28 Seconds: Strength & Honor Chapter 40: In The Arms of an Angel, a ncis fanfic

Chapter 40

In the Arms of an Angel

0945 hours local time, 17 December 2001, Bagram AFB, Bagram, Afghanistan.

"Ironman, sitrep" Tony yelled as he jogged out to the runway.

"Alpha and Bravo Teams are loaded up, ready rock n' roll, Top" Chester replied.

"Then let's move!" Tony yelled as he grabbed his M4A1 Assault Rifle. Like himself and Chester, the boys of the unit were dressed in Delta Combat gear, which consisted of sanitize DCUs, and a black helmet.

The Battle of Tora Bora had been raging for 5 days now, with on the ANA getting a crack at the enemy. Finally, Tony had had enough of sitting on the sidelines. If he didn't act fast, Osama Bin Laden and company were going to slip away into Pakistan. "Let's move!" Tony ordered as he jumped on the Little Bird. The 2 choppers quickly lifted off and away from the field. Tony, along with Chester & Deeks, was in the lead bird. Bravo Team was packed into the second.

A little while later, the men of the Unit began to hear the faint sounds of battle. "Lock n' load boys!" Tony yelled over his radio.

"Colonel DiNozzo!" yelled one of the helicopter's pilots.

"What is it Warrant Officer?" Tony yelled back.

"Sir, we've just received orders to return to Bagram, post ricki-tick"

"Bullshit, I'm countermanding those orders" he yelled back.

"Sir, these orders come direct from the CDS-Force Commander" the pilot yelled back.

"Warrant Officer; that wouldn't happen to be Lieutenant General McCrystal would it?" Tony asked.

"That's correct Sir" The pilot yelled back.

"Son of a bitch"

"Sir, if I don't head back, my ass is grass"

"Fuck!" Tony yelled as he slammed his fist against the side of the helicopter. "Take us back, Warrant Officer!" Tony ordered.

"Yes Sir"

A little while later, the Little Birds touched back down at Bagram. Tony jumped down at made a beeline for the CP. "Top, Top" Chester repeated as he ran after him. "Top, this is a really bad idea" Chester said as he got in Tony's way. Tony snarled, ripped off his helmet and quickly unslung his rifle. "Cole!" Tony called out.

"Yes Sir" Cole said as he came running up.

"Stow my gear" he said as he handed the helmet and rifle to him.

"Yes Top" Cole replied. Tony then continued toward the CP. As he walked, he laid his hand on top of Colt 45. which was holstered to his hip.

"Come Top, he isn't worth it" Chester warned.

"Stand aside, Master Sergeant!" Tony yelled. Chester reluctantly stepped aside.

A minute later, Tony stormed into Command Post, with only one thing on his mind. "Ok, which one of you rear echelon assholes in McCrystal?" he yelled.

"That would be me!" said the short man that stood before him.

"Oh dammit, you're like 50 something years old, you're like a short Larry King, I can't punch Larry King" Tony wined.

"I'm also a 3 star General, so get the fuck out of my face, Papist!" he yelled, using the derogatory slang for a Catholic.

"Hmm, maybe I can punch Larry King" Tony said as he laid a right hook across General McCrystal's jaw, knocking him onto a table behind him. "God that felt good" Tony smiled as he walked away.

0900 hours, 18 December 2001, Tora Bora Caves, Tora Bora, Afghanistan.

After another day and night of hard fighting, The ANA had finally cleared the Taliban and AQ fighters from the caves. When Tony, Colonel Colleton and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff: General of The Army Wesley Clark, arrived the next morning, the ground was littered with dead bodies. "Holy Shit" the General Observed. "What was the count?" he asked. Tom reached into his breast pocket.

"ANA loses are as follows" The Colonel began. "7 T-72s, 2 BM-21s, 11 BTR-80s, not to mention mortars, pistols, rifles, machine guns" he paused, "And 1,200 men" he said somberly.

Thankfully for Tony, his eyes were shielded by his dark Aviator sunglasses, as his eyes momentarily welled up. "McCrystal threw these people to the slaughter, General" Tony finally spoke up. "Not only that, because he sidelined my team, Bin Laden got away" Tony said.

"Yes Tony, I'm aware of that" Wes said.

"General, there are also unconfirmed reports that Pakistani Aircraft were sighted overhead" Colleton spoke up.

"Sir, The entire US 3rd Army is being send to Afghanistan. The Quebecois, Germans, Poles and Irish are also sending Troops and Aircraft" he paused. "Sir, General McCrystal is not fit to command" he yelled.

"Damn it, I know that, Tony" Wes yelled.

"Sir, if you put him in command of 3rd Army, he's gonna end up with one Corp in the field, one Corp in the hospital and one Corp in cemetery" Tony said.

"Damn it, what we need is some who can coordinate with our allies. Someone who can take on The Taliban, AQ and the Pakistanis" Clark said.

"What about Morrell?" Colleton suggested.

"Possibly"

"The Lightning Count" Tony said, using the nickname the New York Times had given his old friend. "God help us" he joked.

0915 hours local time, 20 December 2001, US 3rd Army HQ, Gardez, Afghanistan.

A few days later, Irving Morrell arrived at 3rd Army HQ in Gardez. A decedent of German-Catholic Aristocracy, his full title was Count Irving William Morrell, although, he never used the title himself. When he arrived, he was dressed in full dress uniform, with a long beige windbreaker over it. On both the shoulder boards and his helmet were 3 silver general's stars. Only 2 days earlier, Irv's name had been suggested to President McCain by General Clark. That same day, Morrell was officially nominated by The President. His confirmation took 3 minutes, and that was only because one senator was late getting back from the bathroom.

And now, Lieutenant General Irving Morrell had arrived. He jumped out of his HUMVEE, and accompanied by his aide, Captain Stewart Bondek, entered the main building.

"Where's the duty officer?" Captain Bondek asked.

"Shaving" replied a Sergeant

"Why isn't he here on duty?"

"Guess he needed a shave, we got a new General reporting in today" the Sergeant said as General Morrell entered the room. When he did, everyone in the room quickly snapped to attention. Morrell only shook his as he and moved on down the hall, tripping over something in the process.

"Who the hell is kicking me in the ass!" the soldier yelled as he stood up.

