enhancing Roof Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for extending the duration of life of your roof. It helps regulate temperature and moisture levels in your attic, preventing damage to your roof structure and materials:

Install Ventilation Systems: Ridge vents, soffit vents, and attic fans can improve airflow.

Check for Blockages: Ensure vents are clear of obstructions like insulation or debris.

Balance Intake and Exhaust Vents: A balanced system ensures air flows efficiently, preventing moisture buildup and heat damage.

Conclusion

Maintaining your roof is an ongoing process that requires attention and care. By performing regular inspections, cleaning, addressing repairs promptly, and seeking professional advice, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof. Remember, a well-maintained roof not only safeguards your home but also enhances its value and curb appeal. Invest the time and effort into proper roof maintenance, and you'll reap the benefits for years to come.

For expert advice and professional roofing services, contact Roofing Service Arizona. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your roof remains in optimal condition, providing you with peace of mind and a safe, secure home.

[actguttervacuum]

Debunking myths related to gutter cleaning

Gutters form an essential part of the infrastructure of a building, and they help direct the rainwater away from the foundation and prevent a host of related problems. These problems can include water damage, growth of mould and erosion of soil. Despite the function of gutters, they are often overlooked when it comes to overall home maintenance. Several myths and misconceptions are associated with gutter cleaning, which might result in expensive repairs and damage. Let us explore some myths and debunk them.

Gutters need to be cleaned only once a year

It is one of the most common misconceptions about the cleaning of a gutter. While annual cleaning might be enough for some homes, many factors determine the frequency at which gutters should be cleaned. It usually depends on factors such as the climatic condition of the region, the number of trees around the building, the amount of debris that accumulates in the gutter and much more. It must be understood that homes surrounded by trees or those that lie in areas with heavy rainfall require frequent cleaning. Clogging, overflows and water damage may be a result of neglecting maintenance.

Gutter guards eliminate the need for cleaning

These essentially reduce the amount of debris that gathers in gutters; however, they do not completely eliminate the need for cleaning. Over time, debris can accumulate on top of the guards or slip through various openings, which can lead to blockages. Things such as seeds, grit, and dirt can pass through the guards and accumulate in the gutters. It is important to regularly inspect and clean the systems to keep up with their functionality.

Cutters only need attention in the fall

Yet another misconception about gutters is that they must be cleaned only in the fall when leaves are falling over. While fall is a critical time for the maintenance of gutters, neglecting it during other seasons can be the cause of several issues. During spring, these can become clogged with seeds, blossoms or other debris. Summer storms can sometimes deposit leaves, twigs, and dirt as well. In winter, ice dams can cause significant damage if gutters are not properly maintained. Regular inspection and cleaning throughout the year help keep up with the functionality.

Cleaning the gutter is quite simple and can be done by anyone

Many homeowners believe that it is easy to clean the gutter by themselves. While it might seem quite simple, gutter cleaning as a task can be quite dangerous and requires proper tools and techniques. Seeking professional services from Gutter cleaning experts Canberra can help make sure that the job is done efficiently as well as safely.

Conclusion

Hiring a professional to clean a gutter can help ensure that the task is done efficiently and possible issues are identified and resolved as soon as possible. If you are seeking reputed service providers, trust Act Gutter Vacuum to be of help. Act Gutter Vacuum has a reputation and years of experience, provides Affordable gutter cleaning Canberra and prioritises client satisfaction and quality of work.

[housejoycleaners]

Roof gutter cleaning in canberra

Maintaining clean and functional gutters is crucial for preserving the integrity of your home in Australia. With its diverse weather patterns, including heavy rains and occasional storms, Canberra homes are susceptible to water damage if gutters are neglected. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which may seep into your walls, ceilings, and foundation, causing costly repairs and compromising structural integrity. Professional Roof Gutter Cleaning Services in Australia.

Our Professional Roof Gutter Cleaning Service

1. Experienced and Trained Technicians 2. Comprehensive Cleaning Process 3. Use of Professional Equipment 4. Preventative Maintenance 5. Enhance Curb Appeal and Property Value 6. Affordable and Reliable Service

[delongpressure]

Get The Professional Gutter Cleaning Services by Delong Pressure Washing

Ensure the longevity and efficiency of your gutter system with Delong Pressure Washing’s professional gutter cleaning services. Our skilled team specializes in thorough gutter maintenance, removing leaves, debris, and build-up to prevent clogs and water damage. Using state-of-the-art equipment and safe practices, we clear your gutters swiftly and effectively, restoring optimal flow and drainage. Whether for residential or commercial properties, Delong Pressure Washing delivers meticulous attention to detail and exceptional results. Trust us to keep your gutters clear and functioning flawlessly, enhancing the protection and appearance of your property.

