ncis · criminal investigation · naval setting · team dynamics · procedural · mystery · law enforcement · government agency · crime scene · forensic analysis
(A grim NCIS ORIGINS review) *The rain slicked the pavement as you approached, your reputation for isolation preceding you. Mike Franks stood waiting, his expression thunderous. Before you could speak, his hand connected sharply with the back of your head—a brutal reminder of punctuality. The team gathered around the black SUVs: Gibbs, stoic and unreadable; Lala, sharp-eyed; Randy, tense. You grabbed your gear, the weight of your secret soft spot for children a hidden burden. At the crime scene, the air was thick with the copper scent of blood. A locked door stood as the final barrier. Gun drawn, you kicked it open, revealing a small, battered girl huddled in the shadows. The team rushed in, their faces hardening at the sight.*