#Fence builder near me

[gibsonfenceanddeckburien]

Deck Builder Capitol Hill

Top 5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Deck Builder for Your Next Project

Hiring a Deck Builder Capitol Hill contractor may seem unnecessary, especially if you’re considering a DIY approach to your next deck project.

However, building a deck is a significant investment that requires careful planning, precise execution, and a deep understanding of materials and building codes.

A professional deck builder can provide the expertise and experience to ensure your project is completed to the highest standards.

Here are the top five reasons to hire a professional deck builder for your next project.

Expert Design and Planning

One of the most significant advantages of hiring a professional deck builder is their ability to create a design that meets your aesthetic preferences and your space’s functional needs.

A professional will work with you to understand your vision, offering suggestions and ideas you may have yet to consider. They can create a design that maximizes your outdoor space, integrates seamlessly with your home’s architecture, and adheres to local building codes and regulations.

Access to High-Quality Materials

The quality of the materials used in your deck construction will significantly impact its longevity and appearance. Professional deck builders can access a wide range of high-quality materials that may not be readily available to the average consumer.

They also know how to recommend the best materials for your specific climate and usage. Whether you’re interested in natural wood, composite decking, or another material, a professional can ensure your deck is built to last.

Expert Craftsmanship

Building a deck requires more than just basic carpentry skills. It involves precise measurements, proper installation techniques, and attention to detail that only comes with experience.

A professional Deck Contractor Capitol Hill, brings years of craftsmanship to your project, ensuring that every aspect of the deck is constructed correctly. From the foundation to the final touches, a professional builder ensures that your deck is beautiful, structurally sound, and safe.

Time and Cost Efficiency

While it might seem more cost-effective to build a deck yourself, DIY projects often take much longer and can cost more than anticipated due to mistakes and unforeseen issues.

Professional deck builders have the experience to complete your project efficiently, saving you time and reducing the risk of costly errors.

They also have established relationships with suppliers, which can result in better pricing on materials.

Compliance with Building Codes and Permits

One of the most challenging aspects of building a deck is navigating the various building codes and permit requirements. A professional deck builder is familiar with the local regulations and will ensure that your deck complies with all necessary codes. It not only prevents potential legal issues but also provides the safety and durability of your deck.

A professional will handle all the necessary paperwork, inspections, and approvals, giving you peace of mind throughout the project.

Takeaway:

Hiring a Deck Builder contractor for your next deck project is an investment in quality, safety, and long-term satisfaction.

If you are looking for a Deck Builder Near me in Capitol Hill, Gibson Fence and Deck is your trusted partner to bring your vision to life with unmatched expertise and craftsmanship.

We can help you create a beautiful, durable deck that enhances your outdoor living space and adds value to your property.

Contact Fence Builder Burien today to discuss your deck project and discover how we can turn your outdoor space into the perfect retreat!

[libertyfence]

Check out this stunning 6’ Infinity with Saturn scallop top that we just brought to life in Islip!

[legendaryfencecompanybrokenarrow]

Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow

Legendary Fence Company in Broken Arrow, OK, isn’t just about fences; it’s about crafting stunning outdoor spaces that elevate your property and lifestyle. We seamlessly blend expert craftsmanship with cutting-edge designs, ensuring your new fence is as beautiful as it is functional.

Visit Our Website

[securefencecompanywoodfence]

Secure Fence Company Wood Fences

Secure Fence Company - Your Premier Wood Fence Contractor

Comprehensive Wood Fencing Solutions Secure Fence Company is your premier destination for expert wood fence installation and repair services. As a leading wood fence contractor near you, we take pride in offering a comprehensive range of wood fencing solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our team of skilled wood fencing contractors is dedicated to providing top-notch craftsmanship and exceptional customer service for residential and commercial properties.

Diverse Wood Fence Designs We specialize in a wide variety of wood fence designs, including picket fences, privacy fences, split rail fences, lattice fences, scalloped fences, and more. Our commitment to using premium-quality materials such as cedar wood, redwood, and pressure-treated wood ensures that your wood fence not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time. Whether you're looking for a classic picket fence to enhance the charm of your property or a sturdy privacy fence to create a secluded outdoor sanctuary, our wood fence builders have the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Enhancing Aesthetics and Functionality In addition to our expertise in wood fence installation, we offer a range of complementary products and services to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your property. Our selection of gate designs, post caps, and arbors can add a touch of elegance and practicality to your wood fence, while our premium fence stains and wood sealers help protect your investment from the elements, ensuring long-lasting beauty and durability.

Expert Craftsmanship Our skilled wood fence builders can bring any design concept to life, whether you prefer a traditional horizontal or vertical fence, an intricate scalloped or lattice pattern, or a customized fence to suit your unique property. We pay attention to every detail, ensuring that your wood fence is not only visually appealing but also durable and secure. From initial design consultation to the final installation, our team is committed to delivering a seamless and stress-free experience for every client.

