The ARC - London

[itsananomaly]

It was a few hours later and everyone had been looked after by the medical staff and given their respective strong doses of pain medication, they were under strict instructions to not move from the med bay while they recovered from the worst of their injuries. Lester had stayed with them and the security team who were providing additional security in case Christine decided to mount another attack while they were still picking up the pieces. Right now everyone was sleeping off their sedatives so all Lester could do right then was sit by their bedsides and wait, he knew he had a long way to go to even make this right with them, he should never have let things get this far with Christine, he was a terrible leader. [adapted in parts from Series 3 Episode 6 'For the Birds'. CW for medical injury and recovery. Preplayed with the amazing anomaly_research_nerd. NFB for distance but OOC welcome!]

Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker was the first to stir a little. Maybe it was the years of training and fieldwork, or just the way his brain was wired anymore, or maybe the pain was finally pushing past the meds a little. Whatever the reason, he slowly started to stir and opened his eyes as he looked around trying to remember where he was. "Lester Sir..." he said as he saw Lester sitting by the bed. He tried to shift into a more upright position but couldn't fight back the gasp of pain as his ribs and his leg especially protested the movement quite firmly.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Easy Captain," Lester said gently as he was instantly by Becker's side, "your body's taken a lot of punishment, you need to stay still for a while, especially to keep your leg as still as you can, the doctors are especially concerned with your leg, it will need time to heal,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"I'll be ok" Becker said through somewhat gritted teeth. "Not much good to anyone stuck in a hospital bed. I'll be back to my duties soon Sir." Was it an obvious reminder just how bad of a patient Becker could be at times? "I... I am sorry I couldn't protect them" he said softly. "I tried my best to keep Christine and Wilder's attention away from Cutter and Connor. I know Danny did the same" he said as he glanced over at the bed where Danny was still passed out. "Im glad you were able to work something out with the Minster though, that was a saving grace for all of us."
Lester(thearcfamily)	Lester just gave Becker a look, "you're staying in that bed until further notice, that's an order Captain," and then he softened at that last part, "it wasn't your fault, what happened to Cutter and Connor, Christine and Wilder were going to hurt them regardless of what you tried to do," he sighed, "if anything it was my fault for putting them in that position to begin with, I should have kept them away from Christine, kept them safe at Fandom ... I might have been able to mitigate the damage," he sighed, "I do need to discuss the terms of the deal with Cutter and Connor, they're not going to like this, I mean it keeps them from prison but ...the Minister wanted them to still answer to the treason charges,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Sir, you know we all love what we do with the ARC, we choose to be here and to do this" Bekr said softly, knowing that look and feeling of guilt all too well. "You know Nick and Connor both are stubborn You could have ordered them to stay in Fandom and you know how well that would have gone and how long that would have lasted." Becker nodded when Lester brought up the house arrest terms. "I'll do anything I can to help make it easier on them, Sir."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Thank you," Lester said softly, knowing that Becker was right but he still couldn't help but feel responsible for everything that had happened, "and they're going to need all the support they can, its going to be a rough period of adjustment for them and then .. there's a matter of public record, I've managed to keep Connor's file sealed but ..." he hesitated and looked back over at Cutter who was still sleeping, "I wasn't able to do the same for Cutter,"
Danny(thearcfamily)	"You kept them out of prison and got them away from Christine. I think that's a pretty damn good job, Guv" Danny said as he finally started to wake up and caught the tail end of the conversation. "Connor's got his future ahead of him. Cutter gets to retire as he had planned. All things considered I think you did better than anyone else could have. Don’t be too hard on yourself yeah?" he said giving a small smirk to Lester as he tried to shift into a better position in his bed next to Becker.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Thank you, both of you for helping them and being there for them when I couldn't," Lester said softly, "I know its the best possible outcome they could have gotten considering what they were up against but ... it should never have happened, I should have been the better leader and stopped Christine from going after them as soon as I knew what she was doing,"
Danny(thearcfamily)	"We all share some of the blame. None of us are fortune tellers" Danny said with a sigh. "I mean we can keep going back and froth passing blame. You.. me... Becker.. we all could be called responsible. But we cant let Christine win, especially not now after we finally have the upper hand" Danny gave a wince as he tried to sit up and get is legs over the edge of the bed. "We beat them. so how about we focus on getting back on our feet, figuratively and literally?" he said as he looked like he was about to try and get out of the bed.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Oh no you don't," Lester said suddenly when he realised just what Danny was trying to do, "you're staying in bed, until the medical staff give you the all clear, I think for the time being we can focus on the figuratively part on getting back on our feet for the time being, climb back into bed Mr. Quinn,"
Danny(thearcfamily)	"Oh come on Guv.... I'm gonna go stir crazy sitting in this bed for who knows how long!" Danny whined whined as he looked at Lester. "And you thought I was going to be a handful" Becker said with a sympathetic shake of his head and a small grin.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I swear its like looking after children," Lester chided as he moved to make sure that Danny was sitting back down on the bed, "you've both been through an ordeal and right now the best place for you is to rest and recover, don't make me chain you both to your beds, I will do it,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Best not to push him...I think he'd seriously do it" Connor said softly from where he was slowly waking up. "How... how long has it been?" he asked a little while later as he started to wake up a little more.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"It's only been a few hours," Lester said gently as he went over to Connor but keeping a careful eye on both Becker and Danny in case they did try anything, "they gave you some pretty strong sedatives, it might take a while for them to wear off," he said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Well that would explain why the room is spinning" Connor said with a small groan as he laid back against the pillow, holding his head slightly. "Is... Is Nick ok? And Danny and Becker?" he asked, keeping his eyes closed against the throbbing in his head.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Easy there Connor," Lester said gently, "Nick's fine, he's asleep, they want him to rest a big longer so he might not wake up for a bit and Danny and Becker are here, in bed he added pointedly, in case Becker and Danny got any ideas, "its important that you take it easy,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded slowly and sighed. Everything hurt still. not as bad thanks to the medicine but it still hurt. "That's good. I... I'm glad they are ok" he said softly. Then a moment later Connor opened his eyes and looked at Lester. "You.. you actually got the Minster to agree to not send us to prison?" he asked, almost fearful he had imagined that part
Lester(thearcfamily)	"I did, I'll go over the exact terms with you and Nick when you are more alert but you won't have to serve any prison time Connor," Lester said gently, "you'll get to go back to school and I've even made arrangements with the Minister that you can use your work for the ARC and teaching at Fandom to count towards your degree,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor couldn't help the tears that he felt forming at that. They were tears of joy and relief, but the tears started to fall all the same. "Th-thank you... Lester... I... " Connor didn't know how to say what he was feeling. there were no words for the relief he felt at knowing that the nightmare with Christine was over, for now.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"You're welcome, I'm sorry you had to go through so many months of uncertainty" Lester said gently, understanding what Connor was feeling, "Christine won't be able to come after you again, you'll be safe from her Connor, that I can promise you and Nick,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded slowly. "I... It... it still feels like a dream in a way. But it's true, we finally got rid of Christine. Thank you Lester I... I know that wasn't easy, I know it took a lot to get this arrangement worked out."
