Chapter 18 – Adding a Cuckoo to the N.E.S.T

As we drove back towards my apartment in downtown Diego Garcia, I wondered what was going to become of me. Like a lot of other people, I had watched the movies where civilians who knew something they shouldn't about the Government were taken away to be interrogated for hours or days at a time. Beaten and tortured to within an inch of their lives at the hands of madmen bent on turning them to their will.

I swallowed down rising bile at the thought of what might happen to me. No matter what though, one thing was for sure. I was NEVER going to do anything to put my family at risk, especially Prime.

As the scenery whipped by and we rapidly approached our destination, I reflected back on that fateful night at Turtle Cove when we both allowed ourselves to be vulnerable in front of each other. Since then, Prime and I had grown closer, developing a deep mutual respect and understanding towards each other.

While Jazz was perhaps my best friend within the Autobots, Prime was /something more, something special/ the thought coalesced in my mind even as I consciously thought about it. I didn't get a chance to pursue that thought any further though as I heard the passenger in the front seat, the one who had handcuffed me and confronted Lennox, answer his phone.

''Sir! Are you sure? We have the woman in our custody right now enroute to her dwelling.'' There was a pause, and I could see his jaw clench in annoyance. ''Yes Sir. Understood.'' The last word seemed to be wrenched from his lips as though he was fighting to obey the direct command he had been given.

Without a word, the large SUV was hastily turned around and pointed back in the direction we had just come from. A snarky, irritated voice was directed to me from the front seat, ''So, looks like it is your lucky day Orianna. Isn't it nice to have friends in high places?'' He turned to face me after asking the rhetorical question, as if wanting a reply. He then looked me up and down, in a twisted menacing, leering manner before saying, ''I'm not sure what talents you have used to make these friends and influence them, but it seems they have worked in your favour.'' He held an ugly sneer on what would have otherwise been considered a handsome face to most people.

''I hope it rots,'' was my simple reply.

He fixed me with a confused stare and blinked once, ''Hope what rots?''

I adopted my best blank expression and levelled my gaze at him, ''Whatever it is that crawled up your arse and died today.''

I heard a light snicker from the man driving the car which was enough to send ''G.I. Joe'' into apoplexy. ''Who the FUCK do you think you are? You are nothing but a freak and a stuck-up bitch and I guarantee you, one day you'll get yours you piece of shit.''

I could feel anger rising in me, along with a healthy dose of defiance. ''Your little robot friends and that pansy Lennox won't always be around to protect you and when they aren't,'' he laughed in a low, disturbing chuckle, ''THAT'S when you'll be taken down.''

I fixed him with an icy stare, ''Are you threatening me arsehole?''

He stared at me a moment longer. ''Oh, I don't make threats. I make promises,'' his eyes held a wildness to them, and I could tell even the driver of the car was questioning his sanity.

I should have been terrified, but I only felt anger towards this dick. How dare he belittle the Autobots and Lennox, how dare he threaten my family. I lent ever so slightly forward in my seat, Hanger 1 loomed large in the window, and in the deadliest whisper I could muster I replied to him, ''Good. I hope you keep your promise you pathetic sack of shit and seek me out one day. No body threatens my family, or me for that matter, and gets away with it – bring it!'' I continued to hold my gaze even as the car pulled up and I saw Lennox and Prime walking towards me, the others not far behind them.

''GI Joe'' gave me a sickly-sweet smile before saying something that caught me off guard, ''Well that was a fun road trip, maybe we can all do it again some time.'' He unclipped his belt and leapt out of the car to open my door and roughly drag me out.

I was on the opposite side of the car to Lennox and Prime, so they didn't see what transpired, /Lucky for arsehole here/. He then whispered in my ear as he went to uncuff me, ''Now Orianna, you gonna run crying to your little friends and dob on me like some little weak bitch or you going to play nice and keep our ''little chat'' between us?'' I sensed a small amount of fear within him at the thought I might run towards the towering blue and red Autobot that was currently striding towards us with an angry expression, and blab what had transpired.

I turned around whilst rubbing my wrists and looked at the name badge on his chest, which had been obscured up until now, /SAVOY/. I committed it to memory. 'Well Savoy,'' I started.

''James, if you please,'' the prick interrupted me.

I ignored the request, ''As much as I would love to see a 28 foot mad as hell Autobot crush you like the insignificant little bug you are, I much prefer to take care of my own shit,'' Savoy seemed to visibly relax a little, /full of piss and wind/ I thought to myself. ''Yet that is precisely what you are, a steaming pile of excrement that, when the time is right, I will personally scrap off the ground and dump unceremoniously into the trash.'' Blue/grey eyes filled with seething anger did their best to unnerve me. I simply gave him one last look of smug defiance and turned on my heel towards Prime and Lennox.