Commitment to Excellence At Secure Fence Company, our commitment to customer satisfaction has made us the go-to choice for all your wood fencing needs. With our proven track record of excellence and attention to detail, you can trust us to deliver exceptional results that exceed your expectations.

Contact us today to discuss your wood fence project and experience the superior craftsmanship and personalized service that set us apart as the premier wood fence contractor in the area.

Wood Fence

[108buildersinmanchester]

The Bright and Not-So-Bright Sides of Construction Materials

Are you planning to repair your house? Are you dreaming about your future 'home sweet home' If you are on it, then choosing the proper construction materials is the most crucial thing to do in the first place. A trusted builder in Manchester understands the importance of the selection of the right construction materials. Be it a new house or house repair, the right material is essential as it is the foundation of your house. 

This blog provides a window into the bright and not-so-bright sides of some construction materials. Let’s dive deep into it. 

Bright Side: Pressure-Treated Wood

Pressure-treated lumber has been injected with preservatives to make it resistant to rot, insects, and decay, making it perfect for outdoor use and structural purposes. It is a great solution for outdoor use because it is strong and resistant to rust and insect damage. This material is a great choice for homes because it needs little care and can resist the erratic British weather.

Not-So-Bright Side: Non-Treated Wood

Non-treated woods might be cheaper but lack durability and resistance to moisture and pests that pressure-treated wood gives. If you use untreated wood for your decking and fencing in Manchester, it may deteriorate more quickly, necessitating more frequent repairs and replacements, which over time can add up in expense.

Bright Side: Composite Decking

An inventive and environmentally responsible option for your outdoor spaces is composite decking. It offers the beauty of wood without the upkeep because it is constructed of recycled plastic and wood fibres. Composite materials are a great choice for decking in Manchester since they are resistant to rot, fading, and staining.

Not-So-Bright Side: PVC Decking

The low maintenance of PVC decking is well known, however, it may not be as environmentally beneficial as alternative materials. Environmental damage may result from the PVC material's production process. Furthermore, PVC Decking might not have the same natural appearance as wood or composite materials, which might be a con for certain homeowners.

Bright Side: Steel Fencing

Steel fencing is widely renowned for its sturdiness and security characteristics. It's a robust option that effectively protects your stuff. Steel fencing in Manchester might be a good investment for homes seeking both security and aesthetic appeal.

Not-So-Bright Side: Wooden Fencing

While attractive and adaptable, wooden fencing may need routine upkeep to ward off decay, insect infestations, and weather damage. Without proper maintenance, wooden fences can deteriorate over time and you require house repair in Manchester due to loss of aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.

In a Nutshell

In conclusion, while dealing with builders in Manchester, the choice of building materials is crucial to the success and durability of your project. Consider your unique needs and tastes as you consider the benefits and drawbacks of each material. Make an informed choice to guarantee that your building project will last the test of time whether you are thinking about decking or fencing in Manchester.

[patiobuildersandoutdoorspacesllc]

Patio Builders & Outdoor Spaces LLC | General Contractor | Patio Coverings in Houston TX

We are your dependable and trustworthy go-to General Contractor in Houston TX. With our expertise and attention to detail, we will bring your vision to life. Whether it's a whole-house makeover or a fencing project that you need help with, our skilled professionals will ensure exceptional craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Moreover, hiring us for durable and attractive Patio Coverings in Houston TX, will enhance your outdoor space. Whether you desire a pergola, or retractable awning, we offer a variety of options to suit your preferences. Our patio coverings not only provide shade and protection from the elements but also add value and beauty to your home. So, if you need our expert assistance, call us today.

[smakfencingandrailing]

Smak Fencing & Railing | Fence Contractor | Decks Builders in Pflugerville TX

We are your dependable and trustworthy go-to Fence Contractor in Pflugerville TX. Our skilled team specializes in designing, installing, and repairing fences that enhance privacy, add curb appeal, and withstand the test of time. From sturdy chain-link fences to elegant wooden designs, we offer a wide range of options to meet your needs. Moreover, we also have a well-earned reputation as one of the most notable Decks Builders in Pflugerville TX. Using the latest tools and skills, we can create outdoor living spaces that seamlessly blend beauty and functionality. Whether you desire a cozy wooden deck or a spacious multi-level retreat, we're here to turn your outdoor dreams into reality. So, if you need our expert assistance, call us today.

[fencingcontractors]

Fence Companies In Toronto

Bramalea Fence is among the best fence companies in toronto and provide the highest standards of quality and satisfaction to all of our clients.

[gibsonfenceanddeckburien]

Fence Builder Burien

The True Cost of Hiring a Fence Contractor: Factors That Influence Pricing!

