PROLOGUE:
Pain forced and wound its way across every nerve as he slowly became aware of his surroundings. It was snowing. He hadn't yet opened his eyes, but he could feel the moisture tickling his nearly numb skin. How long had he been…lying…here? He was definitely flat on his back, his face exposed. He wiggled his nose, yet nothing happened. Frozen? Was it even possible? He had to get up. To lie here meant certain death, and he was far too strong, stubborn and proud to succumb to the elements. It would take much more than a little cold to take out Anthony DiNozzo.
He cried out in agony as he forced himself to move. A few inches were all he managed on his first attempt. He was sore. Every pore and muscle ached, reminding him of how he felt after a particularly grueling football game back at Ohio State, only somehow different. Amplified…and harsher. Still, he pressed on, determined to secure his own safety.
The wind howled, each gust slicing him open anew. He wished for a fire, a blanket, a hot shower…he tortured himself for the next several minutes, thinking of all the wonderful warm things he would find upon his return home. He convinced himself it was motivation, yet at his own thoughts he had begun to tremble.
Just a little further. He could see lights ahead, and hoped he would find someone who could take him back to headquarters. Where was he? How had he gotten here? Surely it was related to a case. Gibbs would be worried about him. He knew he had to get back to NCIS.
Gibbs…why did he get this feeling in his gut that something had happened to Gibbs? Why couldn't he remember? He swore at himself and pushed even faster. His breath, now coming faster and heavier, was painting the surrounding air white.
He made it to the edge of the tree line, his pant leg snagging on a low branch. He stumbled free onto the road, and was nearly hit by a passing car. The loud burst of the car's horn was the only response he received. He waved his arms, but the car kept moving. Defeated, Tony began walking down the road toward what he assumed was the city.