"What are you doing down there soldier?" asked Captain Bondek.

"Trying to get some sleep Sir" the soldier replied as he saluted.

"Well, get back down there son, you're only son of a bitch in this whole place that knows what he's trying to do" Morrell told him.

"Yes Sir" The Soldier replied as The General and his Aide continued along. They walked up the stairs. They made it to the 2nd floor and walked down to the office at the end.

"This is it Sir" said Captain Bondek. General Morrell stepped inside and took a seat behind the desk. Tacked up on the wall was a large map of Afghanistan. Morrell took a deep breath leaned back and put his feet up on the desk.

"This will do" Morrell said as footsteps approached from down the hall. A few seconds later, General Clark and Lieutenant Colonel DiNozzo appeared in the doorway.

"Get out of my chair Irv" Tony said.

"I'm a Lieutenant General, you are a Lieutenant Colonel; you don't get to give me orders!" Morrell said.

"Fine, then I'll give ya a shove" Tony said as the flipped Morrell's chair back, knocking him to the floor. Tony then picked up the chair and took a seat himself. He then reached into the top draw and pulled out one of his cigars. He lit up as General Clark laughed watching Morrell pick himself up off the floor.

"Ok, that's it, both of you knock it off" General Clark ordered.

"Yes Sir" Morrell said. "If you'll excuse me" he said as he ducked out of the room, his aide following.

"You got Sir" Tony said. Despite his notorious reputation for disrespecting Superior Officers, Tony always showed the upmost respect and courtesy to General Wesley Clark. During the Vietnam War, Clark had been Tony's father's Commanding Officer. Wesley was also one of Sonny's Best Friend for going on 38 years. Wes was like an Uncle to Tony and his siblings.

"Tony, it's 5 days before Christmas, and I'm hoping to actually be home with my wife this year" General Clark said. "Me and Alexis haven't been together with our children for Christmas in a very long time, and hell, even this year, Nik and Samantha still won't be there" Wes said.

"Congrats, my parents are gonna be together for Christmas for the 1st time in 17 years too" Tony said.

"I know, Olivia called Alexis and invited us to dinner with her and Sonny" Wes said.

"So, Irv is officially in command of 3rd Army?" he asked.

"Yep, confirmed via Senate vote yesterday" Wes said. "And, as we speak, representatives are meeting at CDS Headquarters in Dublin. If all goes well, Irv will officially be in command of all CDS forces in Afghanistan" Wes said.

"Good, he may be as nutty as a fruit cake, be he is one of the best field commanders we have" Tony said.

"So how's Kate?" Wes asked.

"We aren't exactly on speaking terms" Tony said.

"I'm sure she'll come around"

"You're more optimistic than I am"

"How long have you two been married?"

"19 years last September"

"She'll come around, no one stays married this long to quit" Wes smiled.

"I hope you're right" Tony said. "If you count ROTC, I've been in the Army since 1985, with The Unit since 1990. My marriage always took a backseat, which is why Kate joined the Secret Service. As much as I hate to admit it, Kate is right, I wasn't there for my children"

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't Kate give up your daughter for adoption when she was an infant?"

"Yeah, doesn't really matter though, Liat is still our daughter"

"Hey, Three and Liat turned out pretty damn well" Wes said. "Just because the father isn't always around, doesn't mean the kids are gonna turn out bad. Hell, look at your brother. Rick didn't even meet you guys' dad until he was 6 years old, and looking at him now"

"That's because Sonny was in 'Nam with you, Uncle Wes" Tony said.

"Look, when I get back to DC, I'll stop in and see Kate, ok?"

"Honestly, I wish you wouldn't" Tony said.

"Whatever, Kid" Wes smiled.

1135 hours, 20 December 2001, US Navy Judge Advocate General Headquarters, Falls Church, Virginia.

Now that they were married, Izzy couldn't be made to testify against Billy. With that being the case, most of the charges were dropped. However, the court martial had still proceeded, as Billy still faced charges for Conduct unbecoming and dereliction of duty. Billy was confident, as was Izzy, that he would beat the wrap and be returned to Duty. The main part of the trial was now over, and the jury had reached its verdict. Everyone stood as the judge entered the courtroom. "Be seated" Admiral Stiles instructed. "Mr. Foreman, has the jury reached a verdict?" he asked.

"We have, your honor" replied the jury foreman, Navy Captain Jeffery Vincent. He handed a piece of paper to the bailiff, who in turn, handed it to the judge. The Judge read it silently, before it was returned to the jury.

"Very well" The Judge said. "With the defendant and defense counsel please rise" he instructed. Billy and Meg quickly stood. "Captain Vincent, you may publish your findings"

"On the 2 counts of the indictment, Article 92: Dereliction of Duty, and Article 133: Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentlemen, we the jury, find the defendant, Captain William George Hazard, US Army… Guilty, on both counts". Billy's jaw dropped in shock. Meg's face remained emotionless. She had done her job.

"Captain Hazard, it has been made very clear to this court, that in your line of work, the rules of law are not always obeyed. However, it was also made clear, that there is a line, and that you crossed the line" the Judge said. "Therefore, I hereby sentence you, to 18 months confinement, at hard labor, at United States Disciplinary Barracks at Fort Leavenworth, to be demoted in rank to 2nd Lieutenant, and to be dishonorably discharged from the United States Army" he finished.

Billy and Izzy were absolutely stunned. They had been so certain that Billy was gonna beat the wrap and would be returned to duty. However, Meg had made sure that that wouldn't happen. Billy had betrayed the Unit when he had followed Colonel Barrett's lunatic plan. But now it was over.

For Izzy, this was a worst case scenario. She was 5 months pregnant, and was due in March. And now her Husband was going to spend the next year and a half in prison.

1800 hours local time, 22 December 2001, Bagram AFB, Bagram, Afghanistan.

"So it's confirmed? Bin Laden slipped over the border?" Malachi asked as he and Liat examined the map Tony had pinned up on the board.

"Yeah" Tony said as he sat on the edge of his desk.

"So now what?" Liat asked. "I mean come on, we're DiNozzos, we don't give up" she added.

"Simple" Tony smiled.

3 hours later…

"I don't like this at all, no Sir" Tony said as he looked down at his hand. "You took 3?" he asked Mal.