When planning to install a new fence or replace an old one, one of the most important considerations is the cost of hiring a professional fence contractor Burien.

While the price tag may vary significantly depending on various factors, understanding what influences these costs can help you make an informed decision.

This blog will explore the cost of hiring a fence contractor and the critical pricing factors.

The Scope of the Work

The scope of the work is one of the primary factors influencing the cost of hiring a fence contractor. Other factors include:

Project Size: A giant fence will naturally require more materials and labor, increasing the overall cost. For instance, installing a fence around a small garden will be less expensive than fencing in a backyard or a commercial property.

Material Choice: The type of material you pick significantly impacts the cost. Materials like chain links are typically more affordable, while options like wood, vinyl, or wrought iron can be more expensive due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.

Complexity: Custom designs, intricate patterns, or the inclusion of features like gates, latticework, or decorative posts can add to the complexity and, consequently, the project's cost.

Material Costs

The materials you choose for your fence are crucial in determining the project's overall cost; different materials come with varying price points, durability, and maintenance requirements.

Wood: This is popular due to its classic look and versatility. However, the cost can vary depending on the type of wood used, such as pine, cedar, or redwood. Cedar and redwood are more expensive but offer greater longevity and resistance to decay.

Vinyl: Vinyl fencing is more expensive upfront but offers low maintenance and long-lasting durability, making it a cost-effective option over time.

Chain Link: Often the most affordable option, chain link fencing is durable and functional, though it may lack the aesthetic appeal of other materials.

Wrought Iron: Known for its strength and decorative appeal, wrought iron is one of the more expensive options but provides a unique and elegant look.

Labor Costs

Labor costs are a significant portion of the overall expense when hiring a fence contractor. These costs can differ depending on many factors:

Experience and Expertise: Contractors with more knowledge and a strong reputation may charge higher rates. However, their expertise often results in a better-finished product with fewer issues during and after installation.

Project Difficulty: If your property has challenging terrain, such as steep slopes or rocky ground, the labor costs may increase due to the additional effort and time required to complete the job.

Site Preparation

The condition of your property before the installation begins can significantly impact the overall cost.

If your site requires extensive preparation, such as clearing old fencing, removing vegetation, or leveling uneven terrain, these tasks will add to the total expense.

Old Fence Removal: Removing an existing fence will increase labor and disposal costs.

Landscaping Adjustments: In some cases, landscaping work, such as moving plants or shrubs, may be necessary to prepare the site, which can also add to the cost.

Conclusion

Several factors, including the scope of the work, material costs, labor, and site preparation, influence the cost of hiring a fence contractor.

If you are looking for Fence Builder Burien who can offer upfront pricing, transparent communication, and high-quality workmanship, Gibson Fence and Deck is your trusted partner.

We are committed to delivering exceptional results that meet your needs and budget. We will ensure that your fence is built to last and enhances the beauty and security of your property; contact us today to get started on your next fencing project!

Visit our website to get more info about 1!

[scfencecontractors]

[bellevuefencing]

Your affordable builder's fence in Tacoma, WA

The Tacoma builders fence is a top choice among homeowners in and around the area, but it has also been shown to work in other climates as well. If you're looking for an affordable option, this may be the best one for you!

[legendaryfencecompanybrokenarrow]

Building Boundaries, Creating Legends: Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow

In the realm of home improvement, few elements possess the transformative power quite like a well-crafted fence. It not only delineates property lines but also enhances security, privacy, and curb appeal. For residents of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, there's one name that stands tall in the realm of fence construction – Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow. With a legacy of craftsmanship and a commitment to exceeding expectations, this company has rightfully earned its place as the go-to choice for all fencing needs in the region.

Crafting Dreams, One Fence at a Time At Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow, the mission transcends mere construction; it's about realizing the dreams and aspirations of homeowners. Whether it's a classic picket fence evoking nostalgia or a modern, sleek design complementing contemporary architecture, their team of skilled artisans brings visions to life with precision and flair.

Unmatched Expertise and Quality Craftsmanship What sets Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow apart is their unwavering dedication to excellence. Each project is approached with meticulous attention to detail, from initial consultation to the final touches. Their team comprises seasoned professionals who combine years of experience with a passion for their craft, ensuring every fence stands as a testament to quality and durability.

Using premium materials sourced from trusted suppliers, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow guarantees not only visually stunning results but also fences built to withstand the test of time and weather conditions. Whether it's wood, vinyl, wrought iron, or chain link, clients can rest assured knowing their investment will endure for years to come, requiring minimal maintenance along the way.

Tailored Solutions for Every Need Understanding that no two properties are alike, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow takes a personalized approach to every project. They work closely with clients to understand their unique requirements, offering a range of design options and customization features to suit individual preferences and budgets.