Lester(thearcfamily)	"Lester nodded, he knew that deep down they hadn't seen the last of Christine but he had meant what he said that he would keep Christine from Nick and Connor, he looked over at the bed where Nick was still sleeping and then looked back at Connor, "you didn't deserve any of this, I know its still going to take a while before you and Nick recover from this ordeal but the ARC is going to be behind you every step of the way,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I know... but we'll get there. All of us" Connor said as he glanced over at Cutter still asleep and then to Danny and Becker. "All of us." He gave another yawn as he felt his eyes start to fall closed again.
Lester(thearcfamily)	"We will get there," Lester nodded and looked around the room and noticed that Connor was starting to fall asleep again, "it will still be a while before Cutter wakes up, I think everyone could do with more rest and get some sleep" he told them.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	It had taken much longer for the sedatives to wear off and Cutter awoke in the med bay, rather confused at first, he tried to move but everything still hurt so he leaned back in the bed and tried to gather his bearings. "Connor?" he called softly as he tried to turn his head and see where everyone was.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor had drifted back to sleep at some point but it wasn't a very deep one. The sedatives were wearing off and his body was telling him it was getting close to needing his next dose of pain meds. It took a few minutes to realize someone was saying his name. "Nick? Are you ok?' he asked as he turned his head and looked over at Cutter, the concern evident in his eyes.
Cutter(anomaly_research_nerd)	Cutter trembled, "everything hurts," he admitted, "how ... how about you? How long has it been since we ended up ... " he looked around the med bay, he didn't like being in the hospital, it reminded him too much of the weeks he and Connor had spent recovering after everything with Helen. He just hoped it wasn't going to take as long to recover this time.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"You've been out for a while... most of the day" Connor said softly. "Lester has been here almost the entire time, He actually just stepped out to talk to the doctors so he should be back soon."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Oh," Cutter said softly and he winced a little at a sharp pain in his ribs, "I guess I really needed that sleep huh," he said, "where's Becker and Danny?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"We've all been kinda in and out of it for a while' Connor said softly. "Becker and Danny are fine, they are safe. They are here too, sleeping some more also." Connor tried to shift to get into a better position as he turned over slightly to try and look at Cutter more easily.
Cutter(anomaly_research_nerd)	Cutter tried to sit up but found that his ribs really didn't allow for any movement right then, "I'm sorry," he said softly after a few minutes as he gave up trying to sit up, "I ...this is all my fault,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	""Nick... this isn't your fault. It's not Lester's or anyone's other than.... Christine and.... Wilder" Connor said, their names catching in his throat slightly. "They're gone. We've beaten then. We don't have to deal with them anymore" Connor looked at Cutter and wanted to go to him and comfort him, and he tried again to move and managed to get into a semi setting position before the pain got to be too much and he couldn't bite back the whimper. "I... I'm sorry I wasn't there when... when you needed me... Nick."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"It wasn't your fault Connor, they separated us ... they knew what this would do to us," Cutter trembled, tears falling down his cheeks, "I ... I'm sorry that ... they hurt you, that they hurt all of you,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Against his better judgement, so in other words a normal recton for Connor, he started to sit up on the edge of the bed. He bit back the cry of pain as his body loudly protested the movement. He didn't care. Cutter needed him. "You have nothing to apologize for Nick" he said softly, taking in a slow, deep breath as he got ready to try and stand.
Cutter(anomaly_research_nerd)	Cutter blinked a bit as he saw Connor what he was trying to do, but well really he was the last person to talk about climbing out of bed after everything that had happened at the hospital. "I ..." but he didn't get a chance to say anything because that was the moment that Lester returned to the room, "Connor Temple what do you think you are doing?" he said as he stood watching Connor trying to stand up.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor looked up from where he was sitting and gave a somewhat sheepish grin at Lester. "Oh I... ummmm" he said giving a small shrug when there really wasn't a way to talk himself out this. He had been caught red-handed. "I... I want to be with Nick. Please, Lester?" he asked softly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Lester was doing his best to not facepalm, "I swear you're worse than the Professor Connor," he sighed. "Please James," Cutter begged as he looked up at Lester as best he could from the bed. "Fine," Lester said as he went over to Connor's bed, "but you're not attempting this on your own?" he bent down to give Connor the support he needed so that he could stand up.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor dropped his head a little at that but gave a small smile and a sigh of relief when Lester came over to help. "Thank you Lester" he said gratefully. He put his arm around Lester the best he could as he slowly started to stand. It was a good thing Lester was there as the pain was more than he had expected and he felt his legs shake a little as he walked the short distance to Cutter's bed and sat down with Lester's help.