[qcscleaning]

Affordable Gutter Cleaning: Tips for a Budget-Friendly Solution

Introduction:

Maintaining clean and functional gutters is crucial for preserving your home’s integrity, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. In this blog post, we’ll explore budget-friendly ways to achieve affordable gutter cleaning while still ensuring the longevity of your property. Discover tips, tricks, and cost-effective solutions for a well-maintained home.

“DIY Gutter Cleaning: Cost-Saving Tips and Techniques”

Share DIY gutter cleaning tips, tools, and methods that can help homeowners save money while keeping their gutters in top shape.

“The Benefits of Regular Gutter Maintenance: Cost Avoidance”

Explain how consistent gutter cleaning can save money in the long run by preventing costly damage to your home, such as foundation issues or water damage.

“Affordable Gutter Cleaning Services: Finding the Best Deals”

Offer advice on how to locate and select affordable professional gutter cleaning services that provide quality work without straining your budget.

to read full blog visit https://medium.com/@qcscleaningservices01/affordable-gutter-cleaning-tips-for-a-budget-friendly-solution-ac6812ea9cfd

[yandere-daydreams]

Black Cat!Wanderer, who you find in an alleyway behind your apartment complex, badly bruised and barely conscious. He's poorly dressed, even for a hybrid, shivering and deathly pale, but he still finds the strength to snap at you as you approach him. You have to bribe him with fish you can't afford and a blanket nicer than anything you'd buy for yourself before he lets you so much as touch him, and even then, he's quick to growl and tell you to get away from him as soon as you try to pet him. He's a temperamental kitten, but considering the state he's in, you can't say you blame him for being so defensive.

Black Cat!Wanderer, who lets himself into your apartment after a few weeks of alleyway visits and offered meals. He doesn't scratch at your door or ask to come in. You find him splayed out on your couch when you get home, muttering that it'd been too long since the last time he saw you and scowling into a clawed-up pillow. He still comes and goes as he pleases (you wouldn't try to keep a hybrid so clearly used to being on his own contained), but he spends most of his time curled up on your bed or trailing after you around the house, still pretending he'd rather be anywhere on earth other than in your lap. He says that you're just like every other human, that he only hangs around you for the food and a warm place to sleep, but the way he purrs when you scratch at his ears says otherwise.

Black Cat!Wanderer, who doesn't just visit you at home, either. He always seemed to ""coincidentally"" be passing by your office just in time to walk you home from work, and doesn't seem to consider a quick grocery run or shopping trip to be a good enough excuse to get rid of him. You're lucky he's a cat, rather than something bigger, something more difficult to pass off whenever he follows you into a cafe or bodega. He's lucky that he's so cute, or else you might call his bluff and start treating him like the housecat he won't admit he wants to be.

Black Cat!Wanderer, who doesn't know that you know he likes to cuddle up to you while you're asleep. Most of the time, he'll wait until you go to bed properly before curling up against your side, but you've found him laid out on top of you after passing out on your tiny couch, fast asleep despite his best efforts to always scurry away before you notice he's there. You never considered yourself a catperson before you met him, but god, sometimes you feel like you could spend the rest of your life fawning over your shy little alley cat.

Black Cat!Wanderer, who's been with you long enough to be hyper-aware that there are people - humans, nonetheless - you'd rather spend time with than him. He doesn't need your attention, he doesn't need you, but he's not going to lose you to a human, either - not when you're the only person he can stand to be around.

Black Cat!Wanderer, who might just be a cat but still has teeth and claws as sharp as any predator. Following the coworker you've mentioned just a few too many times home is child's play, and it only takes a few seconds to drag his claws across their throat, to dig his teeth into their jugular and shut them up before they can scream. It's just like killing a rat, something you've praised him for a thousand times, even if he still cringes when the taste of iron hits his tongue.

Black Cat!Wanderer, who spent enough time as a stray to know the best places to put something he doesn't want anyone else to find. The body is dropped into a gutter with a loose grate, the blood washed off of his face in a relatively clean drainage canal. He's home by sunrise, and he can't control the way his chest rumbles as he slots himself against your side - happier than he's ever been before.

Black Cat!Wanderer, who'd do anything to make himself the center of your little world.

[imsofreakingtired]

Hi! I love your writing <3

I wanted to ask,can you please write something about really drunk Sevika being vulnerable with reader and reader comforting her?