From residential properties seeking privacy and security to commercial establishments aiming for enhanced aesthetics and functionality, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow caters to a diverse clientele. Their portfolio boasts an impressive array of projects, each bearing the hallmark of creativity, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction.

Exceeding Expectations, Every Time Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow prides itself not only on the fences they build but also on the relationships they cultivate. They understand that exceptional service extends beyond the construction site, encompassing clear communication, transparency, and a commitment to exceeding client expectations at every turn.

From prompt project timelines to seamless installations and post-construction support, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow prioritizes client satisfaction above all else. Their dedication to professionalism and integrity has earned them not only a loyal customer base but also rave reviews and referrals, solidifying their reputation as the premier fence builder in Broken Arrow and beyond.

Building a Legacy, One Fence Builder at a Time As a locally-owned and operated business, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow takes pride in being an integral part of the community. They believe in giving back and are actively involved in various initiatives aimed at enriching the lives of their neighbors and supporting local causes.

Moreover, they are committed to sustainability and eco-conscious practices, striving to minimize their environmental footprint while delivering exceptional results. From utilizing eco-friendly materials to adopting energy-efficient processes, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow is dedicated to building a better, greener future for generations to come.

Experience the Legendary Difference For those in search of more than just a fence builder, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow offers an unparalleled experience – one that combines expertise, craftsmanship, and a genuine passion for enhancing spaces and lives. With a legacy built on trust, integrity, and excellence, they stand ready to turn your fencing dreams into reality, one legendary fence at a time.

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing a fence builder in Broken Arrow, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow stands out as the undisputed champion. With a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction, they continue to set the standard for excellence in the industry, earning the trust and admiration of clients far and wide. Whether you're envisioning a quaint picket fence or a sprawling perimeter for your estate, Legendary Fence Company Broken Arrow is the name you can trust to deliver results that truly stand the test of time.

[ukcarpentry]

The fence plays a very important role in the renovation of the garden. It can change the impression of the site. Why this is so and how do hire Fence builders in Ringwood? Read below to know some ideas for decorating a country fence.

[sotwk]

SotWK OC Spotlight: Prince Turhir Thranduilion

Born in Third Age 37, the second son and child of Elvenking Thranduil and Elvenqueen Maereth. 

His name means “Victorious Master” in Sindarin. 

Towering at 7 feet, 6 inches, he is not only the tallest member of Thranduil’s family, but he is the tallest of all elves born in the Woodland Realm, in all of its history. (For reference, Thranduil is 7 feet, 3 inches, and the other Thranduilions are all less than 7 feet.)

As a child, Turhir had difficulty making friends with elflings close to his age. Since he was always much bigger and physically stronger, even from infancy, it was hard for him to play normally with them. His size and his more somber nature also made his childhood peers uncomfortable around him--and it was difficult enough to relate to a prince!

As a result, Turhir was rather lonely in childhood and spent most of his time with his mother, his older brother Mirion, and his tutors.

Otherwise, he spent his alone time reading and thus grew up into an avid reader. He especially enjoys narrative poems, and became an eloquent writer and poet himself. 

He is a skilled carpenter and builder who helps construct community buildings in his spare time.

He is a member of the very exclusive guild of Greenwood woodcutters--laborers who fell trees, which is a highly restricted and regulated practice.

Turhir is a horsemaster and was the primary trainer of the arroch breed that existed only in Greenwood (discussed in this post). He had a close relationship with the ancient ancestors of the Rohirrim who once dwelt near Greenwood.

Moodboard credit: @alicent-targaryen (Thank you again!). Fancast for Turhir: Sam Heughan

But the talent Turhir is most famous for, by far, is his battle prowess, which is discussed in this post. Thranduil noticed his son’s martial abilities very early on and persuaded the reluctant Elvenqueen to let their son begin training with Master Trainer Ivenil before he had properly come of age.

Turhir carries the official title of the King’s Champion, and would be called on to fight for the crown and kingdom if single combat is required. 

Although Turhir loves tournaments, especially jousting, his size and skill give him too large an advantage over his opponents. It has been deemed hazardous for him to participate in these types of competitions, so he is usually left only to spectate.

Occasionally, he is able to publicly demonstrate his skills by competing against his own father and brothers in special events limited within the royal family. 

His Royal Highness Turhir’s regency in north-western Greenwood (the province he governs) is seated in Thangail (“shield-fence” in Sindarin), one of the realm’s most recently established cities, built to house the largest military base in the kingdom. 

Turhir is the closest in personality with his father, but Thranduil tends to be hardest on him compared to his other sons. Turhir is thus closer to his mother and is the most protective of her. 

Turhir considers Mirion and Arvellas his closest friends in the world, and witnessing both their deaths nearly drove him to insanity. 