"Right" Mal replied as he held his own hand.

"And you Martin?"

"2" Chester replied.

"And you didn't take any?" he asked Liat.

"Nope" Liat smiled.

"How would you like a landmine up your skirt?" Malachi threatened jokingly.

"10 bucks, Dad" Liat said as she tossed the bill into the center of the table. "I'd like to win this pot while I'm still young enough to enjoy it" Liat said as she watched her father contemplate whether or not to call.

"Call" Tony said as he tossed 10 bucks into the pot.

"Out" Mal said as he folded.

"Goodnight" Chester said as he followed suit.

"Full House" Liat smiled as she laid down her cards.

"Ahh, 3 of a kind, all bad" Tony said as he slammed his cards down. While Liat gather her winnings, Tony shuffled the cards.

"What are we playing?" Mal asked.

"3s and 9s are wild. If you want, you can buy a new card on an open 4" Tony said as he dealt.

"Except February, which has 28" Mal joked.

"Are we here to play, or talk?" Liat asked.

"I think I'm here to lose" Chester joked.

"Ace bets a $1 blind" Tony said as he tossed a dollar into the pot. As he did, Lieutenant General Morrell entered the tent and everyone stood up from the table, and saluted. "That's a lot of respect for 1 Ace" Tony said.

"As you were" Morrell said.

"Oh, hiya General. Marching in your sleep again?" Tony said sarcastically. "I bet a buck, who's in?" he asked.

"In" everyone sounded as they all tossed in a dollar.

"Lieutenant Colonel DiNozzo, it has been brought to my attention that several days ago, you struck Lieutenant General McCrystal, a superior officer, in the jaw"

"You bet your bellybutton, Irv" Tony replied.

"I what?"

"Pair of 2s says $5" Malachi bet, throwing a 5 spot into the mix.

"Out" Chester said as he folded.

"In" Liat called.

"DiNozzo!" Morrell said.

"You're a little late General. I'll deal ya in next hand" Tony said.

"General McCrystal intends to press charges" Morrell informed.

"Right, that's why I called my lawyer, and not a plumber" Tony said.

"And now you're going to do nothing?"

"Don't be ridiculous, of course I'm going to do something" Tony said. "I'm gonna see his $5, and raise 2 more" Tony said.

"You're not talking to some idiot desk jockey Colonel, I'm a Ranger myself" Morrell said.

"Ok, so what?" Tony said.

"You're 2, and 2 more" Mal bet.

"I'm out" Liat said.

"DiNozzo, you are in very deep trouble" Morrell warned.

"I don't think so, I can beat a pair of 2s" Tony smiled.

"Your conduct is intolerable as an Officer" Morrell yelled.

"General, Shut UP!" Tony yelled. "You're making it impossible for me to concentrate on my poker. And if I don't win this hand, I'll never be able to send my sister to law school"

"You haven't heard the last of this" The General told him.

"I wasn't listening to the 1st of it" Tony told him.

"We'll just see what General Clark has to see about this" Morrell said as he stormed out of the tent.

"Watch out for the…" was all Liat got out before there was a loud crash. "Trashcan" she finished.

"I hate loud Generals" Malachi complained.

"Are you in or not?" Tony asked.

"Yeah" Mal said as he gave Tony a look. Mal laid down his cards. "2 pair" he said.

"3 Aces, asshole" Tony smiled.

"Damn!" Mal said as he slammed down his fist as Tony collected his winnings. As he did, the tent flap few open and a man walked in.

"Run out of trash cans to run over, General?" Tony asked without turning around.

"No, just wanted to let you know I finished plowing your wife" said the man with a chuckle. Tony turned around and snarled.

"Oh wonderful, Count Spookulua is here" Tony said as Clayton Webb stepped into the tent.

"What's up Uncle Clay?" Liat asked as Clay gave his niece as kiss on the forehead.

"Tony, I need to speak with you" Clay said. "Alone" he added.

"Alright" Tony said as he pushed his seat back and stepped outside. Once they were outside the tent, Tony lit up a cigar, and took a few puffs. "So what's shaking Spooky?" he finally asked.

"I need your help Tony" Clay said. "An Op went bad"

"Where?"

"Grozny" Clay said.

"What the hell were you doing in Chechnya?" Tony asked.

"Trying to locate someone"

"Who?"

"Sergei Zhukov"

"Hammer's kid brother?"

"Yeah, I sent an operative undercover there, but we've lost contact with her"

"You sent a women to Chechnya? In heaven's name why?"

"Wasn't my call, it was setup months ago by NCIS Deputy Director Shepard" Webb explained.

"Name?"

"Petty Officer 3rd Class Jennifer Coates… she's 18, Tony"

"Shepard was always eager to score points, prove she was tougher. Damn bitch" he complained. "Where in Grozny did this all go down?"

"A prison 16 miles past city limits"

"I'll need help" Tony said. "And they'll have to be good, cause an incursion into Russia won't be easy"

"You've got me" Clay said.

"Wonderful. Get me a flight to Istanbul, I'll drop in from there. After that, call Erica Jane, have her pull my son out of whatever hole in the wall he's held up in and then stick his ass on the next flight out" Tony instructed.

"What are you gonna do?" Webb asked.

"I'm gonna go grab Mal and Liat, after that, I'm going to call in some help" Tony said.

1225 hours, 22 December 2001, Naval Special Warfare Group 2 HQ, Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base, Virginia Beach, Virginia.

It was just after lunch as US Navy Lieutenant Nathan Westbourne entered his office. In his 4 years since graduating from Annapolis, he had spent the 1st 2 training to become a SEAL. After that, he had served in Quebec, as part of Operation Frozen Fury. And now, having recently been promoted to full Lieutenant, he was the now the Officer in Charge (O-3) of the 1st Platoon of Navy SEAL Team 2. However, since taking command, he hadn't seen any action. SEAL Team 2 was being held in reserve for the time being. Dressed in his khaki service uniform, Nathan sat down behind his desk to look over some reports when his phone rang. "Lieutenant Westbourne" he answered as he picked up the phone from its cradle.

"Nate" said a sly voice. "It's Tony"

"What can I do for you Sir?" Nate replied in a very professional tone.