Cutter(anomaly_research_nerd)	"There we are Connor, easy now, please stay and actually get some rest," Lester said gently. Cutter moved over as best he could so that Connor would have room on the bed and then he started crying once Connor was sitting on the bed. "Connor," he sobbed weakly and he looked up at Lester, "thank you James," Lester nodded and watched the two of them, "I suppose now that you're both awake, I think now might be a good time as any to go over the terms I made with the Minister,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor shifted on the bed and with Lester's help got into a better position leaning against the pillows. He looked at Cutter and pulled his arm around him and hugged him as he felt tears of his own starting to form 'It's ok Nick... I'm right here. I... I am not going anywhere." For a few minutes, Connor just sat there quietly holding Cutter. Then he remembered Lester had said something and reluctantly let go and sat back against the pillows as he looked at Lester. "How... how bad is it?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter wrapped his arms around Connor and hugged him tightly and then reluctantly let go of Connor so they could face the news of what this deal James had arranged meant. "First of all you won't be facing prison, that is guaranteed but the Minister still wants you to answer to treason charges, if you agree to the terms of the deal, you can serve out a period of house arrest and you can serve it in Fandom, so that you won't have to disrupt your teaching," Lester started and then stopped, waiting to see what that initial reaction would be. Cutter's heart sank at that, while the no prison time was a very good deal considering everything, the idea that they would still have to plead to the charges worried him, he looked nervously over at Connor and reached out a trembling hand to take his.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"So... so they are still basically finding us guilty.. of... of treason then" Connor said. "They are letting us stay... in Fandom but... they are still charging us." He held onto Cutter's hand as he trembled slightly.
Cutter(anomaly_research_nerd)	Cutter couldn't stop the tears from falling, he knew the terms that James was offering was the best that they were going to get but he still couldn't help but feel afraid of what it meant for them. "I'm afraid so," Lester said softly, "the Minister is insisting and I tried to get them to drop he charges all together but I've been able to make sure your file is sealed Connor, no one will know about the charges aside from those already in the know," He deliberately avoided not mentioning Cutter's file because he knew what that was going to do them and he wanted to avoid that as long as possible.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded numbly. "I guess it.. it's a lot better than what we had before. We can hole up in Fandom, and then pick up the pieces and get back to things as they were afterwards" Connor said softly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"There's more," Lester said quietly, "as part of your house arrest, you will both have to stay at the same residence, you won't be able to have separate apartments, you will be able to leave to go and teach class but other than doing tasks like laundry, since it is my understanding your building has its own laundry room, you will have to stay in the apartments together," he looked at them, “I understand that you’ve both since moved in together, so this shouldn’t be too much of an adjustment,” he said softly. Cutter looked over at Connor anxiously, "oh," he said quietly, "that's ... that's not that bad right? We'll get to be together, we can serve house arrest at the same time,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"That's not too bad I guess.... " Connor said slowly. "We can get out for a little while once a week for class. We can get things ordered in easily enough as far as groceries and food and everything. We... we should be fine. We'll be together so that will make it easier." Connor gave Cutter a smile and then turned back to Lester. "They... are gonna make us wear the monitors aren't they?" he asked with a resigned sigh, already figuring the answer would be yes. "How... how long is...." he took a breath finding it hard to ask the question as he looked at Lester and trembled slightly.
Cutter(anomaly_research_nerd)	“They are I’m afraid,” Lester said gently, “its how they’re going to keep track if you’re complying or not, I should mention that if you don’t follow the terms of the house arrest, then the agreement is overturned and you both face prison,” and then there was another pause, “they said you can start serving your sentence in the new year, its officially going to be a year but I know that with the way time moves quickly between here and Fandom, it will be three to four months at most for you,” Cutter trembled, “I … that doesn’t sound too bad,” he didn’t like the idea of wearing a monitor but he also didn’t want to go to jail either, “I’m sorry I got you caught up in this Connor,” he said softly as tears began to stream down his cheeks.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Hey I got myself caught up in this just as much as you got me caught up in it" Connor said as he took a slow breath. "I... I... at least we get to do the sentence together. We can be at Fandom, we can be together, we don't have to go to jail. It... we can do this" Connor said as he hugged Cutter tightly. "It's better than we were hoping for really. Thank... thank you, Lester." Connor knew it was going to be hard but he was focusing on the fact he and Nick weren't going to be separated. He didn't want to think about how he would have managed a year of hour arrest alone.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded and trembled as he gratefully returned the hug, at least he got to be with Connor, they couldn't be separated again. He cried softly as he clung to Conor. It was really the better alternative for them all things considered. "You're welcome," Lester said softly as he watched them, "I'm sorry I couldn't do more," he hated that the Minister had been equally as stubborn about refusing to drop the treason charges, "and ..." he took a deep breath, he had to tell Cutter that his file wasn't going to be sealed, "I'm afraid where I was able to get Connor's file sealed, I couldn't do the same for you Nick, I'm sorry but your treason charge is going to be on public record," Cutter closed his eyes at that, "oh," it was all he could think of to say.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Oh Nick" Connor said as he held him close. "I'm so sorry..." Connor gently rubbed his back, trying to give him some comfort. He looked at Lester and gave a small smile. "You did more than we thought we could get... it... it really is the best arrangement we could hope for considering the strangle hold Christine seemed to have on the Minster and everyone else."