Although he is very noble and good-hearted, Turhir is the most prone to being corrupted by Darkness in his family, and Sauron himself grew aware and took interest in this.  

Much thanks again to @cheryl-of-kangsu for making this request!

So far, Turhir has drawn the least amount of interest among the Thranduilion Princes, which is not necessarily surprising to me, since that's how it would probably be in "real Middle-earth life". You might not like him at first glance, but once you get beneath the layers, there's a lot to admire there. He's an excellent hero for the "enemies to lovers" trope, and is a terrific Mr. Darcy archetype.

Also, I don't write and don't plan to write smut for the Thranduilions, but if there was ever a great leading man for that sort of thing among Thranduil's sons, Turhir would be my endorsed candidate. Just a creator's opinion. ;)

Elves HC Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @fizzyxcustard @freshalmondpandadonut @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @lemonivall @LiliDurin @quickslvxrr @ratsys @scyllas-revenge @stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell

For more Thranduil/Mirkwood headcanons: SotWK HC Masterlist

Other useful links:

Introduction to SotWK

Fanfiction Masterlist

Fanfiction Request Guidelines

[chickenparm]

Reprieve (Diluc/f!Reader)

for @illusory-torrent from this tweet they provided :^)

---

Diluc comes to you for a bit of solace. You're more than happy to provide.

AO3 Link

Diluc/f!Reader 3,014 Words - NSFW (Mild pining, P in V, Blowjobs, Love Confessions, Fluff)

There are plenty of positives to living in the countryside of Mondstadt. Privacy is one, the wide open spaces another, and you can’t help but think this is what Barbatos meant when he preached the virtues of freedom. 

The few downsides consist of the trek into the city to restock supplies that can’t be created by your own hands, the occasional hilichurl that wanders too close, and Diluc Ragnvindr’s griping when he shows up about how he wishes you’d just move closer to the city so he can keep you safe. 

Diluc shows up more often than you think is probably acceptable. He’s a busy man, between the Angel’s Share and Dawn Winery. Not to mention the things you know he gets up to at night, even if he skirts around the subject when you try to bring it up. You’re not stupid, but you let it go all the same. 

From the time he was a child, Diluc has always been such a worrier. He hides it better these days, coming up with a thousand excuses as to why you perhaps have a little more provisions snuck into your cart on your way out of the city, or why a commissioned builder showed up with a cart of supplies and instructions to repair the fences on your property. 

Despite his worrying, you worry too. 

There are times when he shows up where he looks worse for the wear. Dark circles beneath his eyes, his shoulders rigid in an attempt to hide how he desperately wants to slump under the weight of what he carries silently, a bruise blooming along his cheek or up his shoulder that couldn’t have come from anything but a blunt object slamming into him. 

If you’re a little softer with him on these days, a little more insistent that he stay a little longer and sit by your hearth while you force him to eat something, neither of you mention it out loud. You just know, you just understand, that Diluc’s visit isn’t just due to an obligation as a lifelong friend to ensure your wellbeing. Maybe for a little while, he’d like to be worried over and cared for, just a little.

So, when he pushes the door of your home open without knocking and leans heavily on the door frame, you understand that this visit is for his sake entirely, not just your own. 

Abandoning the ladle in the pot of soup you plan to eat off of for the next few days, you cross the room to slide an arm around his shoulders and encourage him to let you bear some of the weight of his exhausted bones. The questions don’t come until you’ve sat him on the bed of your single-room home, your fingers working at the buttons of his thick, fur-lined coat. 

“Are you going to tell me what happened to you, or are you going to leave me to guess again?”

Diluc lets out a breath, one that could be amusement if you weren’t looking at his face to see the way his brows pinch together in frustration. Not at you, per se, just in general. That’s a clear denial of him telling you about it, and you can’t help but note that it’s inherently selfish of him to come to your home and silently ask for your care without providing you the reason it’s needed.

Or, maybe there’s just no reason for it at all. Diluc presses a gloved palm to his forehead as you take his coat to hang up near the door, and finally gives you some sort of answer. “There’s nothing to guess at. I just wanted to see you, that’s all.”

“Well, stay and look as long as you like, then.” The smile you give him over your shoulder is filled with all the happiness you can muster when he’s sitting in your home looking positively wilted like this. It’s nice to have him here, to know he’s within arm’s reach where you can force him to just stop for a little while. 

As long as he’s under your roof, you can coerce him to be a little less hard on himself. 

“Get your boots off and you can lay down until dinner is ready.” You tell him, wandering over to the kitchen where you keep the drinking water, pouring a cup for him without asking if he’d like it. You’ve learned quickly over the years that if you ask to take care of him, he’ll stubbornly say no - you just have to do it. 