"Come on Nate, how long have we known each other. Use my goddamn name for Christ's sake" Tony told him. When Nate didn't reply, Tony spoke again. "Come on Nate. I know things between me and Kate haven't been great as of late, but she's still my wife" Tony added.

"What do you want Tony?" Nate finally spoke.

"You still itching for a little action?" Tony asked Nate could hear the smile in his voice.

"You know it" Nate replied with a grin.

"That's what I like to hear" Tony replied. "Get your Six to NYC, and help Erica Jane drag your nephew out of whatever bar he's holed up in. Then get him and you on the next flight to Istanbul"

1630 hours, 22 December 2001, Flannery's Pub, Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan, New York City, New York.

It was just after sunset when Lieutenant Westbourne and Detective Barrett pulled up outside Flannery's Pub, a known hangout of Westie higher-ups. "Remember, we're only here to grab Three, don't start in on these guys" EJ warned as they walked inside. Erica Jane was dressed in a dark leather jacket and blue jeans, with her badge handing from her belt. Nathan, however, was still in his khaki service uniform. As soon as they got inside, they both knew that every eye was on them. "Easy boys" EJ said as she pulled back her jacket to reveal her badge. "I'm just here for my brother" she added.

"He's in the back" said the bartender.

"Thanks" EJ said as she and Nathan walked through the bar and into the back room. What they fought was Three, passed out drunk on the bed. "Wonderful" EJ commented. "Hey, Frankie, get us a pot of hot coffee will ya!" she yelled out to the bar keep. "Thanks" she added.

"Come on Staff Sergeant, rise n' shine" Nate said as he shook Three's shoulder. Three only growled as he burrowed his head deeper under the pillow.

"Come on Three, get up" EJ said.

"No" Three growled.

"That's it, we don't have time for this" Nate said as he placed his foot under the bottom of the metal frame bed and pushed it over, sending Three tumbling to the floor.

"What the hell?" Three yelled as he hasilty pulled himself up.

"Get up and stand at attention, Staff Sergeant!" Nathan yelled at him. Reality hit Three like a tidal wave and he quickly snapped to attention.

"Sir, yes Sir" Three said as he saluted, with practiced ease. "Uncle Nate?" Three said when he saw who it was. "What are you doing here?" he asked.

"Your father needs your help, and you & me are catching the next flight out to Istanbul" Nate said. "Get dressed".

0515 hours, 23 December 2001, Istanbul Atatürk International Airport, Istanbul, Turkey.

When Lieutenant Westbourne and Three stepped off their flight in Istanbul, they found Tony & Webb waiting for them. "Well if it isn't my son and my favorite brother-in-law" Tony smiled as the group walked along the runway.

"Well, considering Kate was disowned by our mother, and since Lance followed suit, I'm the only brother-in-law, you got left" Nate smiled. "Hell, if it wasn't for Britt, I'd be your only in-law" he joked, referring to his younger sister.

"So, what's up Daddio?" Three asked as they approached an old hangar on the far side of the runway. His a rough jerk, Tony pulled back and opened the hangar door, revealing an Antonov An-8 Soviet Transport Plane. "Holy shit" Three commented. In front of the plane, stood Malachi & Liat, who were cleaning their weapons. When Liat saw her little brother, she immediately stood up from her seat and rushed over to Three.

"Hey" she said softly as she pulled him into a tight hug. "I missed you" she whispered into her brother's ear. It had been a while since the 2 had seen each other, and Liat was devastated when she learned of Karine's death.

"I missed you too" Three whispered back. Tony smiled as he watched 2 of his children reconnect. Nathan could only look away. After all, if his sister had had her way, Three and Liat never would have met.

"Alright, Y'all" Tony yelled. "Gather around" he ordered as he laid out a map on the small table. "Ladies & Gentlemen, as we speak, Sergeant Sergei Rabb, Hammer's little brother, is being held in a Chechen prison, outside of Grozny. Our Mission, is to get him out" Tony said as he turned it over to Webb. After Webb finished explaining the finer details, Tony took over again. "Gentlemen, our objective is to slip in, and slip out again" Tony said.

"Permission to speak" asked Nate.

"Yes Lieutenant?" Tony replied

"Why are we flying this Russian hunk of junk, and why are we taking off from here, Incirlik is a hell of a lot closer?" Nate pointed out.

"Well, to answer your question, The Russians don't exactly know what we're doing, so we can't takeoff from anywhere their satellites might be watching, which is also why we're flying this plane" he explained to them.

"Wait, you said 'we're', and you're the only one here who can fly this crate" Nate observed.

"Wanna bet?" Tony smiled.

"No" Nathan said as he shook his head. "I learned not to bet with you a long time ago" he conceded. "So who's the 2nd pilot?" he asked.

"Me" said a voice from the side door of the plane.

"Britt?" Nate said, when he saw his little sister, dressed in a blue flight suit, standing there.

"What's up big bro?" Britt said as she jumped down from the door.

"Aunt Britt, since when can you fly?" Three asked as he walked over.

"Never heard of a Flight Surgeon?" Britt joked. "Tony needed a doctor and a pilot, so who better than me?" she smiled.

"Ok then" Nate replied. "But there is no way your Navy qualified" he said.

"Well since this isn't an officially sanctioned Op, I guess that's ok" Britt smiled.

"Load up" Tony ordered, breaking up the banter.

2 hours later- over the Black Sea.

With Tony and Britt in the cockpit, Liat made her way to the back of the plane, when Clayton Webb was cleaning his gun, a Browning Hi-Power. "Hey Uncle Clay" Liat smiled as she took a seat next to him, using the cargo nets to steady herself.

"Hey Liat, what's cookin?" Webb asked.

"Just doin some thinking" Liat said.

"Yeah? About what?" Webb asked.

"Can I ask you something?" Liat asked her.

"For the last time, Liat, there are no aliens at Area 51" Clay joked.

"Seriously, can I ask you something?" she asked.

"Shoot" Clay said as he slipped his pistol back into his holster.

"Why does my Mom have a different maiden name than Nathan and Britt?" she asked.

"Simple, she doesn't" Clay told her. "Kate's maiden name is Westbourne, why do you ask?"

"But I thought her maiden name is Todd" Liat said.