Maybe drunk Sev talking about how tired she is or her expressing some insecurity?

anon i love this ask so much, here u go<3

tired (angst, hurt/comfort)

content warning(s): alcohol abuse, heavy(ish?) angst

“you haven’t felt right for days is it the fact you never say what comes in your mind that day? maybe it’s time to shut away ‘cause i’ve never really felt okay.” 

~~~

You can’t find Sevika anywhere—she’s not at the Last Drop, she’s not at the harbor, and no one in the Shimmer warehouse has seen her all day. You finally find her up in Silco’s empty office, sitting on the couch, nursing a bottle of hard liquor and staring blankly at the wall in front of her. Her prosthetic arm is detached, propped up against the low table. You remember that Silco’s away on a trip uptown for the night, something about him needing to buy things for Jinx’s room. The room is so silent you can hear everything in the streets outside—the fights, the drunk laughter, the rumble of wheels. Somewhere deep beneath the building you hear the distant boom of an explosion—Jinx must be working on her experiments. 

“Sevika?” you say in a low voice. She gives a start, stares at you like she’s never seen you before. 

“Hey,” she says. Her gaze is slightly unfocused, and in the dim light of the lamp the rings beneath her grey eyes look deeper and heavier than you remembered. 

“You okay?” 

You approach her slowly. You’ve never seen her like this before—sitting in this slouched position, hand limp, absent-minded. You feel a sudden concern. Is she sick? But that was like wondering if the sun shined at night. Sevika didn’t get sick. 

“I’m fine,” Sevika says gruffly. 

You feel her forehead anyway. Half-heartedly, she bats your hand away. You’re closer to her now and can smell the alcohol on her breath.

“Hey,” Sevika says again. “Why do you stick around?”  

“What?” 

She raises the bottle to her mouth, but seems to decide even that motion requires too much energy. She lets the bottle roll onto the floor. It was empty anyway. 

“I’d leave me, y’know, if I could,” Sevika mutters. “So why don’t you.” 

Then you understand. The slurring of words. The heavy tone. She’s drunk. This is somehow even more alarming than if she were sick. Sevika doesn’t get drunk. She has a powerful alcohol tolerance and disciplines herself with a limit to how much she can drink each day. She can’t afford to get carried away, doesn’t have the time to let herself fully escape from the world. There’s just too much to do. Silencing Silco’s opponents. Overseeing shipments. Bribing Piltie suppliers. Making deals with the magistrates of Zaunite districts. And, lately, cleaning up Jinx’s messes. 

At any rate, though, she’s drunk now—no doubt about it. You’re almost fascinated. Working at the Last Drop, you’ve seen any number of drunks: some sobbed loudly about past wrongs, some picked violent fights, some jumped up on tables and sang. But Sevika is collected even in intoxication. Her voice is subdued, and she looks more tired than anything. 

“I stick around because I care about you,” you say matter-of-factly, sitting down beside Sevika. 

“I’m no good,” she says. “I’ve been thinking about it. I’m no good. You deserve better.” 

“Don’t say that, Sevi. It isn’t true.”

There’s something desperate in the way she’s looking at you—a raw plea in her eyes. You cup her face in your hand, raising her chin to look her in the eye. “Hey,” you say softly. “It’s okay. Talk to me.” 

She looks away. “I feel like I’m holding up a crumbling brick wall. I’m walking through these streets and I see these kids, you know, playing in the gutter and looking up at me with their hungry eyes, and my chest gets so tight I think I might die.” She shakes her head, draws in a shuddering breath. “It’s never enough. No matter what I do, what choices I make. It’s never enough. I’m never enough.” 

“You’re doing all you can.”

“I’ve done horrible things. I close my eyes and I see these…these faces, these twisted angry faces, cursing me for what I’ve done to them.”

“You didn’t have a choice.” 

“I had the choices. I made all the wrong decisions.” Her voice breaks and she stops abruptly, biting her lip. “I just…I just don’t know myself anymore.” 

“I know you,” you tell her. “And I know you’re doing your best. I know you’re more than enough.” 

She looks at you tiredly. You wrap your arms around her, rubbing her broad shoulders.

“It's okay, Sevi. I’m here.” 

With a deep sigh she rests her head in your lap, and you stroke her hair until she falls asleep. You don’t leave her side even after you hear her slowed breathing. You stay there, running your fingers through her hair, threading out the heavy thoughts, warding away the nightmares. She won’t remember this in the morning. She would deny she ever gave a thought to any of what she told you, let alone spoke them aloud. So you store her secrets in your heart for her. If you could take away her burdens by doubling your own, you would. 

In her sleep, Sevika clings tightly to you.

[multiheadcanons]

I KNOW A GUY