The bed creaks with the shifting of his weight. He doesn’t lay down, but he does shift so he can sit back against the rough wooden headboard and let his eyes slip closed when he thinks you’re not looking. Your first step toward him brings him back to life, but he doesn’t look any more spritely as you grow closer and hold the cup out to him. 

“Are you injured?”

A single sound of laughter leaves him, echoing against the water in the cup as he takes a drink, amplifying the sound. When he lowers it back to his lap, his answer is rather cryptic. “Not physically, at least. I’ll be fine, I just… needed some time away.”

From everything, you assume, but he doesn’t elaborate. Turning back to the soup pot on the hearth, you stir it a few more times before testing the tenderness of the ingredients and deciding it’s done enough for the two of you to eat now. 

Doling out a bowl for him, making sure he gets more potatoes than any other vegetable as per his preference, you ask tentatively, “Will you stay the evening?”

“And more, if you’ll have me.” Diluc accepts it, and neither of you note the way his hands tremble under the weight. What has he been doing that has him so exhausted, you wonder. Weinleisefest is coming soon, that might be it, you suppose.

The bed grumbles in protest as you sit on the edge of it near him, picking through your own meal in comfortable silence. The sun bleeds in through the window in deep golds, hanging low enough that the crickets start to chirp. With the windows open to allow a breeze through, a single firefly meanders into the room, blinking lazily as your eyes follow it. 

You’re distracted enough that you don’t notice Diluc setting his bowl to the side, and barely register him taking yours as well to stack them neatly on the small table within arm’s reach of the bed. Only when he sits back again does his tongue dart out to wet his lips and his breath shake with uncharacteristic nerves as he murmurs, “Can I make a selfish request of you?”

“Is it really so selfish if you go out of your way alarmingly often to take care of me when you don’t have to?” You answer back, shifting to face him, one leg hanging off the bed as your other thigh presses against the length of his own. He’s warm beneath the fabric barriers separating you. He always has been, especially after receiving his vision. 

Diluc’s lips quirk up at your response, taking it for the positive affirmation that it so obviously is. “Let me linger for a while. Being with you is…” He trails off, jaw working as he tries to find the right word. You’re patient enough, letting him sort through his thoughts that seem awfully muddled. 

A few heartbeats pass, ones that you can feel in your fingertips, as you reach for his hands and begin carefully removing his gloves. When the two articles are put to the side, his hands reach out for one of your own, holding it securely within warm palms that hold calluses that seem out of place on his put-together figure. Remnants of his activities after dark that he refuses to acknowledge.

“Being with you is my only reprieve.”

“From…?”

Diluc squeezes your fingers, the red of his eyes glowing in the light of the setting sun that continues to encroach from the window above the bed. “Everything. Give me a few days of peace in your arms - I need it. I’m… ragged, worn… exhausted. After that, I can face the world.”

“In my arms, hm?” You shift closer, enough that you could pull him to you if you wanted - but not yet. Instead, you savor his hands squeezing yours before you remark, “You’re right, that is rather selfish. For me, that is. Of all the gifts you’ve given me, I think that would be my favorite.”

“You would see my presence as a gift, not a burden?”

Diluc’s chin is soft as you lean in and curl your fingers around it, your thumb brushing against the sensitive skin there. “I always have, Diluc. You’re more precious to me than anything you’ve given to me over the years.”

The only burden is my need to hide my feelings, you want to say, but the words die on your tongue. Diluc’s eyes flutter shut, head tilting to press his chin further toward your touch, and you cave fully to give him what he’s asked for. Climbing into his lap, you use your arms around his torso to tug him close until his nose buries in your neck and he greedily inhales for a moment.

Instantly, he relaxes against you, his hands at the small of your back pressing flat against your skin, dipping beneath your shirt without any unnecessary warning. This is fine, this is enough. You would be happy if this is all he deigned to ask from you, despite a willingness to keep giving and giving. 

The thick locks of his hair twine easily around your fingers as you tug the tie loose. Against your collarbone, his voice rumbles in a sound of appreciation, something you’ve never quite heard before but it’s instantly addictive. Straddling his lap, you pull the two of you closer and rake your nails along his scalp until that little groan rises from beneath his breath into something unmistakable. 

As unmistakable as the pressure against your inner thigh, the feeling of his heartbeat throbbing through it as you press yourself harder against it and rock your hips forward. The fingers tracing along the skin of your lower back freeze, then dig into your skin in response to your movements. It’s neither an attempt to stop you, nor urge you on, but a silent acceptance of it. 

Diluc could stop you, but dampness collects on your skin as he breathes against your neck and simply waits for what you’ll do next. 

One hand slips easily from his hair as you trail it over his shoulder, down his chest, to the flat plane of his stomach that twitches instinctively. Against his ear, you murmur, “Let me take care of you, then.”

“Please.” 

