The ARC - London

[itsananomaly]

A couple more days in the hospital and they'd finally been given the all clear to head back to Fandom. It would still take a bit of time before they fully recovered but they were now right to return to Fandom and get everything set up before their house arrest began. They had to be fitted with their monitoring devices. Cutter was rather nervous as he waited with Connor in Lester's office, after this they would be saying goodbye to everyone and heading back to Connor's flat to get set up, "I can't believe we're going back to Fandom," he said softly. [and we're nearly at the end of the plot. Adapted in parts from Series 3 Episode 6 'For the Birds'. Preplayed with the amazing anomaly_research_nerd. NFB for distance but OOC welcome!]

Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	'I know. Wish it was under better circumstances but yes it will be good to get back home" Connor sad as he shifted nervously. "Not looking forward to saying goodbye to everyone though."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I know what you mean, I got used to everyone being around at the safe house, I know we couldn't stay there indefinitely but it was nice being with them, the circumstances being what they were," Cutter sighed, "at least we still have a few weeks before we have to officially go on house arrest,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Yeah and it's not the same but we can always video calls with the gang so we can still see them and all" Connor suggested as he started nervously fiddling with the zipper on his jacket as they waited for Lester. "I'm sure Danny can tease and poke just as easily over a video stream" he added with a laugh.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter couldn't help but laugh at that, as he tried to stop his legs from fidgeting so much, he hoped that Lester wasn't going to be too much longer, they had already signed the official house arrest agreement, they just needed to be fitted with the ankle monitor now, "oh I'm sure that if anyone can do teasing and poking over a video stream its Danny," he smiled fondly. He really was going to miss everyone.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded and smiled as he nervously glanced at the door and waited for Lester. true to his word Lester had been there with them through it all. Connor knew they were going to be ok. He just wanted this bit over and done with.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	It wasn't too much longer and then Lester turned up with the ministry official who was going to be fitting their ankle bracelets, "sorry to keep you both waiting," he apologised as he took a seat, "how are you both feeling?" "Nervous," Cutter admitted as he put his hands on his knees to try and stop them from shaking.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Same" Connor admitted, the butterflies in his stomach suddenly taking off not that this was actually happening. "Will.. be glad to get this part over, honestly", he said, trying to keep himself from fidgeting in the chair too much.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"It won't take long at all for this process," Lester assured them as the ministry official sat down and began to work on fitting both of them with their ankle monitors. "it will take a few moments and then we'll give you the instructions on how the monitor will work in regards to keeping it safe and clean," Cutter tried to keep as still as possible but as that monitor went around his ankle, he couldn't help but wince a little at how real this was and that his life was never going to be the same again. He closed his eyes as the final adjustments were made.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded as he watched Cutter getting fitted. He reached out and gave his hand a gentle squeeze when he saw Cutter wince slightly. He was feeling nervous and unsure of all this himself but he still wanted to be there and support Cutter as much as he could.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter was grateful for the hand squeeze and he took a deep breath and opened his eyes looking at Connor, not quite trusting himself to speak just then but he wanted Connor to know he that he appreciated the support and he wanted to be able to be there for Connor as well. He gave a small smile and squeezed Connor's hand back.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor watched and a short time later Cutter was done and the ministry official shifted over to him. "How... how's it feel?' he asked softly as he looked at Cutter and then to Lester for a moment before they started working on his own monitor.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"It feels heavy," Cutter admitted as he held on to Connor's hand to give him the same comfort that he had had given him, "which is rather strange because it isn't that large," he considered as he lifted his foot to test it gingerly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Probably cuz there's a lot packed in there" Connor said simply as he watched his own monitor get fitted and strapped into place. It felt odd, and he couldn't help the small shiver that ran through him as he heard it fasten into place. When it was in place he lifted his leg to get a better look at it.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I guess so," Cutter said softly, he didn't like how the monitor felt on his ankle but he knew it would only be for a few months, he could put up with it for that long, he looked up at Connor, "how does yours feel?" he asked.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Feels heavy... and weird" he said simply as he looked at it a bit then dropped his leg back down. "But it's not as bad as I was expecting really. it... it will be ok" he said trying to sound confident and reassuring, for both Cutter and himself.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"As soon as your house arrest ends, they will be removed," Lester promised them, "you don't have to wear them for a minute longer than you need to," "Thank you James," Cutter said quietly, as he looked back over at Connor, "at least we can both do this together right?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Aye, doing it together will make it all a lot easier" Connor agreed. "The time will pass, it's not permanent. We can do this" Connor then looked over to Lester to see what else they would need to do while the monitors were on.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, taking deep breaths as he tried to tell himself that this would be fine, he was with Connor they could do this. Lester looked at both Connor and Cutter, "so the first thing to keep in mind while the monitors are on in is that you will need to protect them while they're near water, I would advise against swimming during this time but you can still shower okay, just keep it covered while you do," he told them, "and it goes without saying that these are very sensitive equipment, I know the temptation will be great but please don't tamper with them," the warning was clear in his eyes but Lester knew that he wouldn't put it past Connor and Cutter to try and tamper with the monitors at least once.