I did not turn around when I heard the tyres screech and the car pulled away much faster than necessary. Lennox covered the remaining ground between us and drew me into a hug, ''You okay OC? Did they do anything to you?'' He pulled back, holding my shoulders, his eyes searching mine for an answer. Prime stood behind Lennox and knelt to conduct his own assessment of my wellbeing.

I smiled at them, pushing my anger and mild trepidation over my encounter with Savoy deep down inside, they would not know about this. ''I'm fine guys, truly,'' I spun around on the spot. ''See, not a scratch.'' I faced them once more, ''We didn't even make it back to my place for house arrest,'' I folded my arms across my chest, ''they ah… they received a phone call and next thing I know we are heading back here.'' I arched an eyebrow. 'So, what did you tell Morshower in that phone conversation?''

''Well to be honest, Prime did most of the talking,'' Lennox sheepishly admitted.

I turned my gaze up to Prime, 'Well Prime, what did you say?" I looked expectantly at him.

Prime returned my gaze and answered in that delightfully deep baritone voice of his.

''OC, I do not believe a full recount of the contents of our conversation is necessary. Suffice it to say Morshower was simply, persuaded, to drop any and all charges against you and release you back into our care,'' his azure optics held the remnants of icy rage as he held my gaze.

''Persuaded?'' I encouraged as I folded my arms across my chest.

Prime blinked his optics. ''I simply pointed out to the General that your ''gift'' would be rather advantageous to our allied forces against the Decepticons and that if you were allowed to train, under strict and supervised conditions by both myself and Major Lennox, as part of the N. team, your strategic deployment in the field may significantly help to reduce any collateral damage and casualties. I also promised to provide General Morshower and the JCS with regular updates and information regarding your abilities and progress whilst training,'' Prime continued to hold my gaze as he spoke. ''When that reasoned argument failed to totally dissuade him from ensuring your release, I simply reminded him that we Autobots make far better allies than enemies.'' Prime simply blinked once more.

I stood there, unaware my jaw had dropped open during Prime's explanations, 'Do you mean to tell me that YOU, Optimus Prime, the last descendant of the 13 noble Primes, threatened General Morshower, the JCS and the President of the United States in a bid to have me returned?'' I was incredulous.

Prime allowed a small smile to grace his dermas, ''OC, I do not make threats. I make promises but read into that what you will.''

At those last words my breath hitched, and I visibly flinched as I thought back to Savoy only moments ago. My reaction did not go unnoticed by both Prime and Lennox.

''You okay OC?'' Lennox asked reaching out for me.

I quickly shook my head, ''Yeah, fine, just blown away and a little humbled actually,'' which was actually the truth on both counts. I looked up at Prime and spoke very seriously to him, ''Prime, while I appreciate your interference and your efforts to help me, truly I do, don't you EVER go compromising your integrity or your honour for ME,'' I continued to hold his gaze, my mouth set in a thin line of determination.

Prime returned the gaze with equal determination, defiance burning within his optics as he replied to my request, ''OC, that is a promise I cannot and will not make.'' He blinked once and then looked away, rising to his full height again, signalling the end of our silent battle of wills.

Lennox chose that moment to speak up, ''Well long story short, they agreed to the terms Prime outlined and - Welcome to the team!'' Lennox smiled brightly at me and slapped me lightly on the shoulder.

''Aah Lennox,'' Sideswipe had rocked up with the others. ''Did I miss something? She's already on the team.''

Arcee rolled her optics in a mimicry of human like behaviour, ''Why is it always the pretty ones! What he means 'Sides, is OC is now on team N. .'' She looked at Sideswipe waiting for the light globe moment to occur.

Sideswipe took a nanosecond to react and then commented, ''OOOHhhhh… well in that case, WELCOME TO THE TEAM!''

My head began to spin with this new realisation. My family, and the US government, now knew about my gifts and 50% of those mentioned were cool with it, I was now going to be training with an elite faction of the US government to combat and eradicate Decepticons. ''Ahh, thanks guys. I am really excited but, if I am to be honest – really nervous. I mean, look at me! Do I LOOK like the kind of person who should be part of an elite US faction of soldiers hunting down alien sentient beings?''

''Didn't stop you in Mission City,'' Ironhide reasoned without skipping a beat.

''He's got a point,'' Jazz chimed in in.

''Ironhide, Jazz, pipe down with the sensible comebacks will you!'' I yelled in mock indignation, though he was right. ''Well, I guess that's settled, you guys now have a cuckoo joining your little N.E.S.T.''