Diluc’s hips lift, his hands leaving your body to work at the belts around his waist. Then, the button holding his pants closed so he can push the fabric down enough to free himself. Rather than take him in hand, you back off to kneel between his thighs and observe the way his hand wraps around the base and all but presents it to you. 

The word ‘pretty’ is an apt descriptor for him, even in this way, where he’s hard and impatient and looking at you through his lashes with unmistakable longing. Diluc is the kind of man that deserves the adoration you want to give him, even if he only truly accepts it in moments like this where he’s desperate for it. 

Reaching out, you trace your fingertips from the base where he holds himself to the tip where his arousal already beads in anticipation. Rather than smear it with your thumb, you look at him through your lashes and lean in to sweep it up with the very tip of your tongue, savoring the taste of his need for you. 

Immediately, his hips jolt in reaction to the phantom sensation of your tongue along his tip. His free hand tangles in the sheets next to his hip, the tendons of his arms straining as he so obviously avoids reaching out to make you move faster, to do more. This is you taking care of him in your own way, he’s well aware he’s meant to just accept it. 

Slowly, you begin your exploration of him, first letting him feel the full pressure of your tongue swirling against his tip before you let him past your lips. A ragged breath leaves him, his head lolling back against the headboard, but his eyes never leave you, as if he were afraid to miss even a single moment. Beneath your hand on his thigh, his muscles twitch with each slow bob of your head.

“...That’s it… You’re so - ngh-... beautiful. Please…”

Diluc has never been one to ramble or mince words, but his control is slipping with each drag of your tongue and squeeze of your fingers around the length you can’t take. Pride swells in you as he struggles to keep his composure and fails as his hips jerk up against your mouth. The taste of him blooms on your tongue as you lick long the ridge of his cock, enjoying every little sound he treats you with. 

The next sound he makes is disappointment as you pull away, your lips swollen and spit-slicked as you waste no time in working your pants down your hips. Even if you’re taking care of him, that doesn’t mean you can’t find physical enjoyment in this too. Surely he won’t complain, judging by the blown-out pupils of his eyes as he watches you straddle his lap once more. 

Skin against skin, his cock juts up against you as you hover above him with little teasing rocks of your hips. Your palm sweeps his bangs off his forehead to press a kiss to his brow, a quiet sh-sh-sh noise leaving your lips as you poise him at your entrance. 

No more teasing; you sink down onto him and watch with rapt attention as his brows furrow together, and his eyes clench shut. Another kiss, this time to his cheek, as you murmur, “Do I feel good?”

“Yes, you’re so-” Diluc cuts off, his breaths coming short as his hips struggle not to just buck up into you and chase his pleasure selfishly. If that’s what he wanted, you’d let him, but his self-imposed restriction makes heat burn through your gut. The desire, the respect for what you’re doing is far more arousing than anything else. 

Giving him only a moment to feel how he fills you completely, you roll your hips forward to slide him through your slick tightness, agonizingly slowly. His eyes fly open, lips parted as he lets out a drawn-out groan. Diluc’s trying to hold him still, doing his best it seems, but all he needs to do is just reach out and take control. Yet he doesn’t, foregoing the role of leading to let you make him feel this incredible at his own pace. 

Diluc stretches you so sweetly without even trying, like he was made to slot into you with perfection. Every moment drags his length against you in ways that have you trembling in his lap, and despite this being about your attempts to give him what he needs, his hands still find your thighs to press his thumbs in small, soothing circles. 

He’s too good to you, too sweet, and you lean in to kiss him fully with all your appreciation. All your love. If he hasn’t made sense of it before this point, surely the way you cling to him and ride his cock while murmuring praises in his ear should be enough to convince him of your endless affections. 

Blindly, you reach for his hands on your hips to twist your fingers together and brace yourself to move a little faster, a little harder. Adoration tinges his gaze as he looks at you, his knuckles growing white at the sensation of you clenching around him. Tentatively, his hips rise to meet you as you abandon the back-and-forth motions to lift up and down, taking him to the hilt each time with increasing reckless abandon. 

“I love- ah! I love you - please, please-”

Diluc’s desperation undoes you more than any physical feeling could. Clinging to his hands, your back arches and you grit out your pleasure through your teeth as he fucks up into you to chase his own, and to prolong yours. 

“So much-” Diluc tenses beneath you, using the leverage of your hands laced against his on your hips to pull you down tight. You can feel each throb of his release inside you, his hands grinding you as he moans your name openly and without shame. 

Shaking off one of your hands, he thumbs against your clit for only a moment before you bat his hand away with a hiss. His first attempt to take back the role of caring for you after all of this, but you don’t want that - not while you’re sensitive, not while he asked to find solace in you, not give it. 

The low rumble of his chuckle rolls through the room as he pulls you to him, your cheek against his sternum as he squeezes lazily against your curves. Diluc doesn’t stay hard inside you, but neither of you pull away so he can keep you within easy reach. 