"So does everyone else" Clay said. When he saw the look of confusion on Liat's face, he continued. "When Kate's mother found out she was pregnant with you and Three, she disowned her, entirely. It upset Kate so much that when she was filing out her marriage license, she put down Todd as her maiden name. and ever since, on every legal document she's had to fill out, she put Todd down as her maiden name" Webb explained to her.

"How well did you know them? The Westbournes?"

"Not that well. The father died shortly after Britt was born, leaving the mother with a shit ton of money. She spoiled the 2 oldest rotten, and a younger one, I can't remember her name. Nathan and Britt took after Kate, which drew the ire of their mother" Clay said.

"Why?" Liat asked.

"Because she was a bitch" said a voice from above them. They both looked up and saw Tony standing above them, holding onto the cargo net. "One of the few things your mother & I still agree on" he joked. "Clay, you wanna give us a minute?" Tony asked. Clay gave a nod, stood up, and walked away. "Thanks" Tony mouthed. Tony a seat next to his daughter on the cold metal floor of the plane's cargo hold. For a few seconds, Tony closed his eyes and leaned back against the wall.

"You look like hell" Liat commented as she watched her father.

"Back at ya, kiddo" Tony replied, his eyes still shut.

"You ok?" Liat asked.

"I'm fine, just a little tired" he told her. "I need you to do me a favor"

"What?" she asked.

"When we land, I need you to keep an eye on your brother, I'm worried about him"

"Ok" Liat replied. "Where did EJ finally track him down?"

"A Pub in Hell's Kitchen" Tony said. "It's never easy loosing someone you love" he said, referring to Karine's death.

"I'll keep an eye on him Abba" she said as she leaned over and gave her father a kiss on the cheek. With that, she stood up, and made her way back up to the front of the plane. As she did, he saw his brother-in-law, Nathan, making his way back towards him.

"What's up Squid?" Tony asked, as Nathan took a seat next to him.

"Weapons are all checked, chutes packed, everybody's ready to rock n' roll" Nate said.

"Very well, then, to quote Britt, 'lets kick the tires, and light the fires'" Tony smiled as he stood up.

"So Colonel, what happens when we hit the ground?"

"Don't worry, I got a plan"

16 hours later- 2300 hours local time, 23 December 2001, Chechen POW Camp, 16 miles south-east of Grozny, Chechnya.

"Well, that went well" Nathan said sarcastically, as he and hung, hung from the sealing, ropes tied tightly around their wrists. Both their faces were cut up and bloody. Before Tony could respond, a man walked into the room. He was dressed in an old Soviet Army uniform jacket, and a pair of plaid pants that looked to be out of the 70s.

"You ready to tell me why you are here in Chechnya?" the man asked in a very English accent.

"Does Joey Buttafuoco know you're wearing his pants?" Tony asked, drawing a huge laugh from Nate. The man, however, didn't find it so funny, as he slapped Tony hard across the face. Suddenly, the smile on Tony's face disappeared and was replaced with a scowl. "If you ever do that again, I will beat your ass to death" Tony threatened. The man only smiled and slapped Tony across the face once again. "Nate, you heard me warn him right? I mean, just so its clear"

"He did warn you" Nate told the man. Tony then scowled again and quickly shot his legs forward, locking them around the man's neck and with one quick motion, snapped the man's neck, killing him. Tony then quickly used his pent up momentum and quickly swung himself up, wrapping his legs around the wooden beam from which he was suspended. Using both his teeth and the friction of the beam, Tony quickly cut the ropes which bound his hands. He quickly dropped down to the grabbed a knife off the man's belt, using it to free Nathan.

"Told you I had a plan" Tony said confidently as he grabbed the man's pistol, a Walther PPK. "Let's move" he said. The 2 men quickly made their way out of the small room and down a flight of stairs. They quickly found a small weapons cache and armed themselves with AK-47s, and a radio. Tony switched the radio to the previously agreed upon frequency and soon his plan was in effect. "Blue Star, this is Movie Buff, over" he said into the radio.

"Copy that, Movie Buff" Malachi replied. "Any sign of the Sergeant?" he asked.

"That's a negative, Blue Star. Be ready to crash the party in t-minus 5 mikes" Tony replied. "Let's go" he said to Nate. As they made their way outside, the alarm sounded, and shouting in Arabic could be heard. Tony and Nate made a mad dash for the main building.

Meanwhile, 2 miles outside the camp, Britt began spinning up the blades on the UH-1 Huey they had brought along in the cargo hold of the plane, which was currently camouflaged on a nearby airstrip.

As for Liat, she was very, very nervous. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but there was something off with her brother. She watched him out of the corner of her eye as the Huey dusted off. "Lock n' load!" Mal yelled loudly. As the chopper flew over the camp, alarms were blaring and a few minor explosions could be hear in the background.

"Set me down over there" Three yelled to his Aunt, as he pointed to the roof of the main building. Britt brought the chopper as close as she could, as Three jumped down.

"I'm coming with you" Liat yelled as she quickly followed. They both quickly unslung their M4s and quickly made their way towards the staircase. As they made their way down the stairs, Britt lifted off and assumed an overwatch position above the camp.

Three and Liat quickly made their way to the ground floor, where they linked up with Nathan and Tony. "Let's Move" Tony said as they the group made their way towards an adjacent building.

From above, Britt and Clay watched from the cockpit as the group exchanged gunfire with the Chechen Rebels. From the back, Malachi provided sniper fire. "They're they are" Britt pointed out as the group emerged from the building, carrying a 5th man. "I'm taking her down" Britt said. She brought the chopper down to the compound. As she touched down, Clay jumped out and opened fire on the pursuing hostiles. Once the chopper had touched down, Nathan and Liat loaded Sergeant Zhukov into the chopper. As they did, Three took off running back towards the building.

"Three!" Clay yelled as he and Tony took off, running after him. As Three disappeared into the building, the distinct sound of M4 fire, could be heard. As Tony and Clay rushed into the building, they watched as Three let his rifle drop to his side, dangling by his waist, as he kicked in a door at the end of the long hallway. Then, they saw as quickly drew his sidearm, firing off several rounds. Tony and Clay quickly rushed forward, and caught up with Three. "Oh My God" Clay exclaimed when he saw who was in the room.