scout: need a car pushed? need a free house sitter who won’t steal your shit? need a good playlist in thirty minutes for a very specific situation? need a group of guys in front of your place in an hour? need something delivered quickly under the radar? need someone jumped in a back alley? need a body buried? he’s your guy.

soldier: do you need a body buried? need someone’s nose broken? need some extra limbs of unknown origin? need a free bodyguard at the club so you can have a good time alone? need a free accidental hitman? need someone who will make you feel good about yourself by making you feel bad about yourself? need your gutters cleaned on your house? need someone who will come literally fight the monsters under your kids bed? he’s your guy.

pyro: need a body buried— well, cremated? got a financial emergency in which you can’t afford? need a sugar parent you don’t have to sleep with? at your nephews party and spider-man didn’t show up and now you need someone in a costume at this house pronto? need a gift for your nephew because you forgot to buy one? pyro’s your person for the low low price of kindling.

demo: need a drink that will make you experience ego death? need a ride for your bitch of an aunt so she never asks you to do anything ever again? need connections to a guy who sells peculiar cuts of meat from peculiar animals? need someone to get cussed out, for no reason? need a structure demolished in ten minutes? need someone who’s got vintage vinyls for sale? he’s your guy.

heavy: need your car pushed? need a meal made for fifteen? need someone handled? need an emergency ride to the hospital in the dead of winter? hell, need anything done in the dead of winter? need something out of a tree? need a tree cut down? need a plant sitter while you’re out of town? he’s your guy.

engineer: need your car’s computer replaced at a fraction of the cost? want someone’s tesla booted permanently? need a custom built prosthetic? need security cameras installed? need your wifi restarted? need someone who can cut a key in two minutes? need someone who can pick a lock in less than five? he’s your guy.

medic: you need some boobs? need some boobs removed? need to add or delete a penis? did you run out of testosterone or estrogen? need a binder? need a packer? hell, need a supplier for your side job of drug dealing? need a new kidney? need an abortion? need a hysterectomy under the table? need some unethically sourced body parts of unknown origin? all for the low price of free and don’t tell anyone? medic is your guy for all things medical. he does not care, he will just keep whatever he takes.

sniper: you need a body double to go with you to the store? need a guy who can do intermediate addition and subtraction without a calculator? need someone stalked? need a guy who has nothing but free time to get in an online queue and wait all day to buy your concert tickets? need a ride to and from said concert? he’s your guy.

spy: do you happen to need an armchair therapist? need access to a book in one library across the country? need a rumor spread like the plague? need someone handled? need a body buried? need a thirty minute etiquette class before you go on a date? need a new cook after you killed the last one at the restaurant? he’s your guy.

[fenrelmercar]

28 & 30 for Fenrel!

28 - Propaganda for or against Rook.

Rook: Dock Town’s Ally

When the Venatori slithered into Dock Town, spreading their poison and threatening to drown us in red lyrium madness and demons, who stepped in? Not the Templars. Not the Magisters. It was the Rook, orb in hand, cutting through their schemes and leaving their rotting plans in the gutters where they belong.

Some of our leadership call her chaos incarnate, her methods dangerous and unorthodox, but let’s not pretend Dock Town was a beacon of peace before she came back. What she’s brought us isn’t destruction—it’s justice, served cold and fast. The Venatori fear her, curse her name, and that’s precisely why the rest of us should cheer it.

Sure, she doesn’t follow the rules, but whose rules are those? Magisterial laws that keep us down? Venatori rituals that steal our lives? Rules enforced by our beloved leaders that halt our progress? To rebuild sometimes means to destroy. Treading carefully is a thing of the past, one we cannot afford these days. The Rook is a shadow’s best ally—swift, ruthless, and unrelenting.

So, to the naysayers: maybe step aside and let her finish cleaning house. And to Rook, wherever you are—Dock Town stands behind you.

—A Shadow Dragon Loyalist

30 - A note/letter that Rook never sent

Solas,

I hate how easy it is for you to get under my skin. I hate how much time I spend trying to figure you out when I should be focusing on things that matter. But here’s the worst part: I hate that I think I’ve already figured you out.

You’re not the monster I want you to be. That would be so much simpler. No, you’re worse. You’re the man who’s convinced himself that being the villain is the only way to save the world. You are just a man who is afraid to forgive himself and move past his regrets.

And what does that make me, then? The idiot who can’t walk away from you? The fool who sees the cracks in your resolve and feels sorry for you? Or maybe just someone too stubborn to stop hoping that this fight—our fight—doesn’t have to end with one of us buried under the rubble.