Cutter(anomaly_research_nerd)	Cutter nodded, not trusting himself to speak as tears rolled down his cheeks, he knew that out of the two of them it was better if he was the one who was publicly known as a traitor, Connor still had his whole career ahead of him but it hurt, knowing that everything he had achieved in his work and all people would remember him for was that he committed treason against the crown. "I'm going to see if there's anything else I can do," Lester said softly, "but right now this really is the best alternative, you're both still welcome to work at the ARC, I'm working on getting your security clearances restored since despite Christine's best efforts the hiring of staff falls under my jurisdiction, she won't be able to kick you out again,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"We'll be ok Nick. We will figure it out" Connor said trying to sound encouraging though he too hated how unfair it was that Cutter was the one who had to bear the brunt of the charges and didn't get to have the lies and slander sealed. Connor leaned over and gave Cutter a squeeze.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded as he held tightly to Connor, afraid if he let go Connor would't be there, "we'll get through this," Cutter wished he sounded more confident than he felt, "we got the university off our back, that's the main thing and Christine can't come after us anymore," and then he froze as he looked at James, "she's still going to try and come after the ARC isn't she?" "I'm afraid so," Lester sighed, "that woman is anything but resourceful, she's not going to let this setback stop her in fact its just going to make her more determined to succeed,"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	It had taken much longer for the sedatives to wear off and Cutter awoke in the med bay, rather confused at first, he tried to move but everything still hurt so he leaned back in the bed and tried to gather his bearings. "Connor?" he called softly as he tried to turn his head and see where everyone was.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"We brought this on the ARC and we can't even be around to try and help fight Christine" Connor said, feeling frustrated and helpless which he didn't like at all. "I.. I'm sorry Lester," he said softly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"You have nothing to apologise for," Lester said firmly, "I'm not going to let the ARC go without a fight, Christine may have powerful friends but I'm going to make sure that she can't use that to get you or the ARC and the team," he told them. "Thank you James," Cutter said quietly, "for, for not giving up on us, once our house arrest is over, we'll do everything we can to fight off Christine, we're not going to let her get away with this,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor gave a nod as he leaned against Cuttr slightly. He looked over at where Danny and Becker were still asleep. He knew he couldn't let their sacrifices go wasted. When they were able to, they were going to make sure Christine never got that close to the team again if they could help it. "We're not giving up" he said simply, wishing there was more energy behind those words but he was still so tired and hurt so much. "We're not going to let her win" Connor said as he closed his eyes and sighed softly, trying to relax and calm down the swirling noise in his head right then.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter leaned against Connor and wrapped his arms around him, trembling as he did, he felt even more tired now than he had before and he was scared for the future that he and Connor now faced, "we won't give up," he repeated Connor's words, "we've come this far, we've got to keep fighting her," Lester nodded, "would you like me to go and ask the doctors to give you both some more sedatives?" he asked, noticing how tired that both of them now looked, even more so than usual.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"They.. they'll let us stay together right?" Conor asked, worried the doctors would make him go back to his bed if they gave them anything. He would give up being able to sleep well if it meant he could stay there beside Nick. "If... if they do then that... does sound nice" he admitted, realizing again just how much everything hurt.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter yawned, "it does sound nice, we can stay together please James?" Cutter whined whined. Lester managed a small smile at that, somethings just never changed, "you have my word, I'll insist that you have to stay together,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded as he started to relax. "Ok that... that sounds good then. Thank you James for everything you did for us. I... I know you had to call in a lot of favors and make a lot of deals to make it happen so... thank you."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Thank you James," Cutter said quietly as he kept his arms around Connor, still very reluctant to let him go for fear that they would be separated again. "You're both welcome, now how about I go and talk to the doctors and get you these nice sedatives, they'll really help you with the pain and the sleep," Lester said gently.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"That sounds... good..." Connor said. He felt like he could fall asleep right then and there but he knew the medicine would help him stay asleep longer which is what he really need. Connor tried to relax as he lay there beside Cutter and waited for the doctor to come back in. They were going to be ok... they would get through this... they had each other and Lester promised Christine could not touch them again. They were safe and that was the thing Connor clung to as he started to fall asleep.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	A couple of minutes later Lester was back with the doctors and they began to administer the sedatives, "you can both sleep now, we'll talk again tomorrow about getting you back to Fandom and the arrangements we'll need to make," Lester said softly as he noticed Connor and Cutter begin to drift off. "Okay," Cutter yawned as he began to feel the sedatives start to kick in and he began to lower himself back on the bed as he curled up against Connor, "that ... we can do that tomorrow," he yawned again and closed his eyes as he fell asleep.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	And Connor was already mostly asleep as he gave a soft nod. "Tomorrow" he whispered as he stayed as close as he could to Cutter as he finally fell into a deep and somewhat restful sleep.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter moved in as close as he could do Connor and wrapped his arms around him as he drifted off into his own deep sleep. Lester talked to the doctors for a few more minutes and then he pulled up a chair and sat by their beds, he was going to be there when everyone woke up. He wasn't going to leave them, not again.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter woke up groggily, he was still curled up next to Connor in the hospital bed and he blinked back as he tried to remember what had happened. Then it all came back to him, that they had to plead guilty to the treason charges, they were going to serve house arrest in Fandom and everyone was going to know that Cutter was a traitor. He buried his head in Connor’s shoulder and wrapped his arm tightly around him, he knew it was for the best but it still hurt and the longer he could put off having to plead guilty or sign anything, he just wanted to stay there next to Connor and pretend that none of this was happening.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was still asleep in the bed, his arm around Cutter. He felt himself slowly start to wake up but he didn't want to, he just wanted to stay where he was.He didn't want to have to start making decisions about getting back to Fandom, dealing with the charges, figuring out the house arrest, he just wanted to ignore it all. So he just shifted closer to Cutter and tried to keep his eyes closed... just for a little longer.