2 minutes earlier…

Three watched as his Uncle, Nathan, and Sister, Liat, loaded Sergeant Sergei Zhukov into the back of the helicopter. As they did, he took off running, back tracking to the building they had just exited from. "Three!" he heard his Uncle Clayton call after him. Three burst into the building, firing off several bursts from his M4. He rushed towards the room at the end of the hall. As he did, he let his M4 fall to his waist. He took a deep breath, and kicked in the door in front of him. When he did, he was shocked at what he saw. Three quickly drew his Beretta and fired of several rounds, killing 2 hostiles. At the back of the room, on the floor, there was a young women, who couldn't have been older than 18. She was cowering in fear as she covered herself with a blanket. Three quickly rushed over to her.

"Don't worry, I'm here to help" he told her in his best Russian. When she didn't respond, he tried again, in Arabic, but again she didn't respond. Then Three noticed something. Behind the girl's left ear, was a small tattoo, a small "J". But the tattoo was smooth, and clean, like something you would find in America, not crude and rough like was common in the former Soviet bloc. "Don't worry, I'm here to help you" he tried in English. Once he said that, the girl turned to him, and they looked at each other, eye to eye. Three quickly holstered his Beretta and slung his rifle across his back. He then scooped the young women up in his arms, holding her tight against his chest. When he turned back to the door, he saw his Uncle Clayton and his father standing there.

"Oh My God" Clay exclaimed when he saw the young women in Three's arms. "Petty Officer Coates?"

"Who?" Tony asked.

"Our asset, the one we sent to find Sergei" Clay said.

Despite all the damage done by the bomb blast only weeks prior, JAG was, for the most part, up and running smoothly. There was still a lot of work to be done, but Operations were back up and running.

At one end of the conference table sat Petty Officer 3rd Class Jennifer Coates, along with her legal council, Commander Harmon Rabb Jr. Jennifer twitched nervously in her seat, as they waited for the prosecutor, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Sarah Mackenzie, to arrive. "Stay calm, Petty Officer" Commander Rabb reassured her.

"Yes Sir" she replied as she adjusted the hem of her skirt for the umpteenth time. She did it a few more times before Lieutenant Colonel Mackenzie walked in. Neither Harm nor Petty Officer Coates rose when she did.

"Don't you stand when a superior officer enters the room Petty Officer?" she asked in her shrill accusatory tone.

"Not when that officer is trying to put me in prison for something I didn't do" the Petty Officer replied.

"Well that's what happens when try to steal $500,000 dollars from the US Government" Mackenzie countered.

"I didn't steal anything" Jen insisted. Harm and Mac dickered back and forth for a few more minutes before there was a knock on the conference room door.

"Colonel Mackenzie, The Admiral needs to have a word with you ASAP" said Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason Tiner, who was Admiral Chegwidden's yeoman. With a grunt of disappointment, Mac stood up from the table and followed the Petty Officer.

"I wonder what was so important?" Harm asked to know one in particular.

"Oh nothing. I just told Tiner that if he didn't get Colonel Mackenzie out of the room, I'd have him shipped out on one of our 'secret' prison ships for the next 20 years" said a voice coming from the door way. Harm looked up and saw C.I.A Agent Clayton Webb leaning against the door frame.

"Oh Shit" muttered Harm as he ran his fingers through his hair. Standing behind Webb was a red-headed women, dressed in a power suit. "Petty Officer, I would like to introduce Clayton Webb, and you are?" he asked, turning to the women, extending his hand.

"Jennifer Shepard, Deputy Director, NCIS" said Jenny as she sat down. Harm slowly retracted his hand. "Petty Officer Jennifer Coates, stationed on The U.S.S Gainesville, accused of stealing $500,000 dollars from the dispersing office on said ship" Jenny read from the file in front of her.

"Like I told the Colonel before, I didn't do it" Jenn stated once again.

"Well I don't believe you" Jenny replied smugly.

"If it helps, I do" said Webb with a nervous smile, drawling a death glare from Deputy Director Shepard. "Sorry" Webb added.

"As I was saying, this isn't your 1st offense, is it, Petty Officer. Back in Hagerstown, Maryland, you were arrested multiple times for petty theft. Made the transition from petty thief to Petty Officer did we?" Jenny asked with a sadistic grin.

"The Judge back in Hagerstown had it in for me after I broke the windshield of his Mercedes with a baseball when I was 11. he had the local Sheriff run me in every chance he got. He gave me 2 options: join the Navy, or do hard time" Jen explained.

"How would you like that all to go away Petty Officer?" Jenny asked.

"Yes Mam" Coates replied.

"Then I have an offer for you" Jenny said with an evil grin. "It involves going deep undercover. But if you pull it off, you'll receive an honorable discharge and a clean slate in civilian life" Jenny said. "This will be an NCIS Operation, so you will be TAD to NCIS for the time being. Do you accept?" Jenny asked.

"Yes Mam" Coates replied, perhaps not fully understanding the consequences of her actions.

Meanwhile, outside, the Chechens had regrouped from the initial attack, and were beginning to surround the chopper. Nathan, Liat and Malachi, had formed a small perimeter, in an attempt to provide cover fire and protection while Britt, did her best to administer what treatment she could to Sergeant Zhukov. But try as they might, a Rebel slipped through and made a beeline for Britt. Britt instantly noticed, and quickly drew her sidearm, a Browning High Power, from her shoulder holster, and squeezed off a round, killing the man.

"What the hell is keeping them?" Nathan yelled to Malachi. Just as Mal was about to reply, Tony, Clay and Three emerged from the building. In Three's arms, was a badly beaten young women.

Spend all your time waiting
for that second chance
for a break that would make it okay
there's always some reason
to feel not good enough
and it's hard at the end of the day
I need some distraction
oh beautiful release
memories seep from my veins
let me be empty
and weightless and maybe
I'll find some peace tonight

"We need to move!" Tony yelled to his sister-in-law. Britt nodded and quickly jumped into the cockpit. With the flick of a few switches, the chopper was quickly warming up. As gently as he could, Three placed the women down in the back of the chopper, before sitting down next to her, letting his feet dangle over the edge. Once everyone was inside the chopper, Britt brought the engine to full power and took off.

in the arms of the angel
fly away from here
from this dark cold hotel room
and the endlessness that you fear
you are pulled from the wreckage
of your silent reverie
you're in the arms of the angel
may you find some comfort here

Within a few minutes, the chopper was a safe distance away from the camp, as the sound of gunfire slowly, but finally, died off. As the chopper flew one, the young women never let go of Three, as she buried her head deeper into the warmth of his chest. "Hey, you Good?" Tony yelled from across.