I see it now—the way you look at me. Like I’m the question you didn’t expect and can’t afford to answer. And I hate that you won’t let yourself look at me any other way. Because I think, for all your schemes and convictions, you know what I am to you.

But here’s the truth: I don’t want to be your lesson. I don’t want to be your regret. I want to be the person who makes you see that all this destruction doesn’t have to define you. That the path you have predetermined for yourself isn’t the only way.

Maker, listen to me. Like you don’t already know this. Like you haven’t already made up your mind. This is just me, screaming into the void, pleading that our story has a better ending than the one we’re rushing towards. I look at you and try not to think of how you’ll eventually betray me. I knew that I have doomed myself to it the day I decided to keep talking to you, yet I still hope it will never come to pass.

I don’t even know if you’ll ever see this. Maybe I’ll burn it. Or maybe I’ll leave it where I know you’ll find it. And if you do—if you’re reading this—then know that I’m tired. I’m so fucking tired, yet I will never give up.

You wanted me to understand you. Well, congratulations, Solas. I do. And I hate it. And yet, I still keep talking to you. What does that say about me?

-Fenrel

(letter found hidden in between paint pots in the music room)

[wellthebardsdead]

Taliesin: *slides down the hill after leaving bleakfalls barrow* well then- *catches flynt as the bosmer drops down off the ledge before setting him on the grass* I suppose we should thank the undead for so kindly giving us all this money~ now we can afford another night at the inn and- flynt?

Flynt: *suddenly creeps forward before pouncing on the long grass grabbing hold of a skeever and biting it* GRRRR-

Taliesin: I?! F-flynt spit that out it’s diseased! *grabs the shrieking rodent only for flynt to suddenly bite him hard enough to break through his gloves and puncture his skin* GAAH- F-Flynt what’s gotten into y-

Flynt: *hissing at him, pointing his dagger at him with a fear present in his milky white eyes…* m-my food! Min-nne! Go away!!

Taliesin: *remembering flynt mentioned he was homeless for a long time, quickly adding up that food scarcity was a big anxiety point for him* shhh shhh it’s okay- it’s alright I’m not going to let you starve friend. We can get dinner at the tavern, real food, hot food, food that tastes better than, a giant diseased rat…

Flynt: *still shakily pointing the knife at him and holding the still angry skeever in his grasp* I-… p-promith?…

Taliesin: yes… I promise… just, let the rat go… let’s get back to riverwood and I’ll get you food again… please put the knife away…

Flynt: *calming down, still afraid of being backstabbed by the high elf but trying to trust him because he’s screwed without him* o-okay… *puts his knife away and sets the skeever down* …

Taliesin: Good… let’s get-

The skeever: *jumps up and bites Taliesin*

Taliesin: AAAGH!

*a few hours later*

Flynt: *devouring his food in the privacy of his room so nobody can see the mess he makes of himself*

Taliesin: *finished his food, hand bandaged where flynt and the skeever bit him, now staring in amazement as the wood elf downs his third helping* flynt… you mentioned you were homeless and left begging for a while… how long were you on your own for- after the war?…

Flynt: … *tilts his head back to swallow his food, tongue unable to do it on its own* hm… *wipes his face on his sleeve* f-firty?… I fink?…

Taliesin: all thirty years after the war… it… must have been lonely, nobody to understand you… or help you…

Flynt: … *nods sadly and continues eating*

Taliesin: That… skeever today.

Flynt: *pauses* …

Taliesin: I take it… that wasn’t the worst thing you’ve eaten…

Flynt: *remembering eating rotten fruit scraps, scrounging through food stores and eating the expired contents inside, or often grabbing and eating rats in the gutter out of desperation* Mhm…

Taliesin: I thought so… *sighs* no matter… so long as I’m by your side, you’ll never go hungry again… *stands up and walks to him, gently cleaning his face with a napkin* you’re not alone anymore, friend…

Flynt: *blushing a little at the gesture, shyly nods before pulling away to continue eating*

Taliesin: *smiles and spots a bone in flynts steak* oh let me cut that out for y—GAAAAH!

Flynt: *bit him again, food still a protective point*

[theforestghost]

The Consort and the Warlord Ch16

Summary: Megatron uses the All Spark to gain access to Cybertron and demands a peace treaty. An Autobot Consort is offered and Optimus is chosen. A Bonding Ceremony takes place and now Optimus has three vorn to figure out exactly what Megatron wants to do with Cybertron.

Pairing: Optimus Prime x Megatron

Continuity: Animated

Status: Ongoing

