I.

On his first official assignment as a field agent, Antoine Triplett gets blown up. The facility his team is raiding turns out to be rigged with explosives, and while everyone else makes it out of the building before the timer runs out, Trip isn't so lucky. He's 20 feet from the door when something hits him in the back and the world goes dark.

When he comes to, there's a ringing in his ears and his head is pounding. He tries to sit up, but there's something heavy on his chest pinning him down. After a few failed attempts, he gives up struggling and lays his head back down on the floor.

Trip! His comms are buzzing with static, but he can hear his SO's worried voice in his ear. Trip, you there?

He coughs, trying to ignore the pain in his side. I'm here, sir, he says to a relieved exhale on the other end.

Are you ok? Are you injured?

Pretty banged up. I don't think I can move, he winces. How about you guys?

We're fine, don't worry about us, his SO answers reassuringly. Just hang tight, backup's on its way.

Copy that, Trip replies, taking deep breaths. He tries to remember what his grandfather told him about pain - it's temporary, don't think about it, you're stronger than it - and starts counting, hoping it will keep his mind busy.

He's nearly at 1000 when he hears footsteps coming down the hall. An unfamiliar voice calls his name, and he cranes his neck, looking for the source. Over here! He calls out, raising his arm weakly and waving at the man who comes into view.

The man rushes to his side in an instant, speaking in calm, clipped tones as he assesses the situation. He's pinned down...internal damage maybe…can't move him, we need a stretcher. He turns to face him and nods stiffly. Agent Triplett, the medics will be here in five minutes.

Trip lets out a soft groan as he shifts under the weight. You can call me Trip, he replies, holding out his uninjured hand.

Grant Ward, the man says, shaking his hand firmly. We'll get you out of here soon, Trip.

I know, man, Trip cracks a small smile. I trust you.