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded giving Lol ester a somewhat sheepish grin. "Ok, protect them when showering and dont mess with them. Got it" he said with a sincere nod. He wanted Lester and the ministry official to both know they were serious about this arrangement.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter also looked a bit sheepish at that, he didn't know a lot about the technology but he had a feeling at some point he and Connor were going to need to get out of the flat for something more than teaching but he kept his expression as serious as he could and he nodded to show that he understood. "I understand as well," he nodded and then the ministry official finished packing up and. said goodbye before leaving Lester alone with Cutter and Connor. "I understand your portal is later this evening," he said, "is there anything you would still like me to get for you so you can take it back to Fandom?"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"I know you are still working on getting our security clearance reinstated" Connor said softly once they were alone. " other than the things we likely cant access yet i think we are good . Maybe.... Becker can bring some things with him now and then if hes able to get a portal over, even just once a month or something?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	“It will still take some time to work on that, especially with the treason charges but I’ll get you your security clearances, by the time your house arrest is finished, I’ll be able to get them reinstated,” Lester promised, “and I’ll see what we can do, I may be able to make exceptions and have one of you be able to check in with Captain Becker on the mainland,” he told them, “and that way Captain Becker can also bring over any additional supplies at those check ins,” “Thank you James,” Cutter said softly, “that will really help us if we can still meet in person, even if its just one of us doing the checkin,”
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor nodded. He never thought there would be a time where they would have to almost beg to get to meet with Becker in person. But he knew what Lester had fought through to get them what they had and he would be eternally thankfu. "Whatever you can manage...you have done so much to help us Lester. I don't think I am ever going to be able to thank you enough."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I'm sorry you have to go through this at all but I will make sure your house arrest is a painless as possible," Lester promised, "you're both strong, I know if anyone can get through this its you," Cutter trembled at that, he felt tears began to build in his eyes, he hated that they had to do this but he knew that they would get through this together. "We're going to get through this James," he said softly, "and once we get our security clearances back we'll be able to fight back against Christine and Wilder once and for all,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor still hated how unfair it was, that they had to plead tt he charges at all and that Cutter couldn't et his record sealed like had been able to get his. But as unfair as it was and as angry as Connor still felt about it all, he knew this was the best they could have hoped for and he was determined to not squander this after all they had been through and all Lester and the team had done to keep them safe and try and protect them from Christine. "We'll get through this and come back better than ever and put a stop to Christine once and for all!"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Lester nodded, "we will need all the help we can get to bring them down, we will keep doing what we can from here but we will be stronger together," he said softly. Cutter nodded, "at least it will only be a few months and Connor and I can come up with a plan in Fandom, at least that's one safe place from Christine and Wilder," he said softly.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"And we can keep in touch and everything so even if we are in lockdown we don't have to cut off all contact" Connor said as he resisted the urge to reach down and fiddle with the ankle monitor. It was definitely going to take some getting used to.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Lester nodded, "it doesn't matter what time of the day or night, someone will be at the ARC if you do want to reach out for support," he said gently, "you're still both a very important part of this team and as soon as your security clearances are returned, I'll be able to loop you in on day to day ARC operations," "Thank you James," Cutter said softly as he tried to avoid looking down at the ankle monitor, he tried to hide the ankle that it was on behind his other leg so he could pretend to not look down at it, "that will mean a lot, still being able to be in contact and eventually be able to help out with the ARC, even if its behind the scenes at first,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor looked up from where he had been staring at the ankle monitor and nodded, letting out a shaky breath. "I... we... thank you Lester. It means a lot, knowing the team still cares and is still there. It... will make this all easier." He took another shaky breath. "So is that it then? We got what we need moved to Fandom already. These things are on" he said with a slight bound of his leg. "All that's left I guess are the goodbyes?" which he was not looking forward to at all.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I guess it is just goodbyes left," Cutter said softly, he was also not looking forward to saying goodbye, he had really gotten used to being around the team but at least this time after they got back things should be more normal. At least as close to normal as this place got. Lester nodded, "I'll let the others know they can come in now," he said softly and spoke into his earpiece, a few minutes later the team were at the door.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Of all the things that were so odd and different now with everything the one thing Connor didn't think he would ever get used to was that they couldn't be allowed around the ARC like before and they had to be supervised and so severely limited on where they were allowed to go. Connor pushed that down as he looked towards the door and gave a smile as the team walked in. "Hey guys" he said softly. "Guess its finally time huh?" Damnit why was there a lump in his throat all of a sudden?