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter kept his eyes shut as best as he could but eventually consciousness forced him to wake up and he shifted slightly to look up at Connor, relieved that at the least they were still together. "Connor are you awake?" he asked softly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Yeah.... I'm awake" Connor said softly as he opened his eyes and looked at Cutter. "How are you feeling Nick?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Everything still hurts," Cutter admitted softly, "but not as bad as it did before, I think that sleep really helped ... even though part of me just feels like this is one big nightmare and I dreamed that we had to plead guilty to treason charges so we could avoid going to gaol,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I know" Connor said softly as he pulled his arms around Cutter a little more tightly. "I'm so sorry about the charges staying public knowledge. It... it isn't right, it isn't fair" Connor said softly, hating how unfairly Cutter was being treated and how guilty he felt about his own record getting out of this free and clear.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"It's my own fault," Cutter whispered softly as he leaned in closer to Connor, "I should have been stronger and refused to help Helen that's what got us into this mess, I'm, I am glad that you got your record sealed, I'm just sorry that ... that you'll still be associated with me," he said blinking back tears, "I ... I'd understand that once we're done with house arrest if you don't want to have anything to do with me," He hated the thought of Connor leaving him after they had just gotten back together again but he also knew he was being selfish if he expected Connor to stay.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Oh Nick..." Connor said as he shifted on the bed. "After everything we have been through, together. I am not leaving you now. I.. I care about you too much. I... I love you too much to leave you... again." Connor leaned against Cutter for a moment and held him close. "You won't be doing this, any of it, alone. I am staying right here Nick."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter couldn't help it, he started crying as he heard those words from Connor, that after everything and despite what it would mean for him, that Connor was choosing to stay with him, "I love you too Connor," he sobbed as he clung tightly to him, "I ... I don't deserve this, I'll make it up to you, I promise," he said softly through his tears.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor just held Cutter tightly for a moment, gently rubbing his back. "We'll get through this and figure things out- together. I know Lester said the house arrest started at the end of the year/start of next year so we have some time to get ready and figure things out."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded as he sobbed quietly, everything still didn't feel real that they would have to go through this, "at least we can spend Christmas together and not worry about house arrest," he said softly, trying to find something positive with everything going on. A few months ago spending Christmas with Connor had seemed impossible and now they'd be able to celebrate together.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye, will be a good way to end the year and get in one last big event before things go into lockdown so to speak. We have our birthdays we can celebrate and Christmas and though it will be a bit different we can have a nice New Years Eve together as well" Connor said as he held Cutter close, trying to give him some things to look forward to to help lift his spirits a bit.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled softly at that, “it will be nice to celebrate our birthdays, it was nice that we got to celebrate at the safe house but it will be nice to celebrate together” he said softly as thought back to just those few short weeks ago when Danny and Becker had gotten caught as they were planning to celebrate their birthdays, "I do like the sound of Christmas and New Years together," he said quietly as stayed close to Connor.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I like the sound of it too. And I know it... it's a bad thing really, but... maybe we can find a way to make the house arrest more tolerable. Make it like... a stay-at-home vacation or something" Connor said as he nuzzled closer to Cutter and closed his eyes. He knew there was a lot to plan and prepare for and that the doctors and Lester would be by soon most likely, but he wanted to just take the time to enjoy this moment and the fact he was with Cutter and that no one was going to be coming after them now.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter snuggled in close to Connor, wrapping his arm around him tightly feeling comforted by his presence. "I do like the sound of that and we'll still be able to teach at least and I can help you with your classes as well," he offered quietly and he did briefly wonder if he was still going to be able to work on the Anomaly Prediction Model that he had started to set up in his apartment but he was going to focus on that later, right now he wanted to focus on just this moment that he had with Connor and enjoy the peace and quiet that they could.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Definitely. And being able to teach still will help break up the week. And even if we can't go anywhere, we can still have people come over and visit too!"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter gave a small smile at that, "that doesn't sound so bad, if we do all those things together, help make the days not seem so long," he said quietly, "I ... I'm just glad that I can do this with you and we don't have to do it alone,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I know. As bad as any of this is... it would be ten times worse having to do it alone. I'm glad Lester was able to work this out for us."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I'm glad he did to, having James be there for us has really helped," Cutter said softly, "I don't want to even think about where we would be right now without him," Then Lester turned up to the medical bay just then, "you're both awake," he said softly, "how are you feeling now?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor was about to say something when Lester and walked in. "Lester hey" he said with a weak smile. "It's.... I feel better than I did. I think the shock of everything is wearing off a bit at last."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I'm about the same," Cutter admitted, "still can't quite believe that this is real," "I know this is a lot for you both to take in," Lester said softly, "but we'll be behind you every step of the way with the process and getting you set up, as I said early your house arrest won't begin until the new year, so you have some time to get as much of your affairs in order as possible and we'll outline what is expected of you. We can go over those now if you're feeling up to it?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Might as well" Connor said simply as he looked over to make sure Cutter was ok with it. "Putting it off wont make it not happen, right?" he said trying to sound more optimistic about it than he might have felt just then. "What... what all will we have to do... or not do I guess is the better way to phrase it?" he asked as he looked back at Lester, subconsciously giving Cutter's hand a squeeze as he did.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter returned the hand squeeze, he wasn’t sure what to expect and he couldn’t help but feel nervous as he looked up at James. “First of all, you’ll both be fitted with an ankle monitor that you need to wear at all times, even in the shower,” Lester began, “we’ll be giving you instructions on how they work, they’re fairly sensitive equipment and you’ll need to check in with us everyday but I think you’ll like this one, I’ve asked Captain Becker to be your liaison and he’ll report back to the Minister on a weekly basis,” he told them, stopping to see how they were taking these instructions so far.