Lennox and Epps laughed, ''Well, does help to be a little crazy being a part of our team,'' Epps winked.

''Well,'' I clapped my hands together, ''When do I start training?'' I looked between Prime and Lennox.

Prime spoke first, ''Well OC first I believe it would be wise to visit Rachet in the medical bay to get him up to speed on what has transpired today and to seek a medical examination from him to ensure you are indeed fit for your training. He may also wish to conduct a few, ''examinations'' regarding your gift to learn how it may be triggered, controlled or enhanced.''

Prime turned to address his team, ''Autobots you may spend the evening as you wish. Ironhide take first watch and arrange a new duty roster to allow for increased patrols for the first few days. OC's actions may have attracted unwanted attention.'' My heart skipped a beat, did he know what happened somehow? He then turned to Lennox, ''Lennox may I suggest you take one of your trusted female soldiers and drive back to OC's quarters to collect some clothing and essentials. I think it wise she stay with us for the time being. Can you also please arrange for suitable bedding to be brought to Autobot personal quarters?''

''Of course, Prime, good idea. Jazz, give us a lift?'' Lennox started to walk towards the Pontiac Solstice.

''No worries mate,'' and he transformed and revved his engine. Clearly hanging around an Australian was rubbing off on Jazz.

''Don't forget the vegemite!'' I yelled out. Lennox rolled his eyes and stuck out his tongue in mock disgust.

''That stuff tastes like shit!'' Lennox pretended to dry reach.

I raised an eyebrow at him, ''Really? You eat shit Lennox?'' I teased.

Lennox stopped for a moment, threw his hands in the air and shook his head, ''Should a let you rot in jail!''

''Missed your chance, maybe next time,'' I called out to his retreating form. ''Besides, it's not meant to be slathered on bread or toast, it's not bloody Nutella! Less is more when it comes to vegemite,'' I tried to reason with him.

Lennox let out a loud laugh as he slid into Jazz's front seat, ''Yeah! Same goes for YOU OC!''

There were a few sniggers around me, and I glowered at him, but inside I laughed. /Touché/.

As Lennox and Jazz sped off to carry out Prime's requests, Prime transformed and opened his door for me to climb in. Before I shut the door, I heard Sideswipe speak up.

''Glad it's you and not me visiting ''Hatchet'' OC, Sideswipe interrupted. ''He has a mean temper on him when it suits and he has perfect aim with a spanner from virtually any point within the Med Bay,'' Sideswipe genuinely looked fearful.

I smiled and waved, ''Thanks for the heads-up 'Sides, but don't forget with my ''gift'' I can send said spanner right on back at him if necessary,'' and I gave him a wink.

Sideswipe's dermas parted in shock for a moment, before shouting out to us as we pulled away, 'You're my new hero!'' I simply laughed.

It was not a long drive before we reached the Med Bay, so we shared the trip in companionable silence. I took the opportunity to stare in awe around Prime's cab, running my hand along the leather door trim. As we pulled up out the front of the hanger, Rachet came walking out.

'Prime, OC, to what do I owe the pleasure? I was just finishing up for the day and coming over to join you all,'' Rachet looked pleased but curious at our arrival.

''Rachet, old friend, I believe it might be best if we go back inside the Med Bay and have a chat about some ''events'' that took place today. I feel it best you are aware of what has transpired as your expertise may be required as we move forward,'' Prime had gently clasped Rachet's shoulder and was politely shepherding the confused Medic back into the Med Bay. I followed several paces behind.

Once inside Prime asked Rachet to sit at his assigned ''desk'' while he recounted the events of the day. It was quite interesting to watch Rachet's face plates, optics and optical ridge display a range of emotions from shock, anger and confusion to curiosity. After half an hour Prime finished his recount of what had transpired, ''So, you see Rachet, OC, is to join N.E.S.T and work with us to develop and harness her gift to help eradicate Decepticons. Are you, able and willing to help her, help us, with this?'' The Prime asked cautiously.

Rachet sat for a moment, he blinked his optics once before rising from his seat. ''Of course, I am willing and able to help her Prime, why wouldn't I?'' He almost seemed annoyed by Prime's insinuation that he would be otherwise. ''First, I will need to run some diagnostics and tests, heart rate, brain waves, motor control; at rest and under duress,'' Rachet had turned away and was looking for various equipment.

I spoke up for the first time since I had entered the building, ''Ah Rachet, is this going to hurt much?'' While I had a reasonable pain threshold, I did not enjoy putting myself in a position to experience pain if possible.