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Jenny was the first to come in and give them hugs, "we're going to be in touch the entire time," she assured them, "James will get your clearance back before you know it and you'll be able to still help us out with research from your flat," she told them, "you're still very important members of the team," Cutter's hand instantly went to the dog tags that he wore around his neck and he felt reassured by that as he gave Jenny a tight hug, "thank you Jenny," he said softly, "that means a lot,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor hugged Jenny tightly trying to keep back the tears he already felt in his eyes. "I'll keep ya posted on how our research goes" he said "and will send ya updates when we are able." reluctantly Connor let go of Jenny and sniffed back the tears for the moment, grateful he had as he tried to keep the tears at bay when Abby and Cutter's Connor walked in next. "You both are going to get through this. I know you both are stubborn enough to take this licking and keep on going" Abby said as he gave them both hugs. "And don't you worry about us, we'll keep each other in line till you get back" Connor added with a nod. "Thanks, makes it easier knowing the team is still here and holding down the fort. I'll make sure to send ya both all the pics and videos of Rex that I can till we can get back for a proper visit" Connor said, his voice cracking a bit as he gave Abby and Connor hugs.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter hugged Abby and his Connor tightly, "take care, both of you," he said softly, "we'll be back before you know it, you can't ... you can't get rid of us that easily," his voice broke a little as he tried to make a joke but failed rather miserably, he could feel tears start to build in his eyes and he blinked them away.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor reached out and put a hand on Cutter's shoulder and gave him a gentle squeeze. He looked at the door as Sarah was the next to walk in. This was getting harder and harder, knowing who was still left to come through the door and how hard it was going to be to get through those final goodbyes. Connor couldn't say anything and just reached out and pulled Sarah close, all the memories of what they had been through in the short time she had been a part of the team running through his mind. "Thank you Sarah, for... for everything" he said as he felt the tears start to fall.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter felt reassured by the hand on his shoulder and he raised his hand to place on Connor's to let him know that he was grateful for the comforting gesture, with tears now running down his cheeks it was his turn to say goodbye to Sarah and he gave her a massive hug, "thank you for everything, for your help with the anomaly prediction model, for looking after us at the safe house ... thank you," "I'll keep researching Professor," Sarah assured him as she hugged him, "I'll keep you updated with what I find,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor took a shaky breath as he tried to calm down some. He knew who was likely to come through that door next, and he wasn't sure how he was going to handle this goodbye. Danny had become like the big brother he never had- annoying and teasing but also there when he needed advice or help. He would miss everyone of course, but Connor felt like being cut off from Danny was going to be one of the worst parts of this whole arrangement. As bloody annoying as he could be, he admired and respected then man and knew he was going to miss him terribly.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter could see how much this was hurting Connor and he reached out his hand towards his shoulder and like Connor had done for him, gave it a reassuring squeeze. He knew how close Connor had gotten to Danny these last few weeks and he wanted to give Connor extra time to say goodbye to Danny before he said goodbye.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"Hey Danny I..." Connor bit his lip as was trembling looking over at Danny. There was so much he wanted to say and to tell him but he couldn't. So Connor did the next best thing and threw his arms around Danny and hugged him tightly as the tears finally started to fall unhindered. "Thank you, Danny... for... for everything..." Danny smiled as he returned the hug and gave Connor a gentle yet playful ruffle of his hair. "Anytime Connor" he said gently. "And don't think just cuz you are stepping away for a bit don't think I am going to go easy on ya when you guys get back. We still got those shooting range lessons to get to" he said with a smile as he gave Connor a reassuring nod when he finally let go. Connor just nodded and wiped at the tears in his eyes. "Wouldn't... miss it for anything... thank you Danny, truly... for everything." Danny nodded and gave a small wink as he turned to Cutter. "And you keep yourself out of trouble ok? Save that for when I am the one who'll get chewed out for it alright?"
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Despite how everything had turned out, Cutter knew that his team were in good hands with Danny and he leaned over to Danny to give him a hug, "we'll do our best," he managed, "please take care of the team and yourself," he said softly. "I will," Danny assured him, "and the same goes for both of you," he looked back over at Connor, "please look after yourselves,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor took a shuddering breath as he nodded, still trying to wipe away the tears as he looked around at everyone in the room. His gaze stopped on Lester and he gave a small smile even through the tears. "You know you are gonna miss us Lester" he said with what ended up being a half laugh and a half sob.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Despite himself Lester did manage a small smile at that, "honestly its going to be rather dull without the two of you here, the ARC is empty without both of you," he told them, "if there's anything that you both need, don't hesitate to reach out to me and I'll make sure that Becker gets it to you," "Thank you James for everything you've done, we couldn't have gotten through this without you," Cutter trembled softly as he tried to wipe back his tears.