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"That…seems doable" Connor said, still feeling nervous about the ankle monitor bit, But he did relax and even smiled when he heard they would be reporting in to Becker and not someone from the Ministry itself. "It'll be easier dealing with someone we already know.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"That wouldn't be too bad if Becker's the one we report to," Cutter said softly, "is ... how do we um ..." he looked up at Connor and then back at Lester, "how do you need us to plead to the charges?" "I have formal written documents that I need you to sign, these will outline the conditions of your house arrest and what will happen if these conditions are not met," Lester said softly, "I can get one of the ARC's lawyers to come in and go over them with you so that you understand your legal rights in all of this?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Might be good... even if just so... so we know what to do if Christine tries something.. or so we don't accidentally do something to void the agreement" Connor said softly as he gave Cutter's hand a small squeeze.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter bit his lip and nodded, returning the small hand squeeze, "I think meeting with the lawyer would be helpful too, before we sign anything," he agreed. Lester nodded, "very well," he said softly, "I'll get the lawyer to come in and formally go over your terms and what's expected and he'll make sure you understand what you're signing, I know this is a lot to take in but you'll have the support from me and the ARC every step of the way," he assured them.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"That…seems doable" Connor said, still feeling nervous about the ankle monitor bit, But he did relax and even smiled when he heard they would be reporting in to Becker and not someone from the Ministry itself. "It'll be easier dealing with someone we already know.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"That wouldn't be too bad if Becker's the one we report to," Cutter said softly, "is ... how do we um ..." he looked up at Connor and then back at Lester, "how do you need us to plead to the charges?" "I have formal written documents that I need you to sign, these will outline the conditions of your house arrest and what will happen if these conditions are not met," Lester said softly, "I can get one of the ARC's lawyers to come in and go over them with you so that you understand your legal rights in all of this?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor looked down at his hands for a moment then back to Lester. "Thank you. For... everything Lester. I don't want to think about what this would be like if... if it weren't for you and the ARC. Thank you for saving us from Christine and Wilder."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter was trying very hard to not think about what it would have been like either, they'd both probably be in Christine's black site right now, he shivered at the thought and was very grateful that he was still with Connor and they were both safe from Christine and Wilder. "Thank you James," he said softly as he stayed as close to Connor as he could. "You're both welcome," Lester said softly, "I'm sorry that I wasn't able to do more but I can promise you that Christine and Wilder aren't going to hurt you again,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"You've done more than anyone else could have. Thank you James" Connor said as he gave a small sigh and laid his head back against the pillows. “At least we’ve already moved into my flat so the two of us don’t have to set anything up when we go back to Fandom,” he said quietly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"You're welcome," Lester said softly, "I'll go and ask the lawyer to come down and meet with you and we can look into getting the monitors fitted, they won't be activated until the new year but it will save you have to make repeated trips back and forth," he assured them and then he was gone. Cutter was relieved that they had already sorted living arrangements before everything had happened with Christine, “that’s true, we can focus on getting the last things set up before the house arrest begins,” he said softly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Yeah it will be good, the two of staying together and we’ll have Rexy as well." Connor gave a small smile to Cutter.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter returned that small smile, “aye it will be nice being with you and Rex, house arrest won’t be so bad if we’’re all together,” he said softly, he was still nervous about house arrest but he knew that everything would be alright as long as he was with Connor
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	”It’ll be nice.... getting the flat set up and being together,”. At least we get along right and won't be at each other's throats the entire time?" he said with a small shy laugh of his own. It was odd in a way to think of how much things had changed, for the better in most ways, between them. And even so this would still be a lot of time spending together and Connor was glad it was at least happening now and not when things were still so hard and painful and awkward between them.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled at that, "at least they waited for a few months before they decided to spring this on all of us," he added, "but I'm glad that we're both in a much better place, aside from the fact we'll be under house arrest, it will be nice to be together for it, it will help make it go by more quickly,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	""Definitely. I mean there's no such thing as a 'good time' fro this to have happened but now is definitely better than earlier" Connor admitted with a small grin. "So think we should start trying to figure out what all we need? Make some use of the time we have stuck here in the med bay for a few more days?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter returned the grin, "yeah, I mean I'd rather we not have to plead guilty to treason but returning to Fandom is definitely the lesser of two evils," he said softly and nodded, "I think that's a good idea, we can make a list of what we need and when we get back to Fandom, we can stock up at T&C," he considered.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Right and Im sure we can coordinate deliveries too since we cant go out and do any shopping and such" Connor said as he grabbed some paper and a pen and started making their list. "Lester had mentioned helping with getting us stocked up so, having a list will be helpful for him too I am sure."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	For the first time in a long time Cutter began to relax at that, they were going to be okay, they were going to get through this and they would come out even stronger after this. He settled down and started to go over the list of things that they needed.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	It had been a couple of days since Cutter and Connor had ended up the ARC's medical bay and Cutter was already bored, he was just thankful that he got to stay with Connor in his bed. He was still in pain but he wasn't tired and he was getting rather restless but he was trying to not disturb Connor. Maybe he could get up and just walk around the hospital room? He began to sat up and then slowly and very carefully began to climb out of bed.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Cutter was doing a good job of trying not to disturb Connor. And under normal conditions Connor would have been sleeping like a rock and not registering a thing. But even with the pain med, Connor still was finding it hard to sleep much. "Nick... what the bloody hell do you think you are doing?" he asked as he started at Cutter with a look of half disbelief half resignation. He really should have expected as much, shouldn't he?