Rachet answered somewhat distractedly as he rifled through various cabinets and drawers, ''Pain? Ah, not really.''

''Not really? So, is that a like a 3 on a scale of 1 to 10?'' There was no response.

Prime turned to leave. ''Where do you think you are going?'' I asked.

''OC, I have to go and liaise with Lennox and ensure your new quarters are suitable for you when you are finished here,'' Prime shifted quickly from one pede to the other, his optics darting to the door once or twice.

I stared at him for a moment, ''You are seriously going to dump me here and take off to make my bed when….'' I paused, taking in the change in Prime's countenance as he watched Rachet place several pieces of equipment on the table.

I allowed a grin to spread across my face as I understood Prime's urgency to leave. ''Optimus Prime! You can face down Megatron and God knows what other dangerous villains, you can threaten what is arguably the strongest country on our Earth but, you cower at the thought of visiting the doctor's?'' I laughed out loud.

Prime's optics continued to dart between the door and various medical instruments. He didn't seem at all annoyed or perturb that I had just called him out on his little phobia.

Rachet remained oblivious to our exchange finalising what he required to run some tests. At Prime's pleading expression I took pity on him, he did after all save me today. ''Fair enough Prime, go, leave me here with ''Doctor Rachet.'' I'll hopefully be seeing you soon.''

Prime nodded his head in appreciation at my understanding, ''Rachet, I'll leave you to it. Please inform me when you have finished and I'll come and collect OC,'' and with that Prime strode out of the hanger.

''Of course Prime, OC, if you'll come this way please,'' Rachet lowered his servo so I could climb aboard and be lifted onto the table to begin my tests. ''Don't be too hard on him OC,'' Rachet implored as he attached human sized wires and pads to my head, chest and various other places. So, he had heard our exchange, ''When you have seen the inside of a Med Bay, often with your life hanging in the balance, as Prime has, you are allowed to take a dislike to them.'' Rachet gave me a small smile.

I smiled back at him, ''Fair enough Rachet, understandable. It will be our secret that our courageous and noble leader has a fear of going to the doctors,'' I winked at Rachet.

''Indeed - pinky swear if you like,'' Rachet fixed me with a dead pan stare and raised his large metallic ''pinky digit''.

I laughed out loud. ''Rachet! Who knew you had a sense of humour!''

''I did,'' he continued to stare at me which only served to make me laugh harder. After a moment he refocused his attention to the equipment he had placed on me and turned the monitors on. ''Now OC, let's find out if everything is A ok with you, what's going on in that brain of yours.''

''Not much I'd wager Doc,'' and I snorted self-deprecatingly.

''On the contrary OC, from what I have witnessed of you and heard Prime speak of you, you are fairly intelligent. Plus, this ''gift'' of yours, the way you have trained yourself thus far to control and use it, I'd say takes a great deal of intelligence, discipline and skill.'' Rachet fixed me with a stern stare, ''Do not be so quick to put yourself down and doubt your abilities OC. Believe in yourself as I do, as Prime does.''

I cast my eyes towards the floor in embarrassment, ''Thanks Rachet. I wasn't fishing for compliments.'' After a brief pause, I asked a question I felt I knew the answer to but desired to hear the answer to all the same, ''Prime believes in me?''

Rachet paused in his ministrations and looked me dead in the eye, ''You wouldn't be sitting here right now if he didn't, wouldn't you agree?''

I had the decency to look contrite.

''You'd be holed up in some Government cell being interrogated from what I understand.'' For the second time in as many minutes I cast my eyes to the ground in embarrassment. ''OC, I am one of Prime's oldest and most trusted friends, believe me when I say you possess qualities and abilities that Prime admires and holds dear himself. I would also go so far as to say that since you have joined our team Prime has begun to change. It is as though he has ''come alive again,'' and I believe that is largely down to your influence and support.''

I gave a small gasp of shock and felt my cheeks blush with heat.

He paused and looked at me, ''I am aware of those late-night chats you and Optimus have on your little beach.'' When I looked a bit guilty and shocked Rachet explained, ''It's ok. I'm just glad he is opening up to someone and talking again. Ironhide and I have stood in as his sounding boards over the past millennia,'' at this he gave a derisive snort, ''a cranky medic and snarky weapons specialist, wouldn't take a genius to figure out that compared to us YOU are a welcome change. So yes, OC, in summation, Prime does believe in you - most fervently.''

I nodded and felt the heat from my blush rise in my cheeks though I ignored it and fixed Rachet with a serious stare, ''Then I shall do my best to prove worthy of his belief.''

Rachet smiled warmly at me, ''Of that OC, I have no doubt. Now. Let's get started.''