"I am now" Three said after a pause. "I am now" he whispered softly.

so tired of the straight line
and everywhere you turn
there's vultures and thieves at your back
and the storm keeps on twisting
you keep on building the lies
that you make up for all that you lack
it don't make no difference
escaping one last time
it's easier to believe in this sweet madness oh
this glorious sadness that brings me to my knees

1800 hours, 24 December 2001, Vietnam War Memorial, Washington D.C.

In keeping with tradition, Commander Harmon Rabb Jr. did as he did every Christmas Eve. He made his way to the Wall, to spend the holiday with his father, Navy Lieutenant Harmon Rabb Sr., who had been shot down on Christmas Eve, 1969, over North Vietnam. He was captured, and later sent to Russia as a prisoner of the KGB. In 1980, after briefly escaping custody, Lieutenant Rabb was killed by a group of Russian soldiers.

When Harm reached the section that contained his father's name, he noticed something. A small card had been placed in the crack, next to his father's name. He picked it up, and opened it. It read, "to Harmon Rabb Sr., the father I never knew"

"Know we can both be with him" said a voice from behind him. Harm turned and saw his younger brother, Sergei, standing there. Harm was speechless. He finally smiled and pulled his brother into a hug.

"What the hell are you doing here?" Harm asked.

"That would be our doing" said a familiar voice. Harm turned and saw Tony and Liat standing there, both of them having had changed into their dress uniforms.

"How?"

"Prison Break" Tony smiled. "Actually, it was Webb, and Petty Officer Coates, who found him. The 3 of us, and others, just picked him up" he explained.

"Jenn Coates, PO3?" Harm asked

"You know her?" Tony asked him.

"I was her attorney, before she was roped into some op by NCIS" Harm said.

"She's at Bethesda now, Clay and Three are with her… Merry Christmas Gentlemen" Tony said as he and his daughter walked away. Once they had made their way to a nearby field, 3 helicopters descended from the sky.

"Hey, isn't that?"

"My ride" Tony smiled as he cut his daughter off. "Merry Christmas, Liat" Tony said as he gave her a kiss on the forehead and a quick hug before boarding on of the choppers. Liat watched as a man with white hair greeted him at the door. It was amazing how her father had known just which one to board.

"And they said there was no way to tell em apart" Liat joked to herself as she made her way back to her car.

1635 hours, 24 December 2001, Bethesda Naval Hospital, Bethesda, Maryland.

While the doctors gave Jenn a thorough going over, Clay and Three stood quietly outside. On the flight home, Britt had been diverted to her next assignment, a M*A*S*H Unit in Afghanistan, and Nathan had gone on home to Little Creek. While they were flying, Clay had explained Jenn's situation to Three. "Director Shepard, has no choice right, she has to give the Petty Officer immunity" he asked his uncle.

"The deal is ironclad, both me and Harm saw to that" Clay replied.

"Good" Three said. "Take care of her Clay" Three said as he slipped away. Once he made his way outside the front entrance, he found his Liat waiting for him.

"Hey little brother" Liat smiled as she leaned up against the side of her car, a dark blue 1968 Ford GT-40 with white racing strips.

"Hey Sis" Three replied as he walked over to her.

"The Petty Officer gonna be ok?"

"Yeah" he replied, with a nod, and a small smile. Then his smile grew as he got an idea. "Ya know, it's only a 4 ½ hour drive or so to NYC from here" he said. "Feel like ruining EJ's holiday?" he joked.

"I'll drive" Liat smiled. On the inside, she smiled even more. "I'm glad your back" she smiled.

"Thanks Sis" Three smiled.

1715 hours, 24 December 2001, Virginia State Courthouse, Richmond, Virginia.

Try as she might, things were not going well for Bridget. This custody was her only chance to give both Rex and Molly a real home before they became wards of the Commonwealth of Virginia. For the occasion, she had bought Rex a new suit and Molly a new dress, and was in her dress uniform herself. But even with the kids' support, the judge still wasn't inclined to grant Bridget custody. "All rise!" the bailiff yelled as the judge re-entered the courtroom. Bridget quickly snapped to attention, Rex doing his best to replicate her motions.

"Be seated" the Judge instructed. "Captain Sullivan, it is the considered opinion of this court that despite your distinguished service record, and the letter of recommendation signed by your Commanding Officer; that due to your sensitive and dangerous profession, long work hours, and with no significant other, in your life, that you are unfit to be the legal guardian and adoptive parent of these children. Therefore, at this time, your petition for custody is…" the judge was about to finish, before she was interrupted by a commotion in the hallway outside the courtroom.

"Out of my way!" yelled an angry, yet familiar voice. Just as Bridget turned to look just as Tony, dressed in full Class-As, stormed in the room.

"What is the meaning of this?!" the judge demanded.

"Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Dominick DiNozzo Jr., United States Army and I would like to address this court" Tony said as he removed his cap and placed it down on the table in front of Bridget & Rex. "I will also be adding my name to the petition for custody" he added. As soon as the words hit Bridget's ears, he head shot up and her eyes met Tony's. Tony gave her his most sincere smile in response.

"I'm sorry Colonel, but your time to address the Court was at the beginning of this hearing" the Judge said coldly.

"I do apologize your honor. I was conducting a raid on a Chechen Prisoner of War camp, I have flown over 20,000 miles round trip in the past 48 hours, and I truly don't give a damn, if your perturbed that I was a tad bit late" Tony yelled. "Also, under Virginia State Law, since my name is now on that Adoptive form, I have a legal right to address this court, and if you don't allow me, I'll report you to the State Bar and see you disbarred" he threatened.

"Very well" the Judge finally gave in.