It didn't take long for Optimus to get used to his new post as Ultra Magnus' secretary. The first cycle was spent shadowing him, learning his schedule and being introduced to other mechs that Optimus has never met. A second cycle to be introduced to the Council, to go over everything that Megatron had done and a third cycle to test the oils and start working for real. By the fourth cycle, Optimus was certain he could do most of the filing himself, only needing to ask Ultra Magnus about specific data pads or how he wanted a meeting rescheduled. Before then, Optimus hadn't realized not only how many meetings that his leader went to but how many fuelings he took with Council members, politicians and nobility that made up upper Iacon. Optimus was grateful that he didn't have to go to any of these; knowing full well he couldn't handle the high scale lifestyle thry afforded. Though he was still introduced to each bot when they met up before being dismissed for the cycle. 

It was on the fifth cycle that Optimus met Sentinel Prime for the first time since returning to Iacon. The mech gave him a disgusted look but sauntered over like he was the most powerful mech there. With little hesitation, Sentinel draped his arm across Optimus' shoulder kibble like he'd done countless times in the past. Optimus felt a bit of panic sink in his tanks as his processor tried to figure out exactly what Sentinel wanted.

"Hey there, Optimus old buddy." Sentinel began, his tone not nearly as condescending as Optimus was used to. "I hear you've gotten yourself back into Ultra Magnus' good graces and even got yourself a spot in Council meetings. Must be nice having someone do all of the work for you."

"Let go, Sentinel." Optimus said, stepping out of the other mech's hold. He ex-vented in relief when Sentinel didn't try to touch him again. "It's only a temporary position until everything with the Decepticons is figured out."

"Of course it is!" Sentinel scoffed, shrugging and stepping closer to Optimus once more. "After all, a position at Ultra Magnus' side is meant for better bots than you."

"Like you?" Optimus goaded.

"Obviously!" Sentinel exclaimed. "I am his right servo mech! I'm the closest to being the next Magnus and you're just his glorified secretary bot! Though even that's too good of a position for the likes of you!"

"What's that supposed to mean?" Optimus asked, clenching his servos.

"It means that once Ultra Magnus remembers how much of a frag up you are, he'll send you straight back to repairing space bridges where you belong!" Sentinel got in close, jutting his digit against Optimus' chassis. "Because that's all you deserve, that or cleaning gutters!"

As Sentinel walked away, Optimus said nothing. How could he when Sentinel wasn't wrong? He was a frag up who didn't even deserve to lead a space repair team and his own selfishness had led to them being offlined. Instead he trudged back to his habsuite, a small accommodation near the tower that Ultra Magnus had set up for him. Another thing that was far nicer than anything Optimus deserved. 

The habsuite was sparce of anything personal, rented furniture and appliances decorated it without a single piece of individuality. Optimus just didn't see a point in trying to make the place feel like home when it could be taken from him at any time. And aside from the short commute to his current place of employment, the only nice part was the nice view it gave him of Iacon being on the top floor. Another aspect that Optimus knew he shouldn't have but at least he could appreciate it whilst he did. 

Like usual, Optimus entered the habsuite, turned on the lights and immediately collapsed onto the small sofa occupying the living space. The large windows showed him a beautiful sky as Hadeen began to sink but Optimus found himself too tired to appreciate it. His conversation with Sentinel kept playing over and over in his processor and while he couldn't fault the mech, part of him thought that Sentinel hadn't said everything he'd intended neither. Like he was holding back and knew something Optimus didn't know and wasn't allowed to know. Sentinel was never good at hiding things.

Optimus decided that pondering such things would just cause him more stress than he already had. Instead he opted to take a shower, refuel and get some work done to prepare for the next cycle. That would get his processor off of things and let him focus on what was truly important, like the five meetings and two meal plans Ultra Magnus had the next day on top of his normal work. The schedule would be tight and Optimus couldn't falter, not at a time like this. 

So he got up and made his way to his berthroom which was right across from the wall of windows. The door opened automatically for him and he'd just made it to the attached wash rack when he heard the sound of pede steps coming from the other room. At first he thought he was hearing things but a shushed curse came along with a dense thud and now Optimus was sure someone had broken in. Pulling his axe from his subspace, he opened the door to face his intruder but froze.

There, taking up most of his living space and with his back kibble to rhe window, stood Megatron. Shadows cast in front of him, red optics glowing above as they stared down at Optimus. They grew wider just slightly before narrowing as the warlord took a step closer to Optimus and reached out his servo. Optimus took a step back in panic, his kibble hitting the wall behind him as he pointed his axe at the Decepticon in an attempt to keep distance between them. Megatron stopped, looking at the axe and then back to Optimus who glared at him, fear leaking from his field.