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter trembled as he feet made contact with the ground, "I need to get up," he whispered softly, "I don't want to stay in the bed anymore," He really should have expected It, the fact it had taken Cutter this long to try and climb out of bed was probably a miracle in itself.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Nick.." Connor said gently as he looked at him. "Why don't we call someone and they can help? At least let someone be here to help if you need it?" Connor understood the desire to get out of bed- he was getting restless too. But he didn't want Cutter hurting himself.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter hesitated, "what if they won't let me out of the bed?" he asked quietly, "I ... I they might insist that I stay in the bed," he bit his lip.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I think there's a better chance of you convincing someone to let you up for a bit of they are here to help" Connor said softly. "We've been doing better with the recovery, and getting up would be good, but it might be easier - for everyone- if we asknad have someone help. we could walk around the room a little and maybe sit in the chairs for a little while?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter hesitated, he knew that Connor was right and after a few minutes he finally climbed back into bed, wincing a little at the effort that was taking. "Okay," he said softly, "we can call someone and ask for help," he agreed.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye, let's just rest a bit more then we will call. I'm sure they will be fine with helping us get up- walking around and moving is part of the recovery process and all right?" Connor said with a grin as he put an arm around Cutter's shoulder and gave him a gentle squeeze.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Okay, resting sounds like a good idea," Cutter agreed as he leaned against Connor, "I'm sorry for trying to get out of bed, I wasn't trying to leave you," he said softly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Nothing to apologize for Nick" Connor said softly as he rubbed Cutter's back. "I don't like being stuck in bed... again... either. But I think letting the nurse or someone else help or at least be here in the room is good. it'll make it easier." He grinned and gave Cutter a gentle nudge. "Besides having someone here means we can show them how good we are doing and maybe we can get out of here sooner?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter hesitated, "what if they won't let me out of the bed?" he asked quietly, "I ... I they might insist that I stay in the bed," he bit his lip.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I think there's a better chance of you convincing someone to let you up for a bit of they are here to help" Connor said softly. "We've been doing better with the recovery, and getting up would be good, but it might be easier - for everyone- if we asknad have someone help. we could walk around the room a little and maybe sit in the chairs for a little while?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter managed to smile at that, leaning into that touch, "I do like the sound of that," he agreed, "okay we show someone how good we're doing when they help us out of the bed and we can sit on the chairs,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and then looked towards the door just as the nurse came in to check on them. Connor asked about getting out of the bed and the nurse just kind of stared at them in surprise... it WAS Connor and Cutter after all, they had a bit of a reputation with this sort of thing! "I think if you two are feeling up for it we can move you to the chairs for a bit" she said with a small, almost relieved smile. "Would be good to get out of the bed. Will make it easier to see your visitors as well" she added with a grin.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter grinned at the nurse being told they could move to the chairs and also feeling relieved that he had waited before he had tried to climb out of the bed and then he perked up at the mention of visitors, "who's visiting us?" he asked eagerly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor also perked up at that as he looked at the door to try and see if someone was out in the hallway. "I think a couple of your team members were stopping by with a s special visitor" the nurse said as he started to help Cutter out of the bed, letting him stand and get his bearings and then letting him walk on his own as much as he could over to the chairs. "But I think you are going to enjoy the visit" she said with a grin as she got Cutter situated and then went to help Connor get up as well.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter got comfortable in his chair after the nurse had helped him over, "oh I wonder who the special visitor is," he asked with a grin over at Connor, even though he did begin to have an idea of who it could be and he was definitely looking forward to it.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Oh a visitor would be nice" Connor said as he got comfortable as well. "I think I might have an idea who it is." "Well, we will see how right the two of you are in a little while" the nurse said with a fond grin. "I will go let them know you are ready. And with that she slipped out into the hallway.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled warmly as he looked over at Connor, "it was definitely easier having someone help us in the chair," he admitted, "it will be nice to have visitors," he looked over at the door to see if they were there yet.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded in agreement and tried to look out the door. his curiously really keen when he heard the ooohs and awwwwws coming from the nurses in the hallway. "What in the world...." he muttered and then stopped, a huge smile spreading across his face as Rex came scampering into the room. "Rexy!" Connor exclaimed excitedly when he saw Rex. He knew either Abby or Connor was there too but sorry guys, Rex took the priority just then.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Rex you've come to visit us," Connor smiled, Rex was definitely the best kind of visitor ... sorry Abby and Connor, he was excited to see you too, but Rex definitely took priority, "have you missed us Rex?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Rex stopped between Cutter and Connor and looked up at them chirping happily. He then jumped up into Connor's lap and nuzzled his hand. "Hey mate. Missed ya like crazy" Connor said as he scratched Rexy's head. "Definitely far too quiet with you around."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Thank you for visiting us Rex," Cutter added as he reached over and began to give Rex some much needed pats, "you were definitely missed by everyone,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Always good to see ya that's for sure" Connor said as he gave Rex a few more scritches. With a happy chirp, Rex shook himself and jumped over into Cutter's lap, nuzzling his hand as he settled down quite comfortably in his lap. "I think it's safe to say he missed us too!" Connor said with a grin.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled as Rex flew into his lap and he let Rex nuzzle against his hand and he began to give him some head scritches, "oh he's definitely missed us, that was quite the welcome Rex thank you, have you and the other Rex been getting into mischief while we were gone?