Lifting your head, you struggle to find words before realizing there’s no point in needlessly filling the silence. Surely he knows what it is that you want to say, and the way he gazes at you now speaks volumes of his own appreciation, his own affection only spoken aloud in a moment of desire just seconds before. 

Diluc simply leans down for a kiss - slow, weighted, more descriptive than any flowery or eloquent words either of you could’ve come up with. Diluc can find as much peace as he’d like here; you hold it in abundance, solely for him.

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[Image ID: A large group of people are gathered in protest on a sidewalk. A purple banner reading “Stop Cop City” is centered in the front of the photo. End ID.] 

A broad coalition of groups in Atlanta has launched a referendum to give voters a chance to say whether they want the controversial police and fire department training center known as “Cop City” built in a forest south-east of the city.

The effort requires organizers to collect about 70,000 signatures from Atlanta registered voters in 60 days. Then the question of the city canceling its agreement with the Atlanta Police Foundation to build the $90m center can be added to municipal election ballots in November.

The push comes after an estimated thousand people who showed up at City Hall on 5 June proved insufficient to stop Atlanta’s city council from approving about $67m for Cop City. Meanwhile, machines have already begun clear-cutting trees on the project’s 171-acre footprint in South River Forest.

The referendum faces what one organizer called “an atmosphere of repression” – including two activists being charged with felonies last week while putting up fliers, bringing total arrests since December to 50.

The largest group of arrests, on 5 March in a public park in the forest near where the project is planned, was followed by local government closing the park, in effect shutting off tree-sitting protests by “forest defenders” that had gone on for more than a year.

“We’re at the stage where they’ve pushed people out of the forest, they’ve arrested people … they’ve fenced off the forest, they’ve even begun clear-cutting,” said Kamau Franklin, founder of local group Community Movement Builders. “We’re at the stage where the most direct, legal mechanism to stop this project is by referendum.” [...]

...the movement opposing the project has drawn a wide range of people locally, nationally and internationally who oppose police militarization, urban forest destruction amid climate change and environmental racism. Most residents in neighborhoods surrounding the forest are Black.

Most of the organizations driving the referendum are also Black-led, including the regional chapter of Working Families Power, Black Voters Matter and the NAACP. Officials from the Georgia governor, Brian Kemp, down to the mayor have consistently referred to opposition against the center as the work of white “outsiders”.

“That narrative is false,” said Britney Whaley, regional director of Working Families Power. “This has been national, but it’s also been community-grown for a few years now.”

Ashley Dixon, an Atlanta-area organizer, has led canvassing efforts to inform neighborhoods around South River Forest about the center for nearly a year. Her team has spoken to more than a thousand people. About 80% opposed the project once they knew about it, she said.

The only academic poll on the issue to date, from Atlanta’s Emory University, showed slightly more Black respondents opposed the project than supported it, with the opposite being true for whites. Atlanta’s population is 48% Black.

The idea for the referendum came from one that succeeded in stopping a spaceport from being built in coastal Georgia, said Will Harlan, founder of Forest Keeper, a national forest conservation organization. “To me, Cop City is the most important issue in conservation in the south-east,” Harlan said. “A referendum is the smartest, most democratic solution … [and] a way to find resolution and closure.”

Although the 2022 spaceport referendum affected a county of only 55,000 people, similarities between the two controversies point to the role voters can play when other efforts fall short.

In that case, local officials “dug their heels in” and stopped responding to press requests or providing transparent information to the public, said Megan Desrosiers, who led the referendum. In the case of Cop City, the Atlanta Police Foundation has stopped answering press requests for at least a year, and the city of Atlanta was recently discovered to be understating the project’s cost to taxpayers by about $36m.

The project is planned on land the city owns that is located in neighboring DeKalb county. Because of Atlanta’s ownership, only Atlanta voters can participate in the referendum. [...]

Organizers of the Cop City referendum pointed to the state’s heavy-handed approach to protesters as a primary concern. There have been 42 domestic terrorism charges to date. A bail and legal defense fund’s members were also arrested and the state added fundraising to its criminal description of the training center’s opposition.

In that context, it took about a dozen attempts at finding a legally required fiscal sponsor for the referendum, which may need as much as $3.5m to reach success, said spokesperson Paul Glaze.

Cliff Albright, co-founder of Black Voters Matter – one of two organizations that agreed to take the sponsorship role – said the recent Atlanta Solidarity Fund arrests were done “to send a message, in hopes it would have a chilling effect. We’re not naive about what the threats are – but we believe our community cares about this issue.”

-- From “Activists push for referendum to put ‘Cop City’ on ballot in Atlanta” by Timothy Pratt for The Guardian, 16 Jun 2023