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	"We wouldn't be here without any of you... but especially you Lester." and then without warning, Connor stepped towards Lester and before he had a chance to resist Connor had him in a firm hug. "Thank you.. for everything"..."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Lester had not been expecting the hug and he held his arms out awkwardly for a few moments before he began to return the hug. "You're welcome Connor," he said softly, "please take care of yourselves and try to hang in there," he looked over at Cutter, "I mean it, don't be afraid to call in even if you just want to talk," "We will James," Cutter said softly, "thank you,"
Connor(anomaly_research_nerd)	Connor looked around the room again once he had finally let go of Lester. He knew it wasn't final, that they would be able to come back, but it still felt like they were saying goodbye in a way. "We... we'll keep in touch. I promise"he said as he looked at the people who had come to be like family to him. "See you all soon" he said trying to sound more hopeful than he felt as his eyes went to the door where Becker was standing waiting for them. He was there so it meant it was time to go wait for their Portal back to Fandom.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter took a deep breath, "thank you, everyone for being there for us and we'll definitely be in touch," it felt weird that they were leaving this way but he knew it was only going to be for a few months and then they would be back, he took a deep breath as he walked over to Becker, "I guess this is it," he said softly.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker gave a soft smile as he nodded. "Afraid so, we got less than an hour till the portal is scheduled and we don't want to miss it." He knew how hard this was for Nick and Connor and he wanted to do whatever he could to help. And as much as it hurt, he knew from experience with painful goodbyes that getting them over and done and getting away usually made it a little more tolerable at least. "We'll check in when we get there Sir" he said to Lester and I will also update once Nick and Connor are on their way safely."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, "I'm ready," he said softly with one last look back at his ... no it wasn't his team anymore it was Danny's but it still felt weird that he was saying goodbye like this, facing an uncertain future with everything going on, but as sad as it was to say goodbye it would be nice to get back to Fandom and start getting settled in with Connor for their house arrest.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"Ready too" Connor said softly as he put an arm around Cutter and gave him a hug as they started to follow Becker down the hall towards the parking garage. It wasn't long before they were on their way, the ride not a long one though it was fairly quiet as Becker drove them to the arranged spot to catch their portal back to Fandom. "We're here" Becker said when they arrived and got out of the car and looked around as his men took their usual positions. Becker was not about to let his guard down with everything going on.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	"I can't believe that we're nearly home after all this," Cutter said softly as they got out of the car, "thank you Becker, for everything, we couldn't have done this without your support,"
Becker(thearcfamily)	"It's what a team... no... a family does. We help each other" Becker said softly as he looked at Cutter and Connor with a fond smile. "And we all are going to help you get through this." He helped them get the last of their bags out of back of the truck as they waited. "So, once this all gets officially kicked off after New Years, we'll have a quick video call once a day. Just a couple minutes, enough to document you both are at the apartment and to check in that everything is ok. We are of course free to talk as long as you want and about anything you want, but that is minimum required for the check ins."
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter nodded, finding himself blinking back tears again, "thank you Becker," he took a deep breath, "that ... I think we can both do that, that ... that doesn't sound to bad, I ... I think we would both like to be able to talk longer some days," he said, knowing that it was going to help being able to talk to members of the team.
Becker(thearcfamily)	"We'll talk for as long as you want" Becker assured them. "And you of course are free to call me or anyone else at the ARC anytime, not just our scheduled check-ins. Remember, we're family, and there's always a place for you both here"he said with a nod towards the dog tags. Just then the portal appeared and Becker gave a small nod. "Well your's ride's here" he said as his voice went a little soft. "You both take care of yourselves you hear?" he said as he turned to Connor and held out his hand. Connor looked at him and then threw his arms around Becker and hugged him tightly. Becker figured that was what would happen and he returned the hug with a smile. "Thank you Becker... for everything... for always being there" Connor said as he was unable to fight back the tears. "No where I'd rather be" Becker replied, rubbing Connor's back as he let go.
Cutter(itsananomaly)	Cutter couldn't the tears from falling down his cheeks as he stepped up to stay goodbye to Becker, "thank you for everything Becker," he said softly, "and we'll stay in touch not just for the checkins and we'll be back at the ARC before you know it," he trembled as he reached over to give Becker a hug.
Becker(thearcfamily)	Becker held Cutter close and gave his back a gentle pat before letting go, his eyes getting misty with tears he was fighting back himself. "Alright, you two better get going before you miss your portal. We will be in touch soon" he said as he stood and watched the two of them head off, disappearing from sight. "Ok let's pack it up boys" he said once the portal had closed and he knew they were safely back in Fandom. "Time to head back to the ARC." Becker nodded to his men and then turned and tried to discretely wipe the tears away from his eyes as he headed back towards the truck.