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Oh they have been getting into all kinds of mischief and keeping us on our toes" Abby said as she stood in the doorway watching them with a grin. "Oh hey Abby!" Connor said, finally acknowledging she was there with a somewhat shy and awkward smile.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"Rex you've come to visit us," Connor smiled, Rex was definitely the best kind of visitor ... sorry Abby and Connor, he was excited to see you too, but Rex definitely took priority, "have you missed us Rex?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Rex stopped between Cutter and Connor and looked up at them chirping happily. He then jumped up into Connor's lap and nuzzled his hand. "Hey mate. Missed ya like crazy" Connor said as he scratched Rexy's head. "Definitely far too quiet with you around."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled warmly as he saw Abby standing in the doorway, he kept giving Rex scritches as he did, "hey Abby, its really good to see you," he said, "I'd get up but I've been told that's a really bad idea," he said a little sheepishly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Good to see you both too" Abby said as she walked in. She walked over and gave Cutter a quick kiss on the top of his head and reached out to ruffle Connor's playfully. "Hey where's my kiss?" Connor said with a teasing laugh. "Cutter's more handsome than you" Abby said simply though she couldn't keep the grin off her face. "Oi, better not let your Connor hear you talking like that" Connor said with a laugh.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter found himself blushing at that and oh look Rex definitely needed all the pets and scritches right then, "hey Connor," he finally managed once he was pretty sure his cheeks couldn't go any redder, "its really good to see both of you, how have you been holding up?"
Connor(thearcfamily)	"It's been an adventure that's for sure. But we're here, in one piece. And not in hospital so... I don't think we got much room to complain" he said with a small smile. "You two doing alright, all things considered? It's way too quiet at the ARC with ya around to help pester Lester!"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter grinned at that, "I'm sure you did you're best to annoy Lester while we were gone," and then he looked over at Connor and then back to his Connor, "and I think we're doing the best we can considering the circumstances, I didn't think we'd end up back in hospital this year that's for sure,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Yeah, I mean... it's not ideal by any means but we are here and we're on the mend so that's a good thing" Connor said with a nod. "We'll be back soon enough and it will be like old times again." Connor knew that things were never going to be able to be exactly like they were before but he was not going to focus on that right now. Just then Rex gave a small chirp and looked at Connor and then gave Cutter's hand a gentle nuzzle before gliding back over to Connor. His favourite human definitely needed some Rexy nuzzles. "Hey there boy, come back to see me huh?" Connor smiled as he gave Rex some scratches and pets.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter was trying to not think about how much things were going to change, especially now that he would be forever publicly known as a traitor but he knew that couldn't be changed now. What mattered was that he was with his team and Christine was gone for now and they would be able to get back to Fandom soon. He smiled as he watched Rex with Connor, "he definitely missed you," he said with a fond smile as he watched them.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"And I missed him too! Glad he's doing good, was worried about him with everything going on.Thanks for taking such good care of him guys" he said to Abby and Connor with a small smile. "Of course guys" Abby said with a fond smile as she watched Rex with them."Rex is one of the best members of the team," she said with a teasing grin as she looked at Cutter and Connor. "Of course we are going to make sure he's taken care of!"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter couldn't help but laugh at that, "aye that he is, aren't you Rex?" he said fondly as he watched Rex and Connor, he leaned back in his chair, "but thank you, Abby for everything you and Connor did for James and the ARC, even though it was such a big risk for you staying here, I hope Christine wasn't too hard on you,"
Abby(thearcfamily)	"She tried but she found out quickly the team wasn't backing down" Abby said with a small smile. "It was a little rough there for a bit, and we were all really worried about you guys, but we knew what Christine was up to and that we had to stick together and do whatever we could to stop her or at least stall her till Lester could figure things out.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter returned the small smile, "thank you for hanging in there, for being there for us here," he said softly, "I missed you while we were at the safe house," he added.
Connor(thearcfamily)	"We missed you all too" Connor said. "It was really odd being apart like that and for so long. It's different when you guys are just away in Fandom or something. This whole thing with Christine was just... a mess. I'm glad things are starting to calm down though... and most of all we are glad you guys are all on the mend."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter smiled at both Abby and Connor, "it felt different for us too," he said, "and I know we'll both be returning to Fandom but once the house arrest is done we'll come over and visit and we'll call as often as we can," he promised.
Abby(thearcfamily)	"We're definitely keeping in touch!" Abby assured them. "The house arrest time will pass and be done before you know it" she said encouragingly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter gave a smile, "and then we'll be back and hopefully it won't be so chaotic as it has been these last few months," he said, trying to feel optimistic that this really was the turning corner and that after this year they could really settle down with the team and divide their time between Fandom and the ARC and not have to worry about Helen or Christine. "I know James said it will take a while for us to get out clearance back but hopefully once that's sorted and house arrest is finished, we can come back and help you guys again,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"And we’re still going to be doing everything we can until then to help where we can" Connor agreed. "We've gotten this far together and were going to keep going no matter what!"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter gave a smile at that, “aye,” he agreed, “we’re going to keep fighting, after all this we’re not letting Christine win,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor looked around and nodded, smiling as Rex gave a chirp of agreement. "We'll figure it out and get back on track. We've come through hard times before- we can do it again!" Connor felt confident in that thought here was still so much uncertainty about everything. He knew no matter what happened they would get through it as long as they stuck together.