"Your Honor, my name is Anthony Dominick DiNozzo Jr., I am a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army, where I have been serving since 1989. I was born on 21 July 1968, at Huntington Hospital on Long Island, New York. I have a wife and 3 children, the eldest of which is adopted. I have a Master's Degree in Military History, with minors in Criminal Justice, Bio-Chemical Engineering and Law from Ohio State University, class of 1985. My eldest daughter is 21 and is a Homicide Detective with the New York City Police Department. My younger 2, the twins, are both non-commissioned officers in the United States Army. My son is a recipient of The Medal of Honor" Tony said. "As for Captain Sullivan, I have served with her for the past 8 years. There is no one, whom I hold in higher regard. In fact, if not for her, I would never have met my younger daughter".

As she listened to Tony passionately come to her defense, Bridget's eye's weld up with tears. After Tony finished, the Judge finally spoke. "I'm sorry Colonel, but the same thing applies to you as it does the Captain. A person in your line of work, is not fit to be a parent" the female judge sneered.

"What do you mean by that?" Tony asked.

"The Military" she sneered back.

"Very well then. The Law also stipulates that we be permitted a Character witness, to speak on our behalf"

"Very well then, produce your witness, but it will not change my mind"

"Oh… it just might" Tony grinned. "Rex, do me a favor. Run out into the hall, and ask our character witness to step in here. He's the elderly gentleman, white hair, dark suit, American flag pin on his lapel. He's gonna be surrounded by other guys in suits. You might recognize him form TV" Tony smiled.

"Um, ok" Rex said as he stood up. Once Rex was out of the room, Tony leaned over the banister into the gallery. Molly smiled when Tony gave her a kiss on the forehead. It was then that Tony noticed the young blonde sitting next to Molly. She appeared to be about the same age as Rex, and was at least 6 months pregnant.

"Tony DiNozzo" he said as he extended his hand.

"Jessica Buchanan" she replied as the 2 shook hands. "I'm Rex's Girlfriend" she informed him.

"Nice to meet you" Tony told her. He then leaned back and whispered to Bridget. "Is Rex the father?" to which Bridget replied with a nod.

"Like Father, like son" Bridget joked. As Tony did his best to hold back a laugh, Tony & Bridget's character witness entered the room.

"Please state your name, age and occupation" the Judge said nonchalantly, not looking up.

"John Sidney McCain III, age 65, occupation: President of The United States" said the man. The Judge started laughing… until she finally looked up, and saw President John McCain standing before her.

"Holy Shit" the Judge said.

10 minutes later…

"After reviewing the evidence, and after hearing from both Colonel DiNozzo and President McCain, I hereby award custody of Rexton John Bartlett and Molly Amelia Bartlett to Anthony Dominick DiNozzo Jr. and Bridget Pamela Sullivan" the judge said. Both Tony and Bridget smiled, as Tony reached under the table and intertwined his fingers with Bridget's.

"Your Honor" Rex spoke up. "Your Honor, after talking things over with my sister, we're decided that my name will stay the same. However, Molly would like her name to be changed, to reflect her new family. She would like her middle name to be Rebecca, in honor of Rebecca Paddington, our new father's biological mother. Also, she would like her last name to be changed to DiNozzo" he spoke out.

"Very well, henceforth, Molly Bartlett will hereby be known as Molly Rebecca DiNozzo" the Judge said as she slammed down her gavel.

While Rex and Molly celebrated with their new parents, President McCain walked over to Jessica, who was standing quietly in the back. "Hello, Ms. Buchanan, would you mind taking a walk with me?" he asked her as he offered her is arm.

"Of course, Mr. President" she smiled as she took his arm. She smiled as President McCain helped her with her coat and they stepped outside the courthouse. There were flurries in the air as they took a stroll around the building, the Secret Service not far behind.

"Ms. Buchanan" the President began.

"Oh Please, Mr. President, call me Jess" she smiled.

"Very well then, Jess" he started over. "Forgive me for being blunt, but I hope that Rex intends to be a part of your babies' life" he said. Jessica was a little a taken back, but she understood the inquiry, as she could tell that he was obviously close with her babies' new Grandfather.

"Yes he does" Jess smiled, "I just don't know if I can be" she confessed.

"Whatever do you mean?"

"It's my family. They are very strict. I've spent my entire life in private schools. If they find out I'm pregnant, they'll kill both me and my child" she said.

"Somehow, I doubt the Colonel or Captain Sullivan will let that happen" The President assured her. He said as he reached into his jacket pocket, pulling out 2 letters. "These are college letters of recommendation for both you and Rex. I doubt you'll have any trouble getting in once they read these" he smiled. "Merry Christmas, Ms. Buchanan" The President said as he stepped into his limo.

When Jess made it back inside, she was greeted by a warm hug from Rex. She had known Rex a very long time, and was glad for the 1st time, in a very long time, he finally had a family.

2300 hours, 24 December 2001, Marshlands- Colleton Family Estate, St. Matthews, South Carolina.

"Tali!" Deeks called out as he stepped inside the front door of the large house. 'Tali!" he called out again as he dropped his duffle bag at the foot of the door.

"Coming!" she yelled as she bound down the grand staircase. Deeks smiled as Tali jumped into his arms. He spun her around in his arms before giving her a passionate kiss.

"Merry Christmas, Tali" he said once they finally broke the kiss.

"Merry Christmas, Marty" she replied sweetly.

"Tali, there's something I need to tell you" Marty told her. Over the course of the next half hour, Marty explained how he had a son, Martin Deeks II. He explained how, he had run away from home at 16 and joined the Army, and how he was stationed at the US Embassy in the Romanian Capital of Bucharest for 2 years. He then begged her for her forgiveness.

Tali did forgive him. She then explained to him about her past. About she was born Tali David, not Tali Colleton.

"Wow" Deeks said once they both aired all of their dirty laundry.

"Yeah" Tali replied.

"But ya know, although I don't get to see my son all that often, I would like to think I would've been a good father" Deeks said.

"Well, I sure hope so" Tali said….. "Because I'm pregnant"

A/N- PLEASE REVIEW!

Coming up on "28 Seconds: Strength & Honor"-

It's the final 10 chapters of "Strength & Honor", and you won't want to miss a single one. As the war in Afghanistan heats up, The Unit once again is re-deployed to field. Battles will rage, and romances blossom, as Deeks & Tali prepare to be parents. Meanwhile, The Unit must face new threats, on both land and sea. Tony becomes a Grandfather, while a Unit Operator takes on one of the most dangerous assignments in history. Finally, before it's all said and done, 2 Unit members are going down!

Don't miss it.