"Optimus-" Megatron began.

"Stay away!" Optimus shouted. "H-how did you get here?"

Megatron glanced back and Optimus followed his gaze to the wall of windows where one was opened. He didn't know they did that. Why did they do that?

"Why are you here?" Optimus asked. He wanted to comm for help but feared the moment he tried, Megatron would attack. Right now he seemed non-threatening but Optimus knew that could change in a spark beat.

"Why do you think?" Megatron asked. He didn't like how Optimus was behaving. At first he thought it was an act and somebot was watching but the fear he could feel was real. Something happened to his consort and Megatron would find out what.

"I won't go back!" Optimus protested. "Not after what you did to me!" He tried pushing himself against the wall more– he wanted to disappear right into it.

"And tell me, what did I do to you?" Megatron asked, stepping closer. Maybe not the wisest idea, but he needed answers.

Optimus hesitated, panic visible in his field and features. He readjusted his grip on his axe as his pedes shuffled a bit to keep him from falling. "Y-you attacked me! You held me down and tore out my Autobot mark!" Optimus shouted. "And when I tried to escape you beat me till I was nearly offline!"

"You removed your mark of your own accord." Megatron stated firmly. 

"Liar!" 

Optimus lunged forward, bring his axe down ad best as he could. But raw emotions did not make for accuracy and Megatron easily disarmed him. As soon as his axe hit the ground, Megatron pulled Optimus to his chassis with one arm, holding him securely despite the feeble protest the smaller bot continued to give him. These stopped though when Megatron brought his servo to Optimus' cheek plate.

"What have they done to you?" Megatron asked, his voice stressed as his field washed over Optimus.

The small bot looked at his captor in shock at the confusion, the pain he felt coming from Megatron. Why was the one feeling pain? It should be him who was hurt after everything! 

Megatron was a master manipulator! He was gas lighting him!

So why does he seem so sincere?

No it's a lie! A trick! 

So why does being next to him feel so safe?

"Hey, Megatron can I come in? It's scary being out here?"

Optimus froze. He knew that voice, he'd never forget it. He struggled a bit trying to see who Megatron was now turned to and when he finally got a glimpse, it was of the bright yellow armor. Brightened by the sun and full of color stood a mech Optimus thought was dead.

"Bumblebee!" Optimus exclaimed, relief riddling his voice as he nearly collapsed against Megatron in surprise. The warlord tightened his grip to steady the smaller bot before letting go. Optimus practically ran to the small bot, hugging him close before looking him over frantically.

"You're not offline!" Optimus said.

"Well I mean I almost was coming here." Bumblebee retorted. "Megatron just grabbed me and we flew here and he just left me on the sill. I can't fly!"

"Ultra Magnus said you were offlined. You and the others…" Optimus said in disbelief. 

"Woah woah, wait, he said what?" Bumblebee asked. "All of us are still kicking! Even Ratchet surprisingly."

Optimus finally sank to his knees in defeat. He didn't understand. Had Ultra Magnus lied to him? But why? He covered his helm with his servos, trying to put together everything but he couldn't remember. He only remembered being attacked by Megatron and then waking up in the medic bay in Iacon with Ultra Magnus. Nothing else!

Megatron knelt beside Optimus and carefully tilted his helm towards him with a servo under his chin. Optimus was panicked and clearly trying to figure things out but Megatron knew that he couldn't. Not by himself. In all honesty only Primus knew how Megatron was able to stay so calm himself because now that he knew that Optimus had been messed with, he wanted to raze all of Iacon and have Ultra Magnus' helm on a pike. But no, he couldn't do that, not after everything his mechs have done for peace, not after everything Optimus had done to prove they could live together despite their differences. So instead he spoke as calmly as he could and hoped that his consort could understand.

"Optimus, I need you to listen, don't interrupt and let me finish everything I have to say." Megatron began. He didn't start until Optimus finally gave him a small nod, optics locked. "Your memories have been tampered with. The events that you recall, our fighting, the removal of your mark, the demise of your team and anything else have been fabricated by Ultra Magnus to turn you against me.

"I can't say I know everything but my guess is he intends to use you to respark the war. He and the Council don't approve of the fact that the civilians want to integrate with us and so they have manipulated you into being their martyr."

"That's not true!" Optimus began, leaning towards Megatron as anger began to build. 

"Is it not?" Megatron asks. "Then why were you told that your team is offline but here stands one of them? Why were you told I ripped your Autobot mark from your when your own medical records show the surgery done by your own medic?"

"Why should I trust the biggest liar in the galaxy?" Optimus argued. 

"Your council has held that place far longer than I've been online!" Megatron retorted. 

He stood now and looked down at Optimus. He knew that it wasn't his consorts fault. If what he thought was correct and Optimus had under gone shadow play than there was no way he could do anything. But it was frustrating! It was frustrating to see the mech who'd opened up so much to them and their culture be reduced back to the single processor views of the Autobot indoctrination. And it was even more frustrating that Megatron could nothing about it at this time and neither could he take Optimus with him. 

If Optimus had truly been subjected to shadow play, then he needed to change his approach about the entire situation. Grabbing him and bringing him back to Kaon by force would be counter productive and could very well make things worse. He also needed to find a bot familiar with the procedure so he could find some way to reverse it. Sure he'd never heard of such things being done or being possible but he wouldn't just let Optimus go back to being a drone of rhe Council's, not after everything the two had been through. So instead, Megatron turned back to the window and grabbed Bumblebee by his scruff. 

"I will leave for this cycle but I'd suggest asking your Magnus about the questions you can't find answers to." Megatron said before jumping out and flying off.

Optimus knew he needed to report this. Primus he should've reported it the moment he saw the warlord but instead he sat on the floor of his habsuite as Megatron’s figure disappeared along with the rest of the light of Hadeen. And when the sky finally turned dark and the first moon came into view, only then did Optimus stand up and close the window before making his way back to his berthroom and collapsing on his berth. He didn't have the energy to deal with anything for the remainder of that cycle.

When the next cycle came, Optimus found himself outside Ultra Magnus' office with datapads in servo and a knot in his tanks. The knocked over sofa from the cycle before proved that Megatron had in fact entered his habsuite and had not been some nightmare Optimus' stressed processor had created. And the fact that he had walked there meant that his decision to not report the break in was also true and his guilt began to eat away at him. But Megatron’s glyphs played on repeat in his processor and he needed to ask at least one question to his leader. 

So when he finally entered and found Ultra Magnus already at his desk, he decided that running away was not an option. Gathering every bit of courage he had, Optimus walked up to the large desk and waited for Ultra Magnus to notice him. When the large mech finally did, he put down his datapad to give him a polite greeting. 

"It is good to see you, Optimus, did your recharge well?" Ultra Magnus asked, his optics looking the smaller bot up and down.

"Ah, I-yes I did, thank you for asking." Optimus lied. His grip on the datapads tightened but he would not falter now. "Ultra Magnus, sir, could I ask a question?"

"You may." Ultra Magnus answered.

"Did you lie to me about my team being offline?" Optimus asked quickly. He looked down at his pedes in shock. He hadn't meant to blurt it out like that! The entire scenario he'd spent half of the night cycle trying to figure out having gone out the window. He couldn't look at his leader now but when Ultra Magnus said his designation, Optimus had to look up.

"Why do you ask that?" He narrowed his optics, suspicion radiating from him despite his tightly closed field. Optimus felt his tanks sink.

"I-I saw Bumblebee on my way to my habsuite." Optimus said carefully. It was a lie, he was lying but he just couldn't bring himself to admit that Megatron had been in his habsuite the night cycle before. 

Ultra Magnus let out a deep vent before sitting back in his chair. Optimus glanced up at him and it was obvious that his leader seemed annoyed by what he said but not necessarily upset.

"I believe I told you they were compromised." Ultra Magnus began. "I meant it in that they were persuaded to join the Decepticons. When you took it as them being offline, I figured that was easier for you to accept at the time than knowing that your team betrayed you."

Optimus said nothing. It made sense. Bumblebee had been pretty comfortable around Megatron, something he never would've been. Then did Megatron bring him to try and sway him to his side? Optimus couldn't remember how the speedster or his other team members interacted with tge Decepticons. Did they get along? He couldn't remember…

"Optimus." Ultra Magnus spoke his name loudly. Clearly it wasn't the first time he'd been called.

"I apologize, sir." Optimus said quickly. "I was caught off guard seeing Bumblebee again."

"I should've explained the situation once you'd settled down but now that you know, I expect you to treat them as you would any other con." Ultra Magnus spoke coldly, like he wouldn't accept any different. 

And with a heavy